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Buddhism |
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Background
Buddhism originated about 2,500 years ago in Nepal. It stems from the
enlightenment and teachings of Prince Siddharta Gautama, who lived around
480 BC, thereafter known as the Buddha. An extensive collection of religious
writings exists which includes the earliest the 'Pali Canon' as well
as the 'Mahyana'. Buddhism is a major religion which is mainly found
amongst people who originate from South East Asia and the Far East.
There are around 300 million Buddhists in the world. Buddhism has existed
as a belief in Britain since the turn of the century and is a growing
movement, with 350 organisations known to the Buddhist society. These
are composed of indigenous Buddhists as well as adherents from the Sri
Lankan, Thai, Chinese, Burmese and Malaysian communities. Various Buddhist
traditions exist including 'Theravada' and 'Vajrayana' as well as a
range contained within the 'Mahayana'. Buddhism is multi-faceted and
is both a philosophy and a way of life.
Fundamental beliefs
There are four "noble" truths.
1. Suffering (dukkha).
2. Cause of suffering and desire (samodaya)
3. Cessation of desire and suffering (nirodha).
4. Way to cessation of suffering by attaining nirvana (magga).
Buddhists believe
they may attain 'Nirvana' or enlightenment by following the 'Eightfold
Path'. Suffering can be overcome by letting go of desire. There is general
belief in rebirth with the status of the next life being dependent on
right action in the present one. This is the law of 'Karma'. Emphasis
is placed upon self-responsibility, compassion, the one-ness of humanity
and life.
Eightfold Path
This consists of right understanding, thought, action, livelihood, speech,
effort, mindfulness and concentration.
Major festivals
There are many Buddhist festivals of which the most important are the
following:
Vesak(May -full moon).
Obon (July to September).
Buddha's birthday and his final cessation (The former celebrates his
enlightenment, the latter his passing on. It is believed that Buddha
was born around the middle of the 5th century BC and lived to the age
of 80. The actual dates have never been finalised).
Buddhist New Year, varies from country to country.
The diet, taboos
and social etiquette
There are no particular taboos although, for monks and nuns, lying,
stealing and the taking of intoxicants are prohibited. Monks and nuns
should also remain celibate. A strong vegetarianism tradition is predominant.
No special dress
is required except for religious communities. Buddhists undertake to
live according to five precepts which are:
1. To refrain from injury to living things
2. To refrain from taking things which are not given
3. To refrain from using one's body to hurt or harm oneself or others.
4. To refrain from falsehood, prejudice and anything less than the truth
5. To refrain from the abuse of elements which cloud the mind.
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