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Transcript
Buddhism Introduction to Buddhism Buddhism, coming from the word ‘budh’ meaning to understand or be awakened, originated in northern India over 2500 years ago in the teachings of Siddattha Gotama, the Buddha (‘Awakened or Enlightened One’). Over its years of development in various countries, Buddhism has adapted and changed in a number of ways, giving rise to a variety of forms of Buddhism, or schools of thought. Early Buddhism (represented most clearly today by Theravada Buddhism) held the Buddha and his teachings as central authority and had no belief in a supreme, creator god. Theravada Buddhists maintain these key ideas and are the most traditional in their thinking. They believe the Buddha to have been an exemplary human and that the best way to live is to give up worldly things, become a monk as part of the Sangha (the Buddhist community of monks and nuns) and live life in the same way as the Buddha did. This is seen as the major way to attain enlightenment (Nibbana) in this life. Mahayana Buddhism originated five centuries after the Buddha’s death, yet claims that its teachings were secretly taught by the Buddha, in preparation for the time when people would be ready for them. Mahayana Buddhists believe that the Buddha was the fourth of five incarnations of the celestial Buddha, an eternal being worthy of worship. They also believe that Nibbana (the state of peace) can be attained without becoming a monk. An important focus for devotion are the Bohisattas, saints who attain Nibbana in this world, but remain within it to help others conquer suffering, desire and selfishness. Tibetan and Zen Buddhism, among others, are further schools of thought, with different systems of beliefs and interpretations of the basic teachings of Buddhism. In Britain, Theravada Buddhism predominates and although the number of monks is small there are many lay members, totalling around 100,000. Buddhist temples and centres can be found, in some cases the local Buddhist community supporting the monks and nuns who may live there. Getting Started with World Religions
