Lecture Notes: Introduction to Buddhism

Introduction

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• Buddhism Overview:
  • One of the oldest surviving religions, started 2500 years ago in India.
  • World's fourth largest religion with over 520 million followers.
  • Religion often associated with peace and tranquility.

Origins of Buddhism

• Buddha's Early Life:
  • Born as Prince Siddhartha Gautama around 480 BCE in modern-day Nepal.
  • Raised in luxury, shielded from all forms of suffering.
• Turning Point:
  • At age 29, Siddhartha encountered old age, sickness, and death.
  • Inspired to become a wandering monk in search of an answer to life's suffering.
• Path to Enlightenment:
  • Discovered Middle Way between luxury and severe asceticism.
  • Achieved enlightenment (nirvana) under the Bodhi Tree by ending desire.

Core Teachings of Buddhism

• Four Noble Truths:

  1. Life is Dukkha (dissatisfying).
  2. Dukkha is caused by desire.
  3. There is an end to suffering.
  4. The Eightfold Path leads to the end of suffering.

• The Eightfold Path:

  1. Right View.
  2. Right Thought.
  3. Right Speech.
  4. Right Action.
  5. Right Livelihood.
  6. Right Effort.
  7. Right Mindfulness.
  8. Right Concentration.

Additional Buddhist Concepts

• Karma: Actions have consequences affecting current or future lives.
• Rebirth & Samsara: Endless cycle of birth, suffering, and death.
• Nirvana: Escape from the Samsara cycle by ending desire and karma.

Major Branches of Buddhism

• Theravada:
  • Oldest branch, focuses on Pali Canon texts.
  • Found in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos.
• Mahayana:
  • Includes additional texts and teachings.
  • Emphasizes the role of Bodhisattvas.
  • Practiced in Nepal, Mongolia, Taiwan, Korea, Japan.
  • Sub-traditions: Zen, Pure Land, Vajrayana (Tibetan Buddhism).

Buddhism's Spread and Modern Practice

• Spread of Buddhism:
  • Teachings spread by the Sangha (community of monks).
  • Decline in India but growth in East and Southeast Asia.
• Diversity: Various interpretations and practices worldwide.

Conclusion

• Guidance vs. Doctrine: Emphasizes personal application of teachings.
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