Using the following sections of reading from the World's Wisdom please summarize each of these sections based on what you read.
Read each of the excerpts / notes and describe / explain the concept of each of the following according to the readings and examples given.
Main Ideas of Buddhism:
Anatta (pg 68)
This concept is similar to the concept of Maya. As humans, we do not have a soul that carries on into the after life or further reincarnations. Who we are is not permanent and we are not defined by our body or physical belongings because these things don't last. Many things in life appear that they hold much meaning, but after we look into them further, we realize there is nothing that lasts except for the actions we take that influence the future. Novak uses an example of a bubble. It appears whole and full, but on the inside there is only air. It is made up of nothing but air, though it appears as more.
Right Mindfulness (Satupatthana Sutta) (pg. 71)
This Sutta text was said to be uttered by the Buddha himself and is like an instruction manual for practicing Buddhists. However, like an instruction manual, it is not necessarily read for pleasure, through it is invaluable when in need of consultation, direction or advice. In general, a sutta is a text spoken by the Buddha himself.
- The Four Foundations:
These four foundations are the first step on the path to renunciation of desire, before one can even begin the eightfold path.
Awareness of the Body
There are five ways the individual can become aware of their body:
1. Watching in-and-out breathing. While in a still sitting position with legs crossed, the individual must control every intake and exhalation.
2. Awareness of the four postures: While sitting, walking, standing or lying down, the individual must be aware of what every part of his body is doing.
3. Mindfulness and clear comprehension of bodily acts. Awareness of the body through every daily action such as eating, drinking, sleeping, speaking and being silent etc.
4. Contemplation of loathsomeness. The individual thinks about his body from head to toe, complete with imperfections. It is what it is, and this reality must be accepted.
5. Cemetery meditations. The realization and acceptance that when we die, our bodies will one day decay and we will be come like the bodies in a cemetery. This reflects the concept of anatta and impermanence.
Awareness of Sensation
The individual must be able to step back from their emotions and not get caught up. Then, the individual may realize, " I have an agreeable sensation," or "I have a disagreeable sensation" it is like stepping away from our thoughts and feelings and looking at ourselves from a lens outside our body, from a second perspective. In this way we may be able to more clearly see our sensations and react in a more controlled and thoughtful manner.
Awareness of Mind
This is the awareness that states are impermanent and moods, like anything in this world, are constantly changing. Therefore there is not such thing as a "bad" or "greedy" or "perfect" person. We are all shades of gray with changing states of being and actions. This influences who we are from moment to moment, as the person we were one second ago no longer exists, and we are some one new.
Awareness of Mind - Objects
The five hindrances are: lust, anger, sloth, restlessness and mental worry, doubting. One must be aware when they are mentally experiencing one of these hindrances, so the hindrance may be overcome. Otherwise, we may get caught up in this hindrance, and it may manifest, such as is with anger.
The five groups of existence (skandhas): materiality, sensation, perception, moods and thoughts. These groups of existence divide every physical and mental factors of our being. They are the planes in which we live and commit actions.
3. Description of Nibbana / Nirvana (pg. 75)
End of Karma: Nirvana is the end of the cycle of the essences of rebirth, and the end of craving and attachment.
Eradication of the Three Poisons: the end of greed, hate and delusion
Deliverance of the Heart: the goal of reaching Enlightenment is not for an award, or to achieve honor, morality or concentration. The goal is to achieve the deliverance of the heart.
End of Old Age and Death: because Nirvana is the end of the cycle of all rebirths, it is therefore the end of old age and dying as well. These two things may also be seen as suffering in life, and Nirvana is also therefore the end of all suffering.
It Is Real: There is another entire state of being in which there is nothing. It is the opposite of the world we live in today of the existing, being and real. It is the unreal, unborn, uncreated. These factors make it possible to escape into Enlightenment from the defined world we live in now.
4. Description of Arahant / Arahat (76)
An arahant is basically the same thing as a Buddha, but the term Buddha is more specific to someone who has rediscovered the path without the aid of another.
Finished: an arahant has achieved all there is to achieve in life. He has learned everything and there is nothing more for him to do. He is steadfast in his actions and being, and now, cannot be swayed from his position.
Happy Indeed: Because arahants have achieved Enlightenment, they do not suffer anymore from greed or selfishness. Therefore they are eternally happy.
Mahayana Buddhism:
5. Mahayana Buddhism - How is Mahayana broken down into 3 key innovations (describe each)
As everything in this world changes and morphs, so does religion. Buddhism has modeled this fact in the split between Mahayana Buddhism and Theravada Buddhism. Mahayana Buddhism developed as believers looked back at the original doctrines and rewrote them to become more universal to everyone and that, in their eyes, represented the ideals of the Buddha.
- Emptiness (pg 77 - 80)
Because of the principle of dependent origination, nothing in this world came into being on its own. It is a result of events leading up to it which influenced its birth. Therefore, it is empty of being. The only meaning/significance it has is evaluated by its past or by the future of things to come as a result of it. This also has to do with worship of a god, or Buddha. Mahayana Buddhists believe even core doctrines like the Eightfold path, the Four Noble truths, and Buddha's teachings are empty of being. They hold the importance of their influence and how they came into being. Also, we are empty of being, and therefore are already Buddha-nature. Because we are empty of being there is nothing that really holds significance in our lives. We hold superficial significance to things in our lives when we, ourselves, are already empty of being. The only things that matter in relation to ourselves are the events that created our being and the events we initiate that create the future. This concept can only be learned on one's own.
Those who seek Nirvana are to Be Laughed At: Because everything in the world is already empty of being, everything is Enlightenment, therefore seeking Enlightenment is pointless because it is all around us.
The Heart Sutra: Because everything is empty of being and is therefore Enlightened, wisdom is also Enlightenment and is therefore perfect. Many Buddhas throughout time have relied on the perfection of knowledge and truth to help them attain Enlightenment.
- Bodhisattva ideal (pg. 80 - 82)
A bodhisattva is someone who renounces entry into nirvana to help others on their spiritual path. However, Novak states that the bodhisattva must realize that there is no one to save and no one to do the saving.
From the Diamond Sutra: A Bodhisattva may aid people in their journey to nirvana, but ultimately it is their decision and actions that let them achieve nirvana. Also, a Bodhisattva may not have the notion of his own "being" because everything flows together in life and is indistinct from things before it or after it. He holds no importance on his own, and the concept of being is therefore useless.
The Infinite Compassion of the Bodhisattva: the Bodhisattva temporarily adopts the illusion of "I" to save those who are still unaware of their own absence of self, and to help them attain nirvana through this realization. A Bodhisattva takes on the burden of all the suffering of humankind, and helps each individual escape the cycle of Samsara. A Bodhisattva must not use others for personal merit. The mentality behind the decision to become a Bodhisattva is that it is better for one person to suffer than for many people to suffer.
The Difference Between Bodhisattvas and Other (Non-Mahayana) Buddhists: Other Buddhist sects are sometimes seen to not share their wisdom of Enlightenment to others because they believe that radiating Enlightenment to others would be futile because there are too many people for one person to affect. However, Mahayana Bodhisattvas enlighten others like the rising sun on earth, and have achieved Enlightenment, and only postponed their entrance into nirvana until their death (without rebirth).
- Devotional Buddhism (pg. 82 - 86)
Buddha's real gift to the world was his timeless saving power, or dharmakaya. Because of its timelessness, any point in time is equidistant from it as another point. Therefore, Buddha's saving power can be activated at any point in time. Also, Buddha names an omnipresent reality, which can manifest into countless Buddhas around the world ready at a moment's notice to help those who seek advice through prayer or devotion.
From the Lotus Sutra: This is an excerpt from the Lotus Sutra, and states that Buddha is a rain cloud of universal grace. He preaches grace to all, and refreshes the entire world, without borders or distinctions of race, creed, wealth etc. The last line is "and then, refreshed, just like the plants, the world will burst forth into blossoms"
The Buddha Saves all Beings and They Reach Salvation in Many Ways: This passage states that there are an unlimited number of ways to achieve Buddhahood. Some given examples are meeting former buddhas, learning the law and then practicing charity, and creating images of Buddha.
Rewards for Devotion to the Buddha: If one does not show devotion to Buddha, one can be reborn blind or lame. Therefore, it is important to show thanks in the form of devotion to the Buddha for showing Buddhists how to achieve nirvana. If one shows devotion, one will be rewarded in nirvana with a beautiful palace and kingdom.
The Pure Land of Amitabha, the Buddha of Infinite Light: In Mahayana Buddhism, there is a Buddha, Amitabha, the Buddha of Infinite Light, who provides a world, the Pure Land of Amitabha, after death, which is much like paradise. Those who have lived a faithful life may enter this world, and then when they are reborn are closer to achieving nirvana in their next life because of the aid of Amitabha. This world helps them focus on the right path to salvation. If they vow to be true, devotional and focus on eradicating desire, they will be admitted into nirvana.
Honen's Teachings on the Nembutsu: Honen was a Japanese Buddhists that developed a practice of Buddhism called Nembutsu. In this practice, followers must give their undivided attention to speaking the name of Amitabha. Honen describes how all revered Buddhas supported his practice more so than any other.
Nirchiren on Faith in the Buddha and the Lotus Sutra: Nirchiren was a Japanese Buddhist prophet who preached that the Lotus Sutra should be spoken by all Buddhists rather than the Amitabha. The Lotus Sutra states that Buddha provided a path to salvation for us, which is compared to a rope dangled down to us in an abyss. Buddha shows us how it is possible for anyone to achieve Buddhahood. Buddha provides his compassion for people through his path to salvation, being the protector and savior, and constantly thinking of us. This is the Lotus Truth.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Monday, January 10, 2011
Huston Smith: Buddhism
Part I: Basic Buddhist Concepts According to Smith:
starting on page 112 at the heading titled: Basic Buddhist Concepts and read through 119 ending at Big Raft and Little. Answer the following questions:
What is the biggest problem faced when trying to understand some of the core ideas / beliefs of Buddhism? (pages 112 - 113)
1. the distance of time between his spoken records and his written records
2. the amount of recorded information, though Siddhartha was consistent between his beliefs, interpretations on them differed
3. the interpretations of the information
The Buddha's silence at crucial points shows his extreme focus on the metaphysical and how nothing else mattered. This, as Smith states, is similar to someone so focussed on their goals that hobbies become a waste of time to them. Buddha spent his time describing how to live our life, and not on concepts like God or other certain beliefs.
How does Smith describe / define Nirvana? Is it possible to conceive of what Nirvana is? Why or why not?
Nirvana is the absence of everything physical. Therefore, it is difficult to describe it because we describe things by the way they are seen, heard, smelled, felt or tasted. None of these senses apply to Nirvana the way none of them apply to concepts like love, or air. Therefore, it is not possible to conceive of Nirvana. In Buddhism, it is more important to act now and focus on following the Eightfold path than worrying about where you will end up.
How or what is Anatta, according to Smith? (115)
Buddha believes there is no outliving soul called Anatta. Instead, matter from anatta is reborn with the same materials and concepts, and rules of life. This is like a flame being passed from candle to candle. Actions in lives of people past reflect how we are born into this life. Our actions act like a chain of events and create the world for the people of tomorrow. However,in the present, will is not controlled.
How does Smith describe the concept of transmigration and its relation to karma? (115 - 116)
1) people's actions of the past influence our current state today
2) through our free will we can influence the future state with our actions
3) nothing is passed on except ideas, impressions and feelings
Our personal relation with Karma is as follows:
1) Everything about us, our physical, our thoughts of other people and our reactions are as a result of our family, or previous generations.
2) We are not bound by these constraints, we can choose to change our thoughts and actions to influence the new world of tomorrow.
Contrasting to Hinduism, there is no soul that is passed through different bodies, only the results of actions are passed on to future generations.
According to Smith, why did the Buddha belabor the concept of Annica?
The concept of annica is important because it states that everything in our physical world is impermanent, a point the Buddha stressed. Once we overcome our attachment to impermanent objects we will be freed from our suffering. Therefore this is an important point to realize. Every physical thing is constantly changing and is not the same from one moment to the next. Humans are held together through "skandas", just threads held together as loosely as yarn. Therefore since everything is constantly changing, nothing is permanent. If we hold onto our attachment to a blossoming tree, the next day, the blossoms may fall and it won't be the same tree. Therefore we must loose our attachment to physical things and focus on the mind which is eternal.
What is the biggest problem, according to Smith, when trying to answer the question "Do humans survive bodily death?" (117 - 118)
Ordinary people carry their strands of desire with them to be satisfied in other carnations. However, the Arhat is not reborn and his desire is extinguished. It is difficult for Buddha to answer the question because the two extremes, yes and no are both untrue. It is the middle path that is correct, but it is inexpressible in terms we know of now.
We must sever the ties between our spiritual sense and our body's sense. If our Arhat is tied to our physical desires we will not be able to be free from those desires. However, the farther our Arhat grows from our bodies, the more it will be freed from the events of the world. The Buddha's followers shared that when they separated their Arhat from their body, the world seemed to broaden with each step they took. It seemed to become limitless without the restraints of the body.
Part II: Split in Buddhism:
Start reading on page 119, ending on page 127. Answer the following questions:
When trying to understand the split in Buddhism, Smith argues that the divisions arise from three basic questions: What are the three questions and how do they relate to Buddhism? (120 - 121)
1. Are people dependent or interdependent?
Do we need a God to show them the right way to live their lives, and whom they rely on from the creation of the universe and guidance to live correct lives until He returns or a Messianic age arrives?
or Are we independent, creation was not caused by a God, and we know the right way to live our lives, and know where we are going because we set our own goals?
The two basic views people have are either that they got to where they are today solely because of their own determination and hard work, or they got to where they are today because of the environment where they grew up and the people they grew up around and learned from.
2. What is the relation between humans and the Universe? Is it friendly or dangerous?
This question more or less refers to the basic question of are we alone/ is there a God. Is the universe powered by a higher being, or do we power it ourselves? God can be there to guide us and provide a direction and grand plan for humanity. The other belief is that we are independent and can provide our own goals and get there on our own.
3. What is the best part of the human, the head or the heart?
Basically, do we use our head or our heart to make our decisions. Are we logical or emotional? Therefore, our morals, decisions and actions reflect our inner influences. It reflects the argument between Scientific religion and other religions.
These three questions have divided all religions around the world into many sects that have spread throughout the world, such as Christianity into Roman Catholicism and Protestantism and many more sects.
Buddhism split because of these three questions.
Group 1: held wisdom as the most important aspect of the religion, through meditation one can achieve wisdom, nirvana and freedom from desire.
Group 2: believed that humans are more social creatures than individual and we need each other. Through compassion for other human beings we can attain enlightenment. To them, love is the greatest thing in the world.
Smith outlines the basic differences between the schools in a single paragraph on page 121 - what are the main divisions he points out and what do the different names Mahayana and Hinayana (Theravada) mean?
Read pages 122 - 127 and outline the major differences Smith gives for the division between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism.
"yana" means boat, and refers to the fact that both these sects supply a means for one to attain nirvana
Mahayana- more free in terms of worship. Anyone can be a Mahayana Buddhist from the brick layers to the professional people. Because of this, worship can be performed anywhere and at anytime. "Maha" means great, and is the largest sect of the two.
-follow the actions with which Buddha lived his life, for example not staying in Nirvana, but returning to the people to help them achieve Nirvana
1. Progress is measured by the advancement of all people. One person's destiny is liked to the destiny of all people.
2. There is a godlike essence in everything on earth, everything is a part of god.
3. Compassion must be placed before anything. Meditation can be destructive if one has not yet reached out to another to aid them, and treat them well.
4. Mahayana Buddhists are very involved in society, and almost everyone marries, including priests. Service to their religion for the benefit of all people is their primary concern.
5. the Ultimate goal is to become an Arhat, who has followed the path without straying
6. Buddha helps all people attain enlightenment through his drawing "rays of his jewel hands"
In general, Mahayana is the more liberal Buddhist sect and has developed many new practices and has created a god of Buddha and Mahayana Buddhists sometimes chant his name to give themselves strength. Also, newer Buddhist texts are accepted into the religion, and Mahayana Buddhists explore more spiritual possibilities.
Hinayana- very focussed form of worship and believers must give up everything of the physical world. To them, following the path is a full time job. Hina means little, and is the smaller sect of the two. However, the sect did not like that name and changed it to Theravada, the way of the elders.
-follow the written texts of the Buddha
1. Progress is measured by the individual's evaluation based on their understanding of the beliefs and Buddhist way of life
2. We are all alone in the universe. There is no God to help us, and we must rely on our own competency to further ourselves.We are fully responsible for all our actions, the path we take and how we get to our end goal.
3. Through everything, wisdom is the most important aspect because it teaches us about the 4 Noble Truths.
4. The sangha is important. There are monasteries everywhere to remind people of the spiritual nature of their lives and of the world. There are also monks and nuns who are partially isolated from society, however they rely on society for the necessary requirements like food, and are venerated by society.
5. The ultimate goal is the Boddhisattva, one who upon reaching the brink of nirvana renounces it to return to the people and teach them the wisdom he has learned, and live in the service of others
6. Buddha was an incredible, special teacher. He provided a valuable example because of his humanness that all people could relate to and know that what he achieved, they can achieve.
In general, Theravada is the more fundamentalist version of Buddhism because is adheres to only the original texts and only practices meditation and invocations of deeper faith. It does not worship Buddha and realizes he is still human though he achieved nirvana.
starting on page 112 at the heading titled: Basic Buddhist Concepts and read through 119 ending at Big Raft and Little. Answer the following questions:
What is the biggest problem faced when trying to understand some of the core ideas / beliefs of Buddhism? (pages 112 - 113)
1. the distance of time between his spoken records and his written records
2. the amount of recorded information, though Siddhartha was consistent between his beliefs, interpretations on them differed
3. the interpretations of the information
The Buddha's silence at crucial points shows his extreme focus on the metaphysical and how nothing else mattered. This, as Smith states, is similar to someone so focussed on their goals that hobbies become a waste of time to them. Buddha spent his time describing how to live our life, and not on concepts like God or other certain beliefs.
How does Smith describe / define Nirvana? Is it possible to conceive of what Nirvana is? Why or why not?
Nirvana is the absence of everything physical. Therefore, it is difficult to describe it because we describe things by the way they are seen, heard, smelled, felt or tasted. None of these senses apply to Nirvana the way none of them apply to concepts like love, or air. Therefore, it is not possible to conceive of Nirvana. In Buddhism, it is more important to act now and focus on following the Eightfold path than worrying about where you will end up.
How or what is Anatta, according to Smith? (115)
Buddha believes there is no outliving soul called Anatta. Instead, matter from anatta is reborn with the same materials and concepts, and rules of life. This is like a flame being passed from candle to candle. Actions in lives of people past reflect how we are born into this life. Our actions act like a chain of events and create the world for the people of tomorrow. However,in the present, will is not controlled.
How does Smith describe the concept of transmigration and its relation to karma? (115 - 116)
1) people's actions of the past influence our current state today
2) through our free will we can influence the future state with our actions
3) nothing is passed on except ideas, impressions and feelings
Our personal relation with Karma is as follows:
1) Everything about us, our physical, our thoughts of other people and our reactions are as a result of our family, or previous generations.
2) We are not bound by these constraints, we can choose to change our thoughts and actions to influence the new world of tomorrow.
Contrasting to Hinduism, there is no soul that is passed through different bodies, only the results of actions are passed on to future generations.
According to Smith, why did the Buddha belabor the concept of Annica?
The concept of annica is important because it states that everything in our physical world is impermanent, a point the Buddha stressed. Once we overcome our attachment to impermanent objects we will be freed from our suffering. Therefore this is an important point to realize. Every physical thing is constantly changing and is not the same from one moment to the next. Humans are held together through "skandas", just threads held together as loosely as yarn. Therefore since everything is constantly changing, nothing is permanent. If we hold onto our attachment to a blossoming tree, the next day, the blossoms may fall and it won't be the same tree. Therefore we must loose our attachment to physical things and focus on the mind which is eternal.
What is the biggest problem, according to Smith, when trying to answer the question "Do humans survive bodily death?" (117 - 118)
Ordinary people carry their strands of desire with them to be satisfied in other carnations. However, the Arhat is not reborn and his desire is extinguished. It is difficult for Buddha to answer the question because the two extremes, yes and no are both untrue. It is the middle path that is correct, but it is inexpressible in terms we know of now.
We must sever the ties between our spiritual sense and our body's sense. If our Arhat is tied to our physical desires we will not be able to be free from those desires. However, the farther our Arhat grows from our bodies, the more it will be freed from the events of the world. The Buddha's followers shared that when they separated their Arhat from their body, the world seemed to broaden with each step they took. It seemed to become limitless without the restraints of the body.
Part II: Split in Buddhism:
Start reading on page 119, ending on page 127. Answer the following questions:
When trying to understand the split in Buddhism, Smith argues that the divisions arise from three basic questions: What are the three questions and how do they relate to Buddhism? (120 - 121)
1. Are people dependent or interdependent?
Do we need a God to show them the right way to live their lives, and whom they rely on from the creation of the universe and guidance to live correct lives until He returns or a Messianic age arrives?
or Are we independent, creation was not caused by a God, and we know the right way to live our lives, and know where we are going because we set our own goals?
The two basic views people have are either that they got to where they are today solely because of their own determination and hard work, or they got to where they are today because of the environment where they grew up and the people they grew up around and learned from.
2. What is the relation between humans and the Universe? Is it friendly or dangerous?
This question more or less refers to the basic question of are we alone/ is there a God. Is the universe powered by a higher being, or do we power it ourselves? God can be there to guide us and provide a direction and grand plan for humanity. The other belief is that we are independent and can provide our own goals and get there on our own.
3. What is the best part of the human, the head or the heart?
Basically, do we use our head or our heart to make our decisions. Are we logical or emotional? Therefore, our morals, decisions and actions reflect our inner influences. It reflects the argument between Scientific religion and other religions.
These three questions have divided all religions around the world into many sects that have spread throughout the world, such as Christianity into Roman Catholicism and Protestantism and many more sects.
Buddhism split because of these three questions.
Group 1: held wisdom as the most important aspect of the religion, through meditation one can achieve wisdom, nirvana and freedom from desire.
Group 2: believed that humans are more social creatures than individual and we need each other. Through compassion for other human beings we can attain enlightenment. To them, love is the greatest thing in the world.
Smith outlines the basic differences between the schools in a single paragraph on page 121 - what are the main divisions he points out and what do the different names Mahayana and Hinayana (Theravada) mean?
Read pages 122 - 127 and outline the major differences Smith gives for the division between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism.
"yana" means boat, and refers to the fact that both these sects supply a means for one to attain nirvana
Mahayana- more free in terms of worship. Anyone can be a Mahayana Buddhist from the brick layers to the professional people. Because of this, worship can be performed anywhere and at anytime. "Maha" means great, and is the largest sect of the two.
-follow the actions with which Buddha lived his life, for example not staying in Nirvana, but returning to the people to help them achieve Nirvana
1. Progress is measured by the advancement of all people. One person's destiny is liked to the destiny of all people.
2. There is a godlike essence in everything on earth, everything is a part of god.
3. Compassion must be placed before anything. Meditation can be destructive if one has not yet reached out to another to aid them, and treat them well.
4. Mahayana Buddhists are very involved in society, and almost everyone marries, including priests. Service to their religion for the benefit of all people is their primary concern.
5. the Ultimate goal is to become an Arhat, who has followed the path without straying
6. Buddha helps all people attain enlightenment through his drawing "rays of his jewel hands"
In general, Mahayana is the more liberal Buddhist sect and has developed many new practices and has created a god of Buddha and Mahayana Buddhists sometimes chant his name to give themselves strength. Also, newer Buddhist texts are accepted into the religion, and Mahayana Buddhists explore more spiritual possibilities.
Hinayana- very focussed form of worship and believers must give up everything of the physical world. To them, following the path is a full time job. Hina means little, and is the smaller sect of the two. However, the sect did not like that name and changed it to Theravada, the way of the elders.
-follow the written texts of the Buddha
1. Progress is measured by the individual's evaluation based on their understanding of the beliefs and Buddhist way of life
2. We are all alone in the universe. There is no God to help us, and we must rely on our own competency to further ourselves.We are fully responsible for all our actions, the path we take and how we get to our end goal.
3. Through everything, wisdom is the most important aspect because it teaches us about the 4 Noble Truths.
4. The sangha is important. There are monasteries everywhere to remind people of the spiritual nature of their lives and of the world. There are also monks and nuns who are partially isolated from society, however they rely on society for the necessary requirements like food, and are venerated by society.
5. The ultimate goal is the Boddhisattva, one who upon reaching the brink of nirvana renounces it to return to the people and teach them the wisdom he has learned, and live in the service of others
6. Buddha was an incredible, special teacher. He provided a valuable example because of his humanness that all people could relate to and know that what he achieved, they can achieve.
In general, Theravada is the more fundamentalist version of Buddhism because is adheres to only the original texts and only practices meditation and invocations of deeper faith. It does not worship Buddha and realizes he is still human though he achieved nirvana.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Sikhism
Sikhism
Part I: 1 paragraph on each
1) What is the human condition?
We are stuck in a cycle of rebirths. We were given human form for the chance to unite with God through free will and choosing to do so. There are two categories of people in this world: gurumukh and manmukh. The manmuks are haumai (“I-I”). They are selfish and focus only on their needs and wants. They succumb to the five vices. These selfish desires block them from being able to unite with God, because there is no room for God in their hearts. However, through life, a manmukh may become a gurumukh. A gurumuk worships God and is pious in his everyday life. A gurumuk follows Sikh teachings, helps fellow members of society through community service and sharing with others, Vand Chhana. The gurumuks have a much better chance of uniting with God, though ultimately it is God’s decision as to who unites with him. Humans are in a state of suffering because of always desiring material objects in life, maya, that distract us and hinder our path to uniting with God.
2) Where are we going/what is the goal?
The goal is to allow our soul, jot, to escape samsara and merge with God through mukti. This is the fifth stage in life known as the Ream of Truth. In this Realm, everything and everyone is equal and the soul is free of desire. This goal ends the cycle of death and rebirth and is the ultimate goal of all Sikhs. However, God is the ultimate judge of who unites with Him or not. One can work hard to become a gurumuk, and influence one’s chance to uniting with God, but ultimately the decision is God’s. This ultimate goal of uniting with God is similar to that of Hinduism, but in Hinduism, God does not decide who escapes the cycle of samsara.
3) How do we get there?
God is part of everything, always thinking about God will influence your actions.
We get there through following the teachings of Guru Nanak through the Guru Granth Sahib, meditation on uniting with God and acts of service/charity. Worship of God is essential, and though one must not worship physical representations of God, one must worship his many names, often through the use of mala beads. These beads aid the believer during meditation, so he does not need to count the number of repetitions, as by fingering the beads, the beads do this for him. Also, the ground for our actions is maya, the real world we live in, which in contrast to Hinduism is very real in Sikhism. Maya is essential for us to be able to practice correct thought, and where we are given a chance, through free will, to demonstrate right actions and distinguish ourselves between manmuks and gurumuks. However, maya can also hinder our efforts because of material distractions.
Do not perform rituals, they bring no spiritual benefit. Just live a holy life thinking and acting as God.
Part II: indepth outline, paragraphs and pictures
1) Describe the 10 most important concepts.
1) There is only one God, Ek Omkara (meaning one God), the creator, sustainer and destroyer. God may have many names and is emphasized to not have just one because there are many different ways of viewing God, and each religion around the world may have their own name. Names given such as Akal Purukh, the Creator, are just descriptions of God. There are no physical representations of him, and the creation of these is prohibited. Because there are no physical representations, the many names of God are worshipped in meditation, often through the use of mala beads, as explained above.
2) God cannot take human form. Therefore there are no human manifestations of God, such as Jesus is in Christianity. However, God has communicated to ten men, Guru Nanak and ten other Gurus. God is in everything.
3) If one can overcome the five cardinal vices, one can achieve salvation. Kam (lust), Krodh (anger), Lobh (greed), Moh (worldly attachment), Ahankar (pride) or haumai (selfish ego). As humans, the purpose of life is to unite with God, but we can’t do this if we are polluted with wrong actions such as the five vices. To unite with God we must purify our soul and act with devotion and love to become like the pure nature of God.
4) Rejection of “blind” rituals such as fasting, religious vegetarianism, pilgrimages, superstitions, yoga, and many types of idol worship.
By participating in these rituals, one does not focus on the God within. Meditation on the Lord is more important than debating whether to eat meat or not. Getting caught up in these rituals, one can forget one’s true purpose- to worship and connect with the Lord by escaping samsara.
5) Family life (Grasth) is encouraged. It is discouraged to renunciate family connections and a home, like the way of ascetics.
By avoiding family life, one is admitting one does not know how act in a family and solve conflicts or treat family members correctly, basically one avoids the problems associated with family life. Avoiding family life is like taking the easy path through life. One must take on the challenge of acting with pure actions in everyday life as a member of society. Sikhs view marriage as linking two families rather than just two individuals.
In family life, one can learn all one needs from God. In everyday chores and responsibilities is where one unites with God, and where revelations take place. There are no ashrams in Sikhism, as all these stages, khands, can be found while living a household life. The religious connections to household life developed because in India, it is difficult for people to make time for religious worship, as they are so busy taking care of their families, that Guru Nanak decided to build that factor into Sikhism.
6)
Guru Granth Sahib
The holy book, Guru Granth Sahib is the lasting Guru. There are no living Gurus today though there were Gurus in the past, such as Guru Nanak. Guru Nanak grew up in a Hindu family, rejected the religion and later became Islamic. However, neither of these religions suited him well. He disappeared for three days while bathing in a stream, and after these three days, he returned and claimed God had taken him to His court and communicated a divine revelation. Guru Nanak said that neither Hinduism nor Islam was the true religion of God, and that he would follow God’s true path; Guru Nanak’s new religion called Sikhism. Guru Nanak began a community of Sikh worshippers, and ten total Gurus. After the tenth Guru declared that the Holy Scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, was the last Guru, there were no more Gurus.
7) There are no separations of caste, race or sex. Everyone is equally able to worship and connect with God. Everyone is a member of the Lord’s creations, and there are no distinctions. This world is the same as the next world where there are no separations between groups of people.
7b) Rejection of female infanticide, sati (wife burning), and purdah (women wearing veils) because Sikhs believe women are equal to men. Women provide everything in life. They give birth to rulers, continue family lineage, play an integral role in societal professions, are one half of the household, and much more. Women are highly valued in Sikhism for these reasons.
8) Maya and Mukti. We should not be attached to the tangible things in the world. We need to strive to disconnect ourselves form impermanent goods, and much like Buddhism, lose our desire for these things and therefore our suffering. When we lose our attachment to these things, we can free our jot and unite with God. By losing our attachment to these things, it becomes easier to overcome the five vices.
9) Honest labor is highly valued. One must earn one’s living through honest work and not beg or steal from others. One must reap what one sews. If one hurts others through cheating or stealing, one is hurting God because God is in everyone. This would be counterproductive to the goals of the religion.
10) All Sikhs must give back to the community through Vand Chhana, sharing with others. It is a social responsibility along with Seva, community service. At many gurdwaras there is a free community kitchen (langar). This kitchen is open to all people. By sharing with all people, one is sharing with God’s creations and therefore God.
Rituals: Choose 2.
1.
Nam Karan
Nam Karan: Naming of a Child
After a child is born, the parents take the child to a gudwara where a granthi chooses the name for the child. The ceremony involves drinking Amrit (sugar water) and eating Karah Prashad (sacred pudding). The name is chosen through Hukam; the granthi opens the Sri Guru Granth Sahib to a random page, and uses the first letter of the first hymn as the first letter of the child’s name. Sweet water, sacred pudding and Hukam are used in many festivals including the rite of passage into adulthood. Hukam is used because it represents God’s divine order, ordering the book to open to a certain page, communicating God’s message to the parents for the name of the newborn. It emphasizes how God is a part of everything and his role at all stages in life.
2.
Vaisakhi Festival
Vaisakhi- the New Year’s Eve anniversary of the Khalsa Panth, community of all Sikhs who follow Guru Nanak’s teachings, being formed on Earth. Celebrated with special services and procession of the Guru Granth Sahib (nagar kirtan, the entire town’s praise together). It is at the time of the New Year and harvest time, so it is merry and full of festive spiritual humor. It is the celebration of the first five Gurus willing to give their lives to the religion.
Sacred Texts
The main Sikh texts are the Guru Granth Sahib and the Janam Sakhis. Knowledge is passed on mainly through shabad, written knowledge. The Guru Granth is the only authority on Sikhism, and the Janam Sakhis recount the life of Guru Nanak like the early Christian texts of Jesus. Any Sikh can interpret the texts, and this is encouraged since there are no more Gurus, as this would alter the true meaning of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Ganth Sahib is also called the Adi Granth. It contains text from other religions and is the only authority in Sikhism, though it is not a person.
The Ganth Sahib contains devotional hymns, poetry praising God, meditation on the True Guru (God), moral and ethical rules to aid one on the spiritual journey of the soul, salvation and direction on achieving unity with God. The content of the text is worshipped, but since idol worship is not allowed, the physical book is not worshipped. The Guru Granth Sahib contains divine words uttered by the first ten Gurus.
Japji Hymn
The opening to the hymn summarizes the Sikh view of God. It is called the Mool Mantra:
There is Only One God
Truth is Your Name
the Creator, Perfect Keeper, Fearless, Without Enmity, The primary Entity, Without Incarnations, Self-perpetuating; With the Gurus grace: Recite!
True in the beginning, True Through the Ages, True even now and says Nanak will be True in the future |1|
Key to the Guru Granth Sahib and key to the Sikh religion. It describes the brotherhood of man and that God is the key to salvation. This specific passage describes the qualities of God: there is only one who is the constant truth, he is the creator, sustainer, without hostility and lasting forever without reincarnation. God has always been the one truth. This Japji hymn is used during many Sikh rituals. It is recited during morning prayer and during the naming ceremony.
Ardas
Recounts the history of the Sikhs. It contains blessings to God and the Gurus. It contains the large events in the Sikh religion and is read during many festivals.
God is One. All victory is of the Wondrous Guru (God).
May the respected sword (God in the form of the Destroyer of evil doers) help us!
Ode of the respected sword recited by the Tenth Guru.
First remember the sword (God in the form of Destroyer of evil doers); then remember and meditate upon Guru Nanak.
Then remember and meditate upon Guru Angad, Guru Amar Das and Guru Ram Das: May they help us!
Remember and meditate upon Guru Arjan, Guru Hargobind and Respected Guru Har Rai.
Remember and meditate upon respected Guru Har Krishan, by having the sight of whom, all pains vanish.
Remember and meditate upon Guru Tegh Bahadur; and then nine sources of wealth will come hastening to your home.
This section references the 10 gurus who began Sikhism along with Guru Nanak. It reminds Sikhs to remember, thank and pray for these Gurus and the direction they have provided.
Tav-Prasad Savaiye by Guru Gobind Singh
This poem is read after Japji in the morning and details how rituals like fasting and blind following of god are useless because they are not sincere forms of worship.
Scrupulous Jains and hosts of Siddhs, ascetic yogis - I have seen them all.
Warriors and demons, gods who drink amrit, devout believers in a multitude of doctrines.
All these have I witnessed as I traveled the world, yet never a true follower of the Lord.
Without the love and grace of God their devotion is trivial, worthless, lost. (1)
Mighty elephants in gorgeous array, magnificently decked with gold;
Thousands of horses nimbler than deer, their speed even swifter than the wind;
Though their masters be powerful emperors, potentates before whom countless bow.
In the end such greatness crumbles to nothing as barefoot they go on their way. (2)
The line:
All these have I witnessed as I traveled the world, yet never a true follower of the Lord. References the fact that though jains and sidds and ascetic yogis are devout because they alter their lifestyle to rituals praising God, they are not truly praising God because these rituals distract them.
Janam Sakhis
-“life evidences”
-Four books include stories of the life of Guru Nanak. These four books embellish the occurrences in Guru Nanak’s life and possibly add supernatural events and miraculous acts, which may or may not be true. It is compared to early Christian texts recounting the life of Jesus.
Dasam Granth
-a collection of writings of the tenth Guru Guru Gobind Singh. However, these texts do not completely fit the view of the Sikh religion and are therefore not fully accepted. The Dasam Granth inspired oppressed people and encouraged them to rise up against tyranny.
Doctrine/Belief
Key Doctrine
There is only one God (Akal Purukh) who’s advice is given through the Guru Granth Sahib, and through following the beliefs in the text, it is possible for our “jot” to be freed and from the cycle of births and deaths and achieve mukti to be united with God. This key doctrine is what unites Sikh followers. It is the common element that keeps Sikh sects together, and allows them to be associated with the Sikh religion. In many religions, some of the main doctrines can only be interpreted by priests through text, or passed on orally. However, in Sikhism the main doctrine and beliefs are all contained within the Guru Granth Sahib, allowing individuals to interpret the doctrines for themselves.
Cosmology: Humans can influence God’s decision in accepting them to be united with Him, however Humans don’t have full control on the decision. The universe is completely up to God’s will, hukam. God is the creator, sustainer and destroyer and all things come from him. Sikhism agrees with scientific belief because God’s creations are constantly evolving and improving because he is involved with everything. This fits the theory of evolution and survival of the fittest well.
Eschatology
There are five Khands, or stages one must pass through before being united in the Realm of Truth with God. This may occur during life or death. The fourth stage may only be entered through God’s grace (gurprasad), and his permission. These five stages are:
1. Dharam Khand: the realm of righteous action
2. Gian Khand: the realm of knowledge
3. Saram Khand: the realm of spiritual endeavour
4. Karam Khand: the realm of grace
5. Sach Khand: the realm of Truth
Religious Experience
Group/individual experience
Gudwara Bangla Sahib
In Sikhism, centers of worship are called gudwaras. At gudwaras, during festivals, the sangat, or local Sikh community, will gather in praise of God (Kirtan). During the rest of the year, individuals practice throughout the day with prayers: nam japna, kirat karo and vand kakko. Gudwara means “guru’s home”, and each Gudwara is built on a holy site or site of religious significance. The daily practice of nam japna means repeating the Lord’s name breath by breath with full concentration. This will bring happiness and focus to the individual. The individual will feel love for all living things as they are all a part of the Lord, and hurting any living being would be hurting the Lord. Kirat Karo refers to the Sikh emphasis on working justly for one’s living because everyone must work equally for their living, as when one enters the Realm of Truth everything and everyone is equal. Kirat Karo is to prepare us for that. Vand kakko is the belief in giving back to humanity through (seva-volunteer work) because all of humanity is part of God. Every Sikh can read the scripture as it is written in Punjabi, a language originally chosen by Guru Nanak because it was widely spoken by all people. Guru Nanak used many anecdotes to make the teachings easier to understand.
Gender Role
Sikhism believes that all humans are equal in everything, social standing, men vs women etc. Sikhs emphasize their high view of women because they realize that women gave birth to kings, rulers and holy men, provide and raise all people. All people can pray in any temple and participate in religious events. All people are equal because in the Realm of Truth all people are equal as well. However, in Sikh society today, gender equality issues still exist. Men hold the more powerful roles of politicians, doctors and lawyers with women still primarily in the background. So, through action the Sikh community has not followed the teachings of Guru Nanak. However, some of these issues do have to do with the society of the country, and not completely on the ideals of the Sikh religion.
Ethical Issues
-In Sikhism there is no common collection or set of specific ethical guidelines
-However, in Sikh texts equality is emphasized, and with the rejection of ritual Sikhism avoids many ethical conflicts having to do with the killing of animals and so forth.
Legal issues come from the interpretation of the Sikh texts.
Sikhism also emphasizes kirat karro, acting truthfully in life and the workplace. In Sikhism, the world was created through divine force. Also, kirpan is encouraged and means to protect the weak and vulnerable members of society. Guru Gobind Singh created dharma yudh, a righteous set of rules for war, to limit and control the extent and conduct of wars. Other than these beliefs, some ethical guidelines can be found in the Rahit Maryada.
Part I: 1 paragraph on each
1) What is the human condition?
We are stuck in a cycle of rebirths. We were given human form for the chance to unite with God through free will and choosing to do so. There are two categories of people in this world: gurumukh and manmukh. The manmuks are haumai (“I-I”). They are selfish and focus only on their needs and wants. They succumb to the five vices. These selfish desires block them from being able to unite with God, because there is no room for God in their hearts. However, through life, a manmukh may become a gurumukh. A gurumuk worships God and is pious in his everyday life. A gurumuk follows Sikh teachings, helps fellow members of society through community service and sharing with others, Vand Chhana. The gurumuks have a much better chance of uniting with God, though ultimately it is God’s decision as to who unites with him. Humans are in a state of suffering because of always desiring material objects in life, maya, that distract us and hinder our path to uniting with God.
2) Where are we going/what is the goal?
The goal is to allow our soul, jot, to escape samsara and merge with God through mukti. This is the fifth stage in life known as the Ream of Truth. In this Realm, everything and everyone is equal and the soul is free of desire. This goal ends the cycle of death and rebirth and is the ultimate goal of all Sikhs. However, God is the ultimate judge of who unites with Him or not. One can work hard to become a gurumuk, and influence one’s chance to uniting with God, but ultimately the decision is God’s. This ultimate goal of uniting with God is similar to that of Hinduism, but in Hinduism, God does not decide who escapes the cycle of samsara.
3) How do we get there?
God is part of everything, always thinking about God will influence your actions.
We get there through following the teachings of Guru Nanak through the Guru Granth Sahib, meditation on uniting with God and acts of service/charity. Worship of God is essential, and though one must not worship physical representations of God, one must worship his many names, often through the use of mala beads. These beads aid the believer during meditation, so he does not need to count the number of repetitions, as by fingering the beads, the beads do this for him. Also, the ground for our actions is maya, the real world we live in, which in contrast to Hinduism is very real in Sikhism. Maya is essential for us to be able to practice correct thought, and where we are given a chance, through free will, to demonstrate right actions and distinguish ourselves between manmuks and gurumuks. However, maya can also hinder our efforts because of material distractions.
Do not perform rituals, they bring no spiritual benefit. Just live a holy life thinking and acting as God.
Part II: indepth outline, paragraphs and pictures
1) Describe the 10 most important concepts.
1) There is only one God, Ek Omkara (meaning one God), the creator, sustainer and destroyer. God may have many names and is emphasized to not have just one because there are many different ways of viewing God, and each religion around the world may have their own name. Names given such as Akal Purukh, the Creator, are just descriptions of God. There are no physical representations of him, and the creation of these is prohibited. Because there are no physical representations, the many names of God are worshipped in meditation, often through the use of mala beads, as explained above.
2) God cannot take human form. Therefore there are no human manifestations of God, such as Jesus is in Christianity. However, God has communicated to ten men, Guru Nanak and ten other Gurus. God is in everything.
3) If one can overcome the five cardinal vices, one can achieve salvation. Kam (lust), Krodh (anger), Lobh (greed), Moh (worldly attachment), Ahankar (pride) or haumai (selfish ego). As humans, the purpose of life is to unite with God, but we can’t do this if we are polluted with wrong actions such as the five vices. To unite with God we must purify our soul and act with devotion and love to become like the pure nature of God.
4) Rejection of “blind” rituals such as fasting, religious vegetarianism, pilgrimages, superstitions, yoga, and many types of idol worship.
By participating in these rituals, one does not focus on the God within. Meditation on the Lord is more important than debating whether to eat meat or not. Getting caught up in these rituals, one can forget one’s true purpose- to worship and connect with the Lord by escaping samsara.
5) Family life (Grasth) is encouraged. It is discouraged to renunciate family connections and a home, like the way of ascetics.
By avoiding family life, one is admitting one does not know how act in a family and solve conflicts or treat family members correctly, basically one avoids the problems associated with family life. Avoiding family life is like taking the easy path through life. One must take on the challenge of acting with pure actions in everyday life as a member of society. Sikhs view marriage as linking two families rather than just two individuals.
In family life, one can learn all one needs from God. In everyday chores and responsibilities is where one unites with God, and where revelations take place. There are no ashrams in Sikhism, as all these stages, khands, can be found while living a household life. The religious connections to household life developed because in India, it is difficult for people to make time for religious worship, as they are so busy taking care of their families, that Guru Nanak decided to build that factor into Sikhism.
6)
Guru Granth Sahib
The holy book, Guru Granth Sahib is the lasting Guru. There are no living Gurus today though there were Gurus in the past, such as Guru Nanak. Guru Nanak grew up in a Hindu family, rejected the religion and later became Islamic. However, neither of these religions suited him well. He disappeared for three days while bathing in a stream, and after these three days, he returned and claimed God had taken him to His court and communicated a divine revelation. Guru Nanak said that neither Hinduism nor Islam was the true religion of God, and that he would follow God’s true path; Guru Nanak’s new religion called Sikhism. Guru Nanak began a community of Sikh worshippers, and ten total Gurus. After the tenth Guru declared that the Holy Scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, was the last Guru, there were no more Gurus.
7) There are no separations of caste, race or sex. Everyone is equally able to worship and connect with God. Everyone is a member of the Lord’s creations, and there are no distinctions. This world is the same as the next world where there are no separations between groups of people.
7b) Rejection of female infanticide, sati (wife burning), and purdah (women wearing veils) because Sikhs believe women are equal to men. Women provide everything in life. They give birth to rulers, continue family lineage, play an integral role in societal professions, are one half of the household, and much more. Women are highly valued in Sikhism for these reasons.
8) Maya and Mukti. We should not be attached to the tangible things in the world. We need to strive to disconnect ourselves form impermanent goods, and much like Buddhism, lose our desire for these things and therefore our suffering. When we lose our attachment to these things, we can free our jot and unite with God. By losing our attachment to these things, it becomes easier to overcome the five vices.
9) Honest labor is highly valued. One must earn one’s living through honest work and not beg or steal from others. One must reap what one sews. If one hurts others through cheating or stealing, one is hurting God because God is in everyone. This would be counterproductive to the goals of the religion.
10) All Sikhs must give back to the community through Vand Chhana, sharing with others. It is a social responsibility along with Seva, community service. At many gurdwaras there is a free community kitchen (langar). This kitchen is open to all people. By sharing with all people, one is sharing with God’s creations and therefore God.
Rituals: Choose 2.
1.
Nam Karan
Nam Karan: Naming of a Child
After a child is born, the parents take the child to a gudwara where a granthi chooses the name for the child. The ceremony involves drinking Amrit (sugar water) and eating Karah Prashad (sacred pudding). The name is chosen through Hukam; the granthi opens the Sri Guru Granth Sahib to a random page, and uses the first letter of the first hymn as the first letter of the child’s name. Sweet water, sacred pudding and Hukam are used in many festivals including the rite of passage into adulthood. Hukam is used because it represents God’s divine order, ordering the book to open to a certain page, communicating God’s message to the parents for the name of the newborn. It emphasizes how God is a part of everything and his role at all stages in life.
2.
Vaisakhi Festival
Vaisakhi- the New Year’s Eve anniversary of the Khalsa Panth, community of all Sikhs who follow Guru Nanak’s teachings, being formed on Earth. Celebrated with special services and procession of the Guru Granth Sahib (nagar kirtan, the entire town’s praise together). It is at the time of the New Year and harvest time, so it is merry and full of festive spiritual humor. It is the celebration of the first five Gurus willing to give their lives to the religion.
Sacred Texts
The main Sikh texts are the Guru Granth Sahib and the Janam Sakhis. Knowledge is passed on mainly through shabad, written knowledge. The Guru Granth is the only authority on Sikhism, and the Janam Sakhis recount the life of Guru Nanak like the early Christian texts of Jesus. Any Sikh can interpret the texts, and this is encouraged since there are no more Gurus, as this would alter the true meaning of the Guru Granth Sahib.
Guru Ganth Sahib is also called the Adi Granth. It contains text from other religions and is the only authority in Sikhism, though it is not a person.
The Ganth Sahib contains devotional hymns, poetry praising God, meditation on the True Guru (God), moral and ethical rules to aid one on the spiritual journey of the soul, salvation and direction on achieving unity with God. The content of the text is worshipped, but since idol worship is not allowed, the physical book is not worshipped. The Guru Granth Sahib contains divine words uttered by the first ten Gurus.
Japji Hymn
The opening to the hymn summarizes the Sikh view of God. It is called the Mool Mantra:
There is Only One God
Truth is Your Name
the Creator, Perfect Keeper, Fearless, Without Enmity, The primary Entity, Without Incarnations, Self-perpetuating; With the Gurus grace: Recite!
True in the beginning, True Through the Ages, True even now and says Nanak will be True in the future |1|
Key to the Guru Granth Sahib and key to the Sikh religion. It describes the brotherhood of man and that God is the key to salvation. This specific passage describes the qualities of God: there is only one who is the constant truth, he is the creator, sustainer, without hostility and lasting forever without reincarnation. God has always been the one truth. This Japji hymn is used during many Sikh rituals. It is recited during morning prayer and during the naming ceremony.
Ardas
Recounts the history of the Sikhs. It contains blessings to God and the Gurus. It contains the large events in the Sikh religion and is read during many festivals.
God is One. All victory is of the Wondrous Guru (God).
May the respected sword (God in the form of the Destroyer of evil doers) help us!
Ode of the respected sword recited by the Tenth Guru.
First remember the sword (God in the form of Destroyer of evil doers); then remember and meditate upon Guru Nanak.
Then remember and meditate upon Guru Angad, Guru Amar Das and Guru Ram Das: May they help us!
Remember and meditate upon Guru Arjan, Guru Hargobind and Respected Guru Har Rai.
Remember and meditate upon respected Guru Har Krishan, by having the sight of whom, all pains vanish.
Remember and meditate upon Guru Tegh Bahadur; and then nine sources of wealth will come hastening to your home.
This section references the 10 gurus who began Sikhism along with Guru Nanak. It reminds Sikhs to remember, thank and pray for these Gurus and the direction they have provided.
Tav-Prasad Savaiye by Guru Gobind Singh
This poem is read after Japji in the morning and details how rituals like fasting and blind following of god are useless because they are not sincere forms of worship.
Scrupulous Jains and hosts of Siddhs, ascetic yogis - I have seen them all.
Warriors and demons, gods who drink amrit, devout believers in a multitude of doctrines.
All these have I witnessed as I traveled the world, yet never a true follower of the Lord.
Without the love and grace of God their devotion is trivial, worthless, lost. (1)
Mighty elephants in gorgeous array, magnificently decked with gold;
Thousands of horses nimbler than deer, their speed even swifter than the wind;
Though their masters be powerful emperors, potentates before whom countless bow.
In the end such greatness crumbles to nothing as barefoot they go on their way. (2)
The line:
All these have I witnessed as I traveled the world, yet never a true follower of the Lord. References the fact that though jains and sidds and ascetic yogis are devout because they alter their lifestyle to rituals praising God, they are not truly praising God because these rituals distract them.
Janam Sakhis
-“life evidences”
-Four books include stories of the life of Guru Nanak. These four books embellish the occurrences in Guru Nanak’s life and possibly add supernatural events and miraculous acts, which may or may not be true. It is compared to early Christian texts recounting the life of Jesus.
Dasam Granth
-a collection of writings of the tenth Guru Guru Gobind Singh. However, these texts do not completely fit the view of the Sikh religion and are therefore not fully accepted. The Dasam Granth inspired oppressed people and encouraged them to rise up against tyranny.
Doctrine/Belief
Key Doctrine
There is only one God (Akal Purukh) who’s advice is given through the Guru Granth Sahib, and through following the beliefs in the text, it is possible for our “jot” to be freed and from the cycle of births and deaths and achieve mukti to be united with God. This key doctrine is what unites Sikh followers. It is the common element that keeps Sikh sects together, and allows them to be associated with the Sikh religion. In many religions, some of the main doctrines can only be interpreted by priests through text, or passed on orally. However, in Sikhism the main doctrine and beliefs are all contained within the Guru Granth Sahib, allowing individuals to interpret the doctrines for themselves.
Cosmology: Humans can influence God’s decision in accepting them to be united with Him, however Humans don’t have full control on the decision. The universe is completely up to God’s will, hukam. God is the creator, sustainer and destroyer and all things come from him. Sikhism agrees with scientific belief because God’s creations are constantly evolving and improving because he is involved with everything. This fits the theory of evolution and survival of the fittest well.
Eschatology
There are five Khands, or stages one must pass through before being united in the Realm of Truth with God. This may occur during life or death. The fourth stage may only be entered through God’s grace (gurprasad), and his permission. These five stages are:
1. Dharam Khand: the realm of righteous action
2. Gian Khand: the realm of knowledge
3. Saram Khand: the realm of spiritual endeavour
4. Karam Khand: the realm of grace
5. Sach Khand: the realm of Truth
Religious Experience
Group/individual experience
Gudwara Bangla Sahib
In Sikhism, centers of worship are called gudwaras. At gudwaras, during festivals, the sangat, or local Sikh community, will gather in praise of God (Kirtan). During the rest of the year, individuals practice throughout the day with prayers: nam japna, kirat karo and vand kakko. Gudwara means “guru’s home”, and each Gudwara is built on a holy site or site of religious significance. The daily practice of nam japna means repeating the Lord’s name breath by breath with full concentration. This will bring happiness and focus to the individual. The individual will feel love for all living things as they are all a part of the Lord, and hurting any living being would be hurting the Lord. Kirat Karo refers to the Sikh emphasis on working justly for one’s living because everyone must work equally for their living, as when one enters the Realm of Truth everything and everyone is equal. Kirat Karo is to prepare us for that. Vand kakko is the belief in giving back to humanity through (seva-volunteer work) because all of humanity is part of God. Every Sikh can read the scripture as it is written in Punjabi, a language originally chosen by Guru Nanak because it was widely spoken by all people. Guru Nanak used many anecdotes to make the teachings easier to understand.
Gender Role
Sikhism believes that all humans are equal in everything, social standing, men vs women etc. Sikhs emphasize their high view of women because they realize that women gave birth to kings, rulers and holy men, provide and raise all people. All people can pray in any temple and participate in religious events. All people are equal because in the Realm of Truth all people are equal as well. However, in Sikh society today, gender equality issues still exist. Men hold the more powerful roles of politicians, doctors and lawyers with women still primarily in the background. So, through action the Sikh community has not followed the teachings of Guru Nanak. However, some of these issues do have to do with the society of the country, and not completely on the ideals of the Sikh religion.
Ethical Issues
-In Sikhism there is no common collection or set of specific ethical guidelines
-However, in Sikh texts equality is emphasized, and with the rejection of ritual Sikhism avoids many ethical conflicts having to do with the killing of animals and so forth.
Legal issues come from the interpretation of the Sikh texts.
Sikhism also emphasizes kirat karro, acting truthfully in life and the workplace. In Sikhism, the world was created through divine force. Also, kirpan is encouraged and means to protect the weak and vulnerable members of society. Guru Gobind Singh created dharma yudh, a righteous set of rules for war, to limit and control the extent and conduct of wars. Other than these beliefs, some ethical guidelines can be found in the Rahit Maryada.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Buddhism 7-11
7) Texts and Monasteries
Describe the specific role of texts in Buddhism and how does it differ from other religious text?
Describe the aspects / role of one of the texts manuscripts depicted on the page.
In Buddhism, the texts are collections of the life of the Buddha who found the path to enlightenment. The texts greatly influenced the monasteries, and the teachings taught there. These texts vary greatly between religions, but the common belief in the journey of the Buddha to Enlightenment, and the teachings he passed on remains the same. These teachings are found throughout the Buddhist texts, such as the ones mentioned below.
The Tripitaka is the earliest Buddhist text and is divided into: Discipline Basket (Vinyana Pitaka) which sets guidelines on how to live the monastic life of the sangha, Discourse basket (Sutra Pitaka) which recounts the life and teachings of Buddha, and Special teachings (Abhidarma Pitaka), miscellaneous collections of poetry, songs and stories from Buddha's earlier lives.
Many Buddhist sacred texts fall under the category of Sutras as well. As sects of Buddhism were created like Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism, new texts were created, and certain texts are emphasized or excluded from the religion. Therefore this makes Buddhist texts different from other religions because of the great variation.
These texts differ from those of other religions because they recount the way that others can become like Buddha, and how it is possible. Whereas monotheistic religions would state that humans can never be like God, but should be the best human we can be. In Buddhism, it is possible to achieve the same status as Buddha.
These texts also differ because there is no one central text used between religions.
Overall Buddhist texts differ because: There is no one central text, each sect can create their own religious text, and there is no one central text like the Bible in Christianity.
8) Celestial Beings
Describe / explain the Buddhist concept of the Bodhisattvas.
Bodhisattvas came about because once the Buddha achieved Enlightenment, he simplified his teachings so everyday people could understand them. This was a form of compassion, and the role of Bodhisattvas evolved.
Bodhisattvas are defined as "Buddhists to be". Buddhists believe that once one achieves Enlightenment, the knowledge and joy should be shared with others. This is the role of bodhisattvas. Therefore in Buddhism, it is ok to worship the Bodhisattvas and unite oneself with them. This is called "nembutsu" or "mindfulness of the Buddha".
Symbolism is a crucial element to Buddhist concepts - analyze the significance of three different symbols given on the Celestial Beings pages.
On the statue of Tara:
The third eye in the middle of the forehead represents Tara's all seeing nature
The Open palm represents the favor granting gesture and openness to help all people achieve Enlightenment
The eye on the palm represents Tara's ability to see suffering everywhere in the world, and know that it exists. This contributes to the 1st truth of Buddhism that everything is suffering
9) Chinese Buddhism/ Japanese Buddhism
Describe some aspect of Chinese Buddhism that is uniquely Chinese.
In Chinese Buddhism, the belief is that through practice (meditation, ritual, chanting, teaching and studying Buddhist texts), one gains "merit" in future lives for oneself and also one's family and supporters.
The Buddhas and bodhisattvas from India were altered to Chinese forms. For example, in Chinese Buddhism there are: Kuan Shih Yin, the fat Laughing Buddha and the Buddha of pure land was believed to have come from the mountains in China, instead of from India.
Describe some aspect of Japanese Buddhism that is uniquely Japanese.
Buddhism arrived in Japan from China, and mainly Mahayana Buddhism. Other teachings include: Tendai, Shingon, the Pure Land Schools, the three major sects of Zen Buddhism: Rinzai, Soto and Obaku. Eisai Rinzai, a Japanese monk brought tea bush seeds to Japan and planted them in his school. Since then, tea has been connected to Buddhism because it is said to have the same essence and taste as Zen. Rinzai taught "chado", or way of tea, and that one could achieve Enlightenment through the absorption of all things.
10) Tantric Buddhism
Define (in your own words) what Tantric Buddhism is.
Tantric Buddhism uses meditation, ritual, symbolism and magic. The belief is that Tantric Buddhism achieves Enlightenment much faster than the way of the bodhisattvas. Through reciting mantras, one must realize that all human states are connected, even the opposites such as hate and revulsion are connected to love and desire. By realizing this connection, one can achieve Buddha-nature because these states are nothing on their own.
There are religious artifacts such as the vajra, a double-headed instrument with a bell. One vajra is held in each hand, representing opposites such as male/female, empty/full etc.
11) Overall Analysis / Synthesis:
Describe three important aspects of Buddhism that you learned as a result of this research.
I learned that there are multiple sects of Buddhism that vary greatly, such as Chinese Buddhism, Japanese Buddhism, Mahayana, Theravada, more so than sects of other religions because there isn't one main text, there are different religious artifacts such as vajras and tea, different schools of thought, the Buddha is represented in different ways across Buddhist sects, and Tantric Buddhism has completely different methods from other forms of Buddhism. However, the common beliefs of Buddhism such as the belief in the life of the Buddha, the Four Noble truths and the Eightfold Path carry across the division between the different sects.
Describe the specific role of texts in Buddhism and how does it differ from other religious text?
Describe the aspects / role of one of the texts manuscripts depicted on the page.
In Buddhism, the texts are collections of the life of the Buddha who found the path to enlightenment. The texts greatly influenced the monasteries, and the teachings taught there. These texts vary greatly between religions, but the common belief in the journey of the Buddha to Enlightenment, and the teachings he passed on remains the same. These teachings are found throughout the Buddhist texts, such as the ones mentioned below.
The Tripitaka is the earliest Buddhist text and is divided into: Discipline Basket (Vinyana Pitaka) which sets guidelines on how to live the monastic life of the sangha, Discourse basket (Sutra Pitaka) which recounts the life and teachings of Buddha, and Special teachings (Abhidarma Pitaka), miscellaneous collections of poetry, songs and stories from Buddha's earlier lives.
Many Buddhist sacred texts fall under the category of Sutras as well. As sects of Buddhism were created like Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism, new texts were created, and certain texts are emphasized or excluded from the religion. Therefore this makes Buddhist texts different from other religions because of the great variation.
These texts differ from those of other religions because they recount the way that others can become like Buddha, and how it is possible. Whereas monotheistic religions would state that humans can never be like God, but should be the best human we can be. In Buddhism, it is possible to achieve the same status as Buddha.
These texts also differ because there is no one central text used between religions.
Overall Buddhist texts differ because: There is no one central text, each sect can create their own religious text, and there is no one central text like the Bible in Christianity.
8) Celestial Beings
Describe / explain the Buddhist concept of the Bodhisattvas.
Bodhisattvas came about because once the Buddha achieved Enlightenment, he simplified his teachings so everyday people could understand them. This was a form of compassion, and the role of Bodhisattvas evolved.
Bodhisattvas are defined as "Buddhists to be". Buddhists believe that once one achieves Enlightenment, the knowledge and joy should be shared with others. This is the role of bodhisattvas. Therefore in Buddhism, it is ok to worship the Bodhisattvas and unite oneself with them. This is called "nembutsu" or "mindfulness of the Buddha".
Symbolism is a crucial element to Buddhist concepts - analyze the significance of three different symbols given on the Celestial Beings pages.
On the statue of Tara:
The third eye in the middle of the forehead represents Tara's all seeing nature
The Open palm represents the favor granting gesture and openness to help all people achieve Enlightenment
The eye on the palm represents Tara's ability to see suffering everywhere in the world, and know that it exists. This contributes to the 1st truth of Buddhism that everything is suffering
9) Chinese Buddhism/ Japanese Buddhism
Describe some aspect of Chinese Buddhism that is uniquely Chinese.
In Chinese Buddhism, the belief is that through practice (meditation, ritual, chanting, teaching and studying Buddhist texts), one gains "merit" in future lives for oneself and also one's family and supporters.
The Buddhas and bodhisattvas from India were altered to Chinese forms. For example, in Chinese Buddhism there are: Kuan Shih Yin, the fat Laughing Buddha and the Buddha of pure land was believed to have come from the mountains in China, instead of from India.
Describe some aspect of Japanese Buddhism that is uniquely Japanese.
Buddhism arrived in Japan from China, and mainly Mahayana Buddhism. Other teachings include: Tendai, Shingon, the Pure Land Schools, the three major sects of Zen Buddhism: Rinzai, Soto and Obaku. Eisai Rinzai, a Japanese monk brought tea bush seeds to Japan and planted them in his school. Since then, tea has been connected to Buddhism because it is said to have the same essence and taste as Zen. Rinzai taught "chado", or way of tea, and that one could achieve Enlightenment through the absorption of all things.
10) Tantric Buddhism
Define (in your own words) what Tantric Buddhism is.
Tantric Buddhism uses meditation, ritual, symbolism and magic. The belief is that Tantric Buddhism achieves Enlightenment much faster than the way of the bodhisattvas. Through reciting mantras, one must realize that all human states are connected, even the opposites such as hate and revulsion are connected to love and desire. By realizing this connection, one can achieve Buddha-nature because these states are nothing on their own.
There are religious artifacts such as the vajra, a double-headed instrument with a bell. One vajra is held in each hand, representing opposites such as male/female, empty/full etc.
11) Overall Analysis / Synthesis:
Describe three important aspects of Buddhism that you learned as a result of this research.
I learned that there are multiple sects of Buddhism that vary greatly, such as Chinese Buddhism, Japanese Buddhism, Mahayana, Theravada, more so than sects of other religions because there isn't one main text, there are different religious artifacts such as vajras and tea, different schools of thought, the Buddha is represented in different ways across Buddhist sects, and Tantric Buddhism has completely different methods from other forms of Buddhism. However, the common beliefs of Buddhism such as the belief in the life of the Buddha, the Four Noble truths and the Eightfold Path carry across the division between the different sects.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Buddhism Vocab
Buddhism Vocabulary
Dukkha-all living things are suffering, temporary and imperfect. It literally means the suffering of all things that are conditioned/manipulated. The things that cause suffering are the stress of pain, the stress of fabrication, and the stress of change. The concept of Dukkha is also the first noble truth.
Tanha-excessive cravings for desire of things that can’t be attained. This is the nature of humans that we must overcome through following the tenets of Buddhism.
Anicca-impermanence, nothing lasts forever. The inevitable fate of all matter. Humans rely on the belief that things last forever and suffering arises as a result of this expectation when these materials perish.
Anatta-a temporary ego. there is no permanent “self” that we think of as our ego, it is a temporary creation. This is our mind as we see ourselves, we often fail to see the bigger picture and that our ego is not really who we are.
Nirvana- a mental state that is empty of self, and therefore there is no suffering, escaping the cycle of birth and death. There is therefore no craving. By following the eightfold path, one can attain Nirvana.
Rhat- In Theravada Buddhism, someone who has reached Englightenment, including the Buddha. There are different types of rhat such as Sammasambuddha, one who discovered the truth on his own and teaches the path to others, Paccekabuddha, those who discover the truth on their own but cannot teach the path to others, and Savakabuddha, those who receive the truth from a Sammasambuddha.
Samsara- literally “journeying” the eightfold path leads from Samsara to Nirvana. The cycle of birth, death and rebirth. Sometimes described as the opposite of Nirvana. In Mahayana Buddhism, Samsara and Nirvana are mental states. In some Buddhist beliefs, the true nature of the world is both Samsara and Nirvana together.
Buddha- commonly used to mean the first Buddha (Siddhartha Guatama), but now is meant to be a teacher who helps you on the path to enlightenment.
Siddhartha Guatama-grew up as a Hindu and experienced the extremes in life of richness and desire and the sickness, death and poverty. He developed Buddhism and achieved enlightenment. However, after he developed the religion, he didn’t want followers to worship him as God. He believed followers should focus on attaining enlightenment on their own.
Bodhissata- the Buddha-to-be. The Dalai Lama is the bodhissata of compassion. These bodhissatas must still find their way on the path to Enlghtenment like anyone else. However, their fate is still to become a Buddha. Through successive births these Bodhissatas will eventually become Buddhas.
Sangha- a group of Buddhists, can be small or mean the entire community of Buddhists worldwide and anything in between. It helps people who are hurt and confused who choose to turn to Buddhism because other people will be in the same situation. It is beneficial for these people to talk and sort out their problems together. It is progressive in sharing wisdom and knowledge of life. By opening yourself and helping others, you can let go of selfishness and ego.
Dhamma-the law and order of the universe. It also refers to the teachings of the Buddha. Dhamma is the way of life that cannot be changed and is eternal.
Bhavana-generally means development. Usually combined with other words like “citta-bhavana” development of mind. “metta-bhavana” development of lovingkindness. Everything eminates from the mind, therefore control of the mind is the first step in action
Karuna-active sympathy and compassion towards others. In Theravada Buddhism, it is good for one to dwell in a state of compassion because it leads to happiness and cleanses the mind of suffering and worry.
Maya-illusion of the world. Illusion that our emotions are our reality and that is all that matters. To be able to be easily emotionally swayed and hang everything off of events in our lives.
Upaya-skillful means or methods to attain liberation from maya and reach Enlightenment. This is a broad expression and encompasses all Buddhist teachings
Lama- a Buddhist spiritual leader, in Hinduism this is known as a guru. For example, the Dalai Lama is the Buddha of compassion. Sprul-sku lamas are reincarnated lamas who have automatically earned their respect, as opposed to others who have earned respect from their great spiritual development.
Mudras-certain hand gestures used in images of Buddha that represent different meanings. For example Abhaya Mudra is like a cupped hand and means “do not fear”
Three Jewels of Buddhism: Buddha, Dharma, Sangha
-these are the common required beliefs between all Buddhist sects.
Buddha- One must learn from the actions of Siddhartha Guatama on his path to attaining Englightenment
Dharma- Learning spiritual direction from Buddhist texts
Sangha-the worldwide community of Buddhists that support one another on their journey to Enlightenment on the Eightfold path
Buddha- take refuge in what Siddhartha discovered and learned through his teachings, but not through him. Anyone can be a Buddha when they achieve englightenment
Dharma-teachings passed on by Siddhartha, the fundamental nature of reality
Sangha-the entire community of Buddhists who support each other in their religious journeys
Theravada Buddhism-in South East Asia. “way of the elders” because it is the oldest of the Buddhist sects. This is the original form of Buddhism focused on the individual and serious meditation and practice were required. This form of Buddhism didn’t accomadate societies as a whole and set almost unattainable standards, so Mahayana Buddhism was developed for the everyday person to participate in and be more suited to meet the goals set in Mahayana Buddhism.
Mahayana Buddhism- in East Asia. “the great vehicle” there are many subsects. It is called “the great vehicle” because it branched off of Theravada Buddhism to create a more universal and achievable religion. In Mahayana Buddhism, there are certain terms for someone who has attained a higher state of consciousness and has reached a level closer to Enlightenment, rather than only one end goal of Enlightenment that you have either reached or not. In general, Mahayana Buddhism added a “gray scale” in between Theravada’s black and white.
Mandala-artwork made of natural materials that symbolizes anyita, the impermanence of life, when it is wiped away
Eightfold Path
-panna: a type of wisdom that must be discovered and can not be taught. Once one has learned this type of wisdom, one has achieved Englightenment.
-Sila- moral conduct and correct behavior to promote peaceful existence in communities. This contributes to “right action”
-Samadhi (effort)-one must demonstrate genuine interest in pursuing Buddhism as a way of living and with the end goal of achieving a state of no desire
Four Noble Truths
Life is suffering. Dukkha. This must first be accepted as truth to proceed
We cause our suffering. Tanha. Excessive craving and desire causes our suffering
We can end our suffering. Through
Through the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold path is a set of steps one must follow to achieve Enlightenment. The path is composed of:
Wisdom:
1. Right View
2. Right Intention
Ethical Conduct:
3. Right Speech
4. Right Action
5. Right Livelihood
Mental Development:
6. Right Effort
7. Right Mindfulness
8. Right Concentration
Dukkha-all living things are suffering, temporary and imperfect. It literally means the suffering of all things that are conditioned/manipulated. The things that cause suffering are the stress of pain, the stress of fabrication, and the stress of change. The concept of Dukkha is also the first noble truth.
Tanha-excessive cravings for desire of things that can’t be attained. This is the nature of humans that we must overcome through following the tenets of Buddhism.
Anicca-impermanence, nothing lasts forever. The inevitable fate of all matter. Humans rely on the belief that things last forever and suffering arises as a result of this expectation when these materials perish.
Anatta-a temporary ego. there is no permanent “self” that we think of as our ego, it is a temporary creation. This is our mind as we see ourselves, we often fail to see the bigger picture and that our ego is not really who we are.
Nirvana- a mental state that is empty of self, and therefore there is no suffering, escaping the cycle of birth and death. There is therefore no craving. By following the eightfold path, one can attain Nirvana.
Rhat- In Theravada Buddhism, someone who has reached Englightenment, including the Buddha. There are different types of rhat such as Sammasambuddha, one who discovered the truth on his own and teaches the path to others, Paccekabuddha, those who discover the truth on their own but cannot teach the path to others, and Savakabuddha, those who receive the truth from a Sammasambuddha.
Samsara- literally “journeying” the eightfold path leads from Samsara to Nirvana. The cycle of birth, death and rebirth. Sometimes described as the opposite of Nirvana. In Mahayana Buddhism, Samsara and Nirvana are mental states. In some Buddhist beliefs, the true nature of the world is both Samsara and Nirvana together.
Buddha- commonly used to mean the first Buddha (Siddhartha Guatama), but now is meant to be a teacher who helps you on the path to enlightenment.
Siddhartha Guatama-grew up as a Hindu and experienced the extremes in life of richness and desire and the sickness, death and poverty. He developed Buddhism and achieved enlightenment. However, after he developed the religion, he didn’t want followers to worship him as God. He believed followers should focus on attaining enlightenment on their own.
Bodhissata- the Buddha-to-be. The Dalai Lama is the bodhissata of compassion. These bodhissatas must still find their way on the path to Enlghtenment like anyone else. However, their fate is still to become a Buddha. Through successive births these Bodhissatas will eventually become Buddhas.
Sangha- a group of Buddhists, can be small or mean the entire community of Buddhists worldwide and anything in between. It helps people who are hurt and confused who choose to turn to Buddhism because other people will be in the same situation. It is beneficial for these people to talk and sort out their problems together. It is progressive in sharing wisdom and knowledge of life. By opening yourself and helping others, you can let go of selfishness and ego.
Dhamma-the law and order of the universe. It also refers to the teachings of the Buddha. Dhamma is the way of life that cannot be changed and is eternal.
Bhavana-generally means development. Usually combined with other words like “citta-bhavana” development of mind. “metta-bhavana” development of lovingkindness. Everything eminates from the mind, therefore control of the mind is the first step in action
Karuna-active sympathy and compassion towards others. In Theravada Buddhism, it is good for one to dwell in a state of compassion because it leads to happiness and cleanses the mind of suffering and worry.
Maya-illusion of the world. Illusion that our emotions are our reality and that is all that matters. To be able to be easily emotionally swayed and hang everything off of events in our lives.
Upaya-skillful means or methods to attain liberation from maya and reach Enlightenment. This is a broad expression and encompasses all Buddhist teachings
Lama- a Buddhist spiritual leader, in Hinduism this is known as a guru. For example, the Dalai Lama is the Buddha of compassion. Sprul-sku lamas are reincarnated lamas who have automatically earned their respect, as opposed to others who have earned respect from their great spiritual development.
Mudras-certain hand gestures used in images of Buddha that represent different meanings. For example Abhaya Mudra is like a cupped hand and means “do not fear”
Three Jewels of Buddhism: Buddha, Dharma, Sangha
-these are the common required beliefs between all Buddhist sects.
Buddha- One must learn from the actions of Siddhartha Guatama on his path to attaining Englightenment
Dharma- Learning spiritual direction from Buddhist texts
Sangha-the worldwide community of Buddhists that support one another on their journey to Enlightenment on the Eightfold path
Buddha- take refuge in what Siddhartha discovered and learned through his teachings, but not through him. Anyone can be a Buddha when they achieve englightenment
Dharma-teachings passed on by Siddhartha, the fundamental nature of reality
Sangha-the entire community of Buddhists who support each other in their religious journeys
Theravada Buddhism-in South East Asia. “way of the elders” because it is the oldest of the Buddhist sects. This is the original form of Buddhism focused on the individual and serious meditation and practice were required. This form of Buddhism didn’t accomadate societies as a whole and set almost unattainable standards, so Mahayana Buddhism was developed for the everyday person to participate in and be more suited to meet the goals set in Mahayana Buddhism.
Mahayana Buddhism- in East Asia. “the great vehicle” there are many subsects. It is called “the great vehicle” because it branched off of Theravada Buddhism to create a more universal and achievable religion. In Mahayana Buddhism, there are certain terms for someone who has attained a higher state of consciousness and has reached a level closer to Enlightenment, rather than only one end goal of Enlightenment that you have either reached or not. In general, Mahayana Buddhism added a “gray scale” in between Theravada’s black and white.
Mandala-artwork made of natural materials that symbolizes anyita, the impermanence of life, when it is wiped away
Eightfold Path
-panna: a type of wisdom that must be discovered and can not be taught. Once one has learned this type of wisdom, one has achieved Englightenment.
-Sila- moral conduct and correct behavior to promote peaceful existence in communities. This contributes to “right action”
-Samadhi (effort)-one must demonstrate genuine interest in pursuing Buddhism as a way of living and with the end goal of achieving a state of no desire
Four Noble Truths
Life is suffering. Dukkha. This must first be accepted as truth to proceed
We cause our suffering. Tanha. Excessive craving and desire causes our suffering
We can end our suffering. Through
Through the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold path is a set of steps one must follow to achieve Enlightenment. The path is composed of:
Wisdom:
1. Right View
2. Right Intention
Ethical Conduct:
3. Right Speech
4. Right Action
5. Right Livelihood
Mental Development:
6. Right Effort
7. Right Mindfulness
8. Right Concentration
Monday, November 15, 2010
Buddhism Concepts
1) Buddhism (general overview):
Describe what you think are the three main concepts of Buddhism outlined on pages 60 -61
The three main concepts of Buddhism are dukka, tanha and samma.
Dukka is the belief that everything in life is unsatifactory and filled with suffering. This suffering arises from the clinging and infinite desire that will never be fulfilled; this is called tanha. However, we can choose to overcome that suffering with samma, or the correct way of life as it applies to many actions. For example, right understanding, right thought, right speech, right livlihood, right action, right mindfulness and right concentration. These three "right" ways of life make up the eightfold path, or the way to achieve Nirvana.
2) The Life of Buddha
What do you think are the main / most important elements of the Buddha's life?
The Buddha began life as Siddhartha Gautama, a young man who was spoiled from birth and given all humanly pleasures possible. His father wished to hide him from all the suffering of the world. However, as he ventured out into the world he began to notice sick people, elderly people, poor people and suffering people in general. He met an ascetic one day and followed him, leaving his family to study. He studied for 40 years and achieved Enlightenment under the bodhi tree. He then began preaching Buddhism in northeast India.
The most important elements are that he began life with all human pleasures and from there was awoken to the realities of the world and the innate nature of suffering. It is also important that he demonstrated his interest and out of his own will he pursued the teachings of an ascetic and found the "right" way through life on his own.
Analyze the image and text in the center of the pages titled "The Buddha Conquers Mara" and describe three aspects of the imagery and the symbolism it represents in the life of the Buddha
Symbol of the Buddha's teaching: The wheel that the Buddha holds in his hand is composed of 8 spokes representing the eightfold path which he formed after attaining enlightenment. This teaching is called dharma.
Treasury of Desire: a vase is placed at an altar below the meditation throne representing the fact that all desires must be left behind before one can begin to attain Enlightenment.
Lotus Throne: The Buddha sits on his meditation throne of a lotus flower. The lotus flower still has its roots in the mud and water, but its petals are in the light above water. It is said that when the Buddha was born, a lotus flower sprung up after each of the first seven steps he took.
Overall, this picture is representative of the Buddhist religion because it uses symbolic images to describe certain beliefs. This temple hanging details the life of the Buddha from birth, when he was a boddhista (a future buddha) to Enlightenment. It details his conquest over Mara, the evil one who tried to prevent Shakyamuni from attaining enlightenment.
3) The Buddha Image
Using the smaller images of Buddha as a reference (on pages 64-65) explain at least two different ways the Buddha is represented.
Buddha on a Lotus Throne: This Buddha figure represents the finality of life. It depicts scenes from Buddha's life and at the top shows his inevitable death. By becoming dispassionate, one can become detached and through this one is liberated. Then there is knowledge of this liberation and one achieves Nirvana. After this goal in life has been reached, it is the inevitable way that one then passes away and one's life has been fulfilled. Overall, this Buddha statue represents the goal in life and the destined death of all humans at the end.
Gandharan Buddha: This Buddha was constructed during he 2nd to 3rd century CE because of the type of bun on the Buddha's head is typical of Greek gods. Also when Alexander the Great conquered northwest India where this statue is from. The respect for the Buddha is shown through the ascetic haristyle, the halo around the back of his head, the "mark of a superman" spot on his forehead and many more. Overall, this is the Greek influenced statue of Buddha.
Analyzing the image of the Buddha on page 65 and explain at least five elements / symbols represented in the image.
The monastic cloak is typical of Gandharan style, showing how Buddha is a normal everyday man, no more special that anyone today.
Meditation throne-symbol of the presence of the Buddha. The Buddha sits on top of it and prays
Wheel-turning posture- a position or mudra for the hands common of the "dharmacakra mudra" or wheel turning pose.
Buddha Halo- as stated earlier, there is a halo around the back of Buddha's head that suggests his religious importance.
Marks of a Superman- there is a little tuft of hair between Buddha's eyes on his forehead that is a marking of a "superman". This again shows the reverence for Buddha
4) Stupas, Temples and Relics
What role do stupas play in Buddhism and what sort of symbols are found as a part of stupas?
Stupas used to be ancient burial grounds for the Buddha and other prominent religious figures of the era. However, as they gained importance they were carved out and certain symbols were engraved into them. Stupas have become large relics that remind believers of their symbolism and Buddhist beliefs. In Tibet, the stupa is a dome centered on a five-tiered bass representing the five elements of the world along with the sun resting on the crescent moon representing wisdom and compassion.
Using the stone slab in the middle of the two pages as a reference, what are some of the main features and what do they represent within Buddhism?
The Buddha's life: there is a depiction of the Buddha as a bodhisattva (Buddha to be)
Celestial spirits: bring garlands to the Buddha in veneration
The Wheel of the Law: represents the cosmos and Buddhist concepts of karma and rebirth, as these beliefs are cyclical and recurring like a wheel
5) Devotion
Describe one symbol or act of devotion in Buddhism.
At the Pure Land school the boys are taught to give up all self-serving desires, even the one for enlightenment and devote himself entirely to the power of Amitabha who saves those who have faith and trust in him. It is also ceremonial for the boys to all shave their heads.
Also, for lay Buddhists, being philanthropic and donating food, clothing and other goods are great devotional acts because through these acts, a lay Buddhist is assured a favorable future birth.
6) Cosmology
Describe the main tenets or ideas of Buddhist Cosmology.
In Buddhism, the cosmos is impermanent and was not created. All things living or otherwise must work to achieve Enlightenment, even Gods. There are different realms like castes, for Gods then humans and animals. Below these realms lay the "hungry ghosts" and "hells". The concept of Samsara plays a part because when humans are reborn, they are born into one of 6 different realms.
What are the different types of mandalas and what the main ideas presented in all mandalas?
Mandalas represent the ideal Buddha world. They are a part of Tantric Meditation practice where believers learn to visualize Buddhist realms. These visualizations may be represented through different forms of artwork. Rituals and mantras are associated with these mandalas, and they are believed to posses powerful psychic energy. They represent both the macrocosm of the universe and the microcosm of the believer's psychic energy. After these intricate beautiful mantras are completed from organic materials, they are destroyed representing the impermanence of life.
Interpret what you think are the three - four most important concepts in the Buddhist "wheel of life"
Clinging: the man plucking fruit from the tree represents the irresistible human yearning for possession and desire life.
Ignorance: represented by a blind man shows human ignorance to the fact that life is suffering and that we can escape this state through our own effort.
Acts of Volition: potters molding their own fate/karma in the pots they produce represent a deed such as right action, right speech and right mindfulness. This shows that by following the eightfold path and discovering one's way through life one can achieve enlightenment.
Describe what you think are the three main concepts of Buddhism outlined on pages 60 -61
The three main concepts of Buddhism are dukka, tanha and samma.
Dukka is the belief that everything in life is unsatifactory and filled with suffering. This suffering arises from the clinging and infinite desire that will never be fulfilled; this is called tanha. However, we can choose to overcome that suffering with samma, or the correct way of life as it applies to many actions. For example, right understanding, right thought, right speech, right livlihood, right action, right mindfulness and right concentration. These three "right" ways of life make up the eightfold path, or the way to achieve Nirvana.
2) The Life of Buddha
What do you think are the main / most important elements of the Buddha's life?
The Buddha began life as Siddhartha Gautama, a young man who was spoiled from birth and given all humanly pleasures possible. His father wished to hide him from all the suffering of the world. However, as he ventured out into the world he began to notice sick people, elderly people, poor people and suffering people in general. He met an ascetic one day and followed him, leaving his family to study. He studied for 40 years and achieved Enlightenment under the bodhi tree. He then began preaching Buddhism in northeast India.
The most important elements are that he began life with all human pleasures and from there was awoken to the realities of the world and the innate nature of suffering. It is also important that he demonstrated his interest and out of his own will he pursued the teachings of an ascetic and found the "right" way through life on his own.
Analyze the image and text in the center of the pages titled "The Buddha Conquers Mara" and describe three aspects of the imagery and the symbolism it represents in the life of the Buddha
Symbol of the Buddha's teaching: The wheel that the Buddha holds in his hand is composed of 8 spokes representing the eightfold path which he formed after attaining enlightenment. This teaching is called dharma.
Treasury of Desire: a vase is placed at an altar below the meditation throne representing the fact that all desires must be left behind before one can begin to attain Enlightenment.
Lotus Throne: The Buddha sits on his meditation throne of a lotus flower. The lotus flower still has its roots in the mud and water, but its petals are in the light above water. It is said that when the Buddha was born, a lotus flower sprung up after each of the first seven steps he took.
Overall, this picture is representative of the Buddhist religion because it uses symbolic images to describe certain beliefs. This temple hanging details the life of the Buddha from birth, when he was a boddhista (a future buddha) to Enlightenment. It details his conquest over Mara, the evil one who tried to prevent Shakyamuni from attaining enlightenment.
3) The Buddha Image
Using the smaller images of Buddha as a reference (on pages 64-65) explain at least two different ways the Buddha is represented.
Buddha on a Lotus Throne: This Buddha figure represents the finality of life. It depicts scenes from Buddha's life and at the top shows his inevitable death. By becoming dispassionate, one can become detached and through this one is liberated. Then there is knowledge of this liberation and one achieves Nirvana. After this goal in life has been reached, it is the inevitable way that one then passes away and one's life has been fulfilled. Overall, this Buddha statue represents the goal in life and the destined death of all humans at the end.
Gandharan Buddha: This Buddha was constructed during he 2nd to 3rd century CE because of the type of bun on the Buddha's head is typical of Greek gods. Also when Alexander the Great conquered northwest India where this statue is from. The respect for the Buddha is shown through the ascetic haristyle, the halo around the back of his head, the "mark of a superman" spot on his forehead and many more. Overall, this is the Greek influenced statue of Buddha.
Analyzing the image of the Buddha on page 65 and explain at least five elements / symbols represented in the image.
The monastic cloak is typical of Gandharan style, showing how Buddha is a normal everyday man, no more special that anyone today.
Meditation throne-symbol of the presence of the Buddha. The Buddha sits on top of it and prays
Wheel-turning posture- a position or mudra for the hands common of the "dharmacakra mudra" or wheel turning pose.
Buddha Halo- as stated earlier, there is a halo around the back of Buddha's head that suggests his religious importance.
Marks of a Superman- there is a little tuft of hair between Buddha's eyes on his forehead that is a marking of a "superman". This again shows the reverence for Buddha
4) Stupas, Temples and Relics
What role do stupas play in Buddhism and what sort of symbols are found as a part of stupas?
Stupas used to be ancient burial grounds for the Buddha and other prominent religious figures of the era. However, as they gained importance they were carved out and certain symbols were engraved into them. Stupas have become large relics that remind believers of their symbolism and Buddhist beliefs. In Tibet, the stupa is a dome centered on a five-tiered bass representing the five elements of the world along with the sun resting on the crescent moon representing wisdom and compassion.
Using the stone slab in the middle of the two pages as a reference, what are some of the main features and what do they represent within Buddhism?
The Buddha's life: there is a depiction of the Buddha as a bodhisattva (Buddha to be)
Celestial spirits: bring garlands to the Buddha in veneration
The Wheel of the Law: represents the cosmos and Buddhist concepts of karma and rebirth, as these beliefs are cyclical and recurring like a wheel
5) Devotion
Describe one symbol or act of devotion in Buddhism.
At the Pure Land school the boys are taught to give up all self-serving desires, even the one for enlightenment and devote himself entirely to the power of Amitabha who saves those who have faith and trust in him. It is also ceremonial for the boys to all shave their heads.
Also, for lay Buddhists, being philanthropic and donating food, clothing and other goods are great devotional acts because through these acts, a lay Buddhist is assured a favorable future birth.
6) Cosmology
Describe the main tenets or ideas of Buddhist Cosmology.
In Buddhism, the cosmos is impermanent and was not created. All things living or otherwise must work to achieve Enlightenment, even Gods. There are different realms like castes, for Gods then humans and animals. Below these realms lay the "hungry ghosts" and "hells". The concept of Samsara plays a part because when humans are reborn, they are born into one of 6 different realms.
What are the different types of mandalas and what the main ideas presented in all mandalas?
Mandalas represent the ideal Buddha world. They are a part of Tantric Meditation practice where believers learn to visualize Buddhist realms. These visualizations may be represented through different forms of artwork. Rituals and mantras are associated with these mandalas, and they are believed to posses powerful psychic energy. They represent both the macrocosm of the universe and the microcosm of the believer's psychic energy. After these intricate beautiful mantras are completed from organic materials, they are destroyed representing the impermanence of life.
Interpret what you think are the three - four most important concepts in the Buddhist "wheel of life"
Clinging: the man plucking fruit from the tree represents the irresistible human yearning for possession and desire life.
Ignorance: represented by a blind man shows human ignorance to the fact that life is suffering and that we can escape this state through our own effort.
Acts of Volition: potters molding their own fate/karma in the pots they produce represent a deed such as right action, right speech and right mindfulness. This shows that by following the eightfold path and discovering one's way through life one can achieve enlightenment.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Hinduism: Themes
Achieving Salvation:
Possible Vocab to use: Krinshna, Maya, Moksha
In Hinduism, the belief is that each person is made of a body and a soul, or Atman. The goal in Hinduism is to unite our conscious mind with our Atman because what our conscious mind perceives as reality is known as maya, or illusion. Maya is the belief that we invest ourselves in our life right now, and don't see the larger picture that our Atman is part of. When we finally realize this, and can step outside of our worries in our finite lives, our Atman will achieve Moksha, and escape the cycle of endless rebirths known as Samsara. To help us with this process, there are four main types of Yoga, or ways to unite oneself with one's Atman. These four types of Yoga are: Jnana yoga, the yoga of knowledge, where one studies religious texts to lose numb all other senses through extreme focus so the spiritual sense may be awakened, Bhakti yoga, the yoga of love or devotion for one God where one can lose worldly worry and focus on uniting with one's Atman, Ashtanga yoga, the physical yoga where one must first have moral ethics, then learn to control breathing and focus the mind by banishing all personal thoughts, and finally Karma yoga, the yoga of selfless action, where by acting with good intentions solely for the reason that they are the right thing to do, one does not expect reward and can therefore focus on the most important thing in life and escape selfish desires. By following one of these yogas, our Atman can successfully achieve salvation, and enter into Nirvana where it can reunite with Brahman.
Important figures / deities and/or Concept of God(s):
Possible Vocab to use: Guru, Krishna, Trimurti & Brahman, Trimurti, Avatar, Darshan
There is debate over whether Hinduism is a monotheistic religion or a polytheistic religion. The debate arises because of the following facts about Hinduism. In Hinduism, there is one main god, Brahma who has always been and will always be. Stemming from Brahma are three interpretations of him, the trimurti; Vishnu, Shiva and Brahman. These three interpretations have become deities to help Hindu people understand Brahma better. They each represent one quality of Brahma. For example, Vishnu is the provider of everything needed for the world. Brahman took the material and shaped it into the world we know. Shiva provides a balance of good and evil. Further divisions and sects of Hinduism arise as different depictions of these three deities, such as Vaishnavas, worshippers of Vishnu, Shaivites, worshippers of Shiva, and Shaktas, worshippers of the female version of Shiva. To portray these deities, avatars, or physical representations are used in worship and in festivals. Because of the worship of one God on the surface, and the worship of interpretations of him as deities, Hinduism is both a monotheistic and polytheistic religion.
Sacred Texts / Doctrines
Possible Vocab to use: Shruti, Smirti, Upanishads, Varna
The Vedas are the first recorded religious text in the world, and are records of the Vedic people. Though they do not contain all the main Hindu beliefs of today, they do provide the origins of these beliefs. Within the Four books of the Vedas, the last section, the Upanishads, is perhaps the most influential in the Hindu religion. It provides the philosophical basis for which the Hindu religion was constructed upon. It contains the preliminary beliefs on the Atman, Brahma and Karma which have developed over thousands of years into the system of belief we call "Hinduism" today. The subsequent beliefs that derived from the Upanishads were recorded and retold through Shruti, oral traditon, and Smirti, written tradition. Shruti is passed on with the help of Gurus, religious leaders who have studied with respected Gurus. Smirti is the knowledge passed on through religious texts such as the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita and Mahabarata. The Bhagavad Gita passes on Hindu beliefs through one main story about warring families in the larger text, the Mahabarata. The Brahmin caste is typically the one that studies these these texts in Jnana yoga and teaches them to the other castes.
Eschatology / Cosmogony / Cosmology
Hindus believe that time is cyclical. It began with the birth of Brahma and it passes in cycles of Brahma's life such as in the "kali yuga" and the "treta yuga". For Brahma, time passes much more quickly than for humans on earth. For humans, one life cycle begins when the body is created, and an Atman joins the body. When we die, our Atman returns to Brahma, a collection of Atman, and our body ceases to be. However, if during our lifetime we reunite our conscious mind with our Atman, our Atman is freed from the cycle of rebirth and can escape to Nirvana. However, if we do not reunite our conscious mind with our Atman, our Atman is again associated with a new body. If we do not perform our duties in life, and we are a bad person in general, our Atman is associated with a body in a lower caste, and it takes that much longer for our Atman to reach Nirvana.
In terms of time, it has always been, and will always be. Our planet and ourselves may cease to exist, but another planet and world will be reborn, and through it all time will always be there. It is the one constant.
Possible Vocab to use: Krinshna, Maya, Moksha
In Hinduism, the belief is that each person is made of a body and a soul, or Atman. The goal in Hinduism is to unite our conscious mind with our Atman because what our conscious mind perceives as reality is known as maya, or illusion. Maya is the belief that we invest ourselves in our life right now, and don't see the larger picture that our Atman is part of. When we finally realize this, and can step outside of our worries in our finite lives, our Atman will achieve Moksha, and escape the cycle of endless rebirths known as Samsara. To help us with this process, there are four main types of Yoga, or ways to unite oneself with one's Atman. These four types of Yoga are: Jnana yoga, the yoga of knowledge, where one studies religious texts to lose numb all other senses through extreme focus so the spiritual sense may be awakened, Bhakti yoga, the yoga of love or devotion for one God where one can lose worldly worry and focus on uniting with one's Atman, Ashtanga yoga, the physical yoga where one must first have moral ethics, then learn to control breathing and focus the mind by banishing all personal thoughts, and finally Karma yoga, the yoga of selfless action, where by acting with good intentions solely for the reason that they are the right thing to do, one does not expect reward and can therefore focus on the most important thing in life and escape selfish desires. By following one of these yogas, our Atman can successfully achieve salvation, and enter into Nirvana where it can reunite with Brahman.
Important figures / deities and/or Concept of God(s):
Possible Vocab to use: Guru, Krishna, Trimurti & Brahman, Trimurti, Avatar, Darshan
There is debate over whether Hinduism is a monotheistic religion or a polytheistic religion. The debate arises because of the following facts about Hinduism. In Hinduism, there is one main god, Brahma who has always been and will always be. Stemming from Brahma are three interpretations of him, the trimurti; Vishnu, Shiva and Brahman. These three interpretations have become deities to help Hindu people understand Brahma better. They each represent one quality of Brahma. For example, Vishnu is the provider of everything needed for the world. Brahman took the material and shaped it into the world we know. Shiva provides a balance of good and evil. Further divisions and sects of Hinduism arise as different depictions of these three deities, such as Vaishnavas, worshippers of Vishnu, Shaivites, worshippers of Shiva, and Shaktas, worshippers of the female version of Shiva. To portray these deities, avatars, or physical representations are used in worship and in festivals. Because of the worship of one God on the surface, and the worship of interpretations of him as deities, Hinduism is both a monotheistic and polytheistic religion.
Sacred Texts / Doctrines
Possible Vocab to use: Shruti, Smirti, Upanishads, Varna
The Vedas are the first recorded religious text in the world, and are records of the Vedic people. Though they do not contain all the main Hindu beliefs of today, they do provide the origins of these beliefs. Within the Four books of the Vedas, the last section, the Upanishads, is perhaps the most influential in the Hindu religion. It provides the philosophical basis for which the Hindu religion was constructed upon. It contains the preliminary beliefs on the Atman, Brahma and Karma which have developed over thousands of years into the system of belief we call "Hinduism" today. The subsequent beliefs that derived from the Upanishads were recorded and retold through Shruti, oral traditon, and Smirti, written tradition. Shruti is passed on with the help of Gurus, religious leaders who have studied with respected Gurus. Smirti is the knowledge passed on through religious texts such as the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita and Mahabarata. The Bhagavad Gita passes on Hindu beliefs through one main story about warring families in the larger text, the Mahabarata. The Brahmin caste is typically the one that studies these these texts in Jnana yoga and teaches them to the other castes.
Eschatology / Cosmogony / Cosmology
Hindus believe that time is cyclical. It began with the birth of Brahma and it passes in cycles of Brahma's life such as in the "kali yuga" and the "treta yuga". For Brahma, time passes much more quickly than for humans on earth. For humans, one life cycle begins when the body is created, and an Atman joins the body. When we die, our Atman returns to Brahma, a collection of Atman, and our body ceases to be. However, if during our lifetime we reunite our conscious mind with our Atman, our Atman is freed from the cycle of rebirth and can escape to Nirvana. However, if we do not reunite our conscious mind with our Atman, our Atman is again associated with a new body. If we do not perform our duties in life, and we are a bad person in general, our Atman is associated with a body in a lower caste, and it takes that much longer for our Atman to reach Nirvana.
In terms of time, it has always been, and will always be. Our planet and ourselves may cease to exist, but another planet and world will be reborn, and through it all time will always be there. It is the one constant.
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