Dukkha

I entered upon the chapter of Buddhism with the foundation that Buddhism derived its beliefs and practices from the Hindu religion. Nevertheless, I am continually fascinated by the two religions’ strikingly identical but contrasting qualities observable throughout The World’s Wisdom text. Section 12 especially delineates many of the similarities Hinduism and Buddhism share. Reaching Nirvana and therefore attaining freedom at last from the cycle of rebirth seems to be an utmost objective for…

The Term Mahayana refers to great vehicle. Mahayana was developed by the Mahayanists in order to compare their principles with those of other Buddhist sects, particularly the Theravada. Mahayana the “great vehicle” was used to fake Theravadins by naming their principles ‘Hinayana’ or ‘small vehicle’. Mahayana Buddhism focuses on the doctrine of the Bodhisattva. The term Bodhisattva can also be named as Buddhahood, which means desire for complete enlightenment, has been aroused. Mahayana Buddhism…

This paper explores two published articles that highlight the key components on self-actualization (SA) and reaching optimum human potential. The article that was assigned for reading, is written in a very black and white format that wraps ideas around examples only modern societies could easily relate with, whereas the article that I personally chose, demonstrated an investigation of ideas between Western psychology and the Buddhist tradition of Theravada. Contrastingly, the assigned article…

Buddhism is another major belief system in this world. Though not one of the largest, it is still a religion that many people follow. It was founded many years ago and it is one of the older belief systems in this world. I have only known a few people who are Buddhists and I have always seen Buddhism as a very peaceful way of life. Buddhism is more of a philosophy of life that helps the individual reach his or her highest potential. This research has definitely taught me more about the beauties…

Competition surrounds everyone. Whether it be in School, at a job, or a company, competition is found. Nowadays we see students slaving away to be the best in the class, to feel noticed. In a job, we see people sabotaging one another's work, competing to get the position. With companies, we see them fighting each other over who can make the most money. Competition is everywhere, and it is not beneficial to us. It affects how one lives and perceives life. Competition can make…

Philosophy comes from Greek words meaning love of wisdom and also Philosophy is an academic discipline that exercises reason and logic in an attempt to understand reality and answer fundamental questions about knowledge, life, morality and human nature. (www.whatisphilosophy.et, n.d.)From my understanding, there are three type of philosophy, Western philosophy, Eastern philosophy (including middle eastern) and Modern philosophy. Plato, Aristotle, Socrates are famous western philosophers,…

Buddhist teachings and worship have successfully influenced individuals and the community. This is because teachings and worship have proven beneficial towards the individuals and the community. Buddhism’s view on abortion has addressed to individuals how to deal with this practice. The Dalai Lama, acknowledging his respectable reputation and through various communication formats, has expressed his knowledge of his understanding of the Buddhist teachings for many communities. Within Temple Puja,…

Buddhist teaching help people become more aware of themselves, and the world around them. They also help steer people’s mindsets away from negative thought and actions. One of the ways to help clear your mind, and follow the ways of the Buddha is by meditating, through the ceremony of Puja. Also by following the Dalai Lama, and what he has had to say about the religion, and the teachings he has spoken about in many of his world tours. These impact on they way Buddhist individuals and the whole…

Buddhist and Hindu philosophies have several fundamental differences in their basic ideas. One major difference is on the entity called the “self”: Buddhists does not believe in the existence of an eternal “self,” while Hindus affirm the existence of a perpetual, indestructible “self.” In this paper, I will reconstruct the arguments on the “self” raised by three different texts: The Questions of King Milinda and The Bodhicaryavatara¸ Buddhist texts arguing that there is no self; and The…

Final Research Paper: Buddhist Iconography Throughout the years Buddhist iconography has been apparent in many cultures and societies. Over time it has changed and morphed in each location to conform their certain ideology. Each culture looks toward different bodhisattva and have various elements in their iconography that they believe, represent the Buddha his teachings. This essay will explore the beginning of Buddhist iconography, Buddhist symbols and their meanings, how the different…