Buddhism: Important Terms (***for REL 125: refer to "Exam Review" links at bottom of REL 125 syllabus)

Amiddha Buddha
Anatta
Arhant
Bodhisattva
Buddha
Dependent Origination
Dana
Dharma
Dukkha
Eightfold Path
Four Noble Truths
Four Passing Sights
Hinayana
Karma
Koan
Mahayana
Middle Way
Nirvana
Pure Land
Sangha
Samsara
Satori
Siddhartha Gautama
Sila
Sutra
Theravada
Three Jewels
Tipitaka
Zazen (Zen)

Discussion Questions (***for REL 125: refer to "Exam Review" links at bottom of REL 125 syllabus)

1. Compare and contrast the Mahayana and the Theravada traditions of Buddhism. Provide (and explain/describe) at least three examples of characteristics that distinguish one from the other. When and why did the division occur?

2. Explain the Buddhist doctrine of anatta. How does this doctrine contrast with Hindu belief and practice?

3. Explain the various levels upon which one may understand the "First Noble Truth," i.e., that life is "suffering."  What does suffering entail?  How is even happiness a form of suffering?

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