Buddhism
Buddhism
1 300 million + adherents primarily in China and S.E. Asia
Originated near modern Nepal around 530 BC by prince Siddhartha
Guatama.Indian traders brought it to China in 1st century AD. By
6th century it had lost its hold on India, but was now in Korea and
Japan.
2Buddhism began in the foothills bordering the Ganges Plain
about 500 B.C. For centuries remained confined to the Indian
subcontinentMissionaries later carried it to other countries and
regionsChina between 100 B.C. and A.D. 200Korea and Japan between
A.D. 300 and 500Southeast Asia between A.D. 400 and 600Tibet A.D.
700Mongolia A.D. 1500Developed many regional forms and died out in
its area of origin
3The Four Noble Truths
1) sorrow and suffering must be endured by all2) suffering and
sorrow result from the greedy desire for pleasure 3) escape from
such suffering and sorrow is achieved by giving up such desires 4)
reaching a state of enlightenment and perfect peace called nirvana
by following the Middle Way
4The Eightfold Path right views right intentionsright
speechright action right livingright effortright mindfulnessright
concentration
Birthplace of Buddha
5 Karma - your past bad or good actions determine your progress
toward Nirvana through reincarnation. You are your own
God.Theravada - the older, more severe form which requires the
renouncing of all worldly goods and desires.Mahayana - focuses on
Buddhas teachings and compassion.
6Spread of BuddhismAfter Buddhas death, followers collected the
Tripitaka (3 baskets of wisdom)DutyGolden ruleOvercoming evil w/
goodTwo SectsTheravada original teachingsMahayana easier for people
to follow pictured Buddha as a god & defined nirvana
Buddhism declined in India.
7Cultural and Biological Exchanges Along the Silk RoadsThe
Spread of Buddhism and Hinduism Insert map on page 257
8Relic Worships at Stupas
Relics are parts of the Buddhas body (hair, nails, bones, teeth,
etc.) that have great power and can bless those who worship
themStupas are Buddhist temples that house a relic of the
Buddha9Asokas sponsorship of stupas
10Buddhism & Hinduism ComparedGrew from the same
traditionsBoth stress nonviolence and believe in karma, dharma,
moksha, & reincarnationBuddha rejected priests, rituals, and
many Hindu gods.Buddha rejected the caste system and offered the
hope of nirvana to all.Buddhists seek enlightenment through
meditation11
