Introduction to Buddhism Basic Beliefs Practices Customs Jian

Introduction to Buddhism: Basic Beliefs, Practices & Customs Jian. Ying Shifu Chung Tai Zen Center of Sunnyvale

Buddhism & Buddhists • Buddhism is a religion/ philosophy/ lifestyle that encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices based on teachings of the Buddha. • Buddhists are followers/disciples of the Buddha; generally, they consider the Buddha as their teacher.

Who was the Buddha? • He was a prince and lived in India ~2500 - 3000 years ago. • His name was Siddhartha Gautama. • When enlightened, Siddhartha was known as Shakyamuni Buddha, Gautama Buddha, or the Buddha.

Buddhist Branches/Denominations • Theravada: Traditions in the south & southeast Asian countries • Mahayana: Traditions in the east Asian countries • Vajrayana: Traditions in Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan, & Shingon in Japan

Basic Tenets: Three Jewels • • • Buddha: One who is To become a Buddhist, awakened to the Truth one takes refuge in the Three Jewels. Buddha as the Goal; Dharma: Teachings of the Buddha I take refugeas in the Dharma the. Buddha. Map; I Sangha take refuge the Guide. Dharma. asinthe Sangha: the Monastic Community Monks I take refugeofin. Buddhist the Sangha. and Nuns

Basic Tenets: Four Noble Truths • Duhkha: There is suffering; it The Three Marks Right View or causes irritation or of Conditioned Existence Confusiondiscontent. Understanding Cause. Egoistic of Duhkha: Suffering Desires has origin (ignorance & attachment); it can reinforce itself. Impermanence • Proper Improper • Nirvana: Suffering can cease; it Duhkha Suffering/Dissatisfaction Sukha Actions can be realized. Actions Non-Self/Emptiness • Path: There is a path out of suffering; it should be practiced.

Basic Tenets: Karma & Rebirth Buddha Bodhisattva Deva Heavenly Being Ongoing Asura Demigod Mind Hungry Ghost Human Being Animal Nonjudgmental All Accountable Hell Being

Sacred Texts • • The Tripiṭaka Koreana, an early edition of the Chinese Buddhist canon Tripitaka: The Buddhist canon consists of a Sutra Pitaka, a Vinaya Pitaka, & an Tripitaka Abhidharma Pitaka. In general, among Buddhist scriptures, sutras/suttas are more emphasized; in Vajrayana, tantras are also essential. (Three Baskets)

Buddhist Holy Days/Festivals • Important Events associated with Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Important Masters. • Lunar-based Calendars; The Same Festival (e. g. , Wesak or the Buddha's Birthday) may be observed on different dates.

Observances & Practices

Other Reminders For Service Providers • Six Fasting Dates • Monastics (Monks & Nuns; ) vs. Lay Buddhists; Theravada vs. Mahayana (including Vajrayana) Dietary Restrictions: 1. Vegetarian (Five Pungent Roots) vs. Non-Vegetarian On the Lunar Calender 2. Fast vs. No Fast • Medical Treatment: 1. Gender Considerations 2. Care for the Dying 3. Mental Health Care

Sheltering & Mass Care • • Recognition, Understanding, & Respect. . . A Buddhist Altar or Shrine A Quiet Designed Space for Prayer and/or Meditation Gender Considerations; Monastics vs. Lay Buddhists