The Buddha Buddhism Begins Buddhism grows out of

The Buddha

Buddhism Begins: § Buddhism grows out of Hinduism § Why? § People were unable to reach “salvation (Moksha/Brahman) in a single lifetime no matter how well they lived their lives. § Siddartha, a Hindu Prince, sees the world and the misery that is in it, and searches for a way to cure that misery and suffering. § He tries all kinds of things before he figures it all out. § He meditates under the Bhodi tree

The 4 Noble Truths: i. Life is suffering and misery ii. The Causes of Suffering are wants and desire (people are never satisfied) iii. The Cessation of Suffering comes from ending desires iv. The Path to the Cessation of Suffering is through the 8 fold path

8 Fold Path • • right view – know there is suffering and 4 Noble truths can end this right intention – avoid harmful thought care for others right speech avoid lying, gossip right action – do the right thing right mindfulness – control the mind and increase wisdom right meditation – become as peaceful as possible right living – make sure your job does not harm others right effort – work hard and avoid the

The Buddha dies and enters a state of Nirvana, liberated from the cycle of Birth and Death.

Popularity of Buddhism • Appealed to masses. – Poor had the hope of Nirvana not given in Hinduism – Women – Own language – Simple: no complex ceremonies • Ashoka: Mauryan leader converts after being a ruthless leader and spreads Buddhism throughout his kingdom in Asia

Ashoka erects pillars all over India with laws based on ideas of equality and fair treatment of all. Sends out missionaries to help convert people. “Buddhism arrived in Asia on a white elephant” Later, people will say that “Christianity arrived in Asia on a cannonball. ”