1.1 QUESTION: What is Buddhism?
ANSWER: The name Buddhism comes from the word �budhi� which means � to wake up � and thus Buddhism is the philosophy of awakening. This philosophy has its origins in the experience of the man Siddhata Gotama, known as the Buddha, who was himself awakened at the age of 36. Buddhism is now 2,500 years old and has about 300 million follower�s word-wide. Until a hundred years ago, Buddhism was mainly an Asian philosophy but increasingly it is gaining adherents in Europe and America.
1.2 QUESTION: So Buddhism is just a philosophy?
ANSWER:
The word philosophy comes from tow words �philo�, which means �love�, and �sophia� which means �wisdom�. So philosophy is the love of wisdom or love and wisdom, both meanings describing Buddhism perfectly. Buddhism teaches that we should try to develop our intellectual capacity to the fullest so that we can understand clearly. It also teaches us to develop love and kindness so that we can be like a true friend to all beings. So Buddhism is a philosophy but not just a philosophy. It is the supreme philosophy.1.3 QUESTION: Who was the Buddhism?
ANSWER: In the year 563C.B a baby was born into aroyal family in northern India. He grew up in wealth and luxury but eventually found that worldly comfort and security do not guaratee happiness. He was deeply moved by the suffering he saw all around -and resolved to dind the key to human happiness. When he was 29 he left his wife and child and ser off to sit at the feet great religiuos teachers of the day to learn drom them. They taught him much but none really knew the cause of human suffering and how it could be overcome. Eventually, after six years study and meditation he had an experience in which all ignorance fell away and he suddenly understood. From that day onwards, hewas called the Buddha, the Awakened One. He lived for another 45years in which time he travelled all over nortern India teaching others what he had discovered. His compassion and patience were legendary and hemade thoysands of folloers. In his eightieth year, old and sick, but still happy and at peace, he finally died. 1.4 QUESTION: Wasn't it irresponsible for the Buddha to walk out on his wife and child?
ANSWER: In could't have been an easy thing for the Buddha to leave his family. He must have worried and hesitated for a long time before he finally left. But he had a choice, dedicating himself to his family or dedicating himself to the whole world. In the end, his great compassion made him give himeslf to the whole world. And the whole world still benefits from his sacrifice. This was not irresponsible. It was perhaps the most significant sacrifice ever made. Continue Page 1.2
Back Homepage.