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 saxrifice. This was not irresponsible. It was perhaps the most significant sacrifice ever made.

1.5 QUESTION: The Buddha is dead so how can he help us?

ANSWER: Faraday, who discovered electricity, is dead, but what he discovered still helps is. Luis Pasteur who discovered the cures for so many diseases is dead, but his medical discoveries still save lives. Leonardo da Vinci who created masterpieces of art is dead, but what he created can still uplift and give joy. Noble men and herose may have been dead for centuries but when we read of their deed and achievements, we can still be inspired to act as they did. Yes, the Buddha is dead but 2500 years later his teachings still help people, his example still inspires people, his words still change lives. Only a Buddha could have such pwer centuries after his death.

1.6 QUESTION: Was the Buddha a god?

ANSWER: No, he was not. He did not cliam that he was a god, the child of a god or even the messenger from a god. He was a man who perfected himself and tayght that if we followed his excample, we could perfect ourselves also. continue Page 1.3
Back Homepage.
Back Page 1.1