NATIBuddhism-Brian

= BUDDHISM =

Who was the founder of this religion?
-The founder of this religion was Siddnartha Gautama, or also known as "The Buddha" who lived from 566-480 B.C.

Who leads this religion?
-The people who lead this religion are certain kinds of Monks, and Nuns, but the leader over all the buddhist is the Dalai Lama.

Holidays in this religion are

 * The Buddha day-Falls on the first full moon of May. Celebrates the birth, death, and reincarnation of the buddha. Also called Vesak Day.
 * Vassa- A holiday to celebrate the "rain retreat" of the Buddha and his followers. The last day of Vassa is called Pavarana.
 * The Elephant festival- The buddhist used the example of the wild elephant which, once when it was caught, is harnessed to a tame one to train.
 * Kathina Ceremony- Is held on any convenient date within one month of the End of Vassa. It is the time of year when new robes and other requisites may be offered by the laity to the monks.
 * .... and many many more.

What are the main symbols and what do they represent?
Some religious symbols include... Buddha meditating-Buddha finding his inner perfection. 8 spoked wheel-The wheel refers to the story that shortly after the Buddha achieved enlightenment, Brahma came down from heaven and requested the Buddha to teach by offering him a 8 spoked wheel. The buddha is known as the wheel turner: he who sets a new cycle of teaching in motion and in consequence changes the course of destiny.

Where did this religion begin?
It started in India, but it is practiced all over the world.

What are the sacred writings?
The sacred writing of Buddhism's called the Tipitaka. It contains all the chapters of Buddha's life.

Does this religion have any gods?
No. Instead of a god, they meditate to try to find their inner perfection.

What are the religious practices of this religion?
To practice they meditate. They think more religious stuff would be the birth, marriage, death and reincarnation of a person.

What are the main beliefs of this religion?
The main beliefs are that every person goes through the four noble truths, and must meditate. Also buddhists must follow the five basic moral precepts.

What is the place of worship for buddhism?
People mainly practice this in temples, shrines, pagodas, and monasteries.