CASBuddhism-Gus

Buddhism

What is Buddhism?

Buddhism is the third largest religion in the world! It is practiced in China, Japan, Korea, and most of Asia. The founder of Buddhism was Siddhartha Gautama around 460 B.C. In Buddhism there is no gods, but they worship Buddha. They meditate to find a peaceful and positive mental states.

Main Belief in Buddhism

The Buddhist believe that when they die they are reborn. Carma is what decides what they are reborn to be. example: If you lived a long and helpful life you will return as a cow which is considered a scarred animal.

Sacred Writings

The sacred book is the Tipitak. It is written in an ancient Indian language called, "Pali" which is very close to the language that the Buddha spoke himself. The English translation of it takes up to as many as Forty Volumes!

Practices

Buddhists may worship in a Temple or in their own homes. Worshippers may sit on the floor bare foot facing an image of Buddha chanting. It is very important that the feet of the worshiper faces away from the image of Buddha.

Festivals

The Buddhist New Year which is "Buddha's Birthday" Vesak- It is another name for the Buddhist Birthday Magha Puja Day- places on the full moon day of the third lunar month.

Symbols Eight Spoked Wheel- the turning wheel of truth. Bodhi Tree- Under which the Buddha achieved enlightenment. Lion- the most popular symbol and represents power and regality .