Group 1: Video |
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Group 3: Origins
Place and Year
Buddhism is one of the most important and influential Asian spiritual traditions and belief systems. Buddhism has proven to be a flexible approach; the religion adapts to different conditions and ideas while maintain its core teachings. For many centuries, this belief system has been a powerful force in Asia because it touches nearly every aspect in the Eastern world and successfully united many people. Some aspects include morals, lore, arts, mythology, social institutions, etc. Buddhism originated during 5th -6th century BCE in India. Siddhartha Gautama, the founder, was born in Lumbini where the Nepalese-Indian Border was, in about 563 BCE. Lumbini was located near the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. Siddhartha was a prince who lived a sheltered life full of wealth, luxury, and comfort. When Siddhartha Gautama was 29, he fled from his palace and discovered something new. He witnessed poverty, illness, and misery for the first time ever. He sought enlightenment then, and achieved Nirvana. After Siddhartha passed away, his teachings became the basis of Buddhism and this new belief system began expanding ever since. Today, Buddhism is practiced by millions of people and continues to influence not only Asia, but the world too.
Founder
The founder of Buddhism is Siddhartha Gautama, who was born as a prince in 563 BC in Lumbini, near Kapilavastu, in the foothills of the Himalayas in present day Southern Nepal. As a child, his father isolated him in the palace because according to a prophecy, if he stayed at home, then it is believed that he would become a world leader. When Siddhartha ventured outside of the palace at the age of 29, he encountered an old man, next a sick man, then a corpse, and finally a wandering holy man who seemed to be at peace with himself. He then realized that every living thing experiences old age, sickness, and death, and that only a religious life offers refuge from this inevitable suffering. Siddhartha decided to be committed in spending his life, searching for religious truth and an end to life's suffering. He wandered through the forests of India for six years, hoping to seek for enlightenment, or wisdom. He attempted many ways of seeking for enlightenment, such as making himself suffer. His last attempt was to meditate under a tree and he finally achieved Nirvana, a perfect understanding of all things, after 49 days. Siddhartha was then known as "Buddha", or the "Enlightened One". Like any other religious leaders, Buddha started to gain followers and disciples, in which they spread his teachings. His teachings include the Eight-Fold Path, The Four Noble Truths, and the Middle Way. If a person follows the Eight-Fold Path like he did, then the person can achieve Nirvana.
Supreme Being
The supreme being of Buddhism was the Buddha. The Buddha did not claim to be god or have divinity. Buddhists see him as an ideal human being and as a guide who can lead them to Enlightenment, understanding life in the deepest way and Nirvana, the state of a perfect understanding of everything. Siddhartha Gautama was given the title of “Buddha”, or the “Enlightened One”, which means "one who is awake". He had a privileged upbringing from birth but when he left the shelter of his home at the age of 29, he realized life includes old age, sickness, and death. He ventured out and meditated and fasted, believing he could free his spirit. He traveled through northern India, spreading his understanding and achieve enlightenment. The Buddha taught people and many achieved enlightenment and Nirvana. In order to achieve Nirvana, one must follow the Eight Fold Path and free themselves from suffering and pain. By achieving Nirvana, one is freed from having to be born again.
Role of Religious Leaders
In Buddhism there are many religious leaders but Siddhartha Gautama is considered the most important religious leader because he was the first religious leader of Buddhism and also the founder of Buddhism. Siddhartha Gautama's role in Buddhism is that he established it as a religion and had the original idea of how to free ourselves of suffering by following a certain path. He was Buddha and became Buddha by achieving nirvana (perfect enlightenment). He helped others reach enlightenment by spreading Dharma. Siddhartha Gautama created and taught others "The Four Noble Truths" which he used inform others about suffering. The Eight Fold Path are the steps to end suffering and to gain enlightenment. Siddhartha Gautama's role was to teach others of Buddhism so that others may learn of it and learn of nirvana so they could reach enlightenment. Siddhartha Gautama was the leader of his followers of Buddhist monks. In Buddhism, the Buddhist monks have many roles. Some Buddhist monks are teachers of dharma while other Buddhist monks are students. The Buddhist monk's main role is to follow Buddha's teachings so they may achieve enlightenment. The role of all Buddhist monks is to use what they have learned about Buddhism and spread these teachings to others that haven’t heard of Buddhism’s teachings yet.
Symbol
A symbol that represented the belief system in this religion was the Dharma wheel. This symbol represented the teachings of Buddha, or also known as Siddhartha. The wheel that was shown as a symbol was turned by Buddha, which led to the wheel being named the Dharma Chakra. This symbol held the metaphor that for the rapid spiritual change engendered by the teachings of the Buddha. As the symbol held the metaphor, it had 8 different spokes that represented the 8 noble truths that were taught by Siddhartha, or also known as Buddha. Another meaning that the symbol held was the endless cycle of samsara, or rebirth, which can only be escaped by means of the Buddha's teachings. The Buddha teachings that allowed one to be freed from having to be born again was the Four Noble Truths, Eight Fold Path, and the Middle Way. Some Buddhists regard the wheel's three basic parts as symbols of the "three trainings" in Buddhist practice: The hub symbolizes moral discipline, which stabilizes the mind.
Belief System Spreading to other Regions
The belief system of Buddhism was able to spread to other religions because when King Ashoka created his Mauryan Empire, he decided to incorporate his religion of Buddhism into the laws of his thriving empire. Ashoka had edicts cut into rocks and pillars at strategic locations throughout his empire, edicts to communicate to passersby the way of compassion and promoting Buddhism throughout his empire. Some laws that Ashoka ended up creating in his empire consisted of laws that did not promote violence and incorporated the teachings of Siddhartha, or Buddha such as the Four Noble Truths. Ashoka advocated non-violence, vegetarianism, charity, and tenderness to all living things. Also, Ashoka was able to spread Buddhism to other religions and places by prompting and promoting monks to travel to surrounding territories and places, teaching the people of the religion Buddhism, and the teachings of Buddha himself. Some of these places included Ceylon, Burma, Nepal, Tibet, China, and Japan.
Buddhism is one of the most important and influential Asian spiritual traditions and belief systems. Buddhism has proven to be a flexible approach; the religion adapts to different conditions and ideas while maintain its core teachings. For many centuries, this belief system has been a powerful force in Asia because it touches nearly every aspect in the Eastern world and successfully united many people. Some aspects include morals, lore, arts, mythology, social institutions, etc. Buddhism originated during 5th -6th century BCE in India. Siddhartha Gautama, the founder, was born in Lumbini where the Nepalese-Indian Border was, in about 563 BCE. Lumbini was located near the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. Siddhartha was a prince who lived a sheltered life full of wealth, luxury, and comfort. When Siddhartha Gautama was 29, he fled from his palace and discovered something new. He witnessed poverty, illness, and misery for the first time ever. He sought enlightenment then, and achieved Nirvana. After Siddhartha passed away, his teachings became the basis of Buddhism and this new belief system began expanding ever since. Today, Buddhism is practiced by millions of people and continues to influence not only Asia, but the world too.
Founder
The founder of Buddhism is Siddhartha Gautama, who was born as a prince in 563 BC in Lumbini, near Kapilavastu, in the foothills of the Himalayas in present day Southern Nepal. As a child, his father isolated him in the palace because according to a prophecy, if he stayed at home, then it is believed that he would become a world leader. When Siddhartha ventured outside of the palace at the age of 29, he encountered an old man, next a sick man, then a corpse, and finally a wandering holy man who seemed to be at peace with himself. He then realized that every living thing experiences old age, sickness, and death, and that only a religious life offers refuge from this inevitable suffering. Siddhartha decided to be committed in spending his life, searching for religious truth and an end to life's suffering. He wandered through the forests of India for six years, hoping to seek for enlightenment, or wisdom. He attempted many ways of seeking for enlightenment, such as making himself suffer. His last attempt was to meditate under a tree and he finally achieved Nirvana, a perfect understanding of all things, after 49 days. Siddhartha was then known as "Buddha", or the "Enlightened One". Like any other religious leaders, Buddha started to gain followers and disciples, in which they spread his teachings. His teachings include the Eight-Fold Path, The Four Noble Truths, and the Middle Way. If a person follows the Eight-Fold Path like he did, then the person can achieve Nirvana.
Supreme Being
The supreme being of Buddhism was the Buddha. The Buddha did not claim to be god or have divinity. Buddhists see him as an ideal human being and as a guide who can lead them to Enlightenment, understanding life in the deepest way and Nirvana, the state of a perfect understanding of everything. Siddhartha Gautama was given the title of “Buddha”, or the “Enlightened One”, which means "one who is awake". He had a privileged upbringing from birth but when he left the shelter of his home at the age of 29, he realized life includes old age, sickness, and death. He ventured out and meditated and fasted, believing he could free his spirit. He traveled through northern India, spreading his understanding and achieve enlightenment. The Buddha taught people and many achieved enlightenment and Nirvana. In order to achieve Nirvana, one must follow the Eight Fold Path and free themselves from suffering and pain. By achieving Nirvana, one is freed from having to be born again.
Role of Religious Leaders
In Buddhism there are many religious leaders but Siddhartha Gautama is considered the most important religious leader because he was the first religious leader of Buddhism and also the founder of Buddhism. Siddhartha Gautama's role in Buddhism is that he established it as a religion and had the original idea of how to free ourselves of suffering by following a certain path. He was Buddha and became Buddha by achieving nirvana (perfect enlightenment). He helped others reach enlightenment by spreading Dharma. Siddhartha Gautama created and taught others "The Four Noble Truths" which he used inform others about suffering. The Eight Fold Path are the steps to end suffering and to gain enlightenment. Siddhartha Gautama's role was to teach others of Buddhism so that others may learn of it and learn of nirvana so they could reach enlightenment. Siddhartha Gautama was the leader of his followers of Buddhist monks. In Buddhism, the Buddhist monks have many roles. Some Buddhist monks are teachers of dharma while other Buddhist monks are students. The Buddhist monk's main role is to follow Buddha's teachings so they may achieve enlightenment. The role of all Buddhist monks is to use what they have learned about Buddhism and spread these teachings to others that haven’t heard of Buddhism’s teachings yet.
Symbol
A symbol that represented the belief system in this religion was the Dharma wheel. This symbol represented the teachings of Buddha, or also known as Siddhartha. The wheel that was shown as a symbol was turned by Buddha, which led to the wheel being named the Dharma Chakra. This symbol held the metaphor that for the rapid spiritual change engendered by the teachings of the Buddha. As the symbol held the metaphor, it had 8 different spokes that represented the 8 noble truths that were taught by Siddhartha, or also known as Buddha. Another meaning that the symbol held was the endless cycle of samsara, or rebirth, which can only be escaped by means of the Buddha's teachings. The Buddha teachings that allowed one to be freed from having to be born again was the Four Noble Truths, Eight Fold Path, and the Middle Way. Some Buddhists regard the wheel's three basic parts as symbols of the "three trainings" in Buddhist practice: The hub symbolizes moral discipline, which stabilizes the mind.
Belief System Spreading to other Regions
The belief system of Buddhism was able to spread to other religions because when King Ashoka created his Mauryan Empire, he decided to incorporate his religion of Buddhism into the laws of his thriving empire. Ashoka had edicts cut into rocks and pillars at strategic locations throughout his empire, edicts to communicate to passersby the way of compassion and promoting Buddhism throughout his empire. Some laws that Ashoka ended up creating in his empire consisted of laws that did not promote violence and incorporated the teachings of Siddhartha, or Buddha such as the Four Noble Truths. Ashoka advocated non-violence, vegetarianism, charity, and tenderness to all living things. Also, Ashoka was able to spread Buddhism to other religions and places by prompting and promoting monks to travel to surrounding territories and places, teaching the people of the religion Buddhism, and the teachings of Buddha himself. Some of these places included Ceylon, Burma, Nepal, Tibet, China, and Japan.
Group 4: Beliefs
Major Beliefs of Buddhism
Buddhism is the religion that consists of the three practices. One practice would be Sila. Sila means good behavior. This is based on the "Golden Rule". The Golden Rule was to treat others the way you would want to be treated. Another practice would be Samadhi. Samadhi means meditation and concentration. This would lead the person to the path of wisdom. The other practice is Prajna. Prajna means wisdom. It was said that wisdom would emerge if their mind was pure. Also, people who believed in this religion also followed the four noble truths. The four noble truths consisted of Dukkha, Samudaya, Nirodha, and Magga. Dukkha means that people suffer. Samudaya means there is always a cause for suffering. Nirodha means there is always an end to suffering. Magga means in order to end suffering; you must follow the Eight-fold path. The Eight-fold path consisted of the three practices; Sila, Samadhi, and Prajna. By following Prajna, one must follow the right path in life. To follow Sila, one must speak right by not lying and not using harsh language. Also one must have good behavior. Lastly, by following Samadhi, one must meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness.
Values of Buddhism
The values of the belief system Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths and the Eight-Fold Path. The Four Noble Truths are the following: (1) Life is full of pain and suffering. (2) One’s desires cause this pain and suffering. (3) By putting an end to desire, people are freed from suffering, and their souls achieve nirvana. (4) There is a way to end desire, by following the “Middle Way”. In Buddhism, salvation comes from knowing these Four Noble Truths. The Eight-Fold Path is the eight guides to thought and conducts. These are: (1) right knowledge of the cause and ending of suffering. (2) High and worthy intentions. (3) Kind, frank, and truthful speech. (4) Right conduct or action. (5) Right way of living that does not injure any living thing. (6) Right effort to fight against desires. (7) Right mindfulness. (8) Right meditation or right concentration. Desire for things was the root of all unhappiness and to get rid of desire was through the Eight-Fold Path.
Place of Worship
For the most part, Buddhists would usually worship at home. Buddhists usually have a shrine or altar in their home dedicated to Buddha. This shrine is either in a separate room or a quiet area. At the shrine one would see an image of Buddha (picture, statue, etc.), a candle or oil lamp (shows enlightenment), incense (shows how his teachings spread across the world,) and sometimes a scripture to remind the Buddhists of the middle way. A home is a place of worship for Buddha because Buddhism revolves around individual devotion and having a shrine at home makes this easier to worship. Another place of worship is in temples. These temples come in varying shapes. Two of the most popular structures are pagodas and the stupa. The pagodas have most commonly had five tiers to represent the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and emptiness). Pagodas are mostly found in Japan and China. Stupas are a dome shaped building mostly found in places like Thailand and India. Both of these buildings are places of worship because they are used to store sacred Buddhist relics. While here they will worship Buddha by sitting on the floor barefoot and listening to monks chanting or by meditating.
Symbolic Places That Are Associated With Buddhism
There are many holy and important symbolic places that are associated with the belief of Buddhism. For example, the Sangha is an important place to all Buddhists. The Sangha is sacred because when Buddhists marry they go to the Sangha to be blessed. There are many different Sangha’s. However, in each and every Sangha is a beautiful statue of Buddha. Buddhists go on journeys to places associated with Buddha's life. Some of these places are Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini Grove, the place of enlightenment, Bodh Gaya, and the place he died, Kusinara. These places were important to Buddhists because they follow Buddhist teachings. In all of these sacred places are in relation to Buddha’s life. This is important because all Buddhists follow the founder of Buddhism. All Buddhists don't worship the Buddha they pay respect to him my learning from his teachings.
Buddhism's Point of View About Death and the Afterlife
The belief systems of Buddhism view death and afterlife in a different perspective. Buddha taught that eventually everyone will die, but that death will not be the end of their lives. It will just be the end of their body physically but their spirit will go on, through a new body and a new life. A person cannot die unless he/she has reached the state on nirvana (the state of enlightenment), and then the person can be reincarnated (rebirth). After death some say that you rebirth immediately or after 49 days in after life.
Central Administration For the Belief System
In Buddhism there is a central administration for the belief system. There is a person called the Dalai Lama. In Tibetan Buddhism there is Dalai Lama which is a monk that teaches Buddhism in Tibet. So far there have been 14 Dalai Lama’s. Buddhism is organized by Dalai lamas. Since China has stopped all religions the 14th Dalai Lama is no longer in China now he lives in India. This is where Buddhism grows and prospers. Dalai Lama was one of Buddhism greatest teachers. The main aim for all Buddhists is to reach nirvana which is the feeling of joy freedom and also the end of cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The Dalai Lama is a Tibetan monk who teaches Buddhism to other Buddhists. The Dalai Lama is chosen once the old Dalai Lama dies by the Tibetan government.
Buddhism is the religion that consists of the three practices. One practice would be Sila. Sila means good behavior. This is based on the "Golden Rule". The Golden Rule was to treat others the way you would want to be treated. Another practice would be Samadhi. Samadhi means meditation and concentration. This would lead the person to the path of wisdom. The other practice is Prajna. Prajna means wisdom. It was said that wisdom would emerge if their mind was pure. Also, people who believed in this religion also followed the four noble truths. The four noble truths consisted of Dukkha, Samudaya, Nirodha, and Magga. Dukkha means that people suffer. Samudaya means there is always a cause for suffering. Nirodha means there is always an end to suffering. Magga means in order to end suffering; you must follow the Eight-fold path. The Eight-fold path consisted of the three practices; Sila, Samadhi, and Prajna. By following Prajna, one must follow the right path in life. To follow Sila, one must speak right by not lying and not using harsh language. Also one must have good behavior. Lastly, by following Samadhi, one must meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness.
Values of Buddhism
The values of the belief system Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths and the Eight-Fold Path. The Four Noble Truths are the following: (1) Life is full of pain and suffering. (2) One’s desires cause this pain and suffering. (3) By putting an end to desire, people are freed from suffering, and their souls achieve nirvana. (4) There is a way to end desire, by following the “Middle Way”. In Buddhism, salvation comes from knowing these Four Noble Truths. The Eight-Fold Path is the eight guides to thought and conducts. These are: (1) right knowledge of the cause and ending of suffering. (2) High and worthy intentions. (3) Kind, frank, and truthful speech. (4) Right conduct or action. (5) Right way of living that does not injure any living thing. (6) Right effort to fight against desires. (7) Right mindfulness. (8) Right meditation or right concentration. Desire for things was the root of all unhappiness and to get rid of desire was through the Eight-Fold Path.
Place of Worship
For the most part, Buddhists would usually worship at home. Buddhists usually have a shrine or altar in their home dedicated to Buddha. This shrine is either in a separate room or a quiet area. At the shrine one would see an image of Buddha (picture, statue, etc.), a candle or oil lamp (shows enlightenment), incense (shows how his teachings spread across the world,) and sometimes a scripture to remind the Buddhists of the middle way. A home is a place of worship for Buddha because Buddhism revolves around individual devotion and having a shrine at home makes this easier to worship. Another place of worship is in temples. These temples come in varying shapes. Two of the most popular structures are pagodas and the stupa. The pagodas have most commonly had five tiers to represent the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and emptiness). Pagodas are mostly found in Japan and China. Stupas are a dome shaped building mostly found in places like Thailand and India. Both of these buildings are places of worship because they are used to store sacred Buddhist relics. While here they will worship Buddha by sitting on the floor barefoot and listening to monks chanting or by meditating.
Symbolic Places That Are Associated With Buddhism
There are many holy and important symbolic places that are associated with the belief of Buddhism. For example, the Sangha is an important place to all Buddhists. The Sangha is sacred because when Buddhists marry they go to the Sangha to be blessed. There are many different Sangha’s. However, in each and every Sangha is a beautiful statue of Buddha. Buddhists go on journeys to places associated with Buddha's life. Some of these places are Buddha’s birthplace, Lumbini Grove, the place of enlightenment, Bodh Gaya, and the place he died, Kusinara. These places were important to Buddhists because they follow Buddhist teachings. In all of these sacred places are in relation to Buddha’s life. This is important because all Buddhists follow the founder of Buddhism. All Buddhists don't worship the Buddha they pay respect to him my learning from his teachings.
Buddhism's Point of View About Death and the Afterlife
The belief systems of Buddhism view death and afterlife in a different perspective. Buddha taught that eventually everyone will die, but that death will not be the end of their lives. It will just be the end of their body physically but their spirit will go on, through a new body and a new life. A person cannot die unless he/she has reached the state on nirvana (the state of enlightenment), and then the person can be reincarnated (rebirth). After death some say that you rebirth immediately or after 49 days in after life.
Central Administration For the Belief System
In Buddhism there is a central administration for the belief system. There is a person called the Dalai Lama. In Tibetan Buddhism there is Dalai Lama which is a monk that teaches Buddhism in Tibet. So far there have been 14 Dalai Lama’s. Buddhism is organized by Dalai lamas. Since China has stopped all religions the 14th Dalai Lama is no longer in China now he lives in India. This is where Buddhism grows and prospers. Dalai Lama was one of Buddhism greatest teachers. The main aim for all Buddhists is to reach nirvana which is the feeling of joy freedom and also the end of cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. The Dalai Lama is a Tibetan monk who teaches Buddhism to other Buddhists. The Dalai Lama is chosen once the old Dalai Lama dies by the Tibetan government.
Group 5: Present Day
Roles of men and women in leadership and spirit
Women and men can both hold a leadership/ spiritual role in Buddhism. Women are treasured as humans in Buddhism are treated equally. Women can be priests or anything a man can be in the religion except a monk. A nun can teach how to gain enlightenment. Men are also treasured. It does not matter what gender you are, all that matters is how you get to that state of enlightenment. This, concludes that both men and woman can play equal roles of leadership and spiritualism in Buddhism.
Important historical figures
Asanga and his brother Vasubandhu helped Buddhism in many ways. They both helped encourage education by teaching in schools. Asanga and Vasubandhu both taught about proper manures and Asanga’s own disciplines. The two brothers were Buddhist monks and founded Yogacara, a Buddhist philosophy school. One thing the brothers used to say include, “I now intend to bring all beings to believe fully in the doctrine of the Mahayana.” This was a belief that both brothers taught about and also what they believed in. to conclude, both Asanga and his brother were historical figures that developed stronger educational systems and their methods are still seen today in the Buddhist religion.
Major holidays and festivals
In Buddhism there are many holidays and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. Although there are endless to count according to each individual, there are certain sacred days that are celebrated within the whole Buddhist community. Some of these include the Buddhist New Year which is celebrated on different days around the world. This is because it is celebrated according to the full moon and around the world it falls on different days. Another sacred holiday is the Vesak or Buddha Day. This day is when they commemorate Buddha’s birth his enlightenment and his death. And finally, Sangha Day, which remembers his visit to Veruvana Monastery, when 1,250 Buddhist gather to pay their respects to the Buddha.
Where it is practiced
Buddhism is a religion practiced all around the world. Although Buddhism is practiced in many countries, Asia seems to be the continent with the most Buddhists. Specifically China. Over 90% of the Chinese population seems to practice Buddhism. Buddhism is also spread in the west due to interactions of Buddhists across Europe during the 19th century. Examples of countries in the west that practice Buddhism are Brazil, France, Great Britain and many more.
Population and Followers
Buddhism is practiced worldwide today, in modern times. There is approximately 360 million followers of Buddhism currently. Buddhism is a diverse and spread religion. For example, there is 150,000 followers of Buddhism in Britain. In terms of adherents, Buddhism is also said to be the fourth largest. Buddhism is practiced by roughly six percent of the world’s population
Tolerance and Promotion of Peace
The tolerance of religion depends on what people think religion is. Robert Bellah, a professor at the University of California thinks that religion is "a set of symbolic forms and acts that relate man to the ultimate conditions of existence." If this is true, then Buddhism is a religion. Based on Buddhist Ideas for Attaining World Peace, "Buddhism teaches that whether we have global peace or global war is up to us at every moment." This shows that Buddhist people differentiate peace and war. Therefore they do promote world peace
Women and men can both hold a leadership/ spiritual role in Buddhism. Women are treasured as humans in Buddhism are treated equally. Women can be priests or anything a man can be in the religion except a monk. A nun can teach how to gain enlightenment. Men are also treasured. It does not matter what gender you are, all that matters is how you get to that state of enlightenment. This, concludes that both men and woman can play equal roles of leadership and spiritualism in Buddhism.
Important historical figures
Asanga and his brother Vasubandhu helped Buddhism in many ways. They both helped encourage education by teaching in schools. Asanga and Vasubandhu both taught about proper manures and Asanga’s own disciplines. The two brothers were Buddhist monks and founded Yogacara, a Buddhist philosophy school. One thing the brothers used to say include, “I now intend to bring all beings to believe fully in the doctrine of the Mahayana.” This was a belief that both brothers taught about and also what they believed in. to conclude, both Asanga and his brother were historical figures that developed stronger educational systems and their methods are still seen today in the Buddhist religion.
Major holidays and festivals
In Buddhism there are many holidays and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year. Although there are endless to count according to each individual, there are certain sacred days that are celebrated within the whole Buddhist community. Some of these include the Buddhist New Year which is celebrated on different days around the world. This is because it is celebrated according to the full moon and around the world it falls on different days. Another sacred holiday is the Vesak or Buddha Day. This day is when they commemorate Buddha’s birth his enlightenment and his death. And finally, Sangha Day, which remembers his visit to Veruvana Monastery, when 1,250 Buddhist gather to pay their respects to the Buddha.
Where it is practiced
Buddhism is a religion practiced all around the world. Although Buddhism is practiced in many countries, Asia seems to be the continent with the most Buddhists. Specifically China. Over 90% of the Chinese population seems to practice Buddhism. Buddhism is also spread in the west due to interactions of Buddhists across Europe during the 19th century. Examples of countries in the west that practice Buddhism are Brazil, France, Great Britain and many more.
Population and Followers
Buddhism is practiced worldwide today, in modern times. There is approximately 360 million followers of Buddhism currently. Buddhism is a diverse and spread religion. For example, there is 150,000 followers of Buddhism in Britain. In terms of adherents, Buddhism is also said to be the fourth largest. Buddhism is practiced by roughly six percent of the world’s population
Tolerance and Promotion of Peace
The tolerance of religion depends on what people think religion is. Robert Bellah, a professor at the University of California thinks that religion is "a set of symbolic forms and acts that relate man to the ultimate conditions of existence." If this is true, then Buddhism is a religion. Based on Buddhist Ideas for Attaining World Peace, "Buddhism teaches that whether we have global peace or global war is up to us at every moment." This shows that Buddhist people differentiate peace and war. Therefore they do promote world peace
Group 6: Sects
Main branches, divisions, or sects of the belief system
The main branches of buddhism are known as Theravada (The Way of the Elders), Mahayana (the Great Vehicle), and Vajrayana/Tantric. In addition, all 3 branches are further broken down into sects. The Theravada sect is broken down into 2 sects, Sthavira and Vibhajjavādins. The Mahayana sect is also broken down into 2 separate sects, known as Buddhahood and Bodhisattvas. Finally, the Vajrayana/Tantric sect is also broken down into 2 sects, known as Zen and Pure Land. The reason for this separation is Buddha’s death. Ever since he died, confusion spread. Confusion on what will happen to Buddhism, what Buddhism will mean and if Buddhism will even continue. Because the Vajrayana/Tantric originated from Hinduism, the people in that sect also got influenced by some Hindu culture and gradually, everyone started interpreting Buddhism differently based on their own beliefs, which led to the separation of Buddhism into many different branches and sects as it is today.
The major beliefs, values, important things, founders, dates, and place or origins of each branch, division, or sects
Buddhism has three branches, the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana or Tantric buddhism. Theravada Buddhism mainly consists of keeping the origin of buddhism and it’s one of the oldest forms of Buddhism. In this type of Buddhism, it was believed that only monks could reach enlightenment. In Mahayana buddhism, it’s known to welcome everyone to becoming a Buddha (Buddhahood). In this buddhism sect, Buddha was someone everyone strived to become, not so much worship. The new text, sutras was also added. Mahayana spread to many parts of southeast Asia and in the East Asian areas of China, Korea, and Japan. Finally, the Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhism developed around 500-600 CE in India. Some of the practices in Vajrayana buddhism did not allow the practices of the original Buddhism and Hinduism. This type of buddhism influenced mainly Southeast Asia and East Asia. As buddhism grew, it spread to many places. This was an example of cultural diffusion. Overall, Buddhism grew and to this day, you can practice Buddhism in many different ways.
How the branches, divisions, or sects differ from the original belief system
Although all branches are under Buddhism, there are differences within them. The three branches are Theravada Buddhism, Mahayana Buddhism, and Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhism. The practices today are also Theravada Buddhism. It is said to be the oldest division of Buddhism. These Buddhists practice the events in Buddha’s life and follow the Pali Canon, which are the recordings of Buddha’s sayings. Monks who believe in this branch created different schools called the Sthavira and the Vibhajjavādins. All these schools were related with the Theravada schools. Today, it has spread to other regions such as Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. The culture of Mahayana Buddhism is unique since it states that any being may become Buddha rather than just Buddha himself. This idea is called buddhahood and new sutras or texts were added to the canon. Bodhisattvas are a different sect where people delay their salvation to help others in order to achieve enlightenment. Mahayana Buddhism has been spread to mainly East Asia. The final branch, Tantric Buddhism, consists of achieving physical, mental, and spiritual breakthroughs. Hinduism could also be involved in this branch. Buddhahood is also involved, however, people in modern day believe in Amida, who is said to be like Buddha who is in the Pure Land. This person can bring one to Pure Land, a heaven-like place where a person no longer dies or is reborn. This belief expanded in Japan, Tibet, and some parts of India. The Zen Buddhism was another part that valued meditation and believed it was very important. It was crucial for a person to meditate because it involves spiritual awakening. All these divisions have grown into several places across the world. The original belief system consisted of one idea; however, religious Buddhists have come to a conclusion that Buddhism is interpreted in particular ways that differ from one another. One simple idea following the Eightfold Path and receiving enlightenment is currently a big matter which has divisions. Therefore, Buddhism has many branches and sects that are each unique in different ways.
In what ways do the branches, divisions, or sects similar to the original belief system?(Naseerah)
The three branches of Buddhism are Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana or Tantric. In these branches are sects. The sects of Theravada are Sthavira and Vibhajjavādins. The sects of Mahayana is Buddhahood and Bodhisattvas. Finally, the sects of Vajrayana/Tantric is Zen and Pure Land. Theravada and Vajrayana both believe that everyone should believe in one Buddha. All three branches have a text in which they follow and look for guidance. Also all three branches encourage peace and nonviolence. To add on, the founders of all three branches are Siddhartha Gautama. Finally, all three sects follow the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path is a set of guides that helps Buddhists become peaceful. In conclusion, the three branches of Buddhism: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana/Tantric share some similarities.
Timeline of at least 3 important events for the branch, division, or sect
Divide in the belief system
A divide in a belief system could have not been avoided because people may all believe in Buddhism but they may have different views of what it is. Such an example would be the Theravada branch of Buddhism which believes that the individual person must reach salvation by themselves and no one can help them reach enlightenment. Whereas the Mahayana branch of Buddhism believes that people can reach enlightenment from the help of others’ teachings. The same goes for Tantric Buddhism. Due to their different views of what makes up their belief system, they cannot agree in terms to one specific way to handle the argument since they do not believe the others’ view is the right view whereas the others does not believe they have the right view. Therefore the people who follow that belief system would be conflicted and split up into different groups, each following the group that they agree with the most. This is why there are different sects of Buddhism or any other belief system. By being divided into individual branches and sects, they will establish their own impression of Buddhism.
The main branches of buddhism are known as Theravada (The Way of the Elders), Mahayana (the Great Vehicle), and Vajrayana/Tantric. In addition, all 3 branches are further broken down into sects. The Theravada sect is broken down into 2 sects, Sthavira and Vibhajjavādins. The Mahayana sect is also broken down into 2 separate sects, known as Buddhahood and Bodhisattvas. Finally, the Vajrayana/Tantric sect is also broken down into 2 sects, known as Zen and Pure Land. The reason for this separation is Buddha’s death. Ever since he died, confusion spread. Confusion on what will happen to Buddhism, what Buddhism will mean and if Buddhism will even continue. Because the Vajrayana/Tantric originated from Hinduism, the people in that sect also got influenced by some Hindu culture and gradually, everyone started interpreting Buddhism differently based on their own beliefs, which led to the separation of Buddhism into many different branches and sects as it is today.
The major beliefs, values, important things, founders, dates, and place or origins of each branch, division, or sects
Buddhism has three branches, the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana or Tantric buddhism. Theravada Buddhism mainly consists of keeping the origin of buddhism and it’s one of the oldest forms of Buddhism. In this type of Buddhism, it was believed that only monks could reach enlightenment. In Mahayana buddhism, it’s known to welcome everyone to becoming a Buddha (Buddhahood). In this buddhism sect, Buddha was someone everyone strived to become, not so much worship. The new text, sutras was also added. Mahayana spread to many parts of southeast Asia and in the East Asian areas of China, Korea, and Japan. Finally, the Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhism developed around 500-600 CE in India. Some of the practices in Vajrayana buddhism did not allow the practices of the original Buddhism and Hinduism. This type of buddhism influenced mainly Southeast Asia and East Asia. As buddhism grew, it spread to many places. This was an example of cultural diffusion. Overall, Buddhism grew and to this day, you can practice Buddhism in many different ways.
How the branches, divisions, or sects differ from the original belief system
Although all branches are under Buddhism, there are differences within them. The three branches are Theravada Buddhism, Mahayana Buddhism, and Vajrayana or Tantric Buddhism. The practices today are also Theravada Buddhism. It is said to be the oldest division of Buddhism. These Buddhists practice the events in Buddha’s life and follow the Pali Canon, which are the recordings of Buddha’s sayings. Monks who believe in this branch created different schools called the Sthavira and the Vibhajjavādins. All these schools were related with the Theravada schools. Today, it has spread to other regions such as Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. The culture of Mahayana Buddhism is unique since it states that any being may become Buddha rather than just Buddha himself. This idea is called buddhahood and new sutras or texts were added to the canon. Bodhisattvas are a different sect where people delay their salvation to help others in order to achieve enlightenment. Mahayana Buddhism has been spread to mainly East Asia. The final branch, Tantric Buddhism, consists of achieving physical, mental, and spiritual breakthroughs. Hinduism could also be involved in this branch. Buddhahood is also involved, however, people in modern day believe in Amida, who is said to be like Buddha who is in the Pure Land. This person can bring one to Pure Land, a heaven-like place where a person no longer dies or is reborn. This belief expanded in Japan, Tibet, and some parts of India. The Zen Buddhism was another part that valued meditation and believed it was very important. It was crucial for a person to meditate because it involves spiritual awakening. All these divisions have grown into several places across the world. The original belief system consisted of one idea; however, religious Buddhists have come to a conclusion that Buddhism is interpreted in particular ways that differ from one another. One simple idea following the Eightfold Path and receiving enlightenment is currently a big matter which has divisions. Therefore, Buddhism has many branches and sects that are each unique in different ways.
In what ways do the branches, divisions, or sects similar to the original belief system?(Naseerah)
The three branches of Buddhism are Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana or Tantric. In these branches are sects. The sects of Theravada are Sthavira and Vibhajjavādins. The sects of Mahayana is Buddhahood and Bodhisattvas. Finally, the sects of Vajrayana/Tantric is Zen and Pure Land. Theravada and Vajrayana both believe that everyone should believe in one Buddha. All three branches have a text in which they follow and look for guidance. Also all three branches encourage peace and nonviolence. To add on, the founders of all three branches are Siddhartha Gautama. Finally, all three sects follow the Eightfold Path. The Eightfold Path is a set of guides that helps Buddhists become peaceful. In conclusion, the three branches of Buddhism: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana/Tantric share some similarities.
Timeline of at least 3 important events for the branch, division, or sect
Divide in the belief system
A divide in a belief system could have not been avoided because people may all believe in Buddhism but they may have different views of what it is. Such an example would be the Theravada branch of Buddhism which believes that the individual person must reach salvation by themselves and no one can help them reach enlightenment. Whereas the Mahayana branch of Buddhism believes that people can reach enlightenment from the help of others’ teachings. The same goes for Tantric Buddhism. Due to their different views of what makes up their belief system, they cannot agree in terms to one specific way to handle the argument since they do not believe the others’ view is the right view whereas the others does not believe they have the right view. Therefore the people who follow that belief system would be conflicted and split up into different groups, each following the group that they agree with the most. This is why there are different sects of Buddhism or any other belief system. By being divided into individual branches and sects, they will establish their own impression of Buddhism.
Group 7: Issues/Solutions
Important conflicts experienced in present day
There are many conflicts that had occurred during the existence of the religion of Buddha. One of these conflicts is that Buddhist people, who are known to be non-violent, have been terrorizing the Rohingya people of Myanmar. The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic group who lived in Myanmar for years. Ashin Wirathu, known as the Burmese Bin Laden, wants to prevent the growth of Islam, and he is doing everything he can to stop it. This conflict is growing most in Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
Origins of the conflict, Resolutions, and Results
The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic group who have been living in Burma for generations, but the government of Myanmar denied them citizenship in 1982. They are one of the most persecuted groups in the world. Myanmar’s president, Thein Sein, revoked their voting rights in February 2015. The conflict between the Rohingya and the Buddhists dates back to the 17th century. While Bangladesh was under British rule, Muslims moved to Rakhine and created tensions with local Buddhists. Ashin Wirathu leads the campaign against the Rohingya, and he justifies the violence by claiming the Rohingya plan to establish an Islamic state In Rakhine, a state in Myanmar. Wirathu is compared to Osama Bin Laden, and even Hitler, because his intention to drive out the Rohingya based on their Islamic religion is genocidal. He believes that if Islam grows in Myanmar, Buddhism will become weaker.
Perspective towards issues of violence/oppression
Among the religious traditions, Buddhism is generally the religion that is least associated with violence. Buddhists live by the quote from the Nirvana Sutra that states, “By taking refuge in the precious dharma, one's mind should be free from hurting or harming others." Dharma is described as the path of righteousness or in other words, the laws of nature. Having a skillful mind is very important to Buddhists. If you had a skillful mind, you knew how to avoid actions that are likely to cause suffering and remorse. To avoid being violent, Buddhists follow what is known as The Five Precepts. The Five Precepts are the principles and practices that help one to act in ways that help rather than hurt. The first precept in order to cultivate a calm and peaceful mind is to avoid taking the life of beings. This precept does not only apply to human beings but all living things. The second precept is to avoid taking things that are not yours. This precept goes further than just stealing. If you are not sure that it is intended for you, then you should not touch it. The third precept is to avoid sexual misconduct. This includes sexual nature as well. If you have a partner, you are expected to be loyal to him or her and have no one else. The fourth precept is to avoid false speech. Lying and deceiving is also not permitted. If you lie even a little bit, everyone will stop trusting you. Those who you love and care for will stay clear from you. Finally, the last precept is to avoid drinking substances that can cause intoxication and heedlessness such as alcohol. The drinking of alcohol can lead to one breaking the other four precepts. These five precepts help Buddhist individuals stay away from violence indicating that Buddhists do not believe in violence.
Actions Towards Resolving Issues of Violence Against Buddhism
Buddhism is a religion where people try to look for answers to their unanswered questions in life. Buddhism is the belief of peace and the understanding of the world. Buddhism's perspective toward issues of violence is to settle it down with an agreement for both sides. There had been a few actions taken to the central administration of the belief system towards resolving issues of violence toward Buddhism. There was a conflict in Asia between the Chinese and the Tibetans. The Tibetans were known for being peaceful people who believe in Buddhism. However, they started protesting, at first, peaceful protests and later, it led to more violent protests against the Chinese because of religious reasons and differences. The Tibetans protested violently in different ways including burning the stores owned by the Chinese. Along with the religious differences between the Tibetans and the Chinese, other sources of conflicts includes China's security and the government's policies in China. The Chinese persecuted religious movements and Buddhism was one of them. Some of these violent protests involved with death on both sides. In the article of " Conflict Over Tibet: Core Causes and Possible Solutions", the author stated that, "Tibet's religious leaders feel like their religion and culture are being undermined by certain business practices." The religious differences had caused disagreements and conflicts between the Tibetans and the Chinese. The Tibetans are religious and there had been arguments between them and the Chinese that the Buddhism religion had been threatened and weakened.
Actions Taken at the Communal Level Towards Resolving Issues of Oppression Against Buddhism
The people in China did not really tolerate all religions and the religious differences between the Tibetans and the Chinese caused them to have conflicts against each other. During the 1970's, in refugee camps in India, a movement called the Free Tibet Movement emerged. In New Delhi, a group of Tibetans held a hunger strike outside the United Nations Informational Community wanting to get help from the press. In the article, "China, Tibet, and Buddhist Ethics: An Overview", the author stated that the Tibetans had said to the press that, " 'We the victims are ignored and shunned while our oppressors are courted and feted by a world gone mad. We are peaceful people and we have nowhere to turn to for justice except the United Nations.' " The Tibetans are Buddhists who many people ignored when they called for help and now they are protesting to the press. In Buddhist social ethics, it is to be taught kindness, compassion, trust, and respect to everyone to gain harmony and peace. The Buddhists are non-violent people and they spread information and peaceful protests through the printing press. The conflicts and disagreements between the Tibetans and the Chinese had led to the involvement of the United Nations. Buddhism is the practice of giving respect and peace to others. The Tibetans, who were Buddhists, did not use violence and harsh punishments toward issues of violence or oppression. They print stories in newspapers and through the printing press to share their thoughts and to gain support. The Buddhists used kindness to try to resolve issues of violence and oppression. Through the stories they shared, other individuals and organizations would want to enter to help the Tibetans and many other ethnicity groups and religious reasons.
Ideas to address these issues, peaceful resolutions
Buddhism is about peace and thinking of the good sides of everything. However, in the present day, Buddhism had conflicts dealing with other religions and their soft sides had melted away to an alternative tactic, violence. When you think of Buddhists, you don’t normally think that they are violent. However, in the problem between the Buddhists in Tibet and the Han Chinese people, violence was the way that the Buddhists used to make their voices be heard. During this conflict, they started to riot against the Han government that was ruling over them because the government didn’t allow the Buddhism religion. However, as time had passed, the problem between the Buddhists and the Chinese people had died down and they were able to accept their differences as a resolution. Although that the Buddhists’ way of making their voices be heard, their tactic of violence was not a way a Buddhist would have made in order to handle the situation. They could have made a more peaceful approach such a verbal agreement and persuading instead of using violence and force as their answer. The way that the Buddhist people dealt with the problem showed that they were not peaceful and they chose to make an entirely different approach than what they would have done if they had followed what their religion offered. The ways that could have been done to address these issues more professionally as Buddhists, they could have convinced and work out possible resolutions with the Han government. Therefore, this would’ve been a better choice in a Buddhist's perspective on the conflicts, having a more peaceful approach and that violence is never the answer to anything.
There are many conflicts that had occurred during the existence of the religion of Buddha. One of these conflicts is that Buddhist people, who are known to be non-violent, have been terrorizing the Rohingya people of Myanmar. The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic group who lived in Myanmar for years. Ashin Wirathu, known as the Burmese Bin Laden, wants to prevent the growth of Islam, and he is doing everything he can to stop it. This conflict is growing most in Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
Origins of the conflict, Resolutions, and Results
The Rohingya are a Muslim ethnic group who have been living in Burma for generations, but the government of Myanmar denied them citizenship in 1982. They are one of the most persecuted groups in the world. Myanmar’s president, Thein Sein, revoked their voting rights in February 2015. The conflict between the Rohingya and the Buddhists dates back to the 17th century. While Bangladesh was under British rule, Muslims moved to Rakhine and created tensions with local Buddhists. Ashin Wirathu leads the campaign against the Rohingya, and he justifies the violence by claiming the Rohingya plan to establish an Islamic state In Rakhine, a state in Myanmar. Wirathu is compared to Osama Bin Laden, and even Hitler, because his intention to drive out the Rohingya based on their Islamic religion is genocidal. He believes that if Islam grows in Myanmar, Buddhism will become weaker.
Perspective towards issues of violence/oppression
Among the religious traditions, Buddhism is generally the religion that is least associated with violence. Buddhists live by the quote from the Nirvana Sutra that states, “By taking refuge in the precious dharma, one's mind should be free from hurting or harming others." Dharma is described as the path of righteousness or in other words, the laws of nature. Having a skillful mind is very important to Buddhists. If you had a skillful mind, you knew how to avoid actions that are likely to cause suffering and remorse. To avoid being violent, Buddhists follow what is known as The Five Precepts. The Five Precepts are the principles and practices that help one to act in ways that help rather than hurt. The first precept in order to cultivate a calm and peaceful mind is to avoid taking the life of beings. This precept does not only apply to human beings but all living things. The second precept is to avoid taking things that are not yours. This precept goes further than just stealing. If you are not sure that it is intended for you, then you should not touch it. The third precept is to avoid sexual misconduct. This includes sexual nature as well. If you have a partner, you are expected to be loyal to him or her and have no one else. The fourth precept is to avoid false speech. Lying and deceiving is also not permitted. If you lie even a little bit, everyone will stop trusting you. Those who you love and care for will stay clear from you. Finally, the last precept is to avoid drinking substances that can cause intoxication and heedlessness such as alcohol. The drinking of alcohol can lead to one breaking the other four precepts. These five precepts help Buddhist individuals stay away from violence indicating that Buddhists do not believe in violence.
Actions Towards Resolving Issues of Violence Against Buddhism
Buddhism is a religion where people try to look for answers to their unanswered questions in life. Buddhism is the belief of peace and the understanding of the world. Buddhism's perspective toward issues of violence is to settle it down with an agreement for both sides. There had been a few actions taken to the central administration of the belief system towards resolving issues of violence toward Buddhism. There was a conflict in Asia between the Chinese and the Tibetans. The Tibetans were known for being peaceful people who believe in Buddhism. However, they started protesting, at first, peaceful protests and later, it led to more violent protests against the Chinese because of religious reasons and differences. The Tibetans protested violently in different ways including burning the stores owned by the Chinese. Along with the religious differences between the Tibetans and the Chinese, other sources of conflicts includes China's security and the government's policies in China. The Chinese persecuted religious movements and Buddhism was one of them. Some of these violent protests involved with death on both sides. In the article of " Conflict Over Tibet: Core Causes and Possible Solutions", the author stated that, "Tibet's religious leaders feel like their religion and culture are being undermined by certain business practices." The religious differences had caused disagreements and conflicts between the Tibetans and the Chinese. The Tibetans are religious and there had been arguments between them and the Chinese that the Buddhism religion had been threatened and weakened.
Actions Taken at the Communal Level Towards Resolving Issues of Oppression Against Buddhism
The people in China did not really tolerate all religions and the religious differences between the Tibetans and the Chinese caused them to have conflicts against each other. During the 1970's, in refugee camps in India, a movement called the Free Tibet Movement emerged. In New Delhi, a group of Tibetans held a hunger strike outside the United Nations Informational Community wanting to get help from the press. In the article, "China, Tibet, and Buddhist Ethics: An Overview", the author stated that the Tibetans had said to the press that, " 'We the victims are ignored and shunned while our oppressors are courted and feted by a world gone mad. We are peaceful people and we have nowhere to turn to for justice except the United Nations.' " The Tibetans are Buddhists who many people ignored when they called for help and now they are protesting to the press. In Buddhist social ethics, it is to be taught kindness, compassion, trust, and respect to everyone to gain harmony and peace. The Buddhists are non-violent people and they spread information and peaceful protests through the printing press. The conflicts and disagreements between the Tibetans and the Chinese had led to the involvement of the United Nations. Buddhism is the practice of giving respect and peace to others. The Tibetans, who were Buddhists, did not use violence and harsh punishments toward issues of violence or oppression. They print stories in newspapers and through the printing press to share their thoughts and to gain support. The Buddhists used kindness to try to resolve issues of violence and oppression. Through the stories they shared, other individuals and organizations would want to enter to help the Tibetans and many other ethnicity groups and religious reasons.
Ideas to address these issues, peaceful resolutions
Buddhism is about peace and thinking of the good sides of everything. However, in the present day, Buddhism had conflicts dealing with other religions and their soft sides had melted away to an alternative tactic, violence. When you think of Buddhists, you don’t normally think that they are violent. However, in the problem between the Buddhists in Tibet and the Han Chinese people, violence was the way that the Buddhists used to make their voices be heard. During this conflict, they started to riot against the Han government that was ruling over them because the government didn’t allow the Buddhism religion. However, as time had passed, the problem between the Buddhists and the Chinese people had died down and they were able to accept their differences as a resolution. Although that the Buddhists’ way of making their voices be heard, their tactic of violence was not a way a Buddhist would have made in order to handle the situation. They could have made a more peaceful approach such a verbal agreement and persuading instead of using violence and force as their answer. The way that the Buddhist people dealt with the problem showed that they were not peaceful and they chose to make an entirely different approach than what they would have done if they had followed what their religion offered. The ways that could have been done to address these issues more professionally as Buddhists, they could have convinced and work out possible resolutions with the Han government. Therefore, this would’ve been a better choice in a Buddhist's perspective on the conflicts, having a more peaceful approach and that violence is never the answer to anything.