BUDDHISM

Buddhism derives from the teaching of Siddhartha Guatama who was born into a princely family near the border with Nepal in India during the 6th century BC. Leaving a life of luxury to seek an answer to the question of human suffering, Siddhartha found enlightenment through meditation. He became known as Buddha or enlightened one. The term Buddha is derived from bodhi, meaning to be awakened. Over the centuries, Buddhism has spread widely and has divided into two main traditions, Theravadan and Mahayana. The main teachings are the same in all traditions. Their expression varies with the culture in which they are embedded. There are over 300 million Buddhists world wide and there are many variations of Buddhism; while most Buddhists have been born into a Buddhist family or culture, many Buddhists in the United Kingdom have consciously converted to Buddhism. Buddhists believe in the four Noble Truths which contain the essence of Buddhist teaching:

1. All life is suffering: The truth of suffering.

2. All sufferings have causes: The origin of suffering.

3. It is possible to be free from suffering: Called the truth of cessation.

4. A way exists to become free from suffering: The truth of the path.

The Path is the teaching that the Buddha left behind. The basis of the Path is the practice of love and compassion for all other beings, non-violence and the development of a correct view of reality. They believe all thoughts and behaviour, such as violence, hatred, anger, dissatisfaction etc, are harmful both to ourselves and others, and create suffering. The development of actions, such as genuinely caring for others, creating harmony and developing compassion, even towards those we dislike, will eventually be beneficial and bring peace and happiness to ourselves and others. Buddhists do not believe in a creator God. Study, contemplation, and meditation of the main Dharma subjects are central to individual Buddhist practice. The Buddhist scriptures, known as Tripitakas (three baskets) date from the first century. These sum up the Buddhist teachings as well as "rules" of the Buddhist moral life. Buddhists believe in rebirth and the "cause and effect" of karma (meaning "actions"). Every action we do has an effect. Most of our actions, or karma, ties us to the cycle of birth and death. By understanding and acting on the Four Noble Truths, Buddhists seek to free themselves from this cycle, which is a cycle of endless suffering.

Visiting a Buddhist Home

In some cases, it is best not to shake hands with a Buddhist unless a handshake is offered as it may not be their custom. Normally, in the home there will be a statue of Buddha which is usually in a central position. There may be an incense holder at the front and fl owers and candle by the statue's side. In the home there may be a prayer room or shrine. If you are invited to enter the prayer room or look at the family shrine you should remove your shoes as a sign of respect.

Visiting Buddhist Temple

A temple (Vihara) has a statue of Buddha. It is where teaching and meditation takes place and has accommodation for resident monks and nuns. Buddhists remove their shoes as a sign of respect when entering a Vihara. Visitors should do the same. You should not shake hands with a monk or nun unless a handshake is initiated by them. Venerables (Buddhist teachers) should not be touched as a general rule. Should this be necessary in extreme circumstances, caution and sensitivity should be employed. Unless absolutely unavoidable, monks and nuns should never be touched on the head. The more common greeting gesture for Buddhists is to place both palms together and then bow gently. However, some sects have their hands folded over their heart in greeting. Hand shaking with lay people is permitted.

For further information contact:

Buddhist Centre, Kilmainham Well House, 56 Inchicore Road Kilmainham, D8. Tel: 01 4539312 Email: info@buddhism.ie Web: www.buddhism.ie