FAQ

(adapted from Buddhanet and Wikipedia)

What is Buddhism?

Buddhism is a belief system practiced by about 300 million people around the world. The word comes from ‘buddhi’, ‘to awaken’. It has its origins about 2,500 years ago when in India Siddhartha Gautauma, known as the Buddha, was himself awakened (enlightened) at the age of 35.

How Can Buddhism Help Me?

Buddhism provides a very practical guide for finding lasting happiness and living a life filled with compassion and wisdom. It is based on a deep understanding of the human mind, which prominent psychologists around the world are now discovering to be both very advanced and effective.

Who Was the Buddha?

Siddhartha Gautauma was born into a royal family in Lumbini, now located in Nepal, in 563 BC. At age 29, he renounced a life of wealth and luxury to find the key to ending suffering. After six years of study and meditation he finally found ‘the middle path’ and was enlightened. The Buddha spent the rest of his life teaching the Dharma, or Truth, until his death at the age of 80.

Was the Buddha a God?

He was not, nor did he claim to be. The historical Buddha, also known as Shakyamuni Buddha, was a man who taught a path to enlightenment from his own experience.

Do Buddhists Worship Idols?

Buddhists sometimes pay respect to images of the Buddha, not in worship, nor to ask for favors. A statue of the Buddha with hands rested gently in its lap and a compassionate smile reminds us to develop peace and love within ourselves. Bowing to the statue is an expression of gratitude for the teaching.

Are There Different Types of Buddhism?

There are many different types of Buddhism, because the emphasis changes from country to country due to customs and culture. What does not vary is the essence of the teaching — the Dharma or truth.

Are Other Religions Wrong?

Buddhism is a belief system that is inclusive of other beliefs or religions, sharing many of the same ethics and values taught by other religions. Authentic Buddhism is very tolerant and not concerned with labels like ‘Christian’, ‘Moslem’, ‘Hindu’ or even “Buddhist.” Historically, no wars have been fought in the name of Buddhism. Buddhists do not preach and try to convert, and should only explain if an explanation is sought.

Is Buddhism Scientific?

Science is knowledge that can be made into a system that depends on testing facts and stating general natural laws. The core of Buddhism fits into this definition. In fact, the Buddha himself asked his followers to test the teaching rather than accept his word as true. Furthermore, the practices of Buddhist mental training are being scientifically validated.

What did the Buddha Teach?

The Buddha taught many things, but the basic concepts in Buddhism can be summed up by the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

Is It Necessary to Become a Buddhist?

No. Buddhist teachings can be understood and tested by anyone. Buddhism teaches that the solutions to our problems are within ourselves, not from some outside source. The Buddha asked all his followers not to take his word as true, but rather to test the teachings for themselves. ln this way, each person decides for themselves and takes responsibility for their own actions and understanding.