Buddhism for beginners: What is it?

The 'Dharmachakra.

Available at: http://goo.gl/5rNl2

This post if for the beginners. I’ve covered who Siddhartha Gautama is, now you need to know the rest or else you’ll go now where in your practice. After reading A Basic Buddhism Guide: 5 Minutes Introduction, I had found these helpful facts and questions for you beginners.

To start you off: Is Buddha a God?

No, he is not. He does not claim to be a God or take the title of one either. Buddha was a religious man who went through the path of enlightenment and wanted to teach it to others. Many of his followers do not look to him as a God to pray to or to ask for favors. They look to him to remind them to reach for peace and love within themselves and others. Bowing to his statue is a sign of gratefulness to his teachings and paying respects to images of him as well is a way they show their gratitude towards Buddha.

Is Buddhism a religion?

Yes and no. To many people Buddhism is more of a way life or philosophy than a religion such as Christianity.

Is there different types of Buddhism?

Yes! There is many different types of Buddhism. It differs on which country you look at or are in. But yes, there is many types and all are the same considering they all teach the Dhamma or the truth.

Are all the other religions wrong?

As taught by Buddha, his teachings require you to be tolerant to all religions and cultures no matter what it is. Real Buddhism is highly tolerant and does not use labels to signify what you are. As saying this, there has not been many wars concerning Buddhism. Buddhist in general will not try to convert or preach your head off like its the Inquisition.

What does Buddha teach?

Buddha teaches a variety of things. The most common and basic teachings is of the Four Noble Truths and Noble Eightfold Path.

What are the  Four Noble Truths?

The Four Noble Truths are the basic teachings of Buddha. The First Noble Truth is life is suffering. It is a fact that we can’t deny, everyday we suffer no matter if its through pain, loneliness, frustration, fear, disappointment, or even anger. We all suffer. Through this first Noble Truth Buddha teaches how you can truly be happy.

The Second Noble Truth is suffering caused by craving and aversion. To make it simple, getting everything you ever wanted will not make you happy. Instead of fighting and trying to get what you want, modify what you are wanting. Make it easier for yourself. Wanting and craving deprives you of happiness because you’re never fully fulfilled.

The Third Noble Truth is that suffering can be overcome and happiness can be attained; that true happiness and contentment can be possible. It says if we give up all the wanting and craving and if we learn to live each day to the fullest ,then we can finally become free and happy. With being free and happy we have more time and energy to use to help others. This Third Noble is what you would call Nirvana.

The Fourth Noble Truth is that the Eightfold Path is which leads to the end of all suffering.

What is the Eightfold Path?

In the simplest form, it is being moral. It is when you are aware of your actions, thoughts, and feelings. It is also creating wisdom within yourself and becoming compassionate for others.

Does Buddhism have morals?

Yes, Buddhism has morals they are called the Five Precepts. The Five Precepts are not to take the life of any living thing, not to take anything not given to you, to abstain from sexual misconduct and sensual overindulgence, to retain from untrue speech, and to avoid intoxication. These Five Precepts are the basic morals Buddhist abide by.

What is Karma?

The belief that every cause has an effect. Karma within us is when our actions either have consequences or benefits. It underlines the importance of all people being responsible for their past, present, and future.

I honestly hoped this helped. It helped me understand some things a little bit more, hopefully it did the same for you. I would love to hear your comments, so comment away!