1. Buddhism
Chapter 6, Section 4 Pg

2. Key Terms Meditate- to calm or clear the mind
Enlightenment- a state of perfect wisdom
Nirvana- a state of blissful peace without desire or suffering
Monastery- religious community

3. The Life of Buddha Siddhartha Guatama= Buddha
Was shielded from everything unpleasant, eventually saw reality
Left home in seek of peace & truth
Learned about reincarnation from gurus
Tried fasting as an ascetic
Finally, meditated by himself under a tree and gained enlightenment
Travelled and shared his knowledge

4. Buddhist Beliefs
Buddha accepted the idea of karma, but also thought the soul disappears when enlightened
Did not believe in gods or caste system
Four Noble Truths:
All life involves suffering
Suffering is caused by selfish desires
The way to end suffering is to overcome selfish desires
The way to overcome selfish desires is to follow the eightfold path
Eightfold path leads to nirvana

5. Eightfold Path Belief - understanding of noble truths
Purpose - make spiritual growth one’s purpose in life
Speech - be aware; don’t lie or be hurtful
Conduct - understand and improve behavior; don’t kill, steal, etc
Livelihood - earn a living that supports spiritual growth
Effort - try to hold only good thoughts in one’s mind
Mindfulness - be aware of one’s thoughts; control them
Meditation - clear the mind to achieve nirvana