By: Esther Ko
Objective: Summarize the development of Buddhism.
Early Buddhism
- The founder of Buddhism: Siddhartha Gautama. Born about 563 B.C.E. in the foothills of Himalayas.
- He learned that Human beings grow old and weak, disease and death were inevitable features of the human condition, and he also learned that some people withdraw from their active life to live a holy life.
For 49 days he sat in meditation under the bo tree as many demons tempted him with pleasures and terrors to shake his resolution.
After that, he received enlightenment, and became the Budda-"the enlightened one".
- The Budda announced his doctrine about 528 B.C.E. at the Deer Park of Sarnath. This sermon refers as the "Turning of the Wheel of the Law". His teacher attracted attention, and a lot of disciples from all parts of the Ganges valley. He organized them into a community of monks, and they traveled on foot spreading the Buddhism.
- About 483 B.C.E, he died after leaving his final message. "Decay is inherent in all component things! Work out your salvation with diligence!".
- Buddhist doctrine: The Dhama; The fundamental doctrine of Buddhism, also known as the Four Noble Truths.
Appeal of Buddhism
2. Used the word of people. Not Sanskrit. 3. Buddhist recognized holy sites that served as focal point of devotion. 4. Appealed strongly to people of lower castes, and women. 5. Monastic organizations spread the Buddhist message, and won converts. (Even after Budda's death)
Granted lands to the monasteries and encouraged them to spread their faith. Sent missionaries to Bactria and Ceylon. |
Development of Buddhism
- New developments between the third century B.C.E. and the first century C.E. :
2. Boddhisatvas: who had reached spiritual perfection. "an enlightened one"
3. Monasteries accepted gifts from wealthy individuals and to regard the bequests as the act of kindness that deserved salvation.
Different Buddhisms
- Mahayana: "the greater vehicle", believed that Budda is a god.
- Theravada (Hinayana): "the lesser vehicle", believed that Budda was just a man.