Buddhism
a religion based on the teachings of the Buddha
Siddhartha Gautama
born as a prince, wandered through India to understand human suffering
meditation
deep, continued thought that focuses the mind on spiritual ideas
Buddha
An Indian prince originally named Siddhartha Gautama, who gave up his wealth and social position. After his own enlightenment, he began Buddhism.
Great Enlightenment
When the Buddha gained wisdom and became free of life's sufferings
Four Noble Truths
the main ideas of Buddha: all life is suffering, the cause of suffering is ignorant desire, this desire can be destroyed, the means to this is the Eightfold Path.
Eightfold Path
The "Middle Way" to end suffering as taught by the Buddha. It includes: 1. right view 2. right thought 3. right speech 4.right conduct 5. right livelihood 6. right endeavor 7. right awareness, and 8. right contemplation.
nirvana
in Buddhism, the release from pain and suffering achieved after enlightenment
shrine
A place of worship that is often dedicated to a sacred object or person, it can easily be placed in ones home as a quiet place of meditation, reflection, worship and prayer.
missionary
person who spreads religious beliefs to others
Tripitika and Sutras
Sacred Buddhist writings
nontheistic
Not recognizing or worshiping a god
diffusion of Buddhism
China, Japan, Tibet, Nepal, Vietnam, Southeast Asia