Focus Study: Buddhism

 Focus Study: Buddhism1. The Philosophy of the BuddhismConceptsTermsDefinitionMonotheisticA religion with one god e.g. Christianity, ? Buddhism is not mono THERE IS NO GOD PolytheisticMore than one god e.g. Hinduism DukkhaSuffering, pain, loss, and human futility of the worldview. Importance concept of Buddhism in how they see them TanhaSeeking of pleasure 4 Noble TruthsThe core truths that must be accepted by Buddhists in order to reach Nirvana Eightfold PathThe Wheel of Life. The rules of life to reach Nirvana. Life rules NirvanaStage of enlightenment, the stage of ultimate peace and fulfilment as a human being SanghaGroup of collective nuns and monks, Buddhist monastic order, people who have religious authority and power DharmaBuddhists doctrine’s, one of Three Jewel’s, body of knowledge, agreed upon rules, the foundations of the religion, BuddhaA fully "enlightened one," a historical person in the Theravada view; one of innumerable beings in Mahayana view because each person is a potential Buddha.TripitakaBuddhist holy book found within the Pali Canon. Tripitaka in Sanskrit, Tipitaka in Pali. The three parts of the Pali canon are: Sutra-Pitika (Sanskrit) or Sutta-Pitaka (Pali), or the Sutra Basket, which are the discourses attributed to Shakyamuni Buddha. Vinaya-Pitika (both Sanskrit and Pali), or the Ordinance Basket - containing the rules of monastic life. Abhidharma-Pitika (Sanskrit) or Abhidhamma-Pitaka (Pali), or Shastras, or the Treatise Basket - containing the doctrinal commentaries, philosophical and technical works, such as discourses, discussions, or treatises on the doctrines, etc.PatimokkaIn Theravada Buddhism, the?Patimokkha?is the basic code of monastic discipline, consisting of 227 rules for fully ordained monks (bhikkhus) and 311 for nuns?Three JewelsOr the Triple Gem, i.e. the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha, which are the three essential components of Buddhism. They are the objects of veneration. Buddhists take refuge in them by pronouncing the threefold refuge formula, thus acknowledging themselves to be Buddhists.SamsaraThe world of appearances and endless flux, including all aspects of becoming and death; cycles of birth and rebirth.Sutra / Sutta(Sutta in Pali and Sutra in Sanskrit) Lit. 'thread', major category of Buddhist scripture.PaliThe canon of texts preserved by the Theravada school and, by extension, the language in which those texts are composed. An early language of Buddhism.KarmaAction, words or deed. Spiritual principle of ‘cause and effect’. The intent and action of an individual influences others. Ten PreceptsThese are the ten stages of development of Bodhisattva:?Bodhisattva:One moved by compassionate zeal to aid fellow beings, hence willing to postpone his or her own entrance into Nirvana to this end.BhikkhuniNun.EnlightenmentComplete elimination of all negative aspects of the mind and perfection of all positive qualities.Eightfold PathThe path that leads to liberation, consisting of right understanding, right aim, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.DukkhaSuffering, stress, pain, misery, sorrow, unhappiness, dissatisfaction with the way things are, a central factor in the human condition, one of the "three marks" of existence.DharmaThe Universal Truth; The Teachings and the inner practice of the Teachings of Buddha; Essential quality and factual reality.Dalai LamaHead of Tibetan Sangha and the former ruler of Tibet.Bodhi treeSacred fig tree (Ficus religiosa), under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.Five Precepts(1) Undertaking the precept not to kill;(2) Undertaking the precept not to steal;(3) Undertaking the precept not to be involved in sexual misconduct;(4) Undertaking the precept not to have false speech;(5) Undertaking the precept not to indulge in intoxicants, that cloud the mind.Five Khandas?Five Aggregates, that is, the five components of an intelligent being, or psychological analysis of the mind:Four Noble Truths:Fact of suffering - suffering is a necessary attribute of sentient existence?Cause of suffering is caused by passions (Cause of Suffering)?Cessation of suffering or extinction of passion (Effect of Happiness)?The Path leading to the extinction of passion (Cause of Happiness); i.e. Eightfold Path.Karma:"action or volitional activities" the cosmic law of cause and effect: every physical or spiritual deed has its long-range consequences as determined by the agent's intention. Sanskrit form: karma.KusinaraKusinara in Pali, Kusinagara in Sanskrit. The village where Shakyamuni Buddha died, and was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Malla.Lotus SutraShort name of the Sutra of the Lotus Flower of the Wonderful Law, or Saddharma-pundarik-sutra in Sanskrit. It is one of the most important sutras of Mahayana Buddhism. Basically, it states that all sentient beings can attain Buddhahood, and nothing less than this is the appropriate final goal of all Buddhists. It also states that the Buddha is eternal, and the supreme form of Buddhist practice is the way of the Bodhisattva. Lotus flower is used to describe the brightness and pureness of the One Buddha Vehicle.MahatmaThe highest principle in man; a great sage.MahayanaThe greater vehicle; one of the two major divisions of Buddhism, as in China, Korea, Vietnam, Tibet and Japan.MeditationThe process of becoming deeply acquainted with one's own mind. see Bhavana.Tanha (Pali)Lit. 'thirst': 'Craving' is the chief root of suffering, and of the ever continuing cycle of rebirths.TantrayanaAlso called Vajrayana. A school of esoteric Tibetan Buddhism. It emphasizes not only meditation but also the use of symbolic rites, gestures, postures, breathing, incantation, and other secret means.Theravada:?(Pali) The "Teachings of the Elders" - the only one of the early schools of Buddhism to have survived into the present; currently the dominant form of Buddhism in Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Burma.ZenBuddhist school or sect favouring meditation and intuition rather than scripture as a means to enlightenment, which passed from China to Japan in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries.zazeneated meditation; dhyana; Zen meditationBuddhism + Philosophy Buddhism one of world’s most significant belief systems System functions at all levels – micro, meso and macroMicro: inspires people to live by a certain set of values and practisesMeso: binds communities together around same common values and practisesMacro: functions as a universal ideology that provides a common set of values and practises for all people across all societies and culturesHistorical Background Began in India 2500 years ago ? since then penetrated civilisation formed since that timeReason for appeal ? the human story of a man’s search for meaning Buddhism Legend Siddhartha Gautama (known as Buddha), morn in the Ganges region of Nepal around 560 BCEHis father was a high caste Hindu (of the Kshatriya caste, second to only the highest caste, Brahmins) and chief of the Shakya clan Gautama grew up surrounded by great wealth and opulence Father raised him to be devout Hindu ? but G was never extremely spiritual, or ascetic to aspects of Hinduism B/c of this… first foundation step of the creation of BuddhismGautama became disenchanted with the opulent life that joined the Hindu monastery Went in search of what is called as the Buddhist ‘Middle Way’ – a notion that captures the central beliefs of Buddhism, expressed through the ‘Four Noble Truths” and ‘The Eightfold Path’ Secrets in this path promised to provide individual: Ultimate meaning of life, enlighten reaching Nirvana WITHOUT having to go through reincarnations (many births) that characterise Hindu beliefs Buddhism Philosophy Is a self-contained system ? providing certainty for discretion for all followers through clear philosophies that binds together the elements of the system Can be clearly taught and understood Can be clearly captured in the “Three Jewels” (central beliefs) of Buddhism The Buddha himselfBuddhist doctrine (dharma)The society of monks and nuns (sangha) The Historical Development and Underlying PrinciplesAround 530 BC a young prince names Siddhartha Gautama challenges the ideas of the Braham priests and created a new world religion Gautama was born in 563 BC into the warrior casteHe lived in luxury in his family’s He realised that life was an endless cycle of pain and that was the only way to escape that cycle was to seek wisdomHe left his family when he was about 29 and became a homeless wanderer with five other men who were also seeking wisdom Gautama tried to find wisdom through physical suffering and harsh discipline but instead he gained only painAt last, after days of meditating deeply in the shade of a tree, Gautama felt the truth had come to himAt this point, he became known as “The Enlightened One” or Buddha The Four Noble Truths1st Noble Truth: Everything in life is suffering and sorrow2nd Noble Truth: The cause of all this pain is people’s self-centres cravings and desires – people seek pleasure that cannot last and that leads only to rebirth and more suffering 3rd Noble Truth: The way to end all pain is to end all desires4th Noble Truth: People can overcome their desires and attain enlightenment by following the Eightfold Path The Eightfold Path/The Wheel of LifeRight Knowledge, right purpose, right speech, right action, right living, right effort, right mindfulness, and right meditationBy following the Eightfold Path, anyone cold attain Nirvana – which was the release from all pain and suffering The most important symbol of Buddhism is the “Wheel of Life” which depicts the cycle of birth and life The eight spokes symbolise the Eightfold Path Buddhist teachings and beliefs were recorded in a collected called the Tripitaka Other Fundamentals Buddha taught his followers to treat all living things (humans, animals and even insects) with kindness and love Buddha eliminated the caste system, the rituals associated with Hinduism, and the ancient language (Sanskirt) of the Vedas and Upanishads Concerned with all human beings – women as well as men, and lowborn (lower class) as well has highborn (upper class) Primarily, a monastic religion – young men leave their families to become monks dedicated to the Eightfold Path and achieving enlightenment (and eventually, nirvana) History/LegendBuddhism begins with the Buddha, the first jewel ? a man called Siddhartha GautamaHe showed people;The way to break the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and its bondage to the accumulation of merit through deeds performed (karma) How to work out their own way of enlightenment All this was done through the doctrine (dharma), the second of the Three Jewels, which provided insight into the Four Noble Truths ? which contained the ultimate truth of lifeUnderstanding the Four Noble truths led naturally to an understanding of how we must live if we want to reach NIRVANAThis was the Eightfold Path ? a practical moral strategy that could be used to overcome cravingsCravings were seen as the single greatest source of suffering and woe and the great obstacle on the road to reaching Nirvana Most perfect way to reach this (according to Buddhists) was to;Be lived in the company of monks and nuns (sangha), the third of the Three Jewels. This is where the Ten Precepts of the monks and nuns the 227 practical rules of monastic life (patimokka) could ensure that the Eightfold Path would be lived in as complete and perfect a away as possibleThe Sangha provided the model and inspiration for all Buddhists seeking Nirvana The Expression on Beliefs and Vales and impact on Personal and collective identity The Buddhist Middle WayBegan with The Four Noble Truths ? provided answers to Gautama’s persistence question about the cause of suffering and evil The Four Noble Truths AimExplanationThe First Noble Truth‘life is dukkha’ Life is full of pain and, as a result, suffering and unhappinessThere is the pain of birth, of sickness, old age, loss and, ultimately, of death Not a pessimistic view – in Buddhism is a realistic one Truth represents the point of resignation to the facts of lifeTo pretend otherwise or to ignore these realities is the surest way of increasing the intensity of suffering that ensures from the pain of life Once this futile striving has run its course, the venom of ‘dukkha’ will be overwhelming because there will be no resignation and no hope of peace in acceptance of it This leads on to the 2nd truth The Second Noble Truth‘life is tanha’ It tries to address the first Noble Truth It states that – life is full of seeking for pleasure This explains ‘dukkha’ – meaning that life is full of suffering from pain because people everywhere are striving for a happiness that this life cannot offer People who strive for happiness in the flesh ? the material things of lifeSo people strive to be what they cannot be, or what they cannot have Cause of ‘dukkha’ isn’t found in the whims of a god or beyond human control ? found within humanity and thus humans have the power to change it This leads on to the 3rd truth The Third Noble Truth‘to overcome dukkha, one must overcome tanha’ The suffering that is associated with the inevitable pain of life can only be found in the point of total resignation to the realities of life and its boundariesWord of constant pain ? we cannot expect to find unbridled pleasureIf we except this, we can overcome craving for pleasure, we will have overcome the real cause of our own worst sufferingIn resignation, one will find peace This leads on to the 4th noble truth The Fourth Noble Truth‘one will overcome tanha by following the Eightfold Path’ Integral connection between The Four Noble Truth and The Eightfold Path – that is, the two elements of the Buddhist system Eightfold represents the practical way for people to overcome the cause of personal suffering and unhappiness in life. The Eightfold Path1Right ViewsThinking always good and positive things – especially about the four noble truths2Right Resolve Intending always only what is good and positive - especially being resolved towards achieving enlightenment 3Right SpeechSpeaking always only what is good and positive – avoiding falsity and obscene language 4Right Conduct Acting always only in a good and positive way – especially avoiding killing, stealing, illicit sexual acts or the consumption of alcohol 5Right LivelihoodWorking always only at what is good and positive – and especially avoiding any career that is demeaning to self and others, such as slave dealing, prostitution, trading in weapons etc6Right EffortsYour energies always being directed only at what is good and positive – especially curbing dangerous desires 7Right MindfulnessSetting your mind always toward good and positive – especially being mindful of what it take to be virtuous 8Right Concentration Contemplating only the good and positive, and in particular meditating in the way the Buddha recommend, through the practise of raja yoga to break through to Nirvana How It Impacts Identity The path represents a set of stepping stones for reaching NirvanaBegin thinking the right thoughts ? lead to the right intentions ? then right speech, conduct and livelihood will follow Buddhists way of reaching total moral self-control It is a path towards self-annihilation in the sense of that the ‘self’ – the object of selfishness and self-seeking for pleasure – is put awayEnd of the path is no obstacle to complete happiness and perfect peace to enlightenment or personal Nirvana4T and 8FP offer a very definite meaning, purpose and identity for the Buddhist ? both individually and collectively3314700-342899For Individual ? explain what life is all about and how to respond to its challengesFor the Collective ? they become the glue that hold the group together (Buddhists support each other in the Sangha) How it Impacts Identity Shapes an individuals worldview. A Buddhist would be on the 8 fold path of “Nirvana” therefore influencing an individuals life choices As all Buddhists follow similar values, they understand each other, work together etc.All people of different demographics alter their identity e.g. a mother will become more calmer and will not feel the need to indulge the child with expensive goods, when an elderly person becomes Buddhist they are will feel less stressed about retiring with a lot of wealth Nature and Extent of Buddhists/Adherents in the World today There are many different types of Buddhism ? called “STRANDS” Some originating in its early years in Nepal and India when the tradition was passed down orallySome developed through its spread to other parts of Asia and to Western countriesSome new forms have developed in recent times Part of the reason of this adaptability ? is that Buddhism is timeless and spaceless Wherever it has appeared, it has adapted to local beliefs and customs and has changed them slightly In changing beliefs and customs, e.g. japan and Tibet, it has taken on a slightly different form Estimated number of Buddhists worldwide is 300 million to 500 million ? reason for this different is for WHAT COUNTS AS BUDDHISM FormPlace of originCore Values/PrinciplesStatistics WorldwideTheravadaUnchanged in India sub-continent, where Buddhists began, and Sir Lanka Claim to be the original Buddhists Hold fast to the essentials of B.Rigorous form of B.Largely practised by monks and nuns ? referred to as the ‘small raft’ as it offers immediate path to Nirvana for only a few Role of the law person is clearly a subsidiary one ? mainly to support the monks + nuns and build up good grace (karma)Is strongest in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos and Burma (Myanmar)150 million followers MahayanaIndia but found in China Translated as ‘the great vehicle’ ? offers Nirvana for a greater number of people People can achieve perfect peace for themselves through self-effort as they engage in through their ordinary livesExplicit goal is for individuals to forego their own striving for Nirvana in order to assist others to get on the right pathOverall a more communitarian and popular form Japan, Korea and Vietnam 185 million followers Vajrayana (Tantric)V ? was a 3rd split that occurred around 1st century of the Christian era. Began in India Split between Theravada and Mahayana occurred in the very early centuries ? accounts for the fact that Buddhism became exportable to other cultures M ? far less derived from a Hindu (and therefor Indian culture)Showed signs and influences from earlier Tantric Hindu traditions and spread to China… Many gods and divine personifications of the Buddha and his thoughts and actionsIn Tibet ? Dalai Lama is regarded as reincarnation of the Buddha The goals for each individual is to pass beyond appearance to a void where are caught up with absolute beingAchieved by reciting ‘the mantra’ ? a magic word which is believed that can be heard at the edges of the universe Repeating the mantra over and over again enables person to reach this edge of the world Also places emphasis on movement and gesture ? ‘mudra’ ? in this way you can express unity with the divine Concretion of the ‘mandala’ – or meditation cycle – a diagram that represents many aspects of spiritual relationships Emphasis rigorous meditation and necessity for being instructed by special religious characters 6 million Taiwan, Malaysia, and SingaporeLamaismIn 600 CE Tibetan Buddhism developed this form Made because of its emphasis on the hierarchy ? placed special monks at the top of the Tibetan religious societyThe Dalai lama (Lama as the great ocean) is the rightful worldly ruler ? when one of them dies, special messengers are sent out to search for the male infant or child who shows signs of being his reincarnationPresent one has been around since 1959 when Communist China invaded Tibet A figure who was deemed by the religion to be a divinely ordained ruler posed a great threat to Communist intentions Tibet Zen BuddhismAround 600CE, it began to develop in China ? Spread to Korea and Japan Zen was a reaction to the way Buddhism was developing at the time ? an attempt to get back to the roots of the religion Founder, Indian monk ‘Bodhidharma’, was critical in some of the formalities that crept into religion over timeHe was sure these were against the spirit with which Gautama had begun the religion Zen presents a radical attempt to return to the essential meditation aspect of Buddhism Rejects all formulas, creeds and rituals Stressed that the enlightenment can only be achieved through deep contemplation ? this will lead to a deep understanding of life and allow us to withstand any and all of the trials of life 10million China, Japan, South Vietnam, North East Korea Pure Land BuddhismIndia and then spread to China and then Japan Widely practises form of Asian Buddhism Expression of belief across a vast number of B. traditions Associated with Japanese Buddhism Connection with Shinto beliefs about the ‘afterlife’ Speaks of pure and holy place where Buddhist goes after dying, a kind of heaven This is reasonable interpretation bc they are influence by other traditions, where the believe that ancestors reside in some non-terrestrial place ? makes it acceptable For some it is not only TOO simple, but denotes something essential about their Buddhism ? e.g. some believe in reincarnation so the idea of ‘pure land’ is a contradiction of this For others the aim is to reach a normal sense of nothing-ness – a void Soto ZenAssociates mainly with China and Japan but believed to have Indian origins 1 of the 5 major traditions of Zen Buddhism Soto zen followers believe that ‘dharam’, the true law of Buddhism, has been passed down directly from teacher to pupil since time of the Buddha Effective intergenerational passing mainly done through meditation, rather than orally The kind of meditation, even the position ? is vital ? this is called “zazen” Zazen is the most direct way to achieve the same kind of complete enlightenment that enlightened Buddha Is attractive to non-Buddhists bc it does not require rejection of any other religion belief ? anyone can practise it Found mainly in Japan Won BuddhismDeveloped in Korea in the early 20th century Regarded as an international religion Founded by Chungbin Pak (later known as Sotaesan) ? believed to “a new Buddha for the era of creation’Won Buddhist calendar begins with his awakening Behind the faith is belief in the Truth of Irwon ? meaning ‘one circle’ , symbolised by the letter ‘O’ ? represents the source of all beings, the original mind of all living things and the enlightened mind of all Buddha’sThe heart of it is meditation ? focus on it is the perfect circle that represents its beliefs One of the forms of ‘modernised’ Buddhism appealing to the modern world Emphasises fact that Buddha is alive in the world in any of forms and enlightenment is available to anyone who is willing to seek it out and work at it Essentially there for ALL followers Preserves a special place for its own form of Sangha ? they can still marry and live normal lives Soka GakkaiBasedon thse of the monk Nichiren in the 13th century Most modern and furthest from the traditional Reform was vital in establishing Buddhism in feudal Japan, which had different religion traditions Irony connection with Nickiren is he was a militant Buddhist ? whereas Soka had its modern beginnings in opposing the militarism in japan during the 2nd world warHear id a form of meditation with a tantric form of chant ? power of chant is emphasises more than power of meditation Chant is said to be able to achieve enlightenments in itself ? equiv. of the zazen position in Zen Buddhism SGI’s followers claim that using modern means to forge new understanding ? just like Nichiren did 800 years agoFollowers of SGI believe the same today and justify world differently, wordily and aggressive approach on the grounds that traditional forms of Buddhism play no real part in the lives of modern-day JapaneseThey point to the Buddhist monasteries and temples that are now no more than tourist sites, while they are using modern social agencies such as newspapers, TC and internet to promote relevant BuddhismSGI turned Buddhism on its head and made it fit in with the ideals of the Westernised, materialised society (what is inherently opposed to in Buddhism)At the same time ? maintained sense of spirituality 2. Traditions and Culture in the BuddhismImportant places, texts and unique language and their significancePlacesIn any belief system or ideology there are some important places that hold significance in terms of maintaining traditions and culture.In order for a belief system such as Buddhism to continue for centuries it’s essential that a link to its cultural heritage be establishedThis is achieved through the important places, texts and unique language of the belief system.Macro Level Importance – interactions with BuddhaMeso Level Importance – temples for particular communitiesMicro Level Places – Shrines in individual homes PlaceLocationSignificanceMicro, Meso, Macro importanceBodh GayaIndia The place of enlightenment for Buddha – most sacred of the four placesMicro: site of Buddhist pilgrimage for Buddhist followers. Enhances their connection to the values and beliefs of the religion Meso: Busy centre of pilgrimage with monasteries and meditation centres run by Tibetan, Burmese, Thai and Vietnamese communitiesMacro: Historical and symbolic significance Lumbini (& Kapilavastu)Modern-day Nepal Birth Place of Buddha Micro: devotional centre. People worship, pray, undertake religious rituals here Meso: Used as an area for communitiesMacro: historical and symbol significance – sacred site, attract tourismSranath/SarnathIndia Place where Buddha delivered his first teaching Micro: Important for those who wish to reach enlightenmentMeso: Used as an area for communitiesMacro: historical and symbol significance KusinaraIndia Place of Buddha death Micro: Important for those who wish to gain knowledge on the roots of their Buddha Meso: Used as an area for communitiesMacro: historical and symbol significance SanchiIndia Finest and most complete Buddhist monument – in Sanchi’s great stupa with its 4 free standing gates (toranas) Micro: Jataka narratives, hieratic elephants and royal lions, Hindu-Buddhist deities and exquisite female nature spirits crowd every part of the four toranas – attracts traditional Buddhist worship Meso: Communities go on to visit the placeMacro: Importance to history – almost a great wonder of the world AnuradhapuraNorth-central Sri LankaA huge park containing the ruins of the Great Monastery (Mahavihara) established 250?B.C.E.?Micro: Anuradhapura's?stupas, monastic ruins, sculptures, reservoirs, and a descendant of the original bodhi tree, provide an intense experience of ancient BuddhismMeso: People of the society visit the park – vessel for societyMacro: historical and tourismBangkok & AyutthayaThailand – North of BangkokThailand's medieval monuments are at the Ayutthaya historical park,Micro: May be a place for mediation Meso: stupas?with characteristic Thai "lotus bud" domes, and temple towers showing the influence both of medieval Khmer design and of "honeycombed" south Indian?shikhara?towers.Macro: historical significance Angkor WatCambodia Place of Buddhist pilgrimage, oldest religious site in the world TempleMicro: Place of worship Meso: Vessel for communities to Macro: Scholars and the western world admire it’s architecture + symbolic of Mahayana Buddhism and ancient Buddhism Lhasa – Potala Palace Tibet in the city of Lhasa – capital of Buddhism in TibetThe Dalai Lama's Potala Palace, like many Tibetan monasteries, is now a state museumMicro: Place of worship Meso: Vessel for communities Macro: Scholars and the western world admire it’s architectureDharamshalaIndia Place of Buddhist pilgrimage Micro: Place of worship Meso: Vessel for communities Macro: Scholars and the western world admire it’s architectureWat Phra Kaeo templeThailand A temple with a spectacular monument?to the Theravada Buddhist revival initiated in the 19th centuryMicro and Meso: This temple is a centre of Thailand's religious life, symbolizing the close bond between the?sangha (religious community) and state, and houses the "Emerald Buddha", a figurine of national importance to modern Thai people.Macro: National importance There is no doctrinal requirement that stipulates sites of pilgrimage (spiritual journey). Whist there are places for pilgrimage, these are currently specific and reflect individual interpretation of BuddhismTemples vary; richly adorned vs. home shrines. Structures reflect the history (Angkor Wat) and culture of the particular branch of Buddhism and country Depending on this culture (branch and country) various rituals are performedWhat do the important places above tell us about Buddhist traditions?Values attained through multiple sitesSites are varied and multifaceted – widespread all over the worldContinuity regarding the value of these sitesBuddhist pilgrimage is common (not mandated by scriptures) but practised Dependent on the cultural context of various countriesAre all quite varied, different – e.g. parks, temples, monasteries, monuments The value for the sites has been continuous and increased throughout time ? continuity in values for traditional places Widespread all over the world Texts55880038100Pali CanonThe Stories of the foundation of Buddhism are contained within this text. Consists of 3 discourses – passed down by word of mouth 3 discourses = tripitaka (means three baskets) Passed by word of mouth Includes a variety of types of writing; e.g. poetry, prose, sayings of Buddha, dialogue between Buddha and others and myths about previous lives of Buddha5588003810030734001016003073400101600273050012700Tripitaka (3 baskets) 273050012700-34289988900The Sutra – sayings of BuddhaBuddhists discourse Range from long sermons to shorter stories e.g. very popular parables that go under title of the Jataka Tales which are more suitable for children learning about BuddhismSome of it is more scholastic and theological – other parts are more like folk tales Good way to begin to understand Buddhism discourse as written with ordinary people in mind -34289988900467360088900Abhidharma – creeds based on essential teachingsIs the scholarly elaboration of the doctrine of BuddhismHighly theological and philosophical in its toneVery psychological Buddhist doctrine tends to focus on the individual believer and the personal effects of following the Buddhist way – rather than just the beliefs of religion 46736008890035306003810035306003810030734001270003073400127000204470002044700020447000The Vinaya – Discipline of brotherhood (sangha)Very different set of writings Concern the rules by which the monks and nuns should live W/o general knowledge of Buddhism – can be confusing to ordinary readers and appear strict Gautama defs took some earlier ascetic training with himVery important bc they represent the true authority of Buddhism the essence of Buddhism 20447000The role of symbols, rituals and customsBuddhism as a religious tradition features many symbols, rituals and customs. Each combine to shape and structure an individuals life within the traditionMicro level ? practises of meditation and chanting demonstrate and individuals commitment to and practise of the religionBuddhist festivals, such as the celebration of the Lunar New Year, are important shared rituals and customs that function at the meso level to integrate the community of practiseBuddhism, like other faith systems has many symbols that convey, in symbolic form, the underlying beliefs and worldview of the belief systemsSymbolsSymbolMeaningLotusPurity and enlightenment Mandalla Eternal Harmony Wheel of Dharama (Nepal) Knowledge Conch ShellThe thoughts of Buddha Two Golden Fish Conjugal thoughts of the Buddha Parasol The Crown and protection from the elements Symbols: Symbols have the ability to culturally unify a group of people through their representation and meaning. Symbols such as places, actions, words, people and rituals are layered with meaning and valuable information for different groups in society.Rituals and CustomsCustoms: Established ways of acting or cultural practices that are unique to groups in society. Customs have important links to the heritage, values and traditions of people.Ritual: A series of actions or rites performed according to a prescribed order. Rituals range in significance. Some are sacred to institutions and others can be important to people for maintaining tradition and cultural.Custom/RitualWhat it isSignificance (micro, meso, macroPraying (Ritual) Micro: Helps the individual reach enlightenment Meso: communities pray together at templesMeditation (Ritual)Micro: Helps people reach a state of Nirvana Meso: the core of Buddhist philosophy – trying to teach mindfulness – part of the eightfold path The Eight Offerings (Custom and Ritual – mandated to a degree but varies according to the type of Buddhism) Each contains different meanings – symbolic offers 1st Bowl: is drinking water2nd bowl is bathing in water which is symbolic for cleansing3rd bowl contains flowers which cleanse the heart4th bowl is Micro: antidote to patter of attachment and greed – individual offering possessions that are values to make them closer to Enlightenment The Three Refuges also known as the Three Jewels ? Devotion/Changing (ritual and custom) I take refuge in the BuddhaI take refuge in the DharmaI take refuge in the Sangha Also known as the Three Jewels Micro: Helps the individual practise the religion and show devotion - helps initiate/maintain connection to the dharma Pilgrimages that are visited (Custom)3 popular places where Buddha first was born, was first enlightened and where he died There is nothing binding or compulsory in the Pali Canon so visiting a pilgrimage is a custom Individual connection to Buddha, important sites, personal strengthening of ones connection to Buddhism Role of TechnologyThere are many apps that provide Buddhists with meditation, quotes and etc.It alters Buddhism to fit in with the modern world ? allows people to access it on all corners all of the world Accessibility in the modern world Modernises BuddhismDiminishes she philosophy of Buddhism ? contradicts the noble truth “life is tanha” Contradicts core teachings of removing worldly possessions (goes against noble truth – life is tanha) as individuals can access app on iPhone The importance of myths and storiesMythA myth is a traditional story that everyone agrees upon, especially one concerning the early history of a people or explaining a natural or social phenomenon, and typically involving supernatural beings or events.A?myth?is any traditional story consisting of events that are ostensibly historical, explaining the origins of a cultural practice or natural phenomenonIn Buddhism ? gives symbolic Role of MythsServes as a foundation for morals and values – provides morals and valuesMake guidelines and rules for the religion Gives them hero’s to aspire to and look up toA framework for the religion Explains the origins of cultural practises with the religion – reasons why people do thingsExplains origins of the world Provides sights of pilgrimage/cultural significance Gives them purpose and something to strive for How does the myth inform an individual’s worldview?Provides people a world viewBuddhist myth – the story of how Buddha became enlightened Buddhist myth (stories) tell us that Gautama had the tensional to be either a great worldly figure or a great religious oneFather decided on the former and vowed that Gatuama would only experience good and beautiful things, so as to never become disenchanted with wordly things (materialism)Age 29 ? having seen throw the shallowness of opulent life ? Gautama went in search of deeper happiness Turned to the first monastic tradition within his own religion ? HinduismAge 36 ? abandoned Hinduism way of life – seeking a way between the two extremes of wealth and asceticism After many longs hours under the Bodhi tree – senses an imminent enlightenment Against all temptations that Mara (evil) could throw at him He cried “I am awake (Buddha)!” ? became known as Buddha from that time forward When he left the tree spot – walked to Benares and converted his first disciples and founded the first sangha How this myth impacts Buddhism His enlightenment followed on the Middle Way and became the centrepiece of the Buddhist belief system When summarising his teaching Buddha said: “I teach only two things; O disciples, the fact of suffering and the possibility of escape from suffering” ? BOTH the FACT and the ESCAPE is captured in the 4 Noble Truths and the 8 Fold Path (aka walking the Buddhist middle way) MythDescriptionSignificanceThe Worm Story of two little monks, one was reborn was in the heaven realms and the other as a worm in a dung pile. Both think about each other, the one in heaven went to see his worm friend. He pulled on the worm and the worm clung onto the dung Demonstrates the 3rd Noble Truth about letting go of materialism. Shows the important of home and inhabitance. The worm does not leave his dung even though there is the prospect to go to heaven The Thief 'The 12th century master Geshe Ben was renowned for his goodness and integrity.?Once, while begging for alms, a family of devout Buddhists invited him to their home to be fed. He was so hungry that he found it difficult to wait while his hosts were elsewhere preparing the meal. To his complete shock he found himself stealing food from a jar when no-one was looking. Geshe Ben suddenly burst into loud cries of "Thief! Thief! I've caught you red-handed."?His hosts rushed into the room to find him berating himself and threatening his hand with being cut off it ever behaved like that again.'Notion that stealing should not come from hunger or greed - should be avoided at all costs The Lost Son "A young widower, who loved his five year old son ? son was taken away When the man returned, he saw the ruins and panicked. The took the burnt corpse of an infant to be his son and cried uncontrollably. He organised a cremation ceremony, collected the ashes and put them in a beautiful little bag which he always kept with him.?Soon afterwards, his real son escaped from the bandits and found his way home. He arrived at his father's new cottage at midnight and knocked at the door. The father, still grieving asked: "Who is it?" The child answered, it is me papa, open the door!" But in his agitated state of mind, convinced his son was dead, the father thought that some young boy was making fun of him. He shouted: "Go away" and continued to cry. After some time, the child left.?Father and son never saw each other again."After this story, the Buddha said: "Sometime, somewhere, you take something to be the truth. If you cling to it so much, even when the truth comes in person and knocks on your door, you will not open it."The importance of Buddhist myths/stories for Buddhism Link to worldview, their impact on beliefs and values, identity and belonging, traditions & cultureMyths are used at various intellectual levels in order to give symbolic and quasi-historical expression to religious teachingsTruths remains unknown to them until they reach the state of revelation until they proceed to their own efforts Impact their worldviewHow the belief system or ideology defines gender and gender rolesGender Roles As far as basic Buddhist teaching is concerned ? women and men should be equal. Both are taught the same Dharma, both should pursue the same path and both should reach the same goal of nirvana.Women in Practice in Buddhism In practice, women have largely been denied positions of authority over men. There have even been suggestions that a woman could not reach nirvana without first being reborn as a manThese attitudes are more related to the religious philosophy of a particular society and culture than entrenched in the original teachings.At the time of the Buddha role of women ? domestic one ? reflection of time It has been argued that women were not seen as necessarily inferior to men but differentWomen had little real power inside or outside the home.Men and women generally agreed that the ideal woman was a good wife and mother.If a woman wanted to lead a spiritual life then she had to be;Very single-minded and resistant to all the pressures of socialization that surrounded her although, according to historical records, female ascetic, have existed in most past societies, including Buddhist ones.Female ascetic (abstaining from worldly pleasure e.g. marriage, drinking, sex, technology, materialism,)Nuns According to the scriptures, it was only after some time that the Buddha himself was persuaded by Ananda to allow an order of nuns. The story recounts that eight special rules were placed upon them that make it clear that they are subservient to the order of monks; For example, a nun must never correct a monk, while a monk may correct a nun. Nuns must be ordained by both monks and nuns, while a monk's ordination requires only monks.Modern Feminist Research Argues that the Buddha's original teachings may have been more liberal, but the huge length of time over which the rules attributed to him were encoded, make it difficult to prove. Buddhist scholars Although the Buddha taught that anyone who wished to could become enlightened,In Indian society there still continued a strong dominant male influence which limited women and prevented them from having equal status with men. Many Buddhist scholars argue that the Buddha's words have not been accurately recorded, and that the eight additional rules for nuns were a compromise which enabled women to lead a spiritual life, but complied with the Indian social system. Many women took up the spiritual life and the Buddha is also said to have protected them from exploitation by monks by saying that the nuns should not be called upon to sew, dye or weave for the monks. Neither could the monks take for themselves donations made to the nuns.Mahayana Buddhism They are more conservative and read the text the way it was Mahayana Buddhism in particular has a female deity called Tara ? deity means godess/a divine Who made a vow that "There are many who desire Enlightenment in a man's body, but none who work for the benefit of sentient beings in the body of a woman. There, until samsara is empty, I shall work for the benefit of sentient beings in a women's body." ? ie. Work hard as a woman to reach enlightenment Education and Right for women In some cultures, for example Sri Lanka, widows and women with no education and without financial support often become nuns as a sort of social security, a place of safe shelter where their old age can be provided for. This in turn has led to social attitudes that devalued the role of nuns in that society because they were not seen as spiritually motivated or even literate. Some western nuns have tried to redress these perceptions by setting up nunneries with strong spiritual and educational practices in that country.Women subservient to men Role of Modernisation According to Buddhist philosophy ? when a person becomes enlightened there is no more division between male and female. As a result of westernization and the cultural changes inherent in modernization ? the status of women is slowly changing in many countries, even traditionally Buddhist ones. Buddhist teachers today recognize that western women no longer accept subservience, and recent teaching and books address women equally with men. In the West a point of view that insists that lay women and men are as capable of becoming enlightened as ordained women and men is developing, but it is still the monastic orders which are recognized as the most dedicated spiritual communities.Many women, particularly western women, have become respected spiritual leaders and have helped to convince male leaders like the Dalai Lama to support women's spiritual practice and leadership.Largests non-western country in some countries Role of a Female Buddhism Nun In Buddhism they prefer to call themselves monastics or teachers Buddhism there's no distinction between monastics and priests.A fully ordained bhikkhuni may teach, preach, perform rituals, and officiate at ceremonies, just like her male counterpart, a?bhikkhu (Buddhist monk)This is not to say that bhikkhunis have enjoyed equality with bhikkhus.The Buddha's rules for the monastic orders are recorded in a text called the?Vinaya. The Pali Vinaya has about twice as many rules for bhikkunis as for bhikkus. In particular, there are eight rules called the Garudhammas that, in effect, make all bhikkunis subordinate to all bhikkus (see "The First Buddhist Nuns"). But, again, the Garudhammas are not found in versions of the same text preserved in Sanskrit and Chinese.In many parts of Asia women are not allowed to be fully ordained. The reason--or excuse--for this has to do with the lineage tradition. The?historical Buddha?stipulated that fully ordained bhikkhus must be present at the ordination of bhikkhus and fully ordained bhikkhus?and?bhikkhunis present at the ordination of bhikkhunis.Modern Bukkhini Today, the bhikkhuni tradition is thriving in parts of Asia, at least. For example, one of the most prominent Buddhists in the world today is a Taiwanese bhikkuni, Dharma Master Cheng Yen, who founded an international relief organization called the Tzu Chi Foundation. A nun in Nepal named Ani Choying Drolma has established a school and welfare foundation to support her dharma sisters.Some messy sex scandals suggest this idea may need some work. But there are increasing numbers of Zen centers and monasteries now headed by women, which could have some interesting effects on the development of western Zen.Role of a Monk It is also one of the most fundamental institutions of Buddhism.?Monks?and nuns are considered to be responsible for the preservation and dissemination of the Buddha's?teaching and the guidance of?Buddhist?lay people.Gender Roles in the Lotus Sutra The Lotus Sutra teaches that all living beings possess the world of Buddhahood. There is not even a hint of discrimination toward women. If there are men who deny the enlightenment of women, they are denying the possibility of their own attainment of Buddhahood.To discriminate against others--in any way--is to discriminate against your own life.In the future, rather than a situation where either one sex or the other dominates society, it will be necessary to develop a completely new civilization in which there is balance and harmony between the sexes.It is a fact that the images of "masculinity" and "femininity" we have in our consciousness are deeply influenced by cultural traditions that have developed over long periods of time. And the influence of these traditions thoroughly pervades every aspect of the social ethos, including language, religion, systems of organization, education and scholarship."All women have the right to become happy. They have to become happy without fail." That is the spirit of the Lotus Sutra.Significant Female Females in Buddhism Gautama’s stepmother – Mahapajapti Gautama became a disciple of Buddhism in its very early yearsWhen she found out the importance of sangha to her step-son’s movement she came to the monastery with 500 women followers and begged Gautama to let them enter the monastery nuns ? Buddha rejected at first due to hindu extremist influence (ascetic) In Hinduism ? the higher status of holiness were exclusively for men MG turned up to the monastery again in Vesali with her hair cut off and dressed in yellow robes like a monk again with 500 women, begging Gautama (Buddha) was employed by fellow men to let them in Women who protested today e.g. Aung San Suu Kyi of Burma is a Buddhist Buddha was clear about the need for man in lives Significant Woman/Individuals Their Role/ActionsTaraIs a female Bodhisattva (a person who is able to reach Nirvana but delays doing so through compassion for suffering beings) in Mahayana Buddhism who appears as a female Buddha in Vajrayana Known as the ‘mother of liberation’ Represents the success of work Is a tantric meditation deity Was found inside a lotusIdeal female figure Characterised by her compassion and is especially popular in Tibet, Nepal and Mongolia MahaprajapatiGautamaIs Buddha’s stepmotherShe organised the street march that forced Buddha to except women into the Sangha Was the first woman to request the Ordination of women in Buddhism Ananda (Male)First cousin of Buddha One of the 10 disciples He was most respected by women because he was caring towards the bhikkhunis and women followers of the BuddhaResponsible for convincing Buddha to ordain women into the sangha It was due to the effort of Ananda that Buddha allowed female to become bhikkhunisWhen MG came to beg Buddha to allow Bikkhuni’s Ananda was one of the men who convinced Buddha to let them in saying: "Lord Buddha! Are men and women different in the Buddha Dharma?"Sister Dhammadinna (modern) First Buddhist nun to spend time in Australia US BornHelped to established and flourish Buddhism in Australia at a time of hostility following WW2 She established the Buddhist Society of NSW Is a powerful figure in the work of that society and is considered a saint by many For a number of years, Ven. Dhammadinna has taught?Buddhism?and led?meditation?retreats at Suan Mokkh in South?Thailand?as well as in England,?India, and the US.?Dhammanda (Modern) Sri Lankan Buddhist monk/scholar In 2003, Dhammananda Bhikkhuni became the first Thai woman of the modern era to be fully ordained. She’s currently abbess of the Songdhammakalyani Monastery in Nakhon Pathom.Received full monastic Shih Chao-Hewi (Modern) In order to combat the issue of gender discrimination in Theravada Buddhism, Taiwanese citizen, Shih Chao-Hewi “leads the fight for religious and secular equality for female monks”. She is a “as a progressive who has campaigned for the rights of all living things, from female monks to marriage equality”. Shih’s attendance of a meeting as “a patron of the International Network of Engaged Buddhists, emphasizes her use of agency to exercise a sense of authority as a progressive. 3. The Internal Structure in BuddhismThe role of important people and power structures 160020080645ExplanationMonasteriesBuddhist monasteries are the living places for people who have devoted themselves fully to the Buddhist religion. The monasteries are open to public and lay people can reside in the monasteries for a limited period of time ? the centres for Buddhist education - children go the monasteries to read and write. A typical Buddhist monastery consists of the main prayer hall, dormitories, school rooms, a crematorium, a library and rooms for the statue of Buddha. Monks meditate inside rooms and chant in low moaning voices. They sleep in the dormitories. And monks are required to follow a certain dress code.The monasteries run by the donations and money earned through the important ceremonies. Local monasteries often get support from the local lay communityMONASTRIES DEDICATED to faith – lay the law for people who want to abide by Buddhist beliefs Interpret scriptures and give advice MonksThe Buddhist monks are in the highest positions in the Buddhist religious hierarchy. Monks are respected by everyone in the Buddhist societies. The monks live in a community with the other monks in the monasteries. The monks spend most of their time in the monasteries, teaching the children about all the aspects of the religionNunsThe nuns are second in rank to the monks. Women can also serve as nuns.The nuns act as assistants to the monks. They handle relatively little responsibility in comparison to the monks The nuns spend most of their time in study and meditationTake on meso role for communities Lay PeopleA symbiotic relationship exists between the monks and the Buddhist lay people. The lay people provide the monks with food, lodging and medicines. They cater to every need and requirements of the monks. In return, the monks teach them the religion. They are generally involved in the household activities and don’t spend much time in praying and meditating.PilgrimsThe pilgrims travel to the important religious sites such as the Buddha’s birthplace and stupas etc. They visit the various monasteries in order to get knowledge about the teachings of BuddhaEducate people – may dissent The Role of Important People Known as key interpreters Key FigureExplanationAshokaLived 200 years ago after the BuddhaRemembered as a great model of Buddhism + powerful advocate for its spread and influenceWas a prince – given the ways of the word + powerInterest b/c he doesn’t have story of typical BuddhistGain his power in the throne by killing most of his rivals – described as violent, aggressive and even fierce Kalinga – led armies in a battle killing a lot of people BUDDHIST BY NAME NOT NATURE – but then he had a change of heart after killing those peopleUNDERSTOOD Buddhism – then became more spiritual and battles in spiritual battles to increase influence of Buddhism Engaged in pilgrimage to Buddhism most holy sites In each of Buddha’s placed he used his wealth and influence to erect a sacred symbol that would make the place for its significance VasubandhuLived between 600 and 800 years after the BuddhaBorn in Pursuspura – now known as Peshawar Model of Buddhism b/c of his superior intellect and compassion for humanity Such a powerful role model – known was “Second Buddha”Reputation was stressed so far that his life and deeds were included in the Chinese version of the Tripitaka Became a significance Buddhist hero in Tibetan Buddhism Sister DhammadinnaSister was the first Buddhist nun to spend time in Aus.Helped establish Buddhism – following the hostile idea of imported Asians religions after WW2Exemplified the little known fact hat Buddhism as much for women as for men, included belonging in the sanghaOne of most concrete achievements – establishing the Buddhist society of NSW – went on to become most influential Buddhist society in the countryToday remains very influential – considered a saint Guru RinpocheRegarded as the true architect of Tibetan BuddhismReputation – for his great scholarship and for skills in meditationIn Tibetan Buddhism known as ‘Second Buddha’ – his birth has been prophesised, as have all the births of subsequent reincarnated Buddha’s (including current Dalai Lama) Referred to as the Buddha of the then, the now and the future – meaning he had knowledge of all times and of Buddhists relevance to those times Was able to see ahead all the problems that would beset individuals Buddhists in their lives Referred to of guidance and wisdom in Tibetan Buddhism The 14th Dalai LamaName was Lhamo Dhondrub – born in Tibet in 1935 At age 2 – identified as the reborn BuddhaTibetan Buddhist belief is that there is always a reincarnated Buddha among people – but he is considered by Buddhist experts as being the new “Second Buddha” or Kundun (meaning “The Presence)He has worked for peace, much to say about world events, functioned as a source of wisdom and larger-than-life spiritual figure – captured public imaginationPromote good will 1989 got a Noble Peace Prize for his work – included confronting many forms of violence, also advocated for peace and non-violence as a humanist and more effective way of making the world a better placeKnown for the Buddhist who is true to the deepest principles of Buddhism The Panchem LamaSecond most important person in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai LamaCurrent Pachem Lama was appointed at age 6 by the Dalai Lama Turned into captivity by Chinese government, which went on to appoint its own Panchem Lama – against the wishes of the TibetansMany calls for Panchem Lama to be released but this has not happenedPOINT of tension between Tibetan Buddhism and the Communist government of China.The role and impact of dissentDissent ? to go against a norm, challenge, protest social norm, political structure or establishment 2 types of dissent in BuddhismInternalDifferences within the religion itselfThe many strands of Buddhism is a form of dissent in itself ? as they are dissenting again ‘original’ Buddhism and favouring one interpretation e.g. Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism.Women challenging teachings of Buddhism e.g. Shih standing up for women in Thailand by standing up for equality Monks challenging teachings/values of Buddhism e.g. Dhammajayo uses vending/cash machines to help people reach Nirvana ‘quickly’ Happens over time due to modernisation, globalisation and westernisation ? leads to conflicting values and the need for social change ExternalDissenting against forces of - political, social, establishments, governments and institutions - such as schools OUTSIDE of the room e.g. The conflict between Tibetan monks against the Chinese occupation of Tibet OR a monk dissenting against a Buddhist school Dissenting against westernisation and globalisation e.g. Monks protesting against the ‘westernised’ form of Buddhism Soka Gakkai (SGI) Role and Impact of Dissent in Vietnam (Textbook) - “The Buddhist Crisis’ of 1963Government TimelineFor most of 19th and 20th centuries Vietnam was under control of one Western power ? mainly France until 1953 ? South was under US until 1970’s During this Time Leadership was selected by foreign power and Catholicism bc of French influence ? became religion of establishment even though it represented small minority of the Buddhist majority Buddhism was religion of masses BUT WAS ‘asleep at the wheel’ in terms of fighting for people This notion became known as;“The Buddhist Crisis’ of 1963Christian Influence/Nature of Issue President Ngo Dinh Diem, Buddhist by birth and Catholic by choice, led a government who favoured Catholics and the church Anyone who wanted secure employment had to be catholic Church owned a lot of land and property of which it paid no tax; while ordinary people taxed heavily Role of BuddhismSituation was so unfair that ordinary Vietnamese Buddhists that the Buddhist communityLed by monks, reacted with serious protests that resulted in mass killings by the government forced and Buddhist monks burning themselves to death in public places as protest Impact AFTER the dissent Level of protest so high ? government fell Level of political movement is unusual for Buddhists ? played a major role In the history of the Vietnam war Activism was praised and condemned by both Buddhist and non-BuddhistContradicts the Buddhist Dharma Tibet + China Conflict (EXTERNAL) Nature and Extent of IssueTibet has been occupied and ruled over by China and the Chinese People's.Liberation Army (PLA) since 1951 in “a calculated and systematic strategy aimed at the destruction of their national and cultural identities" (14th Dalai Lama, 1997).Examples of DissentFor example in 1950 the Chinese marched into a Tibetan society and there was mass rioting on the streets of LhasaProtests and violence were later reported in areas of Gansu, Sichuan and Qinghai provinces, which are home to sizeable Tibetan communities.Role of BuddhismMany Tibetans accuse the Chinese of suppressing Tibetan culture, freedom of expression and worshipThey are particularly resentful of efforts to supplant their spiritual leader the Dalai Lama with a communist-approved alternative.Impact of dissent on BuddhismSince then, there have been sporadic outbreaks of unrest in majority Tibetan areasIn March this year, a monk set himself alight in Aba, in Sichuan province, sparking weeks of confrontation with the authoritiesCaused distress amongst the monastery and thus goes against the dharma as it causes conflict.Contradicts Buddhist DHARMA Gender Dissent (INTERNAL) Nature + ExtentAnandi standing up for women’s ordainment in the Sangha back in the time of BuddhaShi-Chao-Hwei In Thailand is a progressive who stands for women’s equality in Buddhism to allow them to have the same rights as women ChallengingShi Chai Hwe attended a meeting at an Ashram, north of Bangkok as a patron of the International Network of Engaged Buddhists ? notion that she is upholding and using her agency to exercise a sense of authority as a progressive ImpactShe uses her use of agency to exercise a sense of authority as a progressive. According to the article, “the status of Bhikkhuni in Thailand is improving and our existence is already a step ahead”Such insights bring hope that the gender inequality is being counteracted in order to progress in the future through a redefinition of gender roles in Theravada BuddhismCHALLENING THE internal Buddhist values upheld in Theravada Buddhism ? women seen inferior of men and are constantly discrimination against AssessmentLarge impact ? significant revolutionary change Other ExamplesTibetan Buddhism and SGI In these cases Buddhism has been resistance to dominant forces and ideologiesSri LankaBuddhism has itself been the dominant religious force and the resistance has come from the Tamil Hindus Either way – Buddhism in the past century has been an active force in the politics of its day and that some Buddhists think this change is appropriate while other prefer it to be less worldly, more personal enlighten-centred ways OTHER Dissent notes Buddhist Movements Conflicting interpretations of what the Buddha actually taught or meant began to appear after his death. Second Council, in 383BC ? split in the Buddhist movement into;Theravada (Teaching of the Elders) ? sometimes called Hinayana (small vessel)Mahayana (large vessel) movements. Split between the schools – Theravada and Mahayana The split between the Theravada and Mahayana schools arose over matters of practice and doctrine. TheravadaMahayanaSome people had come to think that the Theravada’s were too conservative and literal minded in their attachment to the Buddha's messageToo concerned with individual enlightenmentInsufficiently concerned with the needs of the laity (the non-monastic community/everyday people)Theravada’s consider the Buddha to be a perfectly enlightened human teacherTranscendental view of him. The Buddha in this latter view has a threefold nature: An ultimate, unchanging nature of pure consciousness that can be attained in meditationA heavenly form that can be worshippedA human body that appears on earth to convert humankind. According to this view ? Buddha has taken on human form countless times and Siddhartha was only one example of the body of transformation, as it is called.Made possible the idea of ? a divine grace that could be bestowed as a result of worship rather than attained through practice. Idea of continuing revelation beyond the original teachings of Siddhartha, especially through bodhisattvasMeant that a belief system could adapt to the needs and desires of society in a more flexible way ? thus suiting the everyday concerns and behaviours of that society's members. Concept of “MERIT” Not found in Buddha's original teachings but is widespread in many Asian societies. The idea is that people can positively affect future rebirths through actions that build up merit such as through devotional rituals and certain good deeds, rather than through a strictly spiritual lifestyle.The Bodhisattva An enlightened being ? as the ideal toward which the good Buddhist should aspire.A bodhisattva is an individual who has attained perfect enlightenment but delays entry into final nirvana (the perpetual state of enlightenment) in order to make possible the salvation of all other sentient beings. The bodhisattva transfers merit built up over many lifetimes to less fortunate creatures and thus can also be worshipped. The key attributes of this social saint are compassion and loving-kindness. A present day example, although he denies it, would be the current Dalai Lama. Buddhist interpretations To accept the Dharma is to practice it in all facets of one's life. The teachings ascribed to the Buddha and contained in the Tripitaka are common to all branches of Buddhism DOCTRINES/DHARMAMost Buddhists accept the concepts of impermanence and samsara (the cycle of birth and rebirthAll branches practice some form of meditation. There are many variations and interpretations of Buddhist practice depending on the culture involved ? including that found in western nations. The most notable differences are between cultures that have adopted Theravada and those that have adopted Mahayana Buddhism. Yet neither of these branches could be considered hostile to each other's beliefs in any wayPEACEFUL DISSENT Role of Dissent In Buddhism, therefore, the concept of dissent is not as problematical as it can be for other religions. Because the path to enlightenment is entirely one's ownThere is usually complete tolerance of how that is achieved as long as one doesn't cause suffering to others in its pursuit. There is no evangelical movement (forcing/gaining followers) Complete acceptance of the validity of the beliefs of othersNo mechanisms to promote conversion beyond the presentation of the teachings in particular forums. Role of Globalisation in dissent/WOMENSome of the most contentious issues in Buddhism today have come about through globalisation and the religion's adoption by the West ? particularly in the area of female ordination and enlightenment. Western women: Have been forceful in demanding access to ordination and asserting the reality of female enlightenment in the face of some very strong, male dominated, hierarchical cultures which had determined that women could never achieve either unless reborn as men. Most Buddhist leaders (notably the Dalai Lama) have accepted that change ? must happen in this area and women are consequently being ordained in greater numbers. The nature and impact of change and resistance to changeDissent is when people disagree with each other The more people there are, the more dissent there will beBuddhism dissent is usually factions and splits in the traditions Occurs more peacefully in Buddhism ? managed fairly and successfully Most issues related to the role that it has played in traditional Buddhist societies and some of it related to Buddhism’s adaptation to modern life and values, especially in Wester, largely non-Buddhist countries SGIOne of the things Buddhists cannot accept are SGI ? as it grasps modern technology so fully preach its messageThey believe that this is not what Buddha would have done or that a belief system about finding enlightenment within fits with being so active with social media Here ? dissents between the forms of Buddhism is real and contentious ? both sides argue over missing vital elements of Buddhism GenderIssue of gender is also contentious ? whether women should be ordained and whether the female sangha is equivalent to the male one Issue in western countries where Buddhism confront the women’s movement fro equality Internal Tensions Within and across various traditions Some argue that the role of monks and nuns has no place in the modern world and that they tended to die out in Christianity and should also in Buddhism Sentiments fuelled by power of the monastery and its apparent unwillingness to become involved in the real issues of day-to-day life Criticism of the role that the monks played (or didn’t play) During 19th and 20th century local populations were disadvantaged and left impoverished and powerless while Europe took overChristianity was imposed as the preferred religion Islam’s history has been in fighting back when this happened in its terrorisers, Buddhism was less conferential and did not get involved Tensions within Buddhism, with some saying that the true Buddhist should not become involved in politics or day-to-day struggled and that the very essence of Buddhist beliefs is in avoiding the distractions of these things so that you can concentrate on personal enlightenment Different forms of Buddhism can lead to different conclusions about the need for continuity, change and resistance E.g. Vietnamese Mahayana Buddhism = 30% OTHER NOTES Change, and the concept of impermanence, is central to Buddhist philosophy, therefore Buddhists try not to fear change, because to fear it is to be attached to it and thus to suffer. Buddhism also embodies tolerance and respect for the ideas of others, and it is a religion very open and flexible to the needs and opinions of others. Indeed the history of Buddhism shows it continually adapting to, and absorbing, the cultures it encountered as it spread out from India. It is perhaps for these reasons that there is no fundamentalism within the Buddhist religion (yet!) and why it has adapted so well to a modernised, westernised world. Like many other belief systems Buddhism has had to confront the ethical dilemmas and moral issues raised by today's modern world with its rapid technological and social changes.IssueBuddhist NotionWorld Issues In most areas its leaders have been able to give clear teachings on abortion, birth control products, euthanasia, human rights, the environment, war and international relations.Westernisation/Globalisation/Technology Does not reject westernisation, globalisation and technologyInstead it encourages mindfulness and skilfulness in what we accept or rejectArgues that as long as we act from compassion for others and avoid causing suffering for them and for ourselves, it is possible to manage the modern world. The invasion and colonization of Tibet by the Chinese and the attempt by that regime to break down its society and culture.The Tibetans, and increasingly other Buddhists, have continued to resist that changeFirst inside and then as exiles in other countries but, at least after the initial invasion, without violence. The male dominated monastic culture towards the ordination of women. While more women are being ordained there remains strong argument, often based on scripture, against the practiceDiscrepancy between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism Western Buddhism hierarchy In Western Buddhism there have had to be changes made, especially in the conduct of monastic lifeFor example there is often no lay community to support monks and nuns so that they must do things that their Asian counterparts do not, such as handle money and drive in cars. Tendency to interact more with the lay community on a more regular and intimate basis ? e.g. in counselling and in meditation instruction. Buddhism vs Western value lifestyle In the West there is also a vigorous debate being conducted over how much Buddhism should accommodate western values and philosophies along with a liberal western lifestyle. Reasons;Extends from western practitioners disputing in the actuality of reincarnationTrying to continue a serious meditation practice with family and career Others trying to find loopholes in the doctrines so that they are enabled to have a glass of red with their non-vegetarian meal. Clear divisions amongst those;Western Buddhists who believe that the Asian model should be preserved and followed in as unchanged a form as possible AND Those who assert that Buddhism has always adapted to its host culture and that as a living belief system it must change to suit the times and expediency. Even within this latter group there are further divisions along the lines of extent. How much of the doctrine and practices can, or should be altered? Engaged Buddhism Engaged Buddhism ? developed in the West as many westerners felt that traditional Buddhism seemed to hold itself aloof from world problems and human sufferingPrisoners on the Burma Railway in World War Two had been disturbed by the apparent indifference of the Burmese (Theravada) monks to their plightBased on the doctrine that all experiences result from past karma and can only be remedied by the individual changing his or her behaviour. Mahayana doctrine had already established the idea of the bodhisattva, and so it was not a huge leap for western Buddhists to argue for a more proactive, karma-enhancing attitude to current world issues on the part of a Buddhist adherent. No doubt the Tibetan experience along with terrorism and other experiences has seen an acceptance of the concept of Engaged Buddhism across the religion.Example of Change or A Resistance to ChangeImpact New branch of Buddhism - Soka Gakkai (SGI) Buddhism Accesibility and role of technology Separating from traditional Buddhism MicroAccessibility; easier for Buddhists to practise in western/countries to suit modern lifeMesoMacro:Increased followers in modernised/western societiesLoss of traditional beliefs/customsContracts the ‘tanha’ doctrine within Buddhism Other: Most modern and furthest from the traditional Reform was vital in establishing Buddhism in feudal Japan, which had different religion traditions Irony connection with Nickiren is he was a militant Buddhist ? whereas Soka had its modern beginnings in opposing the militarism in japan during the 2nd world warHear id a form of meditation with a tantric form of chant ? power of chant is emphasises more than power of meditation Chant is said to be able to achieve enlightenments in itself ? equiv. of the zazen position in Zen Buddhism SGI’s followers claim that using modern means to forge new understanding ? just like Nichiren did 800 years agoFollowers of SGI believe the same today and justify world differently, wordily and aggressive approach on the grounds that traditional forms of Buddhism play no real part in the lives of modern-day JapaneseThey point to the Buddhist monasteries and temples that are now no more than tourist sites, while they are using modern social agencies such as newspapers, TC and internet to promote relevant BuddhismSGI turned Buddhism on its head and made it fit in with the ideals of the Westernised, materialised society (what is inherently opposed to in Buddhism)At the same time ? maintained sense of spiritualityRole of monks/nuns Macro Argument that religious figures have no place in modern world/regionTransformative change to the monastic order Modernises religion – transforms core principles of religionSubverts the internal structure of Buddhist hierarchy Micro Increasing difficulty in practising religion/understanding/education Products of modernity will make the practising of the religion difficult without monks Lack of role models Resistance of male dominated monastic culture towards ordination of women MicroWomen may not want to practise religion due to feelings of exclusion Women’s rights/issues that concern females within Buddhism will be neglectedMesoCannot contribute as well within the Sangha Macro Continues patriarchal structure that secludes women ? ripple down effect – decision making is more gendered Stops progression of women The impact of technologies and globalisation on continuity and changeImpact Accessibility Adaptation and change to Buddhism to fit/adjust to modern world and personal preference Buddha Daily appsWesternisation of religion; through technology Buddhist leaders are able to travel Enables communicationBuddhist values are easily shared via social mediaWorldwide recognition – technology/media raises awareness on social/political issues relating to Buddhism e.g. websites, news, broadcasts Growth of Buddhism Buddhism is a global religionDoes not rely on a particular set of cultural beliefs or dispositions (unlike Hinduism)Hinduism has never penetrated it way far beyond the Indian regions – however meditation based notions haveBuddhism however, has made its way fairly quickly through the Indian sub-continent to most Asian countries and eventually became one of the most recognisable religions in all continents IS A GLOBALISED RELIGION Made its way out of Indian sub-continent, spread over world like Christianity and Islam Grew to global religions (like Christianity and Islam) How Buddhism has grown without the use of war/violenceBig difference in the spread of Buddhism to OTHER religions is that other religions grew through a combination of missionary activity and militancyBuddhism has little history of either of the above Buddhism has grown more naturally through diffusion of its core principles of being in tune with the human needs and desiresShown to be extremely adaptable to new cultures and circumstances, so thus has taken many formsBuddhism in Australia In Aus – without any missionary activity – Buddhist has grown to become the largest non-Christian religion Most forms of Buddhism are represented in Australia – but dominantly MAHAYANA BUDDHISM ? with sub-types being Pure Land and ZenThe spread is attributed to the extensive immigration to Australia from South-East Asia (Vietnam and Cambodia) after the Vietnam war from the 1960’s and 70’s. Started off as the ‘strange Eastern religion’ – brought mainly by the Chinese – who came to Aus. In the gold rush – but was then wiped out by the White Australia Policy following Federation ACCORDING TO ABS;1 in 30 of those who claim they are religious are Buddhist2.5% of the population in the 2011 censusRole of Technology Westernisation of religion through technology – traditional values are lost or altered Seen as awkward partners – as though all religion originated from the past and technology is about the present and future In Western world ? Christianity often seems to have been opposed to scientific advances, whether about origins of the world, new developments in medical bioethics or the influence of social media on young people todayBuddhism is more relaxed towards the above thingsBuddhism is less doctrine-orientated and less authoritarian religion that permits individuals to find their own answers to the ethical questions of life, as long as they are adhering to the Middle Way (for lay Buddhists at least)HOWEVER – for monks and nuns this is more prescribedMeans that modern technology has generally been seen as a positive addition to Buddhist life – allowing for the development of Buddhist social media Online spiritual may present problems the average Christian, Jewish or Muslim authority – online Buddhism has become something of an industry Buddhism has easily adapted to global technology because of its adaptable nature and its notion of individual enlightenment OTHER NOTES All belief systems have been affected by globalisation. This has meant that the ideologies of various belief systems have been spread by various methods: conquest; missionary activity; mass migration; mass media and other forms of technology. Buddhism has spread rapidly and has become popular through the promotion in the media of both its doctrines and its leaders. The Dalai Lama is an internationally respected and loved world leader and the issue of Tibet has become a very topical in many western countries with a range of celebrities promoting its cause e.g. Richard Gere who is band from China Before the Second World War Buddhism was a religion known only to a few in the West and much of its practice was misunderstood. Zen Buddhism started to become popular in the United States with the "Beat" generation in the fifties. As young people began to travel in Asia it became one of a range of Eastern philosophies explored and adopted in the sixties and seventies by the "counter culture". Unlike many of those other philosophies however, its popularity has remained steady and continues to grow in many societies. Some Christian sects, for example the Jesuits, have established strong ecumenical links with Buddhism and joint meditation retreats have been undertaken in centres like Assisi in Italy. A series of books and films have promoted Buddhism. Increasing international travel has also brought a wider variety of people into contact with Buddhist cultures. In addition, the affluence of westerners has also allowed them to spend time pursuing Buddhist beliefs and to lead a monastic life without the need of a supporting general community.Buddhism is able to adapt to and accommodate different cultures and because it does not evangelize or actively seek converts it is seen as non-threatening. It also sits well with non-religious belief systems and with the advances of science and technology because it accepts change and practices non- attachment to ideals or ideas or concepts. GlobalisationImpactSpread of Buddhism in western countries due to its adaptability Religion is growing –macroTraditional values decreasing/altering impacts on micro/meso levels of societyWorld view, values, traditions Change and role of women International respect of Buddhist leaders/spiritual leaders Political role of globalisation Raises awareness regarding macro sociological issues in a Buddhist society e.g. Tibet and Richard Gere’s work Accessibility of Buddhism to western peopleSpread/Diffusion of Buddhism through technological means More branches of Buddhism emerging changes/alters traditional values TechnologyOne of the ways in which technology has impacted Buddhism is through the internetInternet ? gives us instant connection with Buddhist friends around the world and the web gives us an effective way to contact people, widespread access and translation of Buddhist texts and also provides access to number peoples opinion and interpretations of the belief systems (encouraged the spread of Buddhism)Planes, cars and laptop computers have affected Buddhists in much the same way as other people and has also contributed to the spread of Buddhism – example the Dali lama. Technology should be used with in the Buddhist parameters of being moderate, creating benefit and serves to develop understanding and improve the human beingEx – no genetic modification or nuclear weapons but medical technology etc are good (Venerable P.A. Payutto)The increase of technology, communication and the general complexity of life has also lead to may becoming dissatisfied with life ? new sources of suffering and greed and thus ? even more relevance for BuddhismGlobalisationGlobalisation has had both positive and negative affects on Buddhism and Buddhism societiesGlobalisation has eased international communications, allowing the Buddhist teachings to be more readily available in the west The travelling of many enlightened Buddhists to Australia has been able to spread the teachings to the westBuddhism has been culturally adaptable and thus in response to new social, economic and political pressures the belief system is able to adapt in the east and west into a variety of forms and emphasis – example the green Buddhist movement, increased social and political activism in Tibet (socially engaged Buddhism)Changing Global Climate – Socially Engaged Buddhism The changing global climate as result of globalisation for example – increased personal wealth, more information, urbanisation and a emerging global culture has also seen the rise of Socially Engaged Buddhism, which is, were the traditional origins of suffering (greed of individual) have been expanded to include institutional and social structures reinforcing and contributing to human suffering and pain.New practices are focused on worldly freedom from social, economic, political, sexual, racial and environmental oppression and are non monastic centred. Members encouraged to live actively and morally in the community and workplace (as opposed to monastic withdrawal) Emphasis on developing positive personal relationships with other groups Combining the goal for a untied and peaceful world, as the Dali Lama says “the realisation of oneness of all human kind”. Materialism in the West In the west, the disillusionment with materialism is only increasing with globalisation Thus ? the teachings and meditations of Buddhism are able to calm the minds and bring spiritual and personal awareness, teaching that the solutions lie within ourselves, ensures its continued relevance to the modern ageMaterialism in local communities with Dense Buddhism In some local communities, Globalisation has introduced some corrupting western features such as TV, fast food, “uncontrolled desire for western products’, higher crime rates and changed attitudes to love and relationships. EXAMPLE: BHUTAN The small country of Bhutan has experienced significant changes in the 10 yrs as result of increased international exposure from globalisation. There is a social conflict between older, traditional generations and the younger generations exposed to cable TV. As an independent study found, this may have adverse effects on the countries traditional Buddhist values and spiritual unity. It is unknown how the religion will be received in the future, however it’s likely that after these new changes are adapted, the society will regain stabilityGlobalisation and Technology – TogetherTechnology such as global communications like the internet are allowing for more readily available information as traditional texts and be translated and accessed This is contributing to the increased Buddhist influences in the west and globalisationWith the changing nature of global culture and social relationships – Buddhism is adapting to the changes and becoming more engaged in the world. While still remaining a personal faith, the identification of intuitions as the cause of suffering or re-enforcing hate greed and delusion shows the belief system readapting and applying the fundamental principles to the changing cultural climate.Increased personal wealth that seems to come from globalisation is only increasing stress and disillusionments with materialism; Buddhism seems to be increasing in relevance to the modern world despite the general religious population declining The World can only be changed through a change in individuals and the emphasis of self helps to provide some sort of personal control and responsibilityContent Analysis: “The Cup” 1999 Tibetan Film directed by Khyentse Norbu Concepts Customs, rituals, philosophy, technology, globalisation, continuity, changeFocus Studythe role of symbol, rituals and custom, the impact of technologies on continuity and changeThe near future:Evaluate impact and implications for the beliefs system or ideology Synopsis The Cup?is the story of a group of young Tibetan boys living as monks in a remote monastery at the foot of the Himalayas in Northern India. One of these boys, the tenacious and rebellious fourteen-year-old Orgyen is obsessed with the World Cup football (soccer) series and goes to great lengths to follow the games. He even resorts to sneaking out of the monastery at night and attempts to raise money to rent satellite television equipment to watch the World Cup in the monastery itself. The monastery’s disciplinarian must decide how to deal with the introduction of modern Western influences into their traditional monastic lifestyle.Identify rituals and important places referred to in the movie? Why are they significant, what is their role?Temples – monasteries Predictions Tibetan refugee novice monks in a remote Himalayan monastery in India Chanting within the monastery, offering rice – chanting as a form of meditation The symbol of the lotus flower with their hands USE OF HAND SYMBOLS SHOT in the Tibetan refugee village Bir in India – Himacahal Pradesh Tibet’s in India During ordination – cutting the hair of one of the children as part of it GIVEN A BUDDHIST NAME, shaven hair Outline the relationship between technology, globalisation and the philosophy of Buddhism as seen in the film.“During the opening credits of ''The Cup,'' the camera pans across the surface of a mani stone, a sacred object for adherents of Tibetan Buddhism, on which prayers are inscribed in elegant, stylized script. A few minutes later, in the dusty courtyard of a Tibetan monastery-in-exile, the camera notices another object, whose surface is decorated with stylized script of another kind: a Coca-Cola can”Two young boys desperately try to obtain a television for the monastery to watch the 1998 World Cup final Role of globalisation Use of cars – motor vehicles – when the car was not starting the group of monks pushed the car – contradicts ‘life is tanha’ Children playing soccerThe can, which is being used as a soccer ball by a group of young monks, soon finds its way into the hands of Geko, a stern older monk who, if this were a Hollywood high school comedy, would be the assistant principal. Geko (Orgyen Tobgyal) brings it to the monastery's kindly, absent-minded abbot. It ends up in the hut of an eccentric lama, who fashions it into a candleholder for the makeshift altar in his hut. It has evolved into a sacred object. This empty soda can might serve as an apt metaphor for the film's wry perspective on the relationship between the sacred and the profane, and for its understated approach to the phenomenon of globalization. The penetration of Western consumer culture into remote corners of the world tends to be viewed, simplistically, as either cause for celebration or for alarm, a force that will either sweep away outmoded traditions or destroy ancient, fragile systems of custom and belief. But ''The Cup,'' which chronicles the arrival of television in the closed world of the monastery, finds ironies and nuances in the encounter between modernity and tradition that media critics rarely notice. The young monks, played by the residents of an actual monastery in the tiny Himalayan nation of Bhutan, have devoted their lives to an ancient religious tradition predicated on rigorous spiritual discipline. They are also rambunctious, spirited adolescent boys, who scrawl graffiti on the walls, play pranks on each other during prayer sessions and do whatever they can to outwit the vigilant Geko. He and the abbot, who happens to be a devoted collector of postcards from around the world, strive to protect them from outside influences. But their charges are obsessed with soccer. Beneath his red and orange monastic robes (''a 2,500-year-old fashion,'' one of his friends dryly remarks), a runty 14-year-old named Orgyen (Jamyang Lodro) sports a tank top on which he has emblazoned the name and number of Ronaldo, the Brazilian star. Orgyen's tiny room is plastered with photographs clipped from soccer magazines, and he is the ringleader of an elaborate plan to haul a satellite dish and a television set onto the premises in time for the 1998 World Cup final between Brazil and France. Geko at first disapproves of the boys' plan but soon finds himself explaining international sports -- ''two civilized nations fighting over a ball'' -- to the bemused abbot, who decides that it sounds pretty harmless, as long as there's no sex involved. The people of Tibet are admired around the world for their heroic resistance to Chinese domination, and ''The Cup'' has a quiet political urgency, as well as a luminous air of religious conviction. 4. The Relationship Between Buddhism to the wider SocietyAcceptance and rejection of the philosophy at the micro, meso and macro levelsAcceptanceRejectionMicroIndividual adoption of the belief system across the world Most people born into Buddhism accept the religionLarge number of the Asian continent is BuddhismBuddhism is fastest growing religion in Australia1 in 30 of those who are religious are Buddhist in Australia Those born into Buddhist families may reject some or ALL of Buddhist philopshies due to various reasons – westernisation, globalisation, secularisationSome people may reject it due to the idea that “life is tanha” – may find it difficult to let go of materialistic objects Meso Temples, communitiesTeaching Buddhism in school syllabus Buddhist Schools in SydneyTemples in Parramatta and Lane Cove Temple Worship; Communities, groups come together to worship Buddhist teachings Social organisations of Buddhists in Tibet/China reflects acceptanceMeditation and mindfulness is common in the Western WorldVeganism and Vegetarianism – wide scale use of celebrities converting and preaching Buddhism Rejection of some philosophies of Buddhism due to societal pressure or modernisation, these reflect societal values/pressures of the wider society E.g. temple in Australia ordaining women – is rejecting traditional Buddhist doctrines and hierarchy MacroEstablishment of Buddhism society of NSW by sister DhammadinaBuddhist global relief – combat hunger and malnutritionBuddhist peace fellowship – encourages Buddhists to participate in various forms of non violence activism and environmentalismVipassna Movement: insight meditation movement refers to a number of modern Theravada Buddhists which stresses into 3 marks of existenceOther nations have accepted Buddhism and have allowed Buddhist temples – in ever state of Australia – and Organisations such as the NSW Buddhism society Modern branches of Buddhism eg Shinto – reject some philosophies and create their own philosophies in line with other philosophies/doctrines of Buddhism to fit a modern context.Mahayana – ordination of women reflect rejection of gender discrimination in religion.Rejection of certain branches of Buddhism – e.g. Sako Gakkai which is more western Tibet and China conflict around Dalai Lama The 14th century Buddhist fighters led the uprising that evicted the Mongols from China In Sri Lanka – 20th century civil war between the mostly Buddhist Sinhalese and the Hindu Tamil minority caused the death of 50,000 peopleThe relationship of the belief system or ideology to ethical issues in societyBuddhism does not appear to be as strict as many other religions when it comes to ethical issuesSome argue that this is because there is NO GOD – unlike Islam + Christianity – to law down the strict rulesOn sexual issues, the main Buddhist ethic is that one does engage in sexual misconduct, mainly because that would fracture the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path directions towards restraint Rather than saying sex in marriage is acceptable - but outside marriage is wrong – the typical Buddhist approach would be to look at whether the sex was a loving act and proper to the relationshipThe same approach applies for homosexuality – though they are many Buddhists who have spoken out against it e.g. the Dalai Lama Same thinking is applied to issues of medical ethics e.g. euthanasia, although many Buddhists would still regards this as killing and therefore absolutely wrongDifficult to generalise – but there appears to be greater openness to negotiation on ethical issues than may be found in many other religions Ethical IssueInformationRelationship to Wider SocietyAbortion Rejects Buddhism due to the value of lifeModern Buddhism divided in regards to the issues1993 – Dalai Lama – “depends on circumstances approved on case by case situations” no specific doctrine regarding this “new being bearing the karmic identity of a recently deceased individual is therefore entitled to some moral respect as an adult human being” – published Debates regarding teaching (act of compassion or killing a living thing) Teachings of Buddha don’t deal with issueDalai Lama supportive 2009 conference “permissible in some circumstances” – link to Buddhist philosophy leads to enlightenment Article Example: 2009 BBC “Buddhism and Abortion”No clear definition of whether abortion if right or wrong ? however there is a belief of “causing death as morally wrong” Belief that “life should not be destroyed” as Buddhism believes that “individual life begins at conception” and thus aborting a baby classifies as killing or murder “because it involved the deliberate destroying of a life” ? violates the FIRST PRECEPT OF BUDDHISM - not to killKarma ? “the foetas suffers bad karma because it soul is deprived of the opportunities that an earthly existence would have given it to earn good karma..”Dalai Lama 1993 ? “abortion, from a Buddhist viewpoint, is an act of killing and is negative, generally speaking. But it depends on circumstances. If the unborn child will be retarded or if the birth will create serious problems for the parent, these are cases where there can be an exception” Abortion is an ethical issues that is debated at all levels of society (micro, meso and macro) Relationship between Buddhism and the wider society has effected both the beliefs of other individuals in society as well as the overall beliefs of Buddhism Beliefs on abortion both SHARED and Rejected by many depending on individual cultural background + environmentE.g. Japan is common and has been used as a kind of birth control ? demonstrates a clashing of culture and a neglect of specific beliefs associated with religion to common practises Personal belief within Buddhism has changed within developing society ? differences between “traditional” and “modern” Buddhists = “Traditional Buddhism rejects abortion… modern Buddhists, however, are more divided about the morality of abortion” Westernisation and surrounding societies on values held by Buddhists; “most western and Japanese Buddhists come away believing in the permissibility of abortion, while many other Buddhists believe abortion to be murder” Same-Sex Marriage Theravada Buddhism ? focuses on the original teachings of the Buddha. Buddhist monks are expected to live lives of celibacy, meaning abstinence from any type of sex. There is no explicit rule prohibiting those with a homosexual orientation from monastic life.Vinaya - the Buddha is recorded as opposing the ordination of those who openly expressed cross-gender features or strong homosexual desires and actionsHomosexuality in the Pali CanonLay Buddhists (those who live outside the monastery) are expected to adhere to Five Precepts, the third of which is a vow "not to engage in sexual misconduct." But what is sexual misconduct? Right and wrong behaviour in Buddhism is generally determined by considerations such as the following:"Sexual misconduct" has thus traditionally been interpreted to include actions like coercive sex, sexual harassment, child molestation and adultery. As Homosexuality is not explicitly mentioned in any of the Buddha's sayings recorded in the Pali Canon (Tripitaka), most interpreters have taken this to mean that homosexuality should be evaluated in the same way as heterosexuality, in accordance with the above principles.Dalai Lama In 2014, The celibate Dalai Lama has thrown his considerable moral weight behind gay marriage, condemning homophobia and saying sex was fine as long as it was consensual. The Dalai Lama, in an interview, said that gay marriage was up to each government and was ultimately "individual business""If two people – a couple – really feel that way is more practical, more sort of satisfaction, both sides fully agree, then OK," he told an online talk show by veteran radio and television host Larry KingOtherZen Buddhism make no distinction on same sex marriage – due to modern and western values of religion Nothing in Pali cannon regarding same-sex marriage – traditional societies have opposed it In general, there is no rule prohibiting LGBTQ people from serving as Buddhist monks or nuns. Though some select temples and monasteries may prohibit the ordination of LGBTQ people, schools of Buddhism, overall, have not adopted a consensus on the practiceSO THERE is conflict within the religion on gay marriageEuthanasia BBC 2009 Buddhists are not unanimous in their view of euthanasia, and the teachings of the Buddha don't explicitly deal with it.Most Buddhists (like almost everyone else) are against involuntary euthanasia. Their position on voluntary euthanasia is less clear.The most common position is that voluntary euthanasia is wrong, because it demonstrates that one's mind is in a bad state and that one has allowed physical suffering to cause mental suffering.Meditation and the proper use of pain killing drugs should enable a person to attain a state where they are not in mental pain, and so no longer contemplate euthanasia or suicide.Buddhism places great stress on non-harm, and on avoiding the ending of life. The reference is to life - any life - so the intentional ending of life seems against Buddhist teaching and voluntary euthanasia should be forbidden.?The Buddha himself showed tolerance of suicide by monks in two cases.So a person's state of mind at the time of death is important - their thoughts should be selfless and enlightened, free of anger, hate or fear.This suggests that suicide (and so euthanasia) is only approved for people who have achieved enlightenment and that the rest of us should avoid itVegetarianism In?Buddhism, the views on?vegetarianism?vary between different schools of thoughtAccording to Theravada, the?Buddha?allowed his monks to eat pork, chicken and fish if the monk was aware that the animal was not killed on their behalfThere are differences of opinion between Buddhists on this issue so we will attempt to present the arguments of those who believe that vegetarianism is necessary for Buddhists and those who do not. Vegetarianism was not a part of the early Buddhist tradition and the Buddha himself was not a vegetarian.?Mahayanists are vegetarian and?Theravadins?are notTheravadins have no dietary restrictions although it is not uncommon to find?monks?and lay people in Sri Lanka who are strict vegetarians. Others abstain from meat while eating fish. Chinese and Vietnamese monks and?nuns?are strictly vegetarian and the lay community try to follow there example although many do not. Amongst Tibetans and Japanese Buddhists vegetarianism is rare.Buddhists who insist on vegetarianism have a simple and compelling argument to support their case;Eating meat encourages an industry that causes cruelty and death to millions of animals and a truly compassionate person would wish to mitigate all this suffering. By refusing to eat meat one can do just thatSimilar notion to vegans in Western countries The relationship of the belief system or ideology to peace and conflict in the worldBuddhism’s most traditional reputation is a religion of peaceThe symbol of Buddha in an enlightened state is a permanent reminder that the central goals of Buddhism is to bring to the individual a level of peace and nothing else of achieve Symbol represents turning away from all forms of desire, power over others and above all, violence towards others Buddhism at it’s core is arguably unmatched as a belief system in its commitment to peace and its rejection of conflict as a way of solving any of life’s problemsBuddhism is torn to which this image depicts the future Buddhism has been drawn into some major conflicts in 21st century in terms of resistance – as an oppressive political source itself Belief systems are products of their time ? hence why there is conflictE.g. Buddhism in Tibet has caused conflict – Tibet trying to rise above colonial authority of chinaE.g. Burmese monks violent towards Muslim’s in BurmaHence – Buddhism has engaged in political activism and issues, sometime acting in a violent manner that contradicts Dharma and doctrinesOTHER NOTES Buddhism Appeal Until recently, Buddhism has been virtually unknown to the westThe increase of Buddhist and western scholars (such as the prominent Dali Lama), Asian migrants and information technology has seen the boom of Buddhist influences in the west. The Venterable Chongi said for Buddhism’s appeal to the west“Because people are spiritually hungry. They are looking for wisdom without hypocrisy and compassion that is not restricted to some people and leaving others out. Also the western mind is very speedy and people like to meditate because it slows the mind down and brings relief”Its impact is to provide another example or option for people seeking enlightenment on a personal level and the message of peace and karma really appeals to people. Buddhism in Australia In Australia there has been a 2.1% increase in the number of people identifying to be Buddhist from 1996-2001Buddhism is also non exclusive and many people have chosen to combine the principles of Buddhism with Christianity or Judaism See also the disillusionment with materialism and the universal truths, teaches that the solutions lie within us and emphasises awareness of the mind at key to achieve thisBuddhism on a Global Scale On a global level, Buddhism teaches the need for inner peace to achieve an end to suffering and conflict. The values of vegetarianism, kindness and Karma involves a care for each other and a means for understanding the world, the eternal and themselves Buddhism is also becoming increasingly more socially and political engaged – for example, many are trying to protest the communist oppression and ban of religion in Tibet and the persecution of Buddhist MonksMany are fleeing the country and ayet, still trying to change the global situation Buddhism has a naturally peaceful message, spreading pacifism, vegetarianism and the cause of suffering and the cessation of suffering to be in the person power of humans through self-awareness. It teaches that to change the world and intuitions, you must first change yourselfBuddhism seeks to develop positive relationships with other religious communities for the goal of a peaceful and united world “The realisation of oneness” Would discourage violence and teach the source of conflict would be ourselves and we must remove ourselves from itRole of Buddhism in Peace and Conflict as a macro/meso/micro institutionBuddhism is a product of the culture/society/politics of its context It responds to these issues and is largely reflective of the context Buddhist philosophy is a way to unify and respond to times of conflictSpecific Examples – MACRO 1. Thailand Law Dharma is incorporated into the laws of particular countries e.g. Thailand the Sangha Act 1902. The Sangha Supreme Council of Thailand – highest ranking monks respond to administrative + theological matter 2. Conflict in Tibet vs China Dissenting against repression in Tibet Protesting against China occupation – done by monks self immolation and burning themselves – taken on political role Tibet is ongoing e.g. March 2017 a monk lit himself alight in Aba, Sichuan -3. Buddhist monks killing the Muslim minority in Rohingya;BBC 2013; Here the antagonism is spearheaded by the 969 group, led by a monk, Ashin Wirathu, who was jailed in 2003 for inciting religious hatred. Released in 2012, he has referred to himself bizarrely as "the Burmese Bin Laden".March saw an outbreak of mob violence directed against Muslims in the town of Meiktila, in central Burma, which left at least 40 deadBurmese rulers, known as "kings of righteousness", justified wars in the name of what they called true Buddhist doctrine.-4. Burma Saffron Revolution of 2007 In Burma, monks wielded their moral authority to challenge the military junta and argue for democracy in the Saffron Revolution of 2007. Peaceful protest was the main weapon of choice this time, and monks paid with their lives.-5. Sri Lanka 1983 In 1983, Sri Lanka's ethnic tensions broke out into civil war. Following anti-Tamil pogroms, separatist Tamil groups in the north and east of the island sought to break away from the Sinhalese majority government.Specific Examples – MESOTemples respond to various political conflict differently, depending on country Usually they will not be involved in violence but assist in shelter, food, care Burma: role of temples in supporting/discouraging violence against Rohinaya Muslims -1. “Thailand Authorities end 23-day siege of Dhammakaya, nation’s largest temple” SMH “Authorities ended a 23-day siege of?Thailand's largest?temple, where worshippers and monks defied repeated attempts to arrest a prominent monk wanted on charges of money laundering and accepting stolen assets” ? conflict between the monastery and the government Under a special emergency law, Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha had declared the?temple?a "special control zone", allowing it to be placed under military control ? Authorities are dissenting against the temple/monk through their exercising of institutional power During the tense stand-off monks at times formed human shields to curb police raids ?The monks/worshippers are also dissenting against the government by protecting the monkThe temple's actions were the strongest show of resistance to Mr Prayuth's military government which has acted swiftly against any sign of dissent since the military ousted a democratically-elected government in 2014, after months of political instability ? highlights the fragility of the political dissent Situation highlights the role of institutional power and authority within society as well as the multifaceted issue of dissent that can occur from both sides (the monastery and the government)Specific Examples – MICROBuddhist philosophy discourages individuals response to large scale violence towards the Rohingya monks variesWhat is the extent of the Dalai Lama’s power and authorityDalai Lama sets precedent and influential expectationsSets a code of conduct/status quo in regards to peace and conflictInfluential in spreading awareness to impact the worldview of individualsLarge scale power1989 Tibet onwards EMPOWERS adherents Recent examples of the Dalai Lama in peace and conflictTibet onwards – encouraged Buddhist to protest about the issue, empowering adherents Use of technology – The Dalai Llama Website “His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet: World Peace”Website aims to “Articles and messages from His Holiness the Dalai Lama concerning our need to create a more peaceful world” Made comments in 2016 regarding Rohingya Muslims – “if Buddha was here, he would protect those Muslim brothers/sisters”Tibet: Dalai Lama encouraged/empowers working towards peace, standing up towards oppressor, pro non violent protest Other ExamplesEnvironmental and animal rights groups and Green Buddhist movements helping people to take a more active interest in problems of everyday life and as an agent for transforming society (through the self) from non-monastic models of livingBuddhists have become more socially and politically aware – focusing on oppression (social, political, racial and environmental) with particular references to the communist oppression in Tibet (Burma and Sri Lanka) which has cause many Buddhist monks to flee the country, increasing awareness of Buddhism in the west and their oppression. The Panchem LamaSecond most important person in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai LamaCurrent Pachem Lama was appointed at age 6 by the Dalai Lama Turned into captivity by Chinese government, which went on to appoint its own Panchem Lama – against the wishes of the TibetansMany calls for Panchem Lama to be released but this has not happenedPOINT of tension between Tibetan Buddhism and the Communist government of ChinaThis shows the capacity of religion, founded over 2500 yrs ago to respond to new pressures and contexts to adapt its central message of calmness, wisdom and compassion to situations very different from those in which it beganThe Near Future: 5 to 10 yearsDetermine Current Trends and suggest probable future directions for the belief system Like all religions, Buddhism is under pressure to maintain its relevance at global (macro), national + local levels (meso), as well as for individuals (micro) in their search for meaning, purpose and identity Globally – under pressure from modern advances in technology + communication, as well as major ethical issues concerned with climate change, gender roles differenced and secularisation Under pressure from modern advanced in technology and communication, as well as major ethical issues concerned with climate change, gender role differences and secularisationNationally and locally, under the pressure of many traditional Buddhist societies because of the role it has or has not played in the past in making life better for ordinary peopleThese factors all affect the extent to which Buddhism continues Buddhist Talk – Dharmachari Ratnajyoti 4 Noble Truths and Eightfold Path are continued regardless of cultural context Myths: e.g. Mustard Seed, myths help form identity and connection to Buddhism helps “come into your existence”Mindfulness exercises ? growing interest in modern societies Sydney Buddhist Centre ? response to modernisation Gender roles: one ordination within Triratna Buddhist order Hierarchy of Buddhism: Triratna Buddhist order blurring traditional lives within Buddhist hierarchy, “people of order” not monk nor lay, engage with society and conduct work of monks Growing interest in Buddhist “fads” or “trends” due to media/modernisation e.g. tattoos Increase in “secular Buddhism” ? don’t believe in dogma nor doctrines of Buddhism, remove context from their interpretationGrowth in Buddhist practises e.g. Sydney Buddhist centre One of the fastest growing religions ? 2.4% of population Evaluate the Impact and implications for the belief system or IDEOLOGY of: Likely Changes and probable continuities Continuity and Change in BuddhismContinuityChangeFundamental principles – the 4 noble truths, 8 fold path, 5 precepts, teachings and reverence for Buddha, Accepted as part of Buddhism as nothing is permanent. So change is not resisted by the belief systemNirvana or enlightenment the goal of all schoolsRole of women – initially treated equalKarma and liberation of karmaThe adaptation to different countries cause new branches and interpretations of the fundamentalsChange is intrinsic in the belief system and thus - Still relevant in different social contextsSpread and acceptance into the westRituals and symbols used in worshipWay Buddhism is consumed with technology – the internet provide information easily without having to go the monastery or monks Structure and organisation of temples/shrinesThe decreased number of monks and nunsPersonal nature of enlightenment and development even more effective in modern age of humanismThe respond to changing global climate – Globalisation and the general decrease in religious followings, Buddhism adapts and has new meaning as the cause of suffering is still aroundBuddhist Talk – Dharmachari Ratnajyoti Believes that Buddhism will change the worldPRedict the Important of the belief system to society in the near future Future Directions of BuddhismFocus Group – Interview with Newtown a ‘person of the order’ Ratnajoythi Women in most western will have equal ordination status due to orders like the Triratna Buddhist practises such as mindfulness will increase e.g. mindfulness apps, sessions in corporate settings ASXIncreases in mindfulness in psychology ? thus will be incorporated into this practise Increase in secular Buddhism and more modern strands removing contexts of Buddhism suit modern world/society More discussion between different branches/contexts/cultures of Buddhism As society in Australia becomes more fast-paced, consumerist and quick ? people will need mindfulness and turn to Buddhist teachings in order to search for more meaning and have a diverse life Increased diversity within Buddhism, especially in Western societies e.g. Dalai Lama for same-sex marriage Potential increase in traditional temple de to increase migrantsIncrease in people taking up Buddhist practises rather than being devout e.g. mindfulness More centres such as Sydney Buddhist Centres Increase in technology; Apps, Free Buddhist Audio, Sydney Buddhist centre websites, can access lectures, promotes connectionTriratna branch ? an amalgamation of all 3 branches of Buddhism due to technology and increased access QuestionInformationWhat branch of Buddhism does your/your centre adhere to? Could you please tell us about some of the customs and ritualsTriratna Buddhist order and community – they run a centre that teaches mindfulness Considers the different “schools” as altruist and more historical ? his school teaches are an amalgamation of all 3 branches Pracises near future, mindfulness and love + kindness Practises are practical e.g. mindfulness have western contextual influences, practised in different ways Movement towards secular Buddhism It is not dogmatic, not sacrilegious ? but there is a doctrine ASX asked his centre to come in and help In what ways will your centre/branch of Buddhism change, especially considering the forces of modernisation and westernisation AND TECHNOLOGY Technology50 – 100 years ago Buddhist were only immersed into their own schoolnow all texts are available and people can work togetherhis community is particularly an amalgamation and consequence of westernisation and westernisation Meditation apps ? a particular one for his school where they can track people who are mediating Sense of community ? makes the world a better smaller place Young people come to take limits on them How do you see your branch of Buddhism continuing Buddha’s message/core tenants of Buddhism3rd way of cognitive psychology Way of changing yourself Strong movement towards secularLots of people with psych issues go there Today people do not believe in rebirth due to western Buddhism How important will Buddhism/role of Buddhism in modern Australia in the next couple of yearsBelieves mindfulness will become incorporated into psychology The Number of people signing up for mindfulness courses have increasedPeople need it more ? as society becomes more driven and fast paces they will need mindfulness to wind down Buddhism in AustraliaIs the fastest growing religion in AustraliaPeople need Buddhism to feel more contentConditioning forces, remove the materialistic and hedonistic society we life in to make life more meaningful More varied experience ? people are looking for more meaning and depth of experienceBuddhism is attractive on our consumerist society Ethical Issues Ethical Issues;Everyone is ordainedThere are single sex retreats Monday – mens study night and Thursday there are separate study nightsMens order and a women’s order Tibetan BuddhistsInstitution of Buddhism vs Order More socio-political issues than a religious problem Buddhism has been corrupted by negative human tendencies Not disengages from society ? they are engagedInvolved Buddhism Buddhism strongly involvedOpen Ethical issues are more cultural issuesThere is nothing in Buddhist teachings that dictate ethical issues other than being ind Interaction between Indian and Western wing ? Indians are more conservative but people are changingAbortion and Euthenasia Believes it is still the taking of life and is against the 1st precept Understand it arises for some issuesBuddhism is about what “I” (the individual) should do Role of myths and legend Role of Myths and LegendTeaches people life lessonsStill plays a huge role in the believe system E.g. Kisami Guatami ? Mustard Seed story let K see the grief in other people to enable her to accept her child’s deathStill are full of meaningLoosens peoples thoughts about the world The core insight into Buddhism right not is ? Conditionality A phenomenon where people come through certain conditionsCondition coproduction ................
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