BUDDHISM

WHAT IS BUDDHISM?

• 300 million people around the world
• Comes from 'budhi' meaning 'to awaken'
• Fourth largest religion
• More of a philosophy or a 'way of life'
• Founded by Siddhartha Gotama, or 'Buddha'

BUDDHIST PATH

• Lead a moral life
• Be mindful and aware
• Develop wisdom and understanding
• More of a philosophy
• 'love of wisdom'

AROUND THE WORLD

• Dominant in India
• 'Self described Buddhists'
• Little knowledge
• Aren't committed
• Widely accepted

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BUDDHISM IN THE U.S.

• 5-6 million
• 40% Southern California
• Widely accepted
• Unknown until modern times

FIRST TRUTH

• Life is suffering
• Pain, aging, disease & death
• Fear, anger & loneliness
• Can be avoided
• Can be truly happy

SECOND TRUTH

• Caused by cravings and expectations
• Can't always get what you want
• Can't guarantee happiness
• Physical suffering

THIRD TRUTH

• Suffering can be overcome
• Happiness can be attained
• Give up useless cravings
• Live each day at a time
• Happiness and contentment are possible

8-FOLD PATH

• Leads to the end of suffering
• Being moral through words and actions
• Focusing the mind
• Developing wisdom and compassion
• Understanding the Four Noble Truths

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