FAQ

1. What is Buddhism?
Buddhism is a path or way of life to follow based on the teachings of Buddha. It is a religion of wisdom where knowledge and intelligence predominate. Buddhism is devoted to conditioning the mind through daily life which eventually will lead to peace, happiness and freedom.
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2. Who and/or what do Buddhists worship?
Buddhists trust in:
1) The Buddha as a great teacher and exemplar;
2). The Dharma, i.e. the Buddha’s teachings as a guide to enlightenment and
essential truth; and
3). The Sangha, i.e. the Buddhist community, particularly monastics who teach
the Dharma and guide one along the path to enlightenment. Veneration of
this “Triple Gem” is central to Buddhist life.
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3. What are the three circular marks on a monastic’s head?
These marks represent:
1) The Triple Gem: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha;
2) The three vows of ridding oneself of bad habits and thoughts, cultivating
good, and having the wisdom to help release other from suffering; and
3) Discipline, meditation, and wisdom
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4. What is a Bodhisattva?
”Bodhi” means “enlightenment;” “sattva” means “sentient being.” A Bodhisattva is one who is following the path to enlightenment. In so doing, a Bodhisattva altruistically chooses to put off his/her own final stage of enlightenment in order to completely alleviate the suffering of others. He/she practices the virtues of generosity, morality, renunciation, wisdom, energy, patience, truthfulness, determination, loving-kindness, and even-mindedness to perfection and without self-interest. There are said to be an infinite number of Bodhisattvas. Mahayana Buddhists place particular emphasis on the importance of the Bodhisattva and the Bodhisattva Path as the way to realize one’s Buddha nature.
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