The Life of the Buddha
What was the Buddha’s original real name?
Siddhartha Gautama.
What does the First Noble Truth state is a natural part of life?
Suffering.
What is the 8-step guide that Buddhists follow to reach enlightenment and end suffering?
The Eightfold Path.
Where did Siddhartha reach enlightenment while meditating under a tree?
India (or Nepal).
What do Buddhists call the state of perfect peace, happiness, and an end to suffering?
Nirvana.
What is the mental practice of calming the mind that is central to Buddhism?
Meditation.
What does the word "Buddha" mean?
The Enlightened One or The Awakened One.
Which ancient religion shares its roots with Buddhism, and which major part of its society did Siddhartha disagree with?
Hinduism; Siddhartha rejected the rigid Hindu Caste System.
What does the principle of "Right Action" or "Ahimsa" require Buddhists to show?
Non-violence and compassion for all living things.
What are the 4 main sights Siddhartha saw outside the palace that made him leave his royal life?
An old man, a sick man, a dead man, and a peaceful holy man.
What is the Buddhist principle of living life right down the middle—avoiding extreme luxury and extreme hardship?
The Middle Way.
What is a stupa?
A dome-shaped building used as a Buddhist shrine or burial mound.