Study Guides

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will examine key beliefs in Buddhism. They will examine key concepts such as dhamma and the idea of the human condition. They will gain an understanding of Buddhist ideas about suffering and the way to end it. They will also examine the story of Gautama Buddha.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain Buddhist beliefs on Bodhisattva ideals, why the beliefs are important, and how they influence Buddhists today.

Key Notes

• Mahayana means 'great vehicle', which refers to the idea of the Bodhisattva path as a 'vehicle' to Buddhahood.
• A Bodhisattva is an enlightened being who remains in the cycle of samsara in order to help others achieve enlightenment.
• Pure Land Buddhism follows the teaching of Amitabha (Amida) Buddha.
• Amitabha (Amida) Buddha features in Mahayana texts.
• Alongside other Buddhist teachings, Pure Land Buddhists follow Amitabha (Amida) as a role model.

Vocabulary To Learn

• enlightenment: a state of wisdom that enables clarity and understanding of the truths of existence
• Buddhahood: reaching enlightenment
• Bodhisattva: an enlightened being who remains in the cycle of samsara in order to help others achieve enlightenment
• Pure Land: a form of Mahayana Buddhism, based on a belief in Amitabha Buddha
• Amitabha (Amida): the Buddha worshipped by Pure Land Buddhists

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• The Pure Land is Nirvana.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Arhat ideals Study Guide
• Human personality Study Guide
• Karma and rebirth Study Guide
• Mahayana: the Six Perfections Study Guide
• The Buddha Study Guide
• The Buddhist Threefold Way Study Guide
• The Dhamma Study Guide
• The Four Noble Truths: suffering Study Guide
• The Four Noble Truths: the Eightfold Path Study Guide
• The Four Noble Truths: the Three Poisons Study Guide