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 the Eightfold Path, why it is important and how it influences Buddhists.

Key Notes

• The final Noble Truth is the path to enlightenment, called the Eightfold Path.
• The Eightfold Path is also known as the Middle Way by many Buddhists.
• Each part of the path can help a Buddhist end suffering.
• The eight stages are guiding principles which lead to enlightenment when simultaneously perfected.

Vocabulary To Learn

• the Eightfold Path (magga): also known as 'The Middle Way', it includes the way to wisdom and mental training
• the Four Noble Truths: an important part of the Buddha's teachings, explaining the truth about existence
• enlightenment: a state of wisdom that enables total clarity and understanding of the truths of existence
• Dhammapada: a source of wisdom and authority that includes some of the most famous teachings of the Buddha, including the Eightfold Path

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• The Eightfold Path is a set of steps to be followed in a strict, linear order.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Buddhahood and the Pure Land Study Guide
• Gautama Buddha's life and its significance Study Guide
• Human destiny: the Arhat and Boddhisatva ideals Study Guide
• Human personality in Mahayana tradition Study Guide
• Human personality in Theravada tradition Study Guide
• Meditation and wisdom Study Guide
• Nibbana and the end of suffering Study Guide
• Suffering and its causes Study Guide
• The concept of dependent arising Study Guide
• The concept of Dhamma Study Guide
• The Four Noble Truths Study Guide
• The three marks of existence Study Guide
• The three poisons Study Guide
• The Threefold Way Study Guide