Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Essentials of Buddhism

Four Noble Truths

   1. Suffering exists

   2. Suffering arises from attachment to desires

   3. Suffering ceases when attachment to desire ceases

   4. Freedom from suffering is possible by practicing the Eightfold Path

Noble Eightfold Path

Three Qualities

Eightfold Path

Wisdom (panna) Right View   Right Thought

Morality (sila) Right Speech    Right Action     Right Livelihood

Meditation (samadhi) Right Effort    Right Mindfulness   Right Contemplation

Three Characteristics of Existence

   1. Transiency (anicca)

   2. Sorrow (dukkha)

   3. Selflessness (anatta)

Hindrances

   1. Sensuous lust

   2. Aversion and ill will

   3. Sloth and torpor

   4. Restlessness and worry

   5. Sceptical doubt

Factors of Enlightenment

   1. Mindfulness

   2. Investigation

   3. Energy

   4. Rapture

   5. Tranquillity

   6. Concentration

   7. Equanimity