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1 (a) Describe one important event in the early life of the Buddha - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 1
1 (a) Describe one important event in the early life of the Buddha. One important event in the early life of the Buddha is his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1 (a) Describe one important event in the early life of the Buddha - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 1 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe one important event in the early life of the Buddha.
Answer
One important event in the early life of the Buddha is his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. Shortly before attaining this state, Siddhartha Gautama, who would later become the Buddha, engaged in deep meditation and vowed not to rise until he discovered the truth about suffering and the path to liberation. His intense meditation lasted for several days and nights, during which he was tempted by Mara, the demon of desire and distraction. However, Siddhartha remained resolute and ultimately achieved enlightenment, gaining profound insights into the nature of existence.
Step 2
Describe one Buddhist belief about nibbana.
Answer
One key belief about nibbana (or nirvana) in Buddhism is that it represents the ultimate goal of spiritual practice. Nibbana is seen as a state of liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), where all suffering and desire cease. It is described as a state of profound peace, free from worldly attachments and delusions.
Step 3
Step 4
Explain the importance of Bodhisattvas.
Answer
Bodhisattvas play a crucial role in Mahayana Buddhism, representing ideal beings who seek enlightenment not only for themselves but also for all sentient beings. They embody compassion and selflessness, often delaying their own nirvana to assist others on their path. Bodhisattvas inspire practitioners to cultivate loving-kindness and altruism in their lives.
Step 5
'Wisdom is more important than compassion.' Discuss this statement.
Answer
In discussing this statement, one might analyze the balance between wisdom and compassion in Buddhist teachings. Wisdom in Buddhism often refers to understanding the nature of reality and the impermanence of all things, while compassion involves caring for the suffering of others. Some argue that wisdom is essential to guiding compassionate actions, while others assert that without compassion, wisdom loses its ethical foundation. Referencing authoritative sources can provide insight into differing views within the tradition.