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The existence of Ultimate Reality (a) Describe the role of ‘skilful action’ in deciding what is good - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 2
The existence of Ultimate Reality (a) Describe the role of ‘skilful action’ in deciding what is good. (b) Describe how dependent origination causes samsara. (c) E... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The existence of Ultimate Reality (a) Describe the role of ‘skilful action’ in deciding what is good - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the role of ‘skilful action’ in deciding what is good.
Answer
In Buddhism, 'skilful action' refers to actions that are motivated by compassion and wisdom, leading to beneficial outcomes for oneself and others. It is important as it guides individuals in distinguishing between actions that promote welfare and those that lead to harm. Skilful actions are aligned with the principles of the Noble Eightfold Path, particularly right intention and right action, helping practitioners to cultivate ethical conduct in their lives.
Step 2
Describe how dependent origination causes samsara.
Answer
Dependent origination is a fundamental Buddhist concept that explains the cyclical nature of existence, known as samsara. It posits that all phenomena arise in dependence upon various causes and conditions. This doctrine outlines twelve interconnected stages, beginning with ignorance and leading to suffering and rebirth in samsara. For instance, ignorance leads to cravings, which generate actions that result in rebirth. Therefore, understanding dependent origination allows practitioners to recognize the roots of suffering and the transient nature of existence, emphasizing that breaking the cycle begins with overcoming ignorance.
Step 3
Explain what Buddhism teaches about the reasons for human suffering.
Answer
Buddhism teaches that human suffering arises primarily from craving (tanha) and ignorance (avidya). The Four Noble Truths articulate this understanding: the truth of suffering, its cause (craving), the cessation of suffering, and the path to cessation. Suffering is seen as inherent to life, stemming from attachment, desire, and delusion. By following the Noble Eightfold Path, individuals can cultivate wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental discipline, ultimately leading to enlightenment and liberation from suffering.
Step 4
Discuss this statement. You should: Draw on your learning from across your course of study, including reference to beliefs, teachings and practices within Buddhism.
Answer
The statement 'Discussions about Ultimate Reality are pointless' can be evaluated from multiple perspectives within Buddhism. While some schools, such as Zen, emphasize direct experience and practice over theoretical discussions, others, like the Tibetan traditions, place substantial importance on understanding the nature of reality. This includes concepts like emptiness (shunyata) and the nature of the mind. Ultimately, engaging in discussions about Ultimate Reality can be seen as valuable, as they encourage deeper understanding and reflection on one's beliefs and practices, which can aid in the pursuit of enlightenment.