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1. (a) State the Three Marks of Existence - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 1
1. (a) State the Three Marks of Existence. (b) Describe one type of suffering outlined in the First Noble Truth. (c) Outline the meaning of the term kamma. (d) Expla... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. (a) State the Three Marks of Existence - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
State the Three Marks of Existence.
Answer
The Three Marks of Existence in Buddhism are:
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Anicca (Impermanence): This indicates that all things are in a constant state of flux, and nothing is permanent.
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Dukkha (Suffering): This refers to the inherent suffering in life, encompassing pain, dissatisfaction, and the struggle associated with existence.
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Anatta (Non-Self): This concept emphasizes that there is no permanent, unchanging self. Instead, the sense of self is a collection of changing phenomena.
Step 2
Describe one type of suffering outlined in the First Noble Truth.
Answer
One type of suffering outlined in the First Noble Truth is Dukkha-dukkha, which refers to ordinary pain, sorrow, and suffering. This suffering includes physical pain, emotional distress, and the general malaise of dissatisfaction that accompanies life. Buddha taught that this tangible suffering is an integral part of human experience.
Step 3
Outline the meaning of the term kamma.
Answer
The term kamma (or karma) in Buddhism refers to the law of moral causation, which states that actions have consequences. Good actions lead to favorable outcomes and rebirths, while harmful actions result in negative consequences. Kamma is integral to one's moral development and spiritual progress, influencing future experiences and the cycle of rebirth.
Step 4
Explain why some Buddhists believe that the Four Sights are important in the life of the Buddha.
Answer
Some Buddhists believe that the Four Sights are crucial in the life of the Buddha because they were pivotal in prompting his spiritual quest. The Four Sights consist of:
- An old man - highlighting the reality of aging.
- A sick person - showcasing the inevitability of illness.
- A dead body - confronting the nature of death.
- A wandering ascetic - representing the possibility of liberation from suffering.
These experiences led Siddhartha Gautama to understand the nature of suffering and ultimately contributed to his journey towards enlightenment.
Step 5
‘Overcoming craving is the goal for all Buddhists.’ Discuss this statement. In your answer, you should: • Analyse and evaluate the importance of points of view, referring to common and divergent views within Buddhism • Refer to sources of wisdom and authority.
Answer
The statement 'Overcoming craving is the goal for all Buddhists' holds significant weight in Buddhist practice, as craving (tanha) is identified as a primary cause of suffering (dukkha) in the Second Noble Truth.
Analysis of Points of View
Many Buddhists agree that overcoming craving leads to Nirvana, a state free from suffering and rebirth. This view is prevalent in Theravada Buddhism, where the Four Noble Truths emphasize the relinquishing of desires as essential for enlightenment. Conversely, some branches of Mahayana Buddhism present a more nuanced perspective, introducing the idea of compassionate desire—a wish to alleviate the suffering of others, which may coexist with the concept of overcoming personal cravings.
Sources of Wisdom and Authority
Buddhist teachings, such as the Buddha's discourses in the Pali Canon and commentaries by revered monks, emphasize the necessity of overcoming craving. For instance, texts such as the Dhammapada articulate the importance of dispelling desire to achieve liberation. Furthermore, teachings from modern Buddhist leaders, such as the Dalai Lama, advocate for managing craving through mindfulness and compassion rather than a total negation of desire.
In conclusion, while the overarching goal of overcoming craving is widely accepted across Buddhist traditions, the methods and understandings of desire vary significantly among different schools of thought.