Question 1: Explain the significance of the Four Noble Truths in Buddhism and how they relate to the goal of achieving enlightenment.

Answer: The Four Noble Truths outline the nature of suffering, its cause, the possibility of its cessation, and the path to end suffering. They guide Buddhists toward enlightenment by understanding and overcoming desire and attachment.

Question 2: Describe the symbolism of the Buddha statue in Buddhist practice. What does it represent?

Answer: The Buddha statue symbolizes enlightenment, wisdom, and compassion. It serves as a reminder of the Buddha’s teachings and the potential for all beings to achieve enlightenment.

Question 3: Identify and explain the significance of the Three Jewels in Buddhism.

Answer: The Three Jewels are the Buddha (the enlightened one), the Dharma (the teachings), and the Sangha (the community). They are the core elements that Buddhists take refuge in and follow for spiritual guidance.

Question 4: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating the Eightfold Path. Label at least four components and briefly describe their importance.

Answer: A diagram with eight segments arranged in a circle (or a list). Four components could include 'Right View,' 'Right Intention,' 'Right Speech,' and 'Right Action.' Their importance lies in guiding ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom to achieve enlightenment.

Question 5: What is the significance of meditation in Buddhism? Describe its purpose.

Answer: Meditation in Buddhism helps develop mindfulness, concentration, and insight. It is a practice to calm the mind and gain a deeper understanding of the nature of reality.

Question 6: Describe the concept of Karma and how it influences a Buddhist’s actions and rebirth.

Answer: Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where good actions lead to positive outcomes and bad actions lead to negative outcomes. It influences rebirth, as one's actions determine future lives.

Question 7: Draw a representation of the Wheel of Life (Bhavacakra). Include and label the three main sections: the realm of desires, the realm of form, and the formless realm.

Answer: A large circle divided into three main sections representing different realms of existence. The wheel should include labels for each realm, illustrating the cycle of samsara in Buddhist belief.

Question 8: Discuss the importance of the Vesak festival in Buddhism. What events does it commemorate?

Answer: Vesak celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. It is a major festival that commemorates these key events in the Buddha’s life and promotes teachings of compassion and peace.

Question 9: Explain the role of a Buddhist monk or nun within the community. What vows do they typically undertake?

Answer: Buddhist monks and nuns dedicate their lives to practicing and teaching the Dharma. They undertake vows such as celibacy, non-attachment, and obedience, serving as spiritual guides and examples for lay followers.

Question 10: Identify and explain two different types of meditation practiced in Buddhism.

Answer: Examples include Vipassana (insight meditation), which develops mindfulness and understanding of impermanence, and Metta (loving-kindness meditation), which cultivates compassion and goodwill towards others.