Question 1: Describe the significance of the Buddha in Buddhism and explain why he is considered an important figure.

Answer: The Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, is considered the founder of Buddhism. He is regarded as an enlightened teacher who achieved enlightenment and shared his insights to help others attain liberation from suffering. His teachings form the foundation of Buddhist beliefs.

Question 2: List the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism and briefly explain the first one.

Answer: The Four Noble Truths are: 1) The truth of suffering (dukkha), 2) The truth of the origin of suffering, 3) The truth of the cessation of suffering, 4) The truth of the path leading to the cessation of suffering. The first truth states that life involves suffering, which is an inherent part of existence.

Question 3: Explain what the Eightfold Path is and how it helps Buddhists achieve enlightenment.

Answer: The Eightfold Path is a guide to ethical and mental development that leads to enlightenment. It includes right understanding, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration. Following it helps Buddhists reduce suffering and attain Nirvana.

Question 4: Describe the concept of karma in Buddhism and how it influences a person's future.

Answer: Karma refers to the law of cause and effect, where a person's actions (good or bad) influence their future rebirths. Positive actions lead to favorable outcomes, while negative actions create suffering. It encourages ethical behavior.

Question 5: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Buddhism. Label the main components.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a circular cycle with arrows indicating continuous rebirth, including labels such as 'Samsara', 'Karma', 'Birth', 'Death', and 'Rebirth'. The diagram should reflect the repetitive nature of the cycle and the goal of escaping it.

Question 6: Identify and explain two practices Buddhists might do to develop mindfulness.

Answer: Buddhists practice meditation to develop mindfulness, focusing on their breathing or sensations. They also engage in mindful walking or eating, paying full attention to each action to stay present and aware.

Question 7: Describe what a Buddhist temple or shrine might contain and its significance.

Answer: A Buddhist temple or shrine often contains images or statues of the Buddha, offering bowls, candles, incense, and religious texts. These objects are used for meditation, prayer, and offerings, symbolizing respect and devotion.

Question 8: Explain the importance of the festival Vesak in Buddhism.

Answer: Vesak celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. It is a time for Buddhists to reflect on his teachings, engage in meditation, and perform acts of kindness and charity.

Question 9: Identify one way in which Buddhist teachings influence the daily life of a practicing Buddhist.

Answer: Buddhists might practice compassion and kindness in their interactions with others, striving to live ethically according to the Five Precepts, which include refraining from harm, lying, stealing, and misconduct.