Question and Answer about Buddhism
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I. AT SCHOOL
1. Why do you go to school? Answer The best one
(a) I go to School to learn my important education.
(b) I go to school because my education is important.
(c) My Parents send me to school.
(d) I go to School to be able to read and write.
Note: Going to school can serve many purposes. It helps people gain knowledge, develop skills and prepare them for their future careers. It can also be a place to meet new friends and learn about different subjects.
What about you why do you think education is important?
a) Education is important because it empowers individuals with knowledge and skills that can shape their future.
b)
Fosters -ထိန္းသိမ္းေစာက္ေရွာက္သည္ |
It opens up opportunities for better jobs and helps people understand the world around them. c) Education also fosters critical thinking and creativity which are essential for personal and societal growth.
What about you what valuable lessons have you learned during your time in school?
a)
One of the most valuable lessons learned in school is the importance of perseverance facing challenges.b) And not giving up can lead to personal growth and success it teaches resilience which is essential in life.
2. Why do your parents send you to school? Circle the best answer.
My Parents send me to school because:
(a) They want me to pass exams and graduate.
(b) I'm old enough to study.
(c) They want me to be educated and to be a good citizen.
3. What do you learn at school? Choose the best answer.
At school,
(a) I learn the local language.
(b) I learn English, Mathematics, Geography, Science, History, and many other things.
(c) I learn the importance of education.
4. Why do you have to learn all these things?
I have to learn all these things because I want to gain knowledge and pass examinations.
5. What do you intend to do later on when you have passed your
examinations?
Later on, when I have passed my High School Examinations, I shall go to university.
1. 6. Why must you not be lazy at school? Choose the best answer.
At school,
(a) I must not be lazy at school because If I’m lazy, I’ll miss school.
(b) I must not be lazy at school because a student who is lazy does not learn well and so will never be successful.
(c) He or she only wastes time and money.
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7. What kind of habits do lazy children often get into?
Lazy children often get into bad habits which will cause them shame and harm when they grow up.
8. Besides school subjects, are there any other lessons to learn?
Besides the school subject, I have to learn Moral Lessons.
9. Why do your teachers teach you Moral Lessons?
Because they want me to learn how to live a good life so that I can grow up to be a responsible citizen.
10. Do your parents also like you to learn Moral Lessons?
Yes, of course. They like me to learn Moral lessons because they too wish me to live a good life and to be a responsible citizen.
11. Is it of any use being educated if you are not good?
No sir, it is of no use being educated if I am not good because 1 will be a great danger to myself as well as to others.
12. Is it of any use being rich if you are not good?
No, Sir, it is of no use being rich if I am not good, because if a rich person is wicked he can do much harm with his money to others and in the end she will be unhappy for his bad life.
13. Is it of any use holding a high position if you are not good?
No, Sir, it is of no use holding a high position if I am not good
because a person of high position who is wicked will mis-use his
power and do much harm to many others.
14. Then what must you do if you want to be happy during your
lifetime and after you death?
If I want to be happy during my lifetime and after my death, I must live a good life and be a good person.
15. How do you learn to live a good life and be a good person?
I must learn about "Moral Instructions "and live up to the lessons contained there in.
2. MORAL INSTRUCTIONS OF BUDDHISM
16. What does the Moral Instructions of Buddhism teach you?
(a) The Moral Instructions of Buddhism teaches me how
I should carry out my duties to others as well as to my self and also to practise the principles of the Buddha's Teaching.
(b) The moral instructions of Buddhism often referred to as the
five precepts teach individuals to live ethically and mindfully these precepts include refraining from harming living beings stealing engaging in harmful speech appropriate sexual conduct and consuming intoxicants the teachings
(c) It sounds like you're asking about the importance of teachi-
ng and how to fulfill your responsibilities towards others while also focusing on your own duties it's essential to find a balance between helping others and taking care of yourself. Teaching can be a profound way to share knowledge and values and being a good role model is crucial you can carry out your duties by being patient understanding and open to learning from others as well it's also important to communicate clearly and set a good example.
How do you feel about your role in teaching or helping others?
17. Why will you always be happy if you fulfil these duties?
I will always be happy if I fulfil these duties, because I won't have done anything evil and will do only good. Thus, there will be no sorrow and shame cast upon my self and my family.
(a) Fulfilling duties can lead to a sense of accomplishment and purpose which often contributes to happiness when we meet our responsibilities whether at work school or in personal relationships it can create a feeling of satisfaction and pride
(b) additionally fulfilling duties can strengthen relationships and build trust with others leading to a more positive environment.
What duties do you find most fulfilling in your life?
As an AI I don't have personal experiences or feelings but many people find fulfillment and duties that involve helping others such as teaching volunteering or supporting friends and family these activities often create a sense of connection and purpose.
What about you what duties or activities do you find most fulfilling?
18. How can you be respected by other people?
I can be respected by other people if I am always kind, honest and just towards them.
(a) Gaining respect from others often involves demonstrating qualities like honesty kindness and integrity being a good listener and showing empathy can also help build respect additionally treating others the way you wanna be treated is crucial.
What do you think some important ways to show respect to others?
To show respect to Abbas you can listen to him attentively when he speaks acknowledge his opinions and treat him kindly being supportive and valuing. his contributions can also demonstrate respect it's important to communicate openly.
What kind of relationship do you have with the abbas(aboss?).
19. Why should you learn your duties and fulfil them when you are young?
I should learn my duties and fulfil them while I am young. Because later on it will be easy for me to remain good and keep away from all that is evil.
20. What happens to those children who become wicked when they are still young?
Children who become wicked when they are still young find it almost impossible to get rid of their bad habits when they are grown up.
21. What do you think is the best thing that you can learn at school?
I think that the best thing that I can learn at school is the subject of Moral Instructions.
22. What is the meaning of "Moral"?
Moral means that I must have the ability to under stand right and wrong. In other words, to avoid evil and to do good.
The term moral refers to principles or standards of behavior that distinguish between what is right and wrong morals guide individuals in making decisions and determining how to act in various situations they can be shaped by culture religion and personal beliefs .
What are your thoughts on the importance of morals in everyday life?
23. What is the meaning of 'Instruction1?
Instruction means to acquaint one with the responsibility for doing good actions and follow them accordingly.
24. Do you think it is enough for you to study only this little book of Moral Instructions?
No. I don't think it is enough for me to study only this little book of Moral Instructions, but I must actually practise everyday the lessons taught there in.
25. What did the Buddha teach you on this point?
On this point, the Buddha taught us the following stanza which is the first lesson in Buddhism: "Not to do any evil, to cultivate good. To purify one's mind. This is the Teaching of the Buddha."
The Buddha taught many important lessons one of which is the concept of mindfulness and being present in the moment he emphasized understanding the nature of suffering and the importance of compassion towards oneself and others the teachings encourage individuals to seek a balanced life and to cultivate inner
peace what do you find most relevant or inspiring in the Buddhist teachings?
3. GOOD AND BAD DEPEND ONLY ON ONESELF
26. Is there any Saviour for you in Buddhism?
No, There is no Saviour for me in Buddhism; I can depend only on myself whether good or bad. Therefore, I must be self-reliant to order to save myself.
27. Is there any reward in Buddhism by an Almighty God or Supreme Being?
No, there is no such reward in Buddhism. But if a person has done
something good, he will obtain a good result or reward due to his own good actions.
28. Is there any forgiveness in Buddhism by an Almighty God or Supreme Being?
No, there is no forgiveness in Buddhism, for if a person commits a sin, he will have to suffer by himself due to his own misdeed.
29. Then how must you live your life to get good result or reward?
I must live my life by doing good deeds, speaking good words and thinking good thoughts.
30. What is the most important thing in doing good and avoiding evils?
Mind is the most important thing because if the mind is not properly trained, it is apt to commit evil deeds and evil words.
31. Then how must you practise for yourself?
I must try to purify my mind as much as I can so that I can do good deeds and speak good words to wipe out evil thoughts.
32. What is man made of?
Man is made up of mind and body.
33. Can you see or touch the mind as you touch the body?
No. I can neither see nor touch the mind as I can do the body, because it is only a conscious factor and not material.
34. What is the body composed of?
The body is composed of the four primary elements, namely, earth, water, air, and fire.
35. What is the mind composed of?
The mind is composed of consciousnesses which arise in the contact of eye and visible objects, ear and sound, nose and smell, tongue and taste, body and touch and mind and mental objects.
36. Which is the important one, mind or body?
Mind is the most important factor because it is only the mind which motivates man to do good or bad deeds.
37. Why is man born in this world?
Man is born in this world because of his own craving or attachment.
38. Who causes or creates you to be born here?
No one causes or creates me to be born here.
39. Then how is man born here?
Man is born here according to the natural law of Kamma.
5. ONE'S ACTIONS (KAMMA)
40. What is Kamma?
Kamma is a volitional action that a being has done as merit or demerit.
41. What kind of actions do we do?
We do three kinds of actions, namely, deeds, words and thoughts.
42. Are there natural results from these actions?
Yes, certainly, we are he results of what we have made ourselves to be and we enjoy or suffer what we deserve according to the law of Kamma. We only experience good or bad by our own actions.
43. What happens when man dies?
When man dies his body perishes, but his mental Kammic force or energy which remains causes him to be reborn in the next existence, unless he attains the final Deliverance of Nibbana.
6. PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE LIVES
44. Do you believe in past and future lives?
Yes. I believe in past and future lives because if there is present life in the world, there must be past and future lives too as we have three times of time in the present.
In Buddhism the belief in past and future lives is a fundamental concept. it teaches that individuals go through cycles of rebirth based on their actions known as karma this cycle continues until 1 achieves enlightenment and breaks free from it many people find this idea intriguing as it offers a different perspective on life and existence.
What are your thoughts on the concept of past and future lives?
45. Where will the good go after their death?
After their death, the gooc will go to higher celestial abodes and enjoy a good and happy life.
In Buddhism it is believed that individuals who have lived a good life and accumulated positive karma may be reborn in a favorable state or realm this could be as a human in a better situation or even in a heavenly realm depending on their actions ultimately the goal is to achieve enlightenment and break free from the cycle of rebirth altogether what do you think about the idea of karma and its impact on our lives
46. Where will the wicked go after their death? After their death, the wicked will go to lower miserable abodes and suffer for a long time full of woes and pains.
47. What must you do to go to higher celestial abodes?
To go to higher celestial abodes, I must live a good life, keep away from sins and practise the principles of alms-giving (dana), morality (sila),and mental development or meditation (bhavana).
48. Then, towards what must your attention be directed?
My attention must be directed towards every action that I do, speak and think so that I cannot commit sins.
49. What is the cause of enjoyment and suffering that we experience here at present?
It is due to our own Kamma that we did in the past. We will also have results in the future from what we do now.
7. WHOLESOME AND UNWHOLESOME ACTION
50. What is the result of wholesome action?
Wholesome action will result in good fruition without fault.
51. What is the result of unwholesome action?
Unwholesome action will result in bad fruition with fault.
52. Upon what do we depend for a better and more enjoy able life?
We have to depend upon ourselves for a better and more enjoyable life by doing our own good deeds and fulfilling the perfections (parami).
53. Upon what law does this depend ?
Upon the law of causality, the natural law of the universe that assures that every cause produces exactly its corresponding effects.
54. Why are men different from one another?
Men are different from ie another because of difference of their own actions or deeds of Kamma; and therefore some are rich while others are poor; some are beautiful while others are ugly; some are long lived while others are short live; Some are wise while others are foolish; some are renowned while others are not; some are healthy while others are unhealthy and some are noble while others are ignoble.
55. Can any Supreme Being or God create beings who live in various kinds of states?
In Buddhism there is no Creator or God. All beings are born according to their own actions or Kamma.
56. Is there any God who created the world of mountains, rivers, trees, earth, etc.?
In Buddhism there is no God who created the world of things. But
all these inanimate things are always evolving out of the four Primary Elements, that is. earth, water, air and fire in accord with the cosmic orders.
57. What did the Buddha say about Kamma?
The Buddha said that Kamma is one's volition and therefore it is one's own, one's inheritance, one's cause, one's kindred and one's refuge. If a person has done an action good or bad. He will have to experience its result accordingly.
H. TAKING THREEFOLD REFUGE
1. Which religion do you believe in?
I believe in Buddhism.
2. What is your religion?
My religion is Buddhism.
2. What is Buddhism?
3. Buddhism is the teaching of the Buddha.
4. Who is the Buddha?
The Buddha is the All-knowing One.
5. Who is a Buddhist? What do you mean by a Buddhist?
A Buddhist is one who follows the Doctrine taught by the Buddha.
6. How does one become a Buddhist?
One becomes a Buddhist by taking the Three Refuges(Tisarana).
7. What are the Three Refuges?
The Three Refuges are the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha.
8. Why do you seek refuge in the Buddha?
I seek refuge in the Buddha because He taught us the way to end all suffering.
9. What is the Dhamma?
The Dhamma is the Doctrine taught by the Buddha.
10. Why do you seek refuge in the Dhamma?
I seek refuge in the Dhamma because it is the only path to end all suffering.
11. Who is the Sangha?
The Sangha is the Holy Order founded by the Buddha.
12. Why do you seek refuge in the Sangha?
I seek refuge in the Sangha because they are Holy Disciples who practise the Dhamma and have understood it and then taught us the way to Nibbana..
13. How do you recite the formula of the Three Refuges?
We recite in pali:
Buddham saranam gacchami.
Dhammam saranam gacchami.
Sanghani saranam gacchami.
14. What is the meaning of those Pali words?
Their meaning is:
I go to the Buddha for refuge,
I go to the Dhamma for refuge,
I go to the Sangha for refuge,
Or in other words, I take refuge in the Buddha, I take refuge in the Dhamma, I take refuge in the Sangha,
15. How many times do you recite the Three Refuges?
We recite the 1 ree Refuges three times adding "Dutiyampi and Tatiyarnpi" which means secondly and thirdly respectively.
16. What do you recite before taking the Refuges?
We recite the following these in Pali:
Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa.
17. What does it mean?
It means: Homage to Him. the Blessed One, the Holy
One, the Fully-Enlightened One.
18. Is there any other word for Tisarana' Threefold Refuge?
Yes, another word for 'Tisarana' is 'Tiratana'. i.e.. Triple Gem or Threefold jewel.
19. What is the meaning of 'Ratana'? It is called 'Ratana' because it pleases and delights one.
20. Why do you take refuge in the Triple Gem?
We take refuge in the I iple Gem. because they can dispel our sufferings and lead us to the Real Peace, of Nibbana.
21. Are there any rites observed when becoming a Buddhist?
No, there are no special rites observed when becoming a Buddhist; one must simply have righteous faith in the Triple Gem and take refuge in them.
22. What is the name given to a Buddhist? Upasaka to males and Upasika to females.
PART TWO
L THE LIFE OF THE BUDDHA
1. How was he called before he became the Buddha?
He was called the Bodhisatta.
2. What was the Bodhisatta's name?
His name was Siddhatha Gotama.
3. What was he in his last birth?
He was a noble prince.
4. Who was his father?
His father was King Suddhodana.
5. Who was his mother?
His mother was Queen Maha Maya.
6. When was he Born?
He was born on the Visakha Fullmoon day of May ,"n
623 B.C.
7. Where was he born?
He was born in the Lumbini Park at Kapilavatthu on the border of Nepal.
8. What happened to the mother after his birth?
His mother died seven days after his birth and was born in the Tusita Heaven.
9. Who then brought him up?
His mother's younger sister Maha Pajapati Gotami brought him up.
10. Was she also married to King Suddhodana? Yes, she was also mar, led to King Suddhodana.
11. Had she any children? Yes, she had a son named Nanda and a daughter named Nadar.
12. Were the people happy over the birth of this noble Prince? Yes, many people were happy.
13. Did wonderful things happened on his birthday?
Buddhist books state that many wonderful things happened on his birthday.
14. Can you mention any wonderful event?
Yes, the baby Prince walked on seven lotuses after he was born.
15. Did he say anything?
Yes. he said: Aggo hamasami lokassa, Jettho hamasani likassa, Settho hamasami lokassa.
16. What is the meaning of those Pali words?
Their meaning is: Great am I in the world. Noble am I in the world. Supreme am I in the world.
17. Why did he say so?
Because he would become a Buddha later.
18. Was the Prince a simple child?
No, he was a wonderful child.
2. A SAGE VISITS HIM
19. Did anyone come to see this infant Prince?
A great sage named Asita (Kala Devila) came to the palace to see him.
20. What did the King do?
The prince's feet turned and rested on the head of the sage.
21. So, What happened?
The King brought the child to pay him due respect.
22. Was the Sage displeased at this?
No. he at once rose from his seat aid saluted him with joined hands.
23. Why did he do so?
Because he knew that the Prince would become a Buddha in the future.
24. What did the royal father do?
He also saluted him in the same way.
25. Was there any change in the Sage?
The Sage at first smiled and then wept.
26. What was the cause of his smiling and weeping?
He smiled because the Prince would become a Buddha. He wept because he would not be able to see the Buddha.
3. NAME-GIVING CEREMONY
27. What happened on the fifth day after the birth of the Prince? The King invited many learned Brahmins to name the Prince.
28. How was the Prince named?
He was named Siddhattha which means wish- fulfilled.
29. Did those Brahmins foretell anything? Seven of them raised two fingers and said that the Prince would either become a Universal Monarch or a Buddha. But the youngest Kondanna raised one finger and said that he would surely become a Buddha.
30. Why was he called Gotama? Gotama was his family name.
4. PLOUGHING FESTIVAL
31. Did anything wonderful take place in his childhood? A strange thing tookmplace at a Ploughing Festival.
32. What was this Ploughing Festival? On a certain day, the King with baby Prince and his nurses and many others went to the field to plough.
33. Where was the Prince placed?
He was placed on a couch under a rose- apple tree.
34. Who were watching him?
The nurses were watching him. But later they also went aside to see the ceremony.
35. What did the Prince do when he was thus left alone?
The thoughtful Prince sat, meditating on the couch.
36. Was it strange thing?
It was certainly a very strange thing for a little child.
37. What did the King do on seeing this strange sight?
The King was so pleased that he saluted him saying- "This, dear child, is my second salutation."
5. HIS CHILDHOOD
38. Was the Prince happy?
The Prince was very happy as a royal child.
39. Did he receive a good eduction? Books state that he was even better than his teachers.
40. Was he skilled in the arts too? Being a son of the warrior race, he was specially trained in the art of warfare.
41. Was he an obedient boy?
He was a very obedient and good boy.
42. Was he kind?
He was kind to all beings.
43. Was he sorrowful?
Never, but he was very thoughtful.
6. HIS MARRIED LIFE
44. What happened to the Prince at the age of sixteen?
He married his beautiful cousin, Princess Yasodhara.
45. Why did he marry at such and early age?
Because it was the custom in ancient India.
46. Who was Yasodhara?
She was the daughter of his father's sister, Pamita.
47. Who was her father?
Her father was King Suppabuddha.
48. Had she any brothers?
She had one brother named Devadatta.
49. What was her age when she married?
She was also sixteen.
50. Mention some others of the same age?
Ananda, Kaludayi, Channa, Khanthaka and four large golden pots.
51. What was the tree that sprang up on the Prince's birth day?
The bodhi Tree at Buddha Gaya.
52. How did the Prince marry Yasodhara?
By showing his skill in the art of warfare.
53. Did the prince and princess lead a happy married life?
They led a very happy married life because they agreed with each other in every way. They had also three palaces for the three seasons.
54. What did the prince do after the marriage?
He was merely enjoying worldly pleasures living within the palace.
55. What happened as time passed by?
The prince always used to think alone.
56. Had he any worries?
No. he felt pity for all beings.
57. What did he think?
He thought that he would get old, fall ill and die
58. What happened one day when he visited the park?
He saw four strange sights.
59. What were they?
An old man, a sick person, a corpse and a noble hermit.
60. Was the prince changed on seeing them?
The prince was greatly changed.
He understood the Truth and Peace.
He understood the nature of life and thought of leaving the world in search of
61. Did he receive any happy news when he was in the park?
He was informed that a son was born up to him.
62. Was he glad to hear the news?
He was not. He regarded his first and only son as a fatter. He said "Rahula jato", a fatter has arisen.
63. Hearing it, how did the King Suddhodana name his grandson? He named him Rahula.
64. What happened on his way backto the palace?
A young lady named Kisa
Gotami seeing him uttered:
Nibbuta nuna so pita,
Nibbuta nuna so pita.
Nibbuta nuna so nari.
Yas say am kit so pari,
65. What does this verse mean?
Peaceful is the mother.
Peaceful is the father,
Peaceful is the wife,
who has such husband as he.
66. Had this utterance any effect on him?
Yes, he was urged to seek Peace.
67. How did he show his gratitude to the lady?
By sending his necklace as apresent to her.
7. RENUNCIATION
68. Returning to the palace what did he think? He thought of leaving the world, seek Truth and Peace.
69. At midnigh, what did he do? He went to the room of Yasodhara and opening the door at the threshold, gazing at his wife and child who were fast asleep.
70. Did he love them? He loved them deeply as he loved all.
71. Why did he want to leave those dear ones? Because he had a great compassion for them and for all others.
72. Out of great compassion for the world, what did the Prince Siddhatthado?
Without even informing his beloved father, he left the palace at midnight.
73. How did he leave?
With Channa, his charioteer, he rode to the forest in the dark on his favourite horse, Kanthaka.
74. In what year did he renounce the world?
He renounced the world in his 29th year.
75. Where did he go?
He journeyed far and crossing the river Anoma rested on
its bank.
76. What did he do to his garments?
The Prince removed his garments and handed them over to Channa saying, "Friend Channa, take these garments md the horse and go back home. I shall ordain myself."
77. Did Channa also want to leave the world ?
Yes, but Prince Siddhattha did not allow him to do so.
78. What happened to the horse?
The horse died out of grief and was born in the Tavatimsa Heaven.
79. How did the Prince ordain himself?
With his sword he shaved his head and beard, and wearing yellow robes he became an ascetic.
80. Who gave the robes?
A former friend of his named Ghatikara maha Brahma.
81. Did he get only the robes?
No, he received all the eight requisites of a monk.
82. Mention the eight requisites. They are: the double robe, the upper robe, the lower robe, bowl, razor, needle, belt and the water strainer.
83. Was Siddhattha a Prince any more?
No, he became a penniless wandering ascetic.
84. Was he known by another name?
He was called Bodhisatta.
85. What is the meaning of Bodhisatta?
Bodhisatta means a wisdom-being. It is the name given to one who is trying to become a Buddha.
86. Had the Bodhisatta a place to live?
He had no fixed abode. He was living in caves or at the foot of trees.
87. How was he supported?
He lived on alms given by the charitable.
88. What kind of life was he leading?
Alone he was leading a pure simple life seeking Truth and Peace.
8. STRUGGLE FOR ENLIGHTENMENT
89. What did the Bodhisatta do after his ordination?
He spent a week fasting in the Anupiya Mango Grove, enjoying the bliss of solitude.
90. What did he do on the eighth day?
With bowl in hand, eyes cast down, he went from door to door in the streets of Rajagaha seeking alms.
91. Was it a strange sight to the people?
The people and the King Bimbisara were amazed at the sight of such a noble figure seeking alms in the City.
92. What was the King's order?
The King ordered the people to go and see who he was.
93. What did the Bodhisatta do after seeking alms?
After getting enough food to eat he went to the Pandava rock.
94. Was the ascetic Prince able to eat this mixed poor food?
It seems ai if his bowels gushed out of the mouth on seeing this mixed food which he had ever seen before. But he advised himself and ate the food.
95. What happened when the messengers reported this matter to the King?
The King hurried to the scene and offered him his Kingdom.
96. Did he accept it?
No, he refused and said that he was intent only on Buddhahood.
97. Was the King displeased? The King was pleased to hear his lofty object and invited him to visit his kingdom first after attaining his Buddhahood.
9. SEEKING THE TRUTH
98. How did he seek the Truth?
He went at first to a well-known ascetic named Alara Kalama and studied his doctrine.
99. Was he pleased with his system?
He was not pleased with his system because he could teach him up to a certain mental stage only.
100. Did he leave him?
As he did not get what he sought he went again to another famous ascetic named Udaka Ramaputta.
101. Was he pleased with the system of his second teacher?
He was not pleased with his system either as he could also teach only up to a certain higher mental stage.
102. Why was he not satisfied with their systems?
Because he was seeking Nibbana, the end of all sufferings.
103. Was he therefore discouraged?
He was not discouraged though he met with disappointment.
104. Which place did he choose for his meditation?
He chose Uruvela, a beautiful quiet spot.
105. Who attended on him during his search for Truth?
Five monks, named Kondanna, Vappa, Bhaddiya, Mahanama. and Assaji attended on him.
106. Who was Kondanna?
He was the youngest Brahmin who foretold his future on the name-giving day.
107. Who were the others?
They were the sons of four other Brahmins who were present on that occasion.
108. How long did the Boddhisatta struggle, to gain Buddhahood? He struggled for six long years.
109. How did he strive to gain Buddhahood?
He did many penances. He underwent much suffering.
He practised many forms of severe austerity.
He tormented his body so much so that his body was reduced to almost a skeleton.
110. What happened to his delicate body?
His golden-coloured skin turn pale.
115. Did Mara succeed in tempting the Bodhisatta?
No. He went away disappointed.
10. ATTAINMENT OF BUDDHAHOOD
116. Did the Bodhisatta change his method?
He changed his method as his penances proved useless.
117. What new path did he adopt?
He gave up extremes and adopted the Middle Path (Majjhima Patipada).
118. What are the extremes?
The extremes are enjoyment in pleasures aid self-torture in pain.
119. Did he think that he could not gain Buddhahood with a weak body?
He thought that he needed strength to gain Buddhahood. So he gave up fasting and ate some of the normal food.
120. Were the five monks pleased at this change of method?
The five monks were disappointed and went to Isipatana leaving him alone.
121. Was he discouraged? No. he had an iron-will. He was happy that he was alone.
122. What happened one day as he was seated under a banyan tree?
A generous lady named Sujata offered him some milk rice.
123. Did this food give him any strength?
Yes, he felt strong and made a firm resolve not to rise from his seat until he gained Buddhahood.
124. Under which tree was he seated?
He sat under the famous Bodhi T te at Buddha Gaya.
125. Why is it called the Bodhi Tree?
It is called the Bodhi Tree because the Bodhisatta gained Buddhahood under that tree.
126. What happened in the first watch of the night?
He gained the knowledge by which he was able to remember past lives.
127. What knowledge did he gain in the middle watch?
He obtained the Divine Eye by which he was able to see the death and rebirth of beings.
128. What happened in the last watch?
He destroyed all passions, realized the Four Noble Truths, and became a Samma Sambuddha.
129. What do you mean by Samma Sambuddha?
Samma Sambuddha means a Fully Enlightened or Awakened One.
130. What is the First Noble Truth?
The First Noble Truth is Suffering (dukkha sacca).
131. What is the Second Noble Truth? The Second Noble Truth is the Cause of Suffering (samudaya sacca).
132. What is the Third Noble Truth?
The Third Noble Truth is the End of Suffering (nirodha sacca).
133. What is the Fourth Noble Truth?
The Fourth Noble Truth is the Path leading to the End of Suffering (magga sacca).
134. On what day did the Bodhisatta gain his Enlightenment?
On the Vesak
Full moon day of May.
135. In which year did he become a Buddha?
He become a Buddha in his 35th year.
136. How was He named after His Enlightenment?
He was named the Buddha Gotama.
137. Can you also become a Buddha?
Yes. we all can become a Buddha if we practise like Him.
138. Were there Buddhas in the past?
There were many Buddhas in the past.
139. Will there be Buddhas in the future?
There will be many Buddhas in the future.
140. What will be the name of the future Buddha?
Metteya will be the name of the future Buddha.
PART THREE
1. SOON AFTER THE ENLIGHTENMENT
1. What did the Buddha reflect soon after His Enlightenment?
He recited a Paean of Joy (Udana). Recite His first Poem of Joy:
"Through many a birth in Samsara wandered I.
Seeking, but not finding the builder of this house.
Sorrowful is repeated birth.
O house-builder! Thou ail seen.
Thou shalt build no house again.
All thy rafters are broken, thy ridgepole is shattered.
The mind attains the unconditioned, achieved is the end of craving.
2. Why did He reflect the first Paean of Joy?
3. Because He had seen that he was utterly liberated from the sorrowful repeated birth and His mind attained the unconditioned and achieved the end of craving.
3.How did the Buddha live soon after the Enlightenment The Buddha fasted for seven weeks.
4.Did he feel hungry?
No, He was enjoying Nibbanic Bliss.
5.How did He spend the first week?
Throughout the first week. He sat under the Bodhi Tree enjoying Bliss of (Freedom) Emancipation.
6.What did He do on the seventh day?
He meditated on the "Wheel of Life " and then uttered three stanzas about how He triumphed over all passions.
7. How did He spend the second week?
He stood at a certain distance gazing at the Bodhi Tree with motionless eyes.
8. Why did he do so?
He did so as a mark of gratitude to the Tree.
9. In what way was the bodhi Tree helpful to the Buddha?
The Tree only gave Him shelter during His struggle for Buddhahood.
10. What was the first lesson the Buddha taught to the world?
The great lesson of gratitude.
11. How did He spend the third week?
He walked up and down a jewelle promenade (Ratana Cankamana).
12. How did He spend the fourth week ? Sitting in a chamber. He meditated on the Higher Dhamma (Abhidhamma).
13. How did He spend the fifth week? He sat under the Ajapala Banyan Tree.
14. Who came to tempt Him at this time? Three daughters of Mara came to tempt Him.
15. Mention their names? Tan ha. Rati, and Raga
16. Could they be passions?
They cannot be passions because this happened after the Enlightenment.
17. Where did He spend the sixth week?
Under the Mucalinda Tree.
18. What happened during this week?
It rained heavily and a serpent king sheltered Him.
19. What happened on the 50th day? Two merchants named Tapussa and Bhalika offered Him dried flour and honey.
20. What did they do after the alms (dana)? They sought refuge in the Buddha and Dhamma.
21. How did they seek refuge?
By reciting "Buddham saranam gaccham , Dhammam saranam gacchami."
22. Why didn't they seek in the Sangha?
Because there was no Sangha then.
23. Did they ask anything from the Buddha?
Yes, they wanted something to worship.
24. What did the Buddha give them?
The Buddha touched His head and gave them some hair relics.
25. Where were they enshrined?
They were enshrined in the Shwe Dagon Pagoda in Yangon.
26. Who were the first Upasakas of the Buddha?
Tapussa and Bhalika were the first Upasakas.
27. Who is an Upasaka?
An Upasaka is a lay-follower of the Buddha.
2. THE BUDDHA TEACHES THE DHAMMA
28. What did the Buddha think of the Dhamma?
He thought that the Dhamma would be too deep and hard for people to understand.
29. Who approached before Him then?
Brahma Sahampati appeared before Him and invited Him to preach the Dhamma.
30. Did He find people who could understand Him?
With His Divine Eye. He looked and saw that there were people who could understand the Dhamma.
31. To whom did the Buddha think of teaching the Dhamma first? To Alara Kalama who was His first teacher.
32. Did He preach to him?
No, He understood that he died a week ago.
33. Of whom did He think of next ?
He thought of Udaka Ramaputta who was His second teacher.
34. What had happened to him?
The Buddha understood that he also had died the evening before.
35. Finally of whom did the Buddha think? He thought of the five monks who attended to Him.
36. Where were they staying them?
They were staying at Isipatana in Banares.
37. What were their names?
Kondannaa, Vappa, Bhaddiya, Mahanama, and Asaji.
38. Did the Buddha go to see them?
Out of compassion the Buddha went tosee them.
39. Did He meet any person on the way? He met one named Upaka, amwandering ascetic.
40. What did Upaka ask the Buddha?
He asked who the Buddha's teacher was.
41. What was the Buddhas reply? The Buddha replied that He had no teacher.
42. Why were not Alara Kalama and Udaka Ramaputta His teachers?
They were His teachers before His Enlightenment. For Buddhahood He had no teacher.
43. What did the five monks think on seeing the Buddha from afar? They thought not to give Him due regard as He had giving up striving.
44. What happened as the Buddha drew near?
They could not refrain from giving Him due respect.
45. How did they address the Buddha?
They addressed Him "Avuso G ,ama.
46. What did the Buddha say?
The Buddha advised them not to call Him thus as He was a Buddha.
47. Did they believe His words?
They did not believe Him though the Buddha said so for the second and third time.
48. What did the Buddha say then?
The Buddha asked them," Do you know,
O Bhikkhus, that I ever spoke to you thus before?
49. Was the Buddha able to convince them?
Yes, He was able to convince them.
50. Did they get ready to hear the Dhamma?
Yes, they sat patiently to hear the Dhamma.
3. THE FIRST SERMON
51. What was the name of the Buddha's first sermon? Dhammacakka . iUtta.
52. What does Dhammacakka mean?
It means the establishment of wisdom, or the Wheel of Truth.
53. On what day was this sermon preached?
On the Asalha (Asala=July) Full moon day.
54. Where did the Buddha preach this sermon?
At the Deer Park in Isipatana near Banares.
55. (a) Who were present to hear the sermon?
Amongst human beings, the five monks.
55. (b) Who else were present?
We were told that there were many Devas and Brahmas too.
56. How did the Buddha start the sermon?
By advising the monks to give up the two extremes.
57. What were those two extremes?
The enjoyment of sensual pleasures and the tormenting of the body. Or in other words, Self-indulgence and Self- mortification.
58. Should all give up pleasures? No, this advise was given to those who had given up the world:
59. Why did the Buddha talk about the tormenting of the body? Because people believe in useless penances to gain purity.
60. Did these five monks believe in these penances?
Yes. they had a great faith in them.
61. Did the Buddha also go to these extremes?
Yes, as a prince he enjo* :d sensual pleasures. As an ascetic. He practised many penances.
62.What was the path discovered by the Buddha?
He discovered the Middle Path.
63 What is the Pali word for the Middle Path?
Majjhima Patipada.
64.Why did the Buddha give up these extremes?
Because they were not profitable.
65.What is this Middle Path?
It is the Noble Eightfold Path.
66.T0 what does this Middle Path lead?
It leads to Nibbana
67 Mention the first two members of the Eightfold Path. Right understanding (Samma ditthi) and Right thoughts Samma sankappa).
68. Mention the second three. Right Speech (Samma vaca). Right Action
(Samma kammanta), and Right Livelihood (Samma ajiva).
69. Mention the last three. Right Effort (Samma vayama), Right Mindfulness
(Samma sati), and Right Concentration (Samma samadhi).
70. What else did the Buddha teach in His first discourse?
He taught the Four Noble Truths.
71. What are they?
Sorrow or Suffering, its Cause, its End, and the way to its end.
72. What did the Buddha say with regard to them?
He said that light arose in things which He had not heard before.
73. What is the cause of sorrow?
Craving is the cause of sorrow.
74. What is the end of sorrow?
Nibbana is the end of sorrow.
75. When did the Buddha say that He was an Enlightened One? Only after He understood these Four Noble Truths.
76. What happened at the end of the discourse?
Kondanna understood the Dhamma and became a Sotapanna.
77. What do you mean by a Sotapanna?
A sotapanna is one who has attained the first stage of Sainthood. It means a Stream-winner, one who has seen the Nibbana for the first time.
78. What did the Devas and Brahmas do?
They all shouted Sadhu, Sadhu
(well-done, well-done).
79. Did anything strange happen?
Yes, a very bright light appeared in the
world.
80. Did they become Arahats?
They became Arahats after hearing the Anattalakkhana Sutta.
81. What happened to the other four monks?
They also became Sotapanna later.
82. With what does this Sutta deal?
It deals with No-Soul.
83. What do you mean by an Arahat?
An Arahat means a Worthy One.
110. What happened to his delicate body?
His golden-coloured skin turn pale.
His blood dried up. His eyes were sunk. He was almost on the verge of death,
111. Who approached him at this stage?
Mara, the Evil One, approached him.
112. What did Mara say?
Mara said. "You are lean. Near to you is death. Live.
O good Sir. Life is better. Living, your could perform merit."
113. What was the Bodhisatta's reply?
He replied, "O Evil One, you have come for your own sake. I need no merit. I care not for merit. I am intent aly on Buddhahood."
114. Did the Bodhisatta tell Mara whom his enemy was?
He said that Mara's army consisted of ten kinds of passions, (kilesa)
115. Did Mara succeed in tempting the Bodhisatta?
No. He went away disappointed.
10. ATTAINMENT OF BUDDHAHOOD
116. Did the Bodhisatta change his method? He changed his method as his penances proved useless.
117. What new path did he adopt? He gave up extremes and adopted the Middle Path (Majjhima Patipada).
118. What are the extremes? The extremes are enjoyment in pleasures aid self-torture in pain.
119. Did he think that he could not gain Buddhahood with a weak body?
He thought that he needed strength to gain Buddhahood. So he gave up fasting and ate some of the normal food.
120. Were the five monks pleased at this change of method?
The five monks were disappointed and went to Isipatana leaving him alone.
121. Was he discouraged?
No. he had an iron-will. He was happy that he was alone.
122. What happened one day as he was seated under a banyan tree?
A generous lady named Sujata offered him some milk rice.
123. Did this food give him any strength?
Yes, he felt strong and made a firm resolve not to rise from his seat until he gained Buddhahood.
124. Under which tree was he seated?
He sat under the famous Bodhi Tree at Buddha Gaya.
125. Why is it called the Bodhi Tree?
It is called the Bodhi Tree because the Bodhisatta gained Buddhahood under that tree.
126. What happened in the first watch of the night?
He gained the knowledge by which he was able to remember past lives.
127. What knowledge did he gain in the middle watch?
He obtained the Divine Eye by which he was able to see the death and rebirth of beings.
128. What happened in the last watch?
He destroyed all passions, realized the Four Noble Truths, and became a Samma Sambuddha.
129. What do you mean by Samma Sambuddha?
Samma Sambuddha means a Fully Enlightened or Awakened One.
130. What is the First Noble Truth?
The First Noble Truth is Sufferi (dukkha sacca).
131. What is the Second Noble Truth?
The Second Noble Truth is the Cause
of Suffering (samudaya sacca).
132. What is the Third Noble Truth?
The Third Noble Truth is the End of
Suffering (nirodha sacca).
133. What is the Fourth Noble Truth? The Fourth Noble Truth is the Path leading to the End of Suffering (magga sacca).
134. On what day did the Bodhisatta gain his Enlightenment? On the Vesak Full moon day of May.
135. In which year did he become a Buddha?
He become a Buddha in his th year.
136. How was He named after His Enlightenment? He was named the Buddha Gotama.
137. Can you also become a Buddha?
Yes. we all can become a Buddha if we practise like Him.
138. Were there Buddhas in the past? There were many Buddhas in the past.
139. Will there be Buddhas in the future? There will be many Buddhas in the future.
140. What will be the name of the future Buddha?
Metteya will be the name of the future Buddha.
PART THREE
l.SOON AFTER THE ENLIGHTENMENT
1. What did the Buddha reflect soon after His Enlightenment? He ref cted a Paean of Joy (Udana).
Recite His first Poem of Joy:
"Through many a birth in Samsara wandered I.
Seeking, but not finding the builder of this house.
Sorrowful is repeated birth.
O house-builder! Thou art seen.
Thou shaft build no house again.
All thy rafters are broken, thy ridgepole is shattered.
The mind attains the unconditioned, achieved is the end of craving.
Why did He reflect the first Paean of Joy?
Because He had seen that he was utterly liberated from the sorrowful repeated birth and His mind attained the unconditioned and achieved the end of craving.
3 How did the Buddha live soon after the Enlightenment The Buddha fasted for seven weeks.
4.Did he feel hungry?
No, He was enjoying Nibbanic Bliss.
5.How did He spend the first week?
Throughout the first week. He sat under the Bodhi Tree enjoying Bliss of (Freedom) Emancipation.
6.What did He do on the seventh day?
He meditated on the "Wheel of Life " and then uttered three stanzas about how He triumphed overall passions.
7. How did He spend the second week?
He stood at a certain distance gazing at the Bodhi Tree with motionless eyes.
8. Why did he do so?
He did so as a mark of gratitude to the Tree.
9. In what way was the bodhi Tree helpful to the Buddha?
The Tree only gave Him shelter during His struggle for Buddhahood.
10. What was the first lesson the Buddha taught to the world?
The great lesson of gratitude.
11. How did He spend the third week?
He walked up and down a jewelled promenade (Ratana Cankamana).
12. How did He spend the fourth week ?
Sitting in a chamber. He meditated
on the Higher Dhamma (Abhidhamma).
13. How did He spend the fifth week?
He sat under the Ajapala Banyan Tree.
14. Who came to tempt Him at this time? Three daughters of Mara came to tempt Him.
15. Mention their names?
Tanha. Rati, and Raga
16. Could they be passions?
They cannot be passions because this happened after the Enlightenment.
17. Where did He spend the sixth week?
Under the Mucalinda Tree.
18. What happened during this week?
It rained heavily and a serpent king sheltered Him.
19. What happened on the 50th day?
Two merchants named Tapussa and Bhalika offered Him dried flour and honey.
20. What did they do after the alms (dana)?
They sought refuge in the Buddha and Dhamma.
21. How did they seek refuge?
By reciting "Buddham saranam gacchami
Dhammam saranam gacchami."
22. Why didn't they seek in the Sangha?
Because there was no Sangha then.
23. Did they ask anything from the Buddha?
Yes, they wanted something to worship.
24. What did the Buddha give them?
The Buddha touched His head and gave them some hair relics.
25. Where were they enshrined?
They were enshrined in the Shwe Dagon Pagoda in Yangon.
26. Who were the first Upasakas of the Buddha?
Tapussa and Bhalika were the first Upasakas.
27. Who is an Upasaka?
An Upasaka is a lay-follower of the Buddha.
2. THE BUDDHA TEACHES THE DHAMMA
28. What did the Buddha think of the Dhamma?
He thought that the Dhamma would be too deep and hard for people to understand.
29. Who approached before Him then?
Brahma Sahampati appeared before Him and invited Him to preach the Dhamma.
30. Did He find people who could understand Him?
With His Divine Eye. He looked and saw that there were people who could understand the Dhamma.
31. To whom did the Buddha think of teaching the Dhamma first? To Alara Kalama who was His first teacher.
32. Did He preach to him?
No, He understood that he died a week ago.
33. Of whom did He think of next ?
He thought of Udaka Ramaputta who was His second teacher.
34. What had happened to him?
The Buddha understood that he also had died the evening before.
35. Finally of whom did the Buddha think? He thought of the five monks who attended to Him.
36. Where were they staying them?
They were staying at Isipatana in Banares.
37. What were their names?
Kondannaa, Vappa, Bhaddiya, Mahanama, and Asaji.
38. Did the Buddha go to see them?
Out of compassion the Buddha went to see them.
39. Did He meet any person on the way?
He met one named Upaka, a wandering ascetic.
40. What did Upaka ask the Buddha?
He asked who the Buddha's teacher was.
41. What was the Buddhas reply?
The Buddha replied that He had no teacher.
42. Why were not Alara Kalama and Udaka Ramaputta His teachers?
They were His teacher. were His teachers before His Enlightenment. For Buddhahood He had no.
43. What did the five monks think on seeing the Buddha from afar?
They thought not to give Him due regard as He had giving up striving.
44. What happened as the Buddha drew near? They could not refrain from giving Him due respect.
45. How did they address the Buddha?
They addressed Him "Avuso Gotama.
46. What did the Buddha say?
The Buddha advised them not to call Him thus as He was a Buddha.
47. Did they believe His words?
They did not believe Him though the Buddha said so for the second and third time.
48. What did the Buddha say then?
The Buddha asked them," Do you know,
O Bhikkhus, that I ever spoke to you thus before?
49. Was the Buddha able to convince them?
Yes, He was able to convince them.
50. Did they get ready to hear the Dhamma?
Yes, they sat patiently to hear the Dhamma.
3. THE FIRST SERMON
51. What was the name of the Buddha's first sermon? Dhammacakka Sutta.
52. What does Dhammacakka mean?
It means the establishment of wisdom, or the Wheel of Truth.
53. On what day was this sermon preached?
On the Asalha (Asala=July) Full moon day.
54. Where did the Buddha preach this sermon?
At the Deer Park in Isipatana near Banares.
55. (a) Who were present to hear the sermon?
Amongst human beings, the five monks.
55. (b) Who else were present?
We were told that there were many Dev«r and Brahmas too.
56. How did the Buddha start the sermon?
By advising the monks to give up the two extremes.
57. What were those two extremes?
The enjoyment of sensual pleasures and the tormenting of the body. Or in other words, Self-indulgence and Self- mortification.
58. Should all give up pleasures?
No, this advise was given to those who had given up the world:
59. Why did the Buddha talk about the tormenting of the body? Because people believe in useless penances to gain purity.
60. Did these five monks believe in these penances? Yes. they had a gr it faith in them.
61. Did the Buddha also go to these extremes?
Yes, as a prince he enjoyed sensual pleasures. As an ascetic. He practised many penances.
62.What was the path discovered by the Buddha?
He discovered the Middle Path.
63 What is the Pali word for the Middle Path?
Majjhima Patipada.
64.Why did the Buddha give up these extremes?
Because they were not profitable.
65.What is this Middle Path?
It is the Noble Eightfold Path.
66.T0 what does this Middle Path lead?
It leads to Nibbana
67.Mention the first two members of the Eightfold Path. Right unders*; nding (Samma ditthi) and Right thoughts Samma sankappa).
68. Mention the second three. Right Speech (Samma vaca), Right Action (Samma kammanta), and Right Livelihood (Samma ajiva).
69. Mention the last three. Right Effort (Samma vayama), Right Mindfulness (Samma sati), and Right Concentration (Samma samadhi).
70. What else did the Buddha teach in His first discourse?
He taught the Four Noble Truths.
71. What are they?
Sorrow or Suffering, its Cause, its End, and the way to its end.
72. What did the Buddha say with regard to them?
He said that light arose in things which He had not heard before.
73. What is the cause of sorrow?
Craving is the cause of sorrow.
74. What is the end of sorrow?
Nibbana is the end of sorrow.
75. When did the Buddha say that He was an Enlightened One? Only after He understood these Four Noble Truths.
76. What happened at the end of the discourse?
Kondanna understood the Dhamma and became a Sotapanna.
77. What do you mean by a Sotapanna?
A sotapanna is one who has attained the first stage of Sainthood. It means a Stream-winner, one who has seen the Nibbana for the first time.
78. What did the Devas and Brahmas do?
They all shouted Sadhu, Sadhu (well-done, well-done).
79. Did anything strange happen?
Yes, a very bright light appeared in the world.
80. Did they become Arahats?
They became Arahats after hearing the Anattalakkhana Sutta.
81. What happened to the other four monks?
They also became Sotapanna later.
82. With what does this Sutta deal?
It deals with No-Soul.
83. What do you mean by an Arahat?
An Arahat means a Worthy One.
PART FOUR
1. THE SIXTY ARAHATS
1. Who was the sixth disciple of the Buddha?
Yasa, a rich man's son was His sixth disciple.
2. How was he converted?
Disgusted of the world, he ran away from his house at night without informing anyone. Meeting the Buddha, he heard the Dhamma and became an Arahat.
3. What happened to his father? His father became the first lay-follower (Upasaka) who sought refuge in the Triple Gem.
4. What happened to his mother and wife? They became the Buddha's first Upasikas who sought refuge in the Triple Gem.
5. Had Yasa any friends? He had fifty-four noble friends.
6. Were they also converted? Yes, they too heard the Dhamma and became Arahats.
7. How many Arahats were there in the world then besides the Buddl ?
There were altogether sixty Arahats in the world.
8. Did the Buddha found any new Order?
With these sixty Arahats the Buddha founded the Noble Order of the Sangha.
9. What was the advice of the Buddha to them?
"Go forth. O Bhikkus. for the good of the many preach the Dhamma for the happiness of the many. Proclaim the Holy Life.
10. What did these first missionaries do?
11. They went alone in various directions to preach to Dhamma.
11. What did the Buddha do? The Buddha also went alone on foot to preach His new Dhamma.
12. How long did the Buddha's ministry last?
Forty five years.
13. Was His ministry a success?
His ministry was the most successful and longest of all the religious teachers.
14. What were the causes of His success?
His noble personality, the greatness of the Dhamma and the methods used to teach the Dhamma.
15. Had He many supporters?
Yes. He had many supporters like Kosala, King Bimbisara. Anathapindika, and Visakha.
16. Had He any opponents?
Yes, Devadatta, His own cousin and pupil was His chief opponent.
17. Had He any oppositions?
Yes, He had oppositions from rival sects, but He faced them bravely.
18. Whose kingdom did the Buddha visit first? The kingdom of King Bimbisara.
19. What did the Buddha preach there?
The Buddha preached the Maha Narada Kasapa Jataka.
20. Was the King converted?
Yes, the King became a Sotapanna.
21. Did the King make any offering?
The King offered the Bamboo Grove (Veluvanarama) to the Buddha and the Sangha.
2. THE FIRST TWO DISCIPLES
22. Who were the Buddha's first two chief disciples?
Venerable Sariputta and Moggalana.
23. Who was Sariputta? He was a son of a Brahmin lady named Sari.
24. Had he another name? His other name was Upatissa.
25. Who was Moggalana ?
He was the son of a Brahmin lady named Moggali.
26. Had he another name? His other name was Kolita.
27. What did these two friends, Sariputta and Moggalana do?
They realized the vanity of worldly pleasure and wanted to see Peace.
28. To whom did they go first? They went to a teacher named Sanjaya.
29. Were they pleased with his teaching?
No, dissatisfied with his teaching
they left him.
30. Whom did Sariputta meet later ?
He met Arahat Assaji.
31. Did he preach the Dhamma to him?
Yes, he preached on the law of Cause and Effect.
32. Recite the verse he preached. "Of things that proceed from a cause. Their cause, the Tathagata has told. And a I so their cessation: Thus teaches the Great
Ascetic".
33. Was Sariputta able to understand the Dhamma?
On hearing the fi t two lines, he became a Sotapanna.
34. What happened to Moggalana?
When Sariputta went and repeated the verse to Moggalana, he also became a Sotapanna.
35. Did they go to see the Buddha later?
Yes, they saw the Buddha and after hearing the Dhamma from Him, they attained Arahatship.
36. Did they make any request?
They requested the Buddha to admit them into the Order.
37. How were they admitted?
By the mere words___"Etha Bakkhave"___
"Come,OBhikkhus".
38. What positions were they given in the Order?
The Buddha made Arahat Sariputta, His first disciple and Arahat Moggallana His second disciple.
3. THE BUDDHA VISITS HIS BIRTHPLACE
39. Did the Buddha visit His birthplace? The Buddha visited His birthplace as desired by His father
40. Who urged Him to do so?
The Minister, Kaludayi, who was a playmate of the Buddha.
41. How long did the Buddha take to walk to kapilavatthu?
As he went preaching the Dhamma on the way, it took Him two months.
42. Did the elderly Sakyans give Him due respect?
No, they were proud and they put forward younger ones to salute Him.
43. How did the Buddha overcome their pride?
By rising into the sky and showing the "Twin Wonder" (Yamaka Padihariya).
44. What is this Twin Wonder?
By His mental powers the Buddha makes
water and fire issue from the pores of His body at the same time.
45. Seeing this Wonder, what did the King do? He saluted Him at once saying that it was his third salutation.
46. What did the other Sakyans do then?
They also paid Him due respect.
47. What was, the name of the jataka. The Buddha Vessantarajataka.
48. What did the Buddha do on the day after His arrival?
With bowl in hand. He went from house to house seeking alms in to streets of Kapilavatthu.
49. Hearing that He was seeking alms, what did the King do?
He went up to Him and asked Him why He was disgracing him thus.
50. What was the Buddha's reply?
The Buddha replied that it was the custom of all the Buddhas.
51. Did the King see the Light of Truth?
The King at first became a Sotapanna. Then he be came a Sakadagami. Hearing the Dhammapala jat :ka, he became an Anagmi. On his death he be came an Arahat.
52. What do you mean by a Sakadagami ?
Sakadagami means a Once- Returner. He who attains this Second Stage of Sainthood is born in this world only once more.
53. What do you mean by Anagami?
Anagami means a Never-Returner. He who attains this Third Stage of Sainthood is no more reborn in this world again.
After death he is born in the pure abodes till he attains Arahatship.
54. What do you mean by an Arahat? Arahat means a Worthy One. He who attains this Fourth Stage of Sainthood is no more reborn any where after death.
He attains Parinibbana.
55. Did Princess Yasodhara come to salute the Buddha?
She thought,"
Surely if there is any virtue in me, the Noble Lord Himself will come to f* t me.
Then I will pay my respect."
56. Did the Buddha go to see her?
Out of compassion the Buddha went to see her.
57. What did she do on seeing the Buddha? She clasped His ankles and placing her head on His feet. She paid respect to Him to her heart's desire.
58.What did King Suddhodana say about her?
He praised her and told the Buddha about her loyalty.
59. Did she enter the Order? She later entered the Order and became and Arahat.
60. What happened to His step-brother Nanda?
He also entered the Order and became and Arahat.
61. Seeing the Buddha what did Prince Rahula do?
As advised by the mother, he went up to the Buddha and asked for his inheritance.
62. Did Rahula say anything?
He said. "O, ascetic, even your shadow is pleasing to me."
63. What was his age then?
He was only seven years old.
64. Did he enter the Order?
He was admitted into the Order at seven. Later, he became and Arahat.
65. Who was Ananda ?
He was a cousin of the Buddha.
66. Did he join the Order?
He joined the Order and became a Sotapanna.
67. What position did the hold in the Order?
He became the treasurer of the
Dhamma. He was also the favourite attendant of the Buddha.
68. When did he attain Arahatship? He attained Arahatship after the death of the Buddha.
69. Did he do any important thing?He rehearsed the Dhamma at the First Buddhist Council.
70. Did he do any service to women? He pleaded for the establishment of the Order of Nuns. (Bhikkhuni)
\Who was Devadatta? Devadatta was the cousin and brother-in-law of the Buddha.
72. What can you say of his life?
He joined the Order and was at first a good Bhikkhu. Later, he became the greatest enemy of the Buddha.
73. What did he do to the Buddha? He tried to kill the Buddha.
74. What was his end? Owing to his evil deeds, he was born in Hell.
75. What will be his future state?
He will become a Private Buddha nar ■ ;d Atthissara.
76. What happened to Maha Pajapati Gotami? After the death of King Suddhodana, she joined the Order of Nuns. Became an Arahat.
77. Who requested the Buddha to found the Order of Nuns?
Maha Pajapati Gotami.
78. Who were the two chief disciples in the Order of Nuns? Khema and Uppalavanna were the two chief female disciples.
79. Who founded the first society for women? The Buddha founded the first society for women.
80. Does the Order of Nuns still exist? The Order of Nuns is extinct now
4. BUDDHAS SUPPORTERS
81. Who helped the Buddha to make His mission a success? Kings and millionaires helped Him.
82. Who were His Royal Patrons? King Bimbisara. king Kosala and King Ajatasatthu.
83. Who was His chief male supporter Dayaka ?
Anathapindika, the millionaire.
84. Did he offer the Buddha a monastery?
He offered the Jetavanrama.
85. Who was His chief female supporter Dayika ?
Visakha, a very generous lady.
86. What was the name of the temple she offered?
Pubbarama.
87. In which monasteries did the Buddha spend most of His time? In Jetavanarama and Pubbarama at Savatthi.
88. Are their ruins still to be seen?
Their ruins can still be seen at Sahet- Mahet.
5. THE BUDDHAS PARINIBBANA
89. What was the Buddhas last advice?
Strive on with diligence.
90. Motion it in Pali. Appamadena Sampadetha.
91. What did the Buddha say with regard to the best form of worship ? The Buddha said, "He who honours me best practises my teaching best".
92. Who gave the Buddha's last meal?
Cunda, the smith.
93. What were the most meritorious meals given to the Buddha? The first meal before He became a Buddha and the last meal before He passed away.
94. Who was the Buddha's last convert? The ascetic Subhadda was the first convert.
95. Did the Buddha appoint a successor before He passed away? No. He advised His disciples to regard His teachings as their teacher.
96. How did the Buddha pass away? He attained to Jhana and passed away without any sorrow.
97. Where did the Buddha pass away? The Buddha passed away at Kusinara.
98. In which year did He pass away? In His 80th year.
99. On what fullmoon day? On the Vesak a fullmoon day.
100. How many years before Christ did the Buddha pass away? 543 years before Christ.
101. Can we see the Buddha today? Yes, the Buddha said, "He who sees die Dhamma sees me".
102. What was done to His sacred body? His sacred body was cremated three months after His death.
103. What happened to His relics? They were distributed among His distinguished followers.
104. Are these relics still to be seen ? Yes. the Tooth Relic is still to be seen at the Temple of the Tooth in Sri Lanka and another one in China.
105. Did any important event take place after the cremation? Four months
after the cremation the First Buddhist Council was held to recite the Dhamma and the Vinaya of the Buddha.
106. Where was this council held? At Rajagaha.
107. Who presided at the First Buddhist Council? Arahat Kassapa.
108. Who were chosen to recite the Vinaya and the Dhamma? Arahat Upali for Vinaya and Arahat Ananda for Dhamma.
109. Why was this Council held? In order that the Teaching of the Buddha may last long in all its purity.
110. What is the Pali word for the whole Teaching of the Buddha? Tipitaka, which means Three Basket.
111. Does this Tipitaka still exist? Yes, the Tipitaka still exists in its purity.
112. When was the Tipitaka first written? The Tipitaka was first written in Sri Lanka about 80 B.C.
113. What is the first Pitaka? The first is the Vinaya Pitaka, - the Basket of Discipline.
114. What is the second Pitaka? The second is the Suttanta Pitaka, - the Basket of Discourses.
115. What is the third Pitaka? The third is the Abhidhamma Pitaka, - the Basket of Higher Doctrine or Ultimate Things.
PART FIVE
I. THE DHAMMA
1. What is the goal of all Buddhists? Nibbana is the goal of all Buddhists.
2. How do you gain Nibbana? By becoming a Samma Sambuddha, a Pacceka Buddha or an Arahat.
3. What do you mean by a Samma Sambuddha? A Samma Sambuddha is a Fully Enlightened One.
4. Who is a Pacceka Buddha? A Paceeka Buddha is a Private Enlightened
One.
5. What is the difference between a Samma Sambuddha and a Pacceka Buddha? A Samma Sambuddha understands the Dhamma Himself and teaches the Dhamma to others. A Pacceka Buddha understands the Dhamma himself but does not teach the Dhamma to others.
6. Who is an Arahat ? An Arahat realizes Nibbana by hearing the Dhamma from another.
7. What must you do to be a Samma Sambuddha, A Pacceka Buddha or an Arahat? We must practise the Perfections (Parami).
2. PARAMI
8. What are Parami? Parami are perfections of higher virtue.
9. What do you mean by Parami? Parami is that which enables one to go to the further shore.
10. How many kinds of Parami are there? There are ten kinds of Parami.
11. What is the first Parami? Giving or Generosity (Dana) is the first Parami.
12. What is the second Parami? Morality or Good Conduct (Sila) is the second Parami.
13. What is the third Parami? Renunciation (Nikkhama) is the third parami.
14. What is the fourth Parami? Wisdom (Panna) is the fourth Parami.
15. What is the fifth Parami? Energy or Perseverance (Viriya) is the fifth Parami.
16. What is the sixth Parami? Patience (Khanti) is the sixth Parami.
17. What is the seventh Parami? Truthfulness (Sacca) is the seventh Parami.
18. What is the eighth Parami? Determination (Adhitthana) is the eighth
Parami.
19. What is the ninth Parami? Loving-kindness (Metta) is the ninth Parami.
20. What is he tenth Parami? Equanimity (Upekkha) is the tenth Parami.
21. How shall we best remember and put them into practice? By thinking daily thus:
1. May I be charitable and helpful.
2. May I be good and pure.
3. May I not be selfish but selfless,
4. May I be wise and give my Wisdom to others.
5. May I be energetic and persevering; may I be of service to all.
6. May I be patient.
7. May I be truthful and honest.
8. May I have an iron will.
9. May I be kind and friendly.
10. May I be clam, quiet, and just.
3. GOOD DEEDS (KUSALA OR PANNA)
22. How many kinds of good deeds are there?
There are ten kinds of good deeds.
23. Mention the first good deed. The first good deed is Giving or Generosity (Dana).
24. Mention the second good deed. The second good deed is Morality or Good Conduct, (Sila).
25. Mention the third good deed. The third good deed is Mental Development or Meditation (Bhavana).
26. Mention the fourth good deed. The fourth good deed is Reverence (Apacayana).
27. Mention the fifth good deed. The fifth good deed is Service (Veyya\ .icca).
28. Mention the sixth good deed. The sixth good deed is Giving Merit to others
29. Mention the seventh good deed. The seventh good deed is rejoicing in others' Merits (Pattanumodana).
30. Mention the eighth good deed. The eighth good deed is Hearing the Doctrine (Dhammasavana).
31. Mention the ninth good deed. The ninth good deed is Teaching the Doctrine (Dhammadesana).
32. Mention the tenth good deed. The tenth good deed is Straightening of One's Views (Ditthijukamma).
33. What does this tenth good deed mean?
It is Strengthening of one's confidence in the Triple Gem.
4. EVIL DEEDS (AKUSALA)
34. How many kinds of evil deeds are there?
There are ten kinds of evil deeds. Three kinds are committed by body, four kinds by words and three kinds by thoughts.
35. Mention the first evil deed. The first evil deed is killing any living being
36. Mention the second evil deed. The second evil deed is stealing any thing that is not given (Adinnadana).
37. Mention the third evil deed. The third evil deed is committing sexual misconduct (Kamesumicchacara).
38. Mention the fourth evil deed. The fourth evil deed is telling lies
(Musavada).
39. Mention the fifth evil deed. The fifth evil deed is slandering or tale bearing (Pisunavaca).
40. Mention the sixth evil deed. The sixth evil deed is harsh speech
(Pharussavaca).
41. Mention the seventh evil deed. The seventh evil deed is frivolous talk (Samphappalapa).
42. Mention the eighth evil deed. The eighth evil deed is covetousness (Abhijjha).
43. Mention the ninth evil deed. The ninth evil deed is ill-will (Byapada).
44. Mention the tenth evil deed. The tenth evil deed is false view
(Micchaditthi).
5. DUTIES OF HUMAN BEINGS
45. Are there any duties in Buddhism to fulfill to one another?
Yes, there are many duties to fulfill to one another.
46. What are the duties of children to minister to their parents?
(1) By supporting them.
(2) By performing his or her duties owing to them.
(3) By preserving the family lineage.
(4) By being worthly of his or her inheritance,
(5) By offering alms in honour of his or her departed parents.
47. What are the duties of parents to their children ?
(1) To dissuade them from evil.
(2) To persuade them to do good.
(3) To let them learn in arts and science.
(4) To give them in marriage to a suitable wife or husband.
(5) To hand over to them their inheritance at the proper time.
48. What are the duties of pupils to minister to their teachers?
(1) By rising when the teacher approaches.
(2) By attending upon him.
(3) By obeying him attentively.
(4) By personal service:
(5) By respectfully receiving instructions.
49. What are the duties of teachers to their pupils?
(1) To train them in the best discipline.
(2) To impart instruction which is esteemed by them.
(3) To teach them every suitable art or science.
(4) To introduce them to their friends and associates.
(5) To provide for their safety in every way.
50. What are the duties of a husband to his wife?
(1) By courtesy.
(2) By not despising her.
(3) By faithfulness.
(4) By handing over due auhority to her.
(5) By proving her with ornaments.
51. What are the duties of a wife to her husband?
(1) To perform her duties in perfect order.
(2) To be hospitable to the people of the neighbourhood.
(3) She must not be unfaithful.
(4) To protect his possessions.
(5) She should be industrious and not lazy in discharging her duties.
52. What are the duties of a householder to his friends and associates?
By generosity.
(2) By courteous speech.
(3) By promoting their good.
(4) By equality.
(5) By truthfulness.
53. What are the duties of the friends and associates to the householder.
(1) To protect him when he is heedless.
(2) To protect his property when he is heedless.
3) To become a refuge when he is afraid.
4 Not to forsake him when he is in danger.
(5) To be considerate towards his family or relative.
54. What are the duties of masters to their servants or employees?
(1) By assigning rhem work according to their strength
(2) supplying them with food and wages.
(3) By tending them in sickness.
(4) By sharing eatables with them.
(5) By giving them holidays at due times.
55. What are the duties of servants or employees to their masters?
(1) To get up before him.
(2) To go to sleep after him.
(3) To take only what is given.
(4) To perform their duties to his satisfaction.
(5) To spread his good name and fame
56. What are the duties of lay followers to minister to their holy monks?
(1) By loving deeds.
(2) By loving words.
(3) By loving thought.
(4) By not closing the doors to them.
(5) By supplying their material needs.
57. What are the duties of holy monks to their lay fol lower?
(1) To dissuade him from evil.
(2) To persuade him to do good.
(3) To love him with a kind heart.
(4) To make him hear religious sermons which he has not heard.
(5) To clarify those he had already heard.
(6) To point out the path to the heavenly abode.
6. THIRTY-SEVEN PRINCIPLES OF ENLIGHTENMENT
58. Are there any principles for obtaining enlightenment?
Yes. there are 37 principles for obtaining enlightenment.
59. Mention the Four Foundations of Mindfulness.
(1) Contemplation on the body.
(2) Contemplation on feelings.
(3) Contemplation on consciousness.
(4) Contemplation on mental objects.
60. Mention the Four Right Efforts.
(1) To prevent the arising of evil thoughts that have not yet arisen.
(2) To disple the arising of evil thought that have already arisen.
3) To produce good thoughts that have not yet been produced.
(4) To develop good thoughts that have been produced.
61. Mention the Four Bases of Psyhchic Power.
(1) The concentration of will (chanda).
(2) The concentration of thought (citta).
(3) The concentration of Energy(viriya).
(4) The concentration of Investigation or Wisdom, (vimamsa or panna)
62. Mention the Five Faculties.
(1) The Faculty of Faith (sadha).
(2) The Faculty of Energy (viriya)
(3) The Faculty of Mindfulness (sati)
(4) The Faculty of Concentration (samadhi).
(5) The Faculty of Full Knowledge or Wisdom (panna)
63. Mention the Five Powers.
(1) The Power of faith (sadhabala).
(2) The Power of Energy (viriyabala).
(3) The Power of Mindfulness (samadhibala).
(4) The Power of Concentration (samadhibala).
(5) The Power of Full Knowledge of Wisdom (pannabala).
64. Mention the Seven Constituent Parts of Enlighienment.
(1) Mindfulness is the constituent part of Enlightenment (satisambojanga).
(2) Investigation into the Dhamma is the constituent part of Enlightenment (dhammavicayasambojanga).
(3) Great Effort is the constituent part of Enlightentment (viriyasambojanga).
(4) Great joy is the constituent part of Enlightentment (pitisambojanga).
(5) Peaceful Serenity is the constituent part of Enlightentment (passadhisambojanga).
(6) One-Pointedness of Mind id the constituent part of Enlightenment (samadhisambojanga)
(7) Equanimity is the constituent part of Enlightenment (upekkhasambojanga).
65. Mention the Noble Eightfold Path.
(1) Right Understanding (sammaditthi)
(2) Right Thoughts (sammasankappa).
(3) Right Speech (sammavayama).
(4) Right Action (sammakammanta).
(5) Right Livelihood (sammaajiva)
(6) Right Effort (sammavayama)
(7) Right Mindfulness (sammasati)
(8) Right Concentration (sammasamadhi)
66. What is another word for the Noble Eightfold Path?
Another word for the Noble Eightfold Path is the Middle Path (Majjhima Patipada).
67. What is the way to Nabhana ?
The way to Nibbana is the Noble Eightfold Path.
7. THE PRECEPTS (SILA)
68. Can we lead a good life in this world?
Yes, we can lead a good life , n this world. We can even gain Nibbana in this life if we actually practise the Dhamma.
69. Could you create Heaven in this life?
Yes, we can create Heaven in this life, It is within us.
70. Could you create Hell in this life?
Yes, we can create Hell in this life, ft is
within us too.
71. How do you create Heaven here? By leading a good life.
72. How do you created Hell here? By leading a bad life.
73. Is there any precept for a human to have a good life? Yes, there are Five Precepts to observe for a layman to have a good life. They are also called the Precepts of a House-hold (gahatthasila)
74. Why do you observe the Five Precepts?
We observe the Five Precepts to lead a way of good righteous and happy life.
75. How do you observe the Five Precepts?
By reciting them in Pali one after another.
76. What is the first precept?
The first precept is: Panatipata veramani Sikkhapadam samadiyami. The meaning is: I observe the precept to abstain from killing any living being.
77. What is the second precept?
The second precept is: A dinnadana veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. The meaning is: I observe the precept to abstain from
Stealing.
78. What is the third precept?
The third precept is: Kamesu micchacara veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. The meaning is: I observe the precept to abstain from sexual misconduct.
79. What is the fourth precept? The fourth precept is: Musavada veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. The meaning is: I observe the precept to abstain from telling lies.
80. What is the fifth precept? The fifth precept is Surameraya majjapamadatthana veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. The meaning is: I observe the precept to abstain from taking intoxicating drinks and drugs.
81. Can Buddhists observe more precepts than five? Buddhists can observe Eight Preceptss, Nine Precepts.
82. Why do you observe Eight Precepts? To control our senses.
83. On what days do you observe the Eight Precepts? On fullmoon and new moon days, we observe the Eight Precepts. But we can observe them on any day we like.
84. How do you take them? We request a Bhikkhu to give them. If there s no Bhikkhu, we can take them alone in front of the pagoda or the image of the Buddha.
85. What are the first five of the Eight Precepts?
1. Panatipata veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from killing any liv ing being.
2. Adinnadina veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from stealing.
3.Abrahmacariya veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from ignoble sexual intercourse.
4. Musavada veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from telling lies.
5. Surameraya majjapamadatthana veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from taking intoxi eating drinks and drugs.
86. What is the difference between these five and the usual five precepts?
The only difference is in the third precept. It deals with celibacy.
87. What is the sixth precept?
Vikalabhojana Veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from eating any food after mid- day.
88. Why do you observe this precept? It is to control our desire for food.
89. Which sense do you control thereby our tongue.
90. What is the seventh precept?
7. Nacca gita vadita vuskhadassana-malagandha vilepana dharana mandana vibhusanatthana Veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from dancing, singing, music, unseemly shows, garlands, perfume, unguents and from things that tend tombeautify and adorn the body.
91. Why do you observe this precept? In order to control our eyes, ears and nose.
92. Why is the eight precept?
8. Uccasayana mahasayana Veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from using high and luxurious seats.
93. How high should they not be?
They should not be more than two feet from the ground.
94. Why do you observe this precepts? In order to control our body.
95. What about Tenth Precepts? In the Tenth Precepts the seventh is divided into two.
96. How is the divided into two?
7. Nacca gita vadita vuskhadassana Veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from dancing, singing, music and unseemly shows.
8. Malagandha vilepana dharana mandana vibhusanatthana Veramani sikkhapadamsamadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from garlands, perfume, unguents and from things that tend to beautify and adorn the body.
97. What is the ninth precept?
Uccasayana mahasayana Veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from using high and luxurious seats.
98. What is the tenth precept?
Jataruparajat patiggahana Veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami. I observe the precept to abstain from accepting gold.
99. What do gold and silver mean here?
Gold and silver mean money made of any metal or paper which are used in buying and selling.
100. Why do you observe this tenth precept?
In order to detach one's own possession.
8. THE SUPREME QUALITIES OF THE THREEFOLD GEM
101. What are the supreme qualities of the Buddha? The nine Supreme Inherent Qualities of the Buddha are: Itipi so bhagava araham sammasambuddho vijjacarana sampanno sugato lokavidu anuttaropurisa damma sarathi satthadevamanussanam buddho bhagava.
102. The meanings are: Itipi so bhagava: By this (reason); that Lord is:
1. Araham=Worthy or Purified.
2. Sammasambuddho=Perfectly Self Enlightened One.
3. Vijjacaranasampanno=Endowed with supreme knowledge and conduct.
4. Sugato Well-goer or Well-farer
5. Lokavidu=Knower of the worlds
6. Anuttaropurisadammasarathi=An Incomparable Charioteer for the training of persons
7. Satthadevamanussanam=Teacher of Gods and men
8. Buddho=Enlightened
9. Bhagava=The Blessed One or Exalted One.
103. What are the supreme qualities of the Dhamma?
The six Supreme Inherent Qualities of the Dhamma are:
Svakkhato bhagavata dhammo samditthiko akaliko ehipassiko opaneyyhii :>
paccatamveditabbo vinnuhi.
Bhagavata dhammo=The Dhamma taught by the Exalted One is;
1. Svakkhato=Well-proclaimed
2. Sandihtiko=
3. Akaliko=immediately effective
4. Ehipassiko=inviting all to come and see
5. Opaneyyiko=worthy to be achieve
6. Paccatamveditabbo vinnuhi=to be comprehended by the wise each for himself.
104. What are the supreme qualities of the Sangha?
The nine Supreme Inherent Qualities of the Sangha are.
Suppatipanno bhagavato savakasamgo ujuppatipanno bhagavato savakas, ngo nayyappatipabnno bhagavato savakasamgo samicippatipanno bhagavato savakasamgo yadidam cattari purisa yugani attha purisapuggala esa bhagavato savakasamgo ahuneyyo pahuneyyo dakkhineyyo anjalikaraniyo anuttaram punnakhettam lokassa. Bhagavato savakasamgo=The Order of the Exalted One's Disciples
I. Suppatipanno=is of good conduct.
2. Ujuppatipanno=is of upright conduct.
3. Nayappatipanno=is of wise conduct.
4. Samicippatikpanno=is of dutiful conduct.
Yadidam cattari purisi yugani attha purisapuggala esa bhagavato
savakasamgo=This Order of the Exalted One's Disciples — that is, these four pairs of persons or the eight Individuals-
5. Ahuneyyo=is worthy of offerings.
6. Pahuneyyo=is worthy of hospitability.
7. Dakkhineyyo=is worthy of noble gifts.
8. Anjalikaraniyo=is worthy of reverential salutation.
9. Anuttaram punnakhettam lokassa=is an incomparable field of merits for the world.
9. CONCENTRATION ON LOVING-KINDNESS (METTA
BHAVANA
105. Is there any concentration on love in Buddhism?
Yes. there if concentration on loving-kindness Mettabhavana in Buddhism.
106. How do you radiate the concentration on loving-kindness?
At first, I have to radiate the loving-kindness to myself as follows:
In Pali — Aham avero homi abyaapajja homi anigho homi sukhiattanam pariharami.
The meaning is : May I be tree from enemity, ill-will, grief and may I guard myself happily.
Then how do you radiate it?
In Pali - Mayham matapitu acariya natimitta samuha avera hontu
abyapajja hontu anigha hontu sukhi attanam pariharantu dukkha
muccantu yathadha sampattito mavigacchantu kammassaka.
The meaning is : May my parents, teachers, relatives and friends be free from enmity, ill-will, grief and may they guard themselves happily! M -.y they he released from suffering! May they not be deprived of their fortune duly acquired! All have Kamma as their own.
108. How do you pervade Loving-kindness to all directions?
I pervade loving-kindness to the ten directions (dasa disa), i.e.. the four cardinal points, the four intermediate points and above and below.
1. Purattimaya disaya - in the east direction
2. Pacchimaya disaya - in the West direction
3. Uttaraya disaya - in the North direction
4. Dakkkhinaya disaya - in the South direction
5. Purattimaya anudisaya - in the North-East direction
6. Pacchimaya anudisaya - in the South-West direction
7. Uttaraya anudisaya - in the North-West direction
8. Dakkhinaya anudisaya - in the South-East direction
9. Hetthimaya disaya - in the below direction
10. Upaparimaya disaya - in the above direction
i. Sabbe satta - all beings
ii. Sabbe pana - all living beings
iii. Sabbe bhuta - all creatures
iv. Sabbe puggala - all persons or individuals
v. Sabbe attabhava - all that have come to individual existence
vi. Sabbe itthiya - all females
vii. Sabbe purisa - all males
viii. Sabbe ariya - all worthy ones
ix. Sabbe anariya all unworthy ones
x. Sabbe deva - all gods
xi. Sabbe manussa - all human beings
xii. Sabbe vinikpatika - all those in unhappy states.
A vera hontu abyapajja hontu anigha hontu sukhi atanam pariharantu.
May (they) be free from enmity, ill-will, grief, and may they keep
themselves happily.
109. Beside this, how do you diffuse Loving-kindness to all being on the earth, in the water and in the sky? I diffuse Loving-kindness as follows: In Pali
1. Uddham yava bhavaggaca adho yava avicito sammanta csakkavalesu ye satta pathavicara abyapajja niveraca nidukkhacas unppadava.
2. Uddham yava bhavaggaca adho yava avicito sammanta niveraca
nidukkhacas unppadava.
3. Uddham yava bhavaggaca adho yava avicito sammanta niveraca
nidukkhaca nuppadava.
The meaning is:
1. May all sentient beings living in the surrounding universe on earth from the lowest plane of hell up to the pane of Brahma be released from worry, enmity, misery and distress!
2. May all sentient beings living in water from the lowest plane of hell up to the plane of Brahma be released from worry, enmity, misery and distress!
3. May all sentient beings living in the sky on earth from the lowest plane of hell up to the plane of Brahma be released from worry, enmity, misery and distress.
10. INSPIRATIONS AND SHARING ONE'S MERITS
110. How do you inspire for the attainment of Nibbana by your nu t?
I inspire for the attainment of Nibbana by reciting the following in Pali:
1. AddhA imaya patipattiya jati jara maranamha parimucissami.
By this practice of concentration, may I certainly be released from rebirth, old age and death!
2. Idam me pannam asavakkhayamvaham hotu. May this action of my merit be able to convey towards the extinctbn of passion!
3. Idam me punnam nibbanassa paccayo hotu. May this action of my merit be the cause for the attainment of Nibbana.
111. How do you aspire for the welfare of all beings by your merit?
I aspire as follows
In Pali:
1. Yam pattam kusalam tassa anubhavena panino, Sabbe saddhammarajassa natva dhammam sukhavaham.
2. Papunantu visuddhaya sukhaya patipattiya, Asokamanupayasam nibbana sukhamuttamam.
3. Ciram titthatu saddhammo dhamme hontu sagarava. Sabbepi satta kalena samma devo Pavassatu.
4. Yatha rakkhimsu porana surajano tathevimam. Raja rakkhatu dhammena attanova pajam pajam.
The meaning is:
1. 1 have done the merit by the power of which, may all beings be able to understand the doctrine of the King of Truth (Buddha) that leads to supreme happiness!
2. Having undersood, may they, through the practice of purification and peace, be able to attain the sorrowless, wordless and Supreme Bliss of Nibbana!
3. May the Noble Doctine remain for long! May all sentient beings pay great respect to the Dhamma. May the rain fall favourably in due time!
4. As the ancient good kings protect then people in a righteous way, even so may the ruler guard his people as his own son!
112. How do you share your merits?
I share the portion of my merits of alms-giving (dana), morality (sila), meditation (bhavana), etc., to all sentient beings. May they all share equally with me and rejoice on what they have duly acquired gains and happiness!
