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Introduction
Buddhism is a
religion that has been in existence for over 2500 years. It came from India,
founded by Buddha (Shakyamuni) in
the sixth century B.C. People, who are Buddhist, practice and follow
the teachings of Buddha.
Buddhism is a
religion of self-help. It teaches that it is through one's own efforts,
not from mere wishful thinking or blind faith, that one can achieve
one's goals.
Buddhism teaches
free thought. It urges every individual to think freely and clearly.
Everybody has the potential and capability to attain the highest level
of spirituality. It teaches people that everyone is born equally and is
free to choose the path that is best for themselves.
Buddhists are
peace-loving people and have never, in history, made war in the name of
Buddha. It teaches to be kind and gentle, to show compassion for all of
mankind and all living things.
There are Three
Gems in Buddhism. They receive the highest veneration in the Buddhist
religion. They are the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha.
Buddhists hold these three gems in the utmost love and respect. The
three gems are closely interrelated to one another. One cannot exist
without the other.
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Buddha
(Shakyamuni) is the founder of our religion. Buddha possessed the
noblest virtues and highest wisdom, and for that he was and is
worshiped by many followers. His virtues are 1) Infinite Wisdom 2)
Perfect Purity and 3) Universal Compassion. He is our Spiritual
Father and we should always love him, respect him, and be grateful to
him.
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The
Dharma is the teaching of Buddhism. It is the universal law of our religion.
It is the "truth" that Buddha discovered and taught to the
world. The Dharma should be studied and practiced; it is essential to
world peace. The Dharma can be practiced by anyone, whether they are
Buddhist or not.
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The
Sanghas the Holy Order of Monk disciples
These disciples learned and taught the Dharma to others. They set
good examples in moral conduct and inspired us to do good and show compassion to others. We look to the
Sangha to guide us towards the path of
enlightenment.
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Through history
and to this very day, there were and are many practitioners of
Buddhism. Many scholars, scientists, and highly intellectual people
have validated the beliefs of Buddhism. It is based on many facts and
is undeniably the closest religion to the truth, the truth of human
kind. We hope that Buddhism will grow and flourish, so that all human
beings can learn to love one another, have respect for one another, and
to not make war towards one another. The Dharma is open to all those
who wish to learn it and hold it dearest to their hearts, as many of us
do today.
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