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1. Buddhist Beliefs (a) Outline three Buddhist beliefs about dukkha - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 1
1. Buddhist Beliefs (a) Outline three Buddhist beliefs about dukkha. (b) Explain two reasons why sunna is important to Buddhists. (c) Explain two reasons why the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. Buddhist Beliefs (a) Outline three Buddhist beliefs about dukkha - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline three Buddhist beliefs about dukkha.
Answer
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Dukkha as Suffering: Buddhists believe that life inherently involves suffering (dukka). They recognize it as a fundamental aspect of human existence.
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Managing Suffering: By understanding and alleviating suffering, individuals can gain merit. This reflects the importance of ethical living and compassion in Buddhism.
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Resolution through the Middle Way: Dukkha is seen as a problem to be solved through following the Middle Way, which encourages balance and moderation in one’s actions.
Step 2
Explain two reasons why sunna is important to Buddhists.
Answer
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Foundation of Emptiness: Sunna represents the concept of emptiness, teaching that all phenomena lack inherent existence. This understanding helps Buddhists overcome attachment and fosters a deeper insight into the nature of reality.
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Spiritual Liberation: Embracing sunna allows Buddhists to realize the non-self (anatta) and to seek liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth (samsara). This promotes personal growth and spiritual development.
Step 3
Explain two reasons why the Second Noble Truth is important to Buddhists.
Answer
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Cause of Suffering: The Second Noble Truth explains that suffering arises from desire (tanha). Understanding this helps Buddhists identify the root cause of their dissatisfaction and guides them towards resolution.
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Guidance for Overcoming Suffering: It indicates that overcoming desire is crucial for ending suffering. For instance, the Dhamma teaches that 'all phenomena are rooted in desire' (Mula Sutta), providing a clear path for practitioners.
Step 4
Evaluate the statement considering arguments for and against.
Answer
Arguments for the Statement
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Central Event: Siddhartha Gautama's enlightenment is pivotal as it marks the moment he attained profound understanding and insight into the nature of suffering and the path to liberation.
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Teaching Legacy: His enlightenment enabled him to teach others about overcoming dukkha, fundamentally shaping Buddhism as it exists today.
Arguments Against the Statement
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Other Significant Events: While enlightenment is crucial, Siddhartha's encounter with the Four Sights also fundamentally shaped his journey toward enlightenment and the foundation of Buddhist teachings.
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A Broader Perspective: Focusing solely on enlightenment may underplay other crucial aspects of his life, such as his dedication to alleviating suffering through teaching.
Conclusion
Overall, while the enlightenment of the Buddha is immensely significant, it is essential to view it within the broader context of his life and teachings to grasp the full impact of his contributions to Buddhism.