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Question 1: Buddhist Beliefs (a) Outline three Buddhist beliefs about dukkha - Edexcel - GCSE Religious Studies B - Question 1 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 1
Question 1: Buddhist Beliefs (a) Outline three Buddhist beliefs about dukkha. (3) (b) Explain two reasons why sunna is important to Buddhists. (4) (c) Explain two... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 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
- Buddhists believe that all life involves suffering (dukkha).
- Suffering can be alleviated through the practice of the Eightfold Path, leading to a reduction of suffering in life.
- Suffering is viewed as a fundamental aspect of existence that can be addressed through the pursuit of enlightenment.
Step 2
Explain two reasons why sunna is important to Buddhists.
Answer
- Sunna represents the idea of emptiness, which is crucial for understanding the nature of reality in Buddhism. It teaches that attachment leads to suffering and encourages practitioners to let go of clinging to material possessions.
- The concept of sunna helps Buddhists to foster a mindset of compassion and wisdom, allowing for a deeper connection with the teachings of the Buddha and the pursuit of spiritual awakening.
Step 3
Explain two reasons why the Second Noble Truth is important to Buddhists.
Answer
- The Second Noble Truth identifies the cause of suffering as desire (tanha), which is essential for understanding the nature of suffering. This insight is derived from the teachings of the Buddha, particularly from the 'Mula Sutta.'
- Recognizing desire as the source of suffering allows Buddhists to engage in practices that mitigate attachment, leading them closer to enlightenment and fulfillment.
Step 4
Evaluate this statement considering arguments for and against.
Answer
Arguments for:
- The Buddha's enlightenment is the pivotal event that signifies the foundation of Buddhist teachings. Without this moment, the path to overcoming suffering may not have been established.
- His enlightenment enabled him to teach others the way to escape suffering, making it a significant moment in the context of Buddhist philosophy.
Arguments against:
- While enlightenment is vital, the Four Sights—seeing old age, sickness, death, and a monk—were critical in motivating the Buddha's quest, as they presented the reality of suffering.
- Additionally, the Middle Way is a significant teaching that encompasses the essence of Buddhism and is not solely reliant on his enlightenment.
In conclusion, while enlightenment is paramount, it may not be the only characteristic defining the most important event in the Buddha's life.