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2 The existence of Ultimate Reality (a) Outline one Buddhist belief about bodhisattvas - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 2
2 The existence of Ultimate Reality (a) Outline one Buddhist belief about bodhisattvas. [c] (c) Explain why Buddhists might disagree about the i... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:2 The existence of Ultimate Reality (a) Outline one Buddhist belief about bodhisattvas - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Outline one Buddhist belief about bodhisattvas.
Answer
One key belief about bodhisattvas in Buddhism is that they are enlightened beings who have chosen to remain in the cycle of samsara to assist others in achieving enlightenment. They embody compassion and altruism, reflecting the ideal of selfless service to all sentient beings. This belief emphasizes that bodhisattvas have the potential to attain full Buddhahood but deliberately postpone their own nirvana to guide others on their spiritual path.
Step 2
Explain why Buddhists might disagree about the importance of scripture for revealing Ultimate Reality.
Answer
Buddhists hold varied views regarding the role of scripture in understanding Ultimate Reality. Some might argue that scriptures, such as the Pali Canon or Mahayana texts, provide crucial insights and guidance toward enlightenment. They view these texts as pivotal in understanding the Dharma and the nature of existence. Others, however, may emphasize direct personal experience and meditation over textual interpretation, believing that true understanding comes through personal realization rather than reliance on written words. This divergence often stems from differing interpretations of teachings and the weight assigned to tradition versus individual insight.
Step 3
'Only good people can achieve nibbana.' Discuss this statement. In your answer, you should: - Draw on your learning from across your course of study, including reference to beliefs, teachings, and practices within Buddhism - Explain and evaluate the importance of points of view from the perspective of Buddhism.
Answer
The statement that 'Only good people can achieve nibbana' invites examination of ethical conduct within Buddhism. Nibbana, or enlightenment, is often associated with the cessation of suffering and the end of the cycle of rebirth. While ethical behavior is crucial in Buddhism, as outlined in the Noble Eightfold Path, the concept of 'goodness' can be subjective. Some interpretations suggest that skillful actions (kusala) lead to good karma, conducive to achieving nibbana. However, conversely, there are beliefs that emphasize the effort towards enlightenment over moral perfection. Furthermore, the Mahayana perspective suggests that compassion and the bodhisattva ideal can help all beings, irrespective of their moral standing. Hence, while ethics are fundamental, the path to nibbana may also recognize transformative experiences, dependent on an individual’s journey and practice.