Reflection Paper 1: Beliefs of Buddhism
In this paper, I have decided to reflect on the beliefs of Buddhism, specifically on one of the oldest surviving branch of Buddhism, which is Theravada. In this reflection paper, I will be discussing how I became a Buddhist, my basic knowledge of Buddhism, the etiquette of being in a temple, what my parents have taught me from a young age. Additionally, I will express my own opinions, views and personal experience specifically on Karma and the 5 Precepts.
Originally, I was born in Thailand and growing up in Cambodia for the first five years of my life their, therefore it is clear that I would naturally follow the beliefs of Theravada Buddhism. Furthermore, I also come from a family of
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From my life experiences, I would say it depends on the situation you find yourself in. I personally find it hard to stick to them because these days it is east to get influenced by the environment you’re in. My aims in life aren’t based on these rules; hence I don’t really find myself sticking to them. Even though I do break these rules, I still believe I am a good Buddhist.
For Monks and Nun’s on the other hand, it is necessary for them to follow the last five rules. In Buddhism, I was taught that they used to be common people but the fact that they have sacrificed everything to become monks they should take the rules very seriously and follow a very strict life. From some of the Monks I’ve seen in Cambodia, I can tell it is very difficult for them to stick to these rules too For me, I get distracted so easily and it is very easy for me to get influenced by modern technology. Today, I would see some Monks with smartphones, using them as iPods; some would have access to Facebook etc. some would even receive money privately or get involved in violence. I find this so disappointing, as it makes me doubt in everything I have believed but also I view monks so differently after seeing and hearing stories about how some Monks have been behaving.
To conclude, it is clear that my beliefs in Theravada Buddhism mainly comes from the influence
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E. Preview Main Points: Today we will take an in-depth look at the beliefs of the Four Noble Truths and Karma and the customs of meditation and the Sacred Mandela. We will also explore its history in India and of Buddha, and how the Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hanh have truly shaped this life changing religion.
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