Buddhists

Buddhism

A calm bow, with palms together, is a greeting many Buddhists know.

What many people call it

Many people call this faith Buddhism. People who follow it are called Buddhists.

A belief many people hold

Many Buddhists follow the teaching of the Buddha. The Buddha was a teacher. Many Buddhists do not pray to a creator. Some traditions also honour other awakened teachers. Practices differ.

The Buddha’s teaching

A sacred collection of teachings is called the Tripitaka, or the Three Baskets. Some families say sutras. The Buddha taught people to use kind speech, kind acts, and careful thought. Teachings are kept with care. They are not put on the floor.

A temple

Many Buddhists meditate or worship in a temple. Some say vihara. Some visit a stupa. Some practise at home. Shoes often come off. The room stays quiet.

Vesak

Vesak is a festival for many Buddhists. People tell the story of the Buddha’s birth, his awakening, and his death. The date often falls in late spring. Some places use another day. Lamps, flowers, and quiet giving are common.

A kind act

Compassion is central. Many Buddhists try not to harm living beings. Giving food or help is a kind act.

Food, dress, or another rule

Many Buddhists are vegetarian. Some are not. Monks and nuns in some traditions wear robes. The robes are a sign of their life, not a costume. Some families fast on certain days. Some do not. Practices differ.

Pictures

Some Buddhists use a statue of the Buddha as a reminder. It is fully clothed in robes and treated with respect. It is not a toy.