Year 11 Exam  >  Year 11 Notes  >  Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE  >  Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma)

Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

Introduction

Dhamma, also known as Dharma, primarily refers to the teachings of the Buddha.
It encompasses the following meanings:

  • The profound "truth" about the nature of existence that the Buddha comprehended upon attaining enlightenment.
  • The disciplined path toward enlightenment includes the Eightfold Path.
  • A universal "law," akin to a natural principle or the fundamental way things exist.

The Significance of the Dhamma

The Dhamma is one of the three core refuges (or jewels) in Buddhism, alongside the Buddha and the Sangha. Buddhists regard these refuges as the foundational values guiding their lives. The term "refuge" signifies a place of shelter, where Buddhists seek protection from suffering and guidance for their spiritual journey.
During religious gatherings, such as the ceremony marking someone’s entry into Buddhism, Buddhists often recite the following:

  • “I take refuge in the Buddha.
  • I take refuge in the Dhamma.
  • I take refuge in the Sangha.”

The importance of the Dhamma

Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11

The Concept of Dependent Arising (Paticcasamuppada)

Understanding Dependent Arising

Dependent arising, or Paticcasamuppada, is the principle that:

  • All things rely on supporting conditions.
  • Everything is interconnected.
  • Every action or event impacts everyone.
  • Nothing exists independently.

This concept also highlights that everything, whether mental or physical, is in a perpetual state of flux due to ever-changing conditions.

Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11

The Tibetan Wheel of Life

The Tibetan Wheel of Life is a renowned depiction of how dependent arising relates to Samsara:

  • The outer rim of the wheel illustrates the 12 links or stages (Nidanas) of this cycle.
  • It portrays how humans are trapped in a cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, which may persist across multiple lifetimes.
  • By adhering to the Buddhist path, particularly by overcoming craving, individuals can break free from this cycle, potentially attaining enlightenment and Nibbana.
    Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11
The document Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 is a part of the Year 11 Course Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE.
All you need of Year 11 at this link: Year 11
172 docs|3 tests

FAQs on Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) - Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11

1. What is the significance of Dhamma in Buddhism?
Ans. Dhamma, or Dharma, is fundamental in Buddhism as it represents the teachings of the Buddha. It encompasses the moral law and the ethical guidelines that govern human behavior, leading to enlightenment and liberation from suffering. Dhamma serves as a guide for practitioners on how to live in harmony with themselves and others, emphasizing compassion, mindfulness, and the understanding of the nature of reality.
2. Can you explain the concept of Dependent Arising (Paticcasamuppada)?
Ans. Dependent Arising, or Paticcasamuppada, is a core principle in Buddhism that describes how all phenomena arise in dependence upon conditions. It illustrates the interconnectedness of all things, indicating that nothing exists in isolation. This concept helps practitioners understand the nature of suffering and the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), emphasizing that by changing the conditions, one can alter the outcomes.
3. How does the Tibetan Wheel of Life illustrate Buddhist teachings?
Ans. The Tibetan Wheel of Life, or Bhavachakra, is a visual representation of the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth within Buddhist philosophy. It depicts various realms of existence and the causes of suffering, illustrating important concepts such as karma and the Four Noble Truths. Each section of the wheel serves to remind practitioners of the transient nature of life and the importance of striving for enlightenment to break free from the cycle of samsara.
4. What role does the understanding of Dhamma play in achieving enlightenment?
Ans. Understanding Dhamma is essential for achieving enlightenment as it provides the framework for ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom. Through the study and practice of Dhamma, individuals learn to recognize the nature of suffering, the impermanence of life, and the interdependence of all things. This understanding fosters compassion and insight, helping practitioners to transcend ignorance and attachment, ultimately leading to liberation.
5. How do the teachings of Dhamma relate to daily life and ethical decision-making?
Ans. The teachings of Dhamma are directly applicable to daily life and ethical decision-making. They encourage individuals to act with kindness, integrity, and mindfulness in their interactions with others. By adhering to the principles of Dhamma, individuals can cultivate positive relationships, reduce suffering, and contribute to a more harmonious society. Practicing Dhamma in everyday situations helps reinforce moral values and promotes personal growth.
Related Searches

Extra Questions

,

practice quizzes

,

Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11

,

shortcuts and tricks

,

Sample Paper

,

MCQs

,

mock tests for examination

,

Previous Year Questions with Solutions

,

Objective type Questions

,

Semester Notes

,

Free

,

Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11

,

Summary

,

Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion

,

ppt

,

Viva Questions

,

Exam

,

video lectures

,

Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11

,

Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion

,

past year papers

,

study material

,

Buddhism: The Concept of Dhamma (Dharma) | Religion

,

Important questions

,

pdf

;