Page 165 - Popular Deities of Chinese Buddhism (Illustrated) and Symbols

C XVII

hat he uddha aught

Dharma is the word Buddhists use, in general, to describe the

teachings of the Buddha. It points to the Truth and is neither

an ordinary philosophy nor an ordinary system, it is a moral

and philosophical teaching that can be tested and verified by

personal experience. All are welcome to experience it and those

who have not can hardly call themselves Buddhists.

Dharma realisation is extremely important as it leads to ultimate

happiness. Dharma is a Sanskrit term which literally means ‘that

which holds’, so that those who exert great effort to achieve its

realisation will be freed from sufferings, fears, dangers and delu-

sion. Here are some of the key teachings of the Buddha which

all Buddhists must have a clear understanding of otherwise

Buddhism will not be very meaningful to them and they may

fall prey to superstitious beliefs and practices.

he our oble ruths

After attaining enlightenment, the Buddha made His way to the

Deer Park in Isipatana near Benares and there He gave His first

discourse to His first five disciples which is known as “e Dis-

course of the Setting in Motion of the Wheel of the Doctrine”.

 