Spirituality Based Inquiry

Page 9 of 10

Buddhism

Buddhism is one of the world's major religions. It began in northern India approximately 2,500 years ago. It is very different from other major world religions. It requires no belief in God, but simply a willingness to commit oneself to the following:

  • the Buddha (the ideal of enlightenment)
  • the Dharma (his teaching)
  • the Sangha (the community of his followers)

Buddhists believe that everyone has to potential to become 'enlightened', that is to come to understand the truth about life.

Library Resources
Eight Aspects
Web Resources

Library Resources

On the shelves

Dewey Number

  • Buddhism - 294.3

Keyword Searching

Enter the following terms into a keyword search on the Library catalogue:

  • Buddhism
  • Buddha
  • Buddhist
  • Dharma
  • The Pali Canon

Subject Headings

Many of the Library's books on World Religions have chapters devoted to Buddhism. They provide good outlines of the beliefs and practices of this religion.

Collection highlights

Reference resources

Eight Aspects

Beliefs

Myths and other stories

Sacred texts

Rituals

Symbols

Social structures

Ethical principles and oral or written codes of behaviour

Religious experiences and spirituality

Web Resources

YouTube

Schools of Buddhism