Fundamental Beliefs of Buddhism and Characteristics of a Believer of this Faith.

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Buddhism Question: Describe the fundamental beliefs and outline what characterizer a believer of this faith.

Buddhism is a popular religion and is practiced by believers all over the world. As the forth largest religion, Buddhism bases it principles on the virtues of peace, loving kindness and wisdom.

[Fundamental Beliefs]The Three Jewels (Triple Gem): The Three Jewels are the foundation of Buddhism. The Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha are known collectively as the Three Jewels. The word Buddha means 'The Awakened One'. The Dharma the are the teachings of Buddha on the way to live life and the Sangha represents the community (of monks and others) whom congregate to learn the teaching, seek the understanding and work to embody the Dharma.

"I take refuge in the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha."A saying in which, Buddhists acknowledge that they give themselves up to the teachings and community inspired by the Buddha.

Meditation: The conviction that happiness and good fortune are attainable to all, regardless of age, race or background is one of the fundamental beliefs of Buddhism. Buddhists believe that thought meditation all delusions (negative mental states) can be overcome. It is also believed that through meditation virtues (positive mental states) can be developed.

Reincarnation and Nirvana: Reincarnation is another fundamental component of Buddhist beliefs. Reincarnation as also known as Rebirth and differs from that of the Hindu faith. Buddhists believe in a continuous cycle of birth, life, death and rebirth. It is believed the after death; the human is reborn and continues through many cycles of rebirth. These cycles will only end when self and worldly desires are given up. When this is accomplished, a state of deliverance from suffering and perpetual happiness is achieved. This is a state Buddhists refer to a 'Nirvana' or 'Enlightenment' and is the...