Buddhism

Lesson 11 Thank you Amy!!!!!! 1. The first unique trait of Mahayana Buddhism is a belief that all people, not just monks or nuns, can become enlightened. It is sometimes called Buddhism for the People and it focuses much attention on actions, not words. They follow the Pali canon which they believe is closer to what the Buddha lived and taught and they base much of their teachings on the many sutras that have been compiled, most importantly being the Heart Sutra, since compassion, rather than wisdom is their focal point. 2. Sanskrit for "mind of awakening", Mahayana Buddhism teaches that to attain bodhicitta, the first important step is to take a series of vows. These are the vows of the Bodhisattva, who in general, puts the best of others before his/her own well being. An altruistic attitude is a staple for them. To attain bodhicitta, the Bodhisattva must accumulate merit by deeds and thoughts and meditations aimed at helping others in their attainment of enlightenment also. 3. I think Mahayana is attractive to so many people because of a.) it's focus on compassion b.) it's ability to show people a clear path and c.) that it involves real actions and changes in attitude, not just a belief.  Compassion is something that every human being wants, and has the ability to show forth. I think also, because Mahayan teaches much on the interconnectedness of all things, that we begin to see how each of us affects the other and that we are all a part of a large mechanism and we each play a part in it's workings. Rev. Mark J. Larose ******************************************** To ordain yourself with the Universal Life Church, for free, for life, right now, click on the Free Online Ordination link. Rev. Long created the ULC seminary site to help ministers learn and grow their ministries. The Seminary offers a huge catalog of materials for ministers of the Universal Life Church, as well as an online seminary program and a chaplaincy program.