Learning Objectives - Theravada Buddhism

Which of the following correctly states the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path?

• The Four Noble Truths are: suffering exists, suffering arises from attachment, suffering ceases when attachment ceases, and there is a path to end suffering; the Eightfold Path includes: right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right concentration.

• The Four Noble Truths are: karma, reincarnation, meditation, and enlightenment; the Eightfold Path includes: right wealth, right power, right fame, right pleasure, right speech, right action, right mindfulness, and right concentration.

• The Four Noble Truths are: love, peace, joy, and hope; the Eightfold Path includes: right faith, right worship, right sacrifice, right prayer, right speech, right action, right mindfulness, and right concentration.

• The Four Noble Truths are: birth, death, rebirth, and nirvana; the Eightfold Path includes: right food, right sleep, right travel, right work, right speech, right action, right mindfulness, and right concentration.

The core teachings and doctrines of Theravada Buddhism include:

• The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path

• Belief in a creator god

• Reincarnation without karma

• Worship of multiple deities

Give examples of how cravings lead to suffering according to Theravada Buddhism.

• Cravings lead to attachment, which results in suffering when desires are not fulfilled.

• Cravings lead to enlightenment and peace.

• Cravings have no impact on suffering according to Theravada Buddhism.

• Cravings are encouraged as a path to happiness.

Buddha is:

• A spiritual teacher and founder of Buddhism

• A famous scientist

• A legendary warrior

• A renowned artist

Buddhism is:

• a religion and philosophy based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama

• an ancient form of dance

• a type of government system

• a style of architecture

Suffering is:

• a state of experiencing pain or distress

• a form of entertainment

• a type of physical exercise

• a way to gain wealth

Ways to overcome suffering include:

• Practicing mindfulness and compassion

• Ignoring problems completely

• Blaming others for difficulties

• Accumulating material possessions

Craving arose as a response to emotional pain because:

• it serves as a coping mechanism to distract from emotional discomfort.

• it is a result of physical hunger only.

• it is caused by external rewards exclusively.

• it develops due to lack of social interaction.

Craving contributed to John’s continued suffering by:

• causing him to repeatedly seek relief, which perpetuated his pain.

• helping him overcome his difficulties quickly.

• making him indifferent to his situation.

• allowing him to find lasting happiness.

Theravada Buddhism suggests which of the following alternatives for dealing with emotional pain without craving?

• Mindfulness and acceptance

• Suppressing emotions

• Seeking material pleasures

• Ignoring the pain