a Mahayana festival which marks the Buddha’s death and when he achieved Nibbana

a period of time spent away from everyday life to focus on meditation and practice

a Buddhist festival celebrating the Buddha's birth, enlightenment and death

Celebrations: origins and significance of Wesak and Parinirvana Day

Religious education

In this unit pupils will examine practices in Buddhism such as puja and meditation. They will understand the considerable diversity of these practices among Buddhist adherents. Following that they wil look at the role of precepts and how these look different in Therevada and Mahayna Buddhism.

Islam and Buddhism: Practices

Chanting and meditating on the Buddha’s teachings

Which of these is a special part of Wesak celebrations?

To remind Buddhists to purify their minds

To celebrate the start of the rainy season

What is the main purpose of the ‘Bathing the Buddha’ ceremony?

Buddhists donate robes and other gifts to monks

What happens during the festival of Kathina?

True – celebrations focus on his birth and no other part of his life

False – it celebrates that he was born a prince

False – it celebrates Buddha's birth, enlightenment and attainment of Nirvana

Wesak only celebrates the birth of the Buddha.

A large community celebration with decorations

A period to concentrate on meditation and the Dhamma

A chance to share gifts and eat special foods

What is the main purpose of Buddhist retreat?

When Buddhists make generous offerings, they are gaining positive {{}} for this life or the next.

The Buddha taught that life involves {{}}, which is explained in the Four Noble Truths.

The {{}} Path offers guidance on how Buddhists should live in order to reduce suffering and reach enlightenment.

Buddhists try to avoid the three {{}} of greed, hatred, and ignorance.

To reach enlightenment and develop wisdom

What is the goal of meditation in Buddhism?

Starter Quiz