Features and functions of Buddhist places of worship
I can explain the features, function and importance of different places of worship for Buddhists today.
Features and functions of Buddhist places of worship
I can explain the features, function and importance of different places of worship for Buddhists today.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Buddhist places of worship include: temples, gompas, viharas and shrines.
- Buddhist places of worship share many features, including meditation halls, shrines, libraries and stupas or pagodas.
- The Kimsila Sutta highlights the importance of learning the Buddha's Dhamma.
- Buddhists may attend a place of worship to make offerings to the Buddha.
- Places of worship are important for offering Dhamma and meditation classes, which can support lay Buddhists.
Keywords
Gompa - a Tibetan monastery associated with learning and studying the Dhamma
Monastery (vihara) - a building that houses monks and nuns; it may have space for study, as well as accommodation
Shrine - a room or part of a room which contains a Buddha rupa, candles, an incense burner, and sometimes other offerings
Temple - a structure/building for religious or spiritual activities, such as meditation
Common misconception
All Buddhist places of worship have the same features and purpose.
Buddhist places of worship differ in appearance, size and function. This is often dependent on the location and which school of Buddhism it belongs to.
To help you plan your year 10 religious education lesson on: Features and functions of Buddhist places of worship, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 religious education lesson on: Features and functions of Buddhist places of worship, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Assessment exit quiz
5 Questions
a Tibetan monastery associated with learning
a building that houses monks and nuns
a room or part of a room which contains a Buddha rupa