Buddha for a Beginner (Essay Sample)

Name:
Course:
Instructor:
Date:
Buddha for Beginner
The third chapter is entitled "Nirvana and the Noble truths" that addresses the powers of deep philosophical reflections that is not a necessity prerequisite for enlightenment in Buddhism. The Buddhism requires this strenuous practical philosophy that is "similar to the Socrates in the West that stresses on the individual moral development over pure theory" (Asma chapter 2, page 1). The Buddha adopts an analogy from the Majjhima Nikaya text that defines this philosophical approach of reflections. The quoted text in chapter 3 identifies the principle of leading a righteous life under the Enlightened One who is infinite and eternal. It also observes that anyone who does not believe this may die before the Perfect One could inform them of the nature of Brahman.
It observes that all followers of Buddha should never lose sight of the pragmatic original mission that is associated with finding cure for human suffering. It encourages the followers to read the Four Noble Truths (dharma) to gain enlightenment. Meditating leads to discovery of truths as Gautama did when he meditated under a tree in the Ganges Valley. The truth is that "to live is to suffer (dukka)" and thus every living creature at some point suffers misfortunes and pains. In the contemporary world, suffering is part of the life and people meditate and reflect on their condition where they get peace and discovery of ...