Teaching and Spreading Buddhism
First Sermon and the Five Ascetics
- Deer Park Sermon: The Buddha’s first sermon to his five former ascetic companions in Deer Park, Sarnath, laid out the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, setting the Wheel of Dharma in motion.
Establishment of the Sangha
- Formation of the Monastic Community: The Buddha established the Sangha, a community of monks and nuns dedicated to practicing and spreading his teachings. This community was instrumental in preserving and propagating the Dharma.
Key Teachings and Philosophical Concepts
The Three Marks of Existence
- Anicca (Impermanence): Everything in existence is transient and constantly changing.
- Dukkha (Suffering): Suffering is an inherent part of life due to attachment and desire.
- Anatta (Non-Self): There is no permanent, unchanging self.
Dependent Origination (Paticca Samuppada)
- Interconnectedness of All Phenomena: This principle explains that all phenomena arise in dependence on conditions and cease when those conditions are no longer present. Understanding this helps to overcome ignorance and attachment.
