AMDG
RS 447 - World's Wisdom Traditions-Mr. Haardt
Questions on Kundun and Tibetan Buddhism
(You will need to use the film, the Kundun Overview on the Web Site, the link to International Campaign for Tibet, and an additional web search if you cannot find the answer. Good luck)
- What does Kundun literally mean? What does Dalai Lama literally mean?
- List 3 unique customs within the Tibetan/Vajrayana tradition beyond the institution of the Dalai Lama and reincarnation.
- Buddhism came to Tibet when? What indigenous tradition combined with Buddhism to form Tibetan Buddhism?
- Explain in 4-6 sentences the history between Tibet and China .
- Who else tried to invade Tibet in 1904? Why?
- Explain China 's persepective on Tibet . What did the Chinese experience prior to Mao's rise?
- Who is the Panchen Lama? What happened to him? Where is he now?
- Describe the Sky Burial as seen in Kundun . It is said to emphasize that we are not our bodies and the teaching of anicca - impermanence, what do you think?
- What is the Dalai Lama asking for now from China ? Describe the present-day status of Tibetans in Tibet and outside of Tibet . Where are Tibetans in refuge (it's not just one place)? What are the key questions/issues going forward with Tibet and its people?
- Why did the Chinese and Tibetans have so much conflict, aren't they both Buddhist?
- After watching the film, what are your own thoughts on Tibet and what can realistically be done now and beyond?
- It has been 45 years since the Dalai Lama fled Tibet to India . He was just here in San Francisco and has traveled the world, written many books and continues to promote non-violence and dialogue among all people. He has said quite often "My religion is kindness " and "we are all human beings, we need to see our unity and act with compassion & wisdom ". What do you think His Holiness the 14 th Dalai Lama has to teach us and what do you think of his outspoken compassion for the Chinese?
- What questions are you left with about Buddhism, about the Dalai Lama & Tibet after watching the film and reading our texts?
- Wisdom & Compassion are two virtues often emphasized in Buddhism. Why? Explain..
- From the International Campaign for Tibet website, please explain 2 things you are able to find about Tibet today.
- What do you think it means to "awaken"/nirvana? How does meditation help one to awaken? These are all just concepts, I know, but take some time to really reflect on what this means and include any insights from your own experience. What are Buddhists telling us about being human?