Buddhism is a religion of self-help. It teaches that it is through one's own efforts, not from mere wishful thinking or blind faith, that one can achieve one's goals.
Buddhism teaches free thought. It urges every individual to think freely and clearly. Everybody has the potential and capability to attain the highest level of spirituality. It teaches people that everyone is born equally and is free to choose the path that is best for themselves.
Buddhists are peace-loving people and have never, in history, made war in the name of Buddha. It teaches to be kind and gentle, to show compassion for all of mankind and all living things.
There are Three Gems in Buddhism. They receive the highest veneration in the Buddhist religion. They are the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Buddhists hold these three gems in the utmost love and respect. The three gems are closely interrelated to one another. One cannot exist without the other.
Buddha (Shakyamuni) is the founder of our religion. Buddha possessed the noblest virtues and highest wisdom, and for that he was and is worshiped by many followers. His virtues are 1) Infinite Wisdom 2) Perfect Purity and 3) Universal Compassion. He is our Spiritual Father and we should always love him, respect him, and be grateful to him.
The Dharma is the teaching of Buddhism. It is the universal law of our religion. It is the "truth" that Buddha discovered and taught to the world. The Dharma should be studied and practiced; it is essential to world peace. The Dharma can be practiced by anyone, whether they are Buddhist or not.
The Sanghas the Holy Order of Monk disciples These disciples learned and taught the Dharma to others. They set good examples in moral conduct and inspired us to do good and show compassion to others. We look to the Sangha to guide us towards the path of enlightenment.
Through history and to this very day, there were and are many practitioners of Buddhism. Many scholars, scientists, and highly intellectual people have validated the beliefs of Buddhism. It is based on many facts and is undeniably the closest religion to the truth, the truth of human kind. We hope that Buddhism will grow and flourish, so that all human beings can learn to love one another, have respect for one another, and to not make war towards one another. The Dharma is open to all those who wish to learn it and hold it dearest to their hearts, as many of us do today.
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