Social Studies - Chapter 7, Lesson 3 Buddhism and India's Golden Age
Dharma
the collected teachings of Buddha
Jainism
the religion that believes that every living thing has a soul and should not be hurt
nirvana
Buddhist term for the end of human suffering
How did the Maurya rulers unite northern India into the first great Indian empire?
Chandragupta Maurya became king of Magadha around 321 B.C. - conquered land, spread Maurya Empire over much of subcontinent - kept control with spies, army; taxed land, crops to pay offi cials - legend says he became nonviolent Jainist monk at end of life
Asoka
Maurya ruler who became influenced by Buddhism
Who were the Guptas, and when did they rule India?
The Gupta Empire • After Asoka, collapse of Maurya Empire led to 500 years of conflict • Magadhaʼs Gupta family took over—Chandra Gupta I began rule A.D. 320 - Gupta I gained lands through marriage; son conquered lands for empire • India had golden age during reign of Chandra Gupta II, A.D. 375-415
Hinduism
a way of living that helps people to stop wanting life to be different
Chandra Gupta II
ruler during India's golden age, a time of great accomplishment
Buddhism
A religion based on the teachings of Siddhartha Guatama
Siddhartha Gautama
The prince who is said to have founded Buddhism.
What are the main teachings of the religion of Buddhism?
Found understanding, insight into reality called Four Noble Truths: People suffer because minds are not at ease Unease, suffering come from wanting things or a different life People can stop suffering by not wanting People can stop wanting by following Eightfold Path
What were some of Asoka's accomplishments?
King Ashoka wanted his empire to b e strong so he made a command that is obeyed like a law called edicts. Ashoka also spread Buddhism around India with the help of his son, Mahinda. Ashoka convinced his people to follow the Buddhist Paths.
