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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. One of the ten rules of training for a monk involves refraining from _____ which cause heedlessness.

2. One of the ten rules of training for a monk involves refraining from handling _____.

3. The various Indo-Aryan dialects, the vernacular of Buddha's time, are known as _____.

4. One of the ancient and recurring images in Indian religious discourse is of _____.

5. One of the three fundamental defilements in Buddhism is _____.

Short Essay Questions

1. What does the author say about satya in relation to a Buddhist creed?

2. How is food addressed in the Vinaya?

3. What does the author say is the 'textbook' view of Buddhism?

4. What is the psychological relationship of aversion to craving?

5. How does the author feel he acts as a spokesman for Buddhism?

6. Who are the four great authorities in Buddhism? Why would a monk go to them?

7. What are the Nikayas/Agamas?

8. What does the author say about the nature of Buddhism's influence on the world?

9. Why did the Buddha possibly refuse to give categorical answers to the ten undetermined questions?

10. Which offenses can result in a probationary period involving loss of full status as a member of the Sangha by a monk?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain nirvana in Buddhism. What is this? How is it reached?

Essay Topic 2

Describe the three main activities that the wanderers and ascetics primarily engaged in. Why?

Essay Topic 3

Explain Abhidharma. What does this word mean? How does it appear in texts? What is its significance in Buddhism?

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