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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 three fundamental defilements in Buddhism is _____.

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

3. Buddhism does not involve the belief in a _____.

4. According the the author, what lies at the heart of Buddhism is _____.

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does the author believe that there is some basis in history for the existence of the Buddha?

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

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

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

5. How is food addressed in the Vinaya?

6. What is a bhiksu and how is this different from an upasampada?

7. How is bodhi characterized?

8. How does the author compare Buddha and the four truths to modern medicine?

9. What is the precursor to the Indian caste system?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Explain the brahmanical tradition. Where did the people who founded this tradition in India come from? What effect did they have on Indian society?

Essay Topic 2

Explain the grounds for expulsion from the Sangha. What is the role of sexuality? What is the role of opinion?

Essay Topic 3

Explain the role of Mara in Buddhism. What did he do? Whom does he compare to in Christianity? Why?

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