Buddhism can teach how to counter sectarianism: Murmu

News: The first Asian Buddhist Summit was inaugurated by the President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu in New Delhi. She emphasised on how Buddhism can bring peace to Asia and the world.

1. Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautam, known as the Buddha.

2. It focuses on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path as a guide to spiritual awakening and liberation from suffering.

3. The Four Noble Truths are: A) Dukkha (Suffering) B) Samudaya (Cause of suffering) C) Nirodha (End of suffering) D) Magga (Path that leads to end of suffering)

4. Buddha advocated a Middle Path, which strikes a balance between extremes of indulgence and self-mortification.

5. The first Buddhist Summit was organised by the Union Culture Ministry, in collaboration with the International Buddhist Confederation.

6. Its theme was “Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia”.

7. The summit aims to strengthen Buddhist diplomatic relations, address contemporary social issues through Buddhist perspectives, enhance cultural bonds between Buddhist nations, promote Buddhist tourism and preserve ancient Buddhist manuscripts and artefacts.

8. The summit will focus on five key themes: A) Buddhist Art, Architecture and Heritage B) Buddha Carika and dissemination of Buddha Dhamma C) Role of Holy Buddhist Relics and its Relevance in Society D) Significance of Buddha Dhamma in Scientific Research and Well-Being E) Role of Buddhist Literature and Philosophy in 21st Century.