THE BUDDHA’S LIFE, YOUR LIFE
Instructions: Write a brief summary of the event in the Buddha’s life below while watching the
documentary and compare it with a similar event in your life. What similarities and difference do
you see in both your lives?
Event The Buddha
Birth The Buddha had unique stories about his
birth. Describe one.
The Buddha's mother, Maya, conceived
him when she dreamed that a white
elephant entered her right side. She gave
birth to him in a standing position while
holding a tree in a Garden
Upbringing The Buddha grew up sheltered from the
outside world. Explain with an example.
He was born a prince into a wealthy
family and his family would shelter him
from the outside world. They would try
to keep him inside the palace.
Encounter When the Buddha encountered suffering,
with his life changed. What suffering did he
suffering see and how was he changed?
Buddha saw an old man, a sick person
and a body being carried to cremation
which made him think of old age, disease
and death.
Deep The Buddha was enlightened. Describe
thoughts what this means.
It is a time when he came to truly
understand suffering in life.
Teaching The Buddha taught some important
lessons. Describe one.
You
What stories can be told about your
birth?
When I was born, my parents arrived at
the hospital just in time.
Were you protected in a similar way by
your family? Explain with an example.
I was sheltered from the outside world
but instead encouraged to explore it. My
parents would take me on walks in the
park.
How have experiences of suffering
changed you?
There have been many experiences of
suffering I’ve been through such as an
existential crisis, depression and facing
the death of a loved one but these
experiences has helped me develop as a
person and learn how to overcome these
problems.
Describe a time when you had an insight
about the world or about life.
In grade 8 I went through an existential
crisis which made me think a lot upon
death and the afterlife.
What insights about the world would you
like to pass on?
“Have compassion for all beings, rich I would like to pass on my view of the
and poor alike; each has their suffering. afterlife and how everyone would have a
Some suffer too much, others too little.” soul.