New
New
Year 8
Dhamma - skilful actions
I can explain how beliefs about the Dhamma impact Buddhist practices.
New
New
Year 8
Dhamma - skilful actions
I can explain how beliefs about the Dhamma impact Buddhist practices.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Dhamma helps Buddhists to develop skilful actions and to avoid unskilful actions.
- Dependent origination means that nothing is dependent or without cause.
- Developing the four virtues (Brahmaviharas) is a skilful action.
Keywords
Dependent origination - nothing is independent or without cause
Brahmaviharas - four virtuous qualities that develop a peaceful and compassionate heart towards all beings
Skilful action - rooted in generosity, compassion and understanding
Unskilful action - rooted in craving, hatred and ignorance
Virtues - positive qualities
Common misconception
Buddhists find it easy to develop skilful actions.
All Buddhists have to work at developing these skills.
Pupils could keep a diary of their actions for 24 hours and identify if each action would be considered skilful or unskilful by Buddhists.
Teacher tip
Equipment
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on
Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
In Buddhism, what is a statue or model of an enlightened being called?
a deity
a mudra
an idol
Q2.
What are the Jataka tales?
famous tales about the life of Jesus
famous tales found in the Old Testament
Q3.
What keyword can be used to describe a strong believer?
devolve
devotion
Q4.
Why do many Buddhists have Buddharupas at home?
they help focus the mind when trying to sleep
they help Buddhists remember to worship God
Q5.
What offerings may be made to a Buddharupa during worship?
money
Q6.
What can Buddhist devotees learn from the monkey king story in the Jataka tales?
to be selfish
Exit quiz
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4 Questions
Q1.
What kind of actions cause suffering and harm?
skilful
neutral
Q2.
What is the meaning of 'dependent origination'?
virtues that have positive qualities
actions which are rooted in generosity, compassion and understanding
Q3.
What are the four Brahmaviharas?
ignorance
Q4.
What type of actions can be challenging to develop?
unskilful actions
neutral actions