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Essentials of Buddhism

This course explores Siddhartha Gautama's emergence as the Buddha and the formation of Buddhism. It traces the evolution into Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana branches, examining Mahayana's various lineages and the significance of Vajrayana Buddhism.
Number of lessons: 4
Total length: 2 hours and 35 minutes
Format: Audio
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About This Class


This course covers the emergence of Siddhartha Gautama as the Buddha, marking the beginning of Buddhism. It examines how Buddhism evolved into a formal religion, expanding into three main branches: Therevada, Mahayana, and Vajranyana. The class reviews how Mahayana Buddhism has facilitated the development of various schools of thought or lineages within the tradition. Additionally, it discusses Vajranyana Buddhism, also known as Tibetan Buddhism, highlighting its unique characteristics and significance.

 

Other Recommended Reading:

Buddhist Priests Choose Christ, John R. Terry, published by Dawn Press, 1989

The Unexpected Way, Paul Williams 

Sharing Jesus Effectively in the Buddhist World, David Lim and Spalding 

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About the Professor

Timothy Tennent

Dr. Timothy Tennent, the Methodist Chair of Divinity at Samford University’s Beeson Divinity School, previously served 15 years as president of Asbury Theological Seminary. A former professor at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Tennent is an ordained Methodist pastor and global conference speaker. Tennent is the author of several books on theology and missions. He and his wife, Julie, have two adult children and are actively involved in ministry.

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Timothy Tennent

Lessons


  • Discussion of the events surrounding the emergence of Siddhartha Gautama as the Buddha.

  • Description of how Buddhism became a religion. It expanded into 3 branches, Therevada, Mahayana, and Vajranyana.

  • Discussion of how Mahayana Buddhism has opened the door to different schools of thought or lineages of Buddhism.

  • Discussion of Vajranyana Buddhism, which is also known as Tibetan Buddhism.

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Class Resources

Recommended Books

Essentials of Buddhism - Student Guide

Essentials of Buddhism - Student Guide

This course serves as a summary of the beliefs and practices of Buddhism by Dr. Timothy Tennent. There are four lessons that will introduce readers to a summary of the...

Essentials of Buddhism - Student Guide

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