Why Do Buddhists Meditate?

Film Focus: This video, created by the Buddhist Society as part of a series to help answer common questions about Buddhism, features both students and teachers of Buddhism as they reflect upon the role that meditation plays in their life as Buddhists.

Text Focus: Pages 344–345

Discussion Questions:

1. There is a particular posture that is an important part of Buddhist meditation. Discuss this posture seen in the video. How do you think this helps a Buddhist to meditate?
2. Is meditation intended solely to relieve suffering? Explain why or why not.
3. What is the relationship between meditation and control over one’s mind and one’s body?
4. After watching this video, how would you answer the question “why do Buddhists meditate?”
5. How is Buddhist meditation similar to Christian prayer? How is it different?

*Ave Maria Press has requested permission to link to this video for use in the classroom as part of the accompanying lesson. If for any reason, the producer does not wish this video to be included on this site, Ave Maria Press will remove it posthaste.