Daily Update - Buddhism

Buddhism began in northeastern India and is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha).  The religion is 2,500 years old and is followed by 350 million Buddhists worldwide.

How is Buddhism different from other religions?
Buddhism is different from many other faiths because it is not centered on the relationship between humanity and God.  Buddhists do not believe in a personal creator God.
December 8^th is Bodhi Day “enlightenment day” This Holiday honors Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha).  On this Holiday Buddhist will make offerings to Buddhist Statues.  Doing this creates positive energy and develops respectful attitudes.  Today we showed the children different types of offerings that can be given:
Food-offering of food reminds us to not be greedy or selfish
Light-symbolizes wisdom and drives away darkness in one’s self.
Incense-the fragrance of pure moral conduct.
Water- symbolizes purity, clarity and calmness in one’s self.
Flowers- symbolize what you have now and living in the present.
 

In China it is believed that rubbing the Buddha’s Belly is good luck, all the children took turns rubbing his belly!

There is only about 1% that celebrate Christmas in China. Those that do, decorate their trees with lanterns.So we made our own little lantern ornaments.

            Thanks for joining us for Breakfast and Circle Time!  We love special visitors!

Our Star of the Week's mom reading a story, and she also had lunch with us!  Thank You for joining us!