Essay Question: (10 points each) Answer two of the following four questions. To receive full credit be sure to answer the questions fully and completely. Use paragraphs to separate ideas. Define terms. Always explain your ideas with reasons and/or examples.

1. Explain three or four differences between Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. After that, which one do you prefer and why? Give reasons and examples to support your opinion.

2. Explain the Zen Experience. Describe what a “koan” is. Give and example. What is its purpose? Also tie in the concepts of Sanzen and Zazen in your answer. What do you think of this approach? Give reasons and examples to support your view.

3. The First Noble Truth in Buddhism states that Life is Suffering. The Second Noble Truth states the causes of suffering and the Third and Fourth Noble Truths tell us how to escape suffering. Explain why The Buddha says life is suffering. What are its causes? Next, state whether you agree with the Buddha? Give reasons and examples to support your view.

4. Explain what the Three Marks of Existence are and how they lead to suffering according to the Buddha. Do you agree with this? Give reasons and examples to support your view.