Core Buddhist Pathways

• 323Pramana

  Evaluate how we know what’s real by analyzing the two key ways of knowing: direct experience and inference (logical reasoning); assess how differentiating between clear and confused thinking supports better decision-making and helps avoid the ignorance that keeps us stuck in suffering; integrate this understanding by applying these principles to real-life situations, demonstrating how valid ways of knowing (cognition) helps us distinguish between how things seem (appearance) and how they really are (reality), both in everyday life and in meditation.
• 305Sangha

  Evaluate the impact of one’s social connections; identify the qualities and virtues that make a good friend; implement boundaries with non-virtuous influences; and analyze the definition and importance of sangha in Buddhism.
• 240The Dhammapada

  Analyze key themes in the Dhammapada, and evaluate how these ancient teachings remain relevant to contemporary issues and experiences.
• 237Rituals for Personal and Group Practice

  Analyze various ritual forms that support personal practice, and design simple rituals that effectively guide and inspire group practice.
• 304Sacred Space and Objects

  Analyze the Buddhist understanding of sacredness in relation to the Three Jewels and practice objects; evaluate how creating and maintaining sacred spaces supports contemplative practice and community building; and design sacred space practices that honor Buddhist principles while fostering reverence for the dharma.
• 303The Heart Sutra

  Describe the conversation between Avalokiteshvara and Shariputra; recite key passages from the sutra, Analyze how the Heart Sutra’s central teaching “form is emptiness, emptiness is form” differs from nihilism; identify the many ways the heart sutra has been related to across cultures, create a piece of art using the text of the heart sutra.
• 302Three Poisons: Ignorance

  Analyze ignorance as misunderstanding—particularly regarding impermanence, interdependence, and selflessness. Evaluate how ignorance serves as the root of all afflictions and distorted perceptions, and implement practices such as mindfulness, reflection on interdependence, and analytical meditation to weaken habitual confusion and cultivate wisdom and clarity in daily life.
• 233Anatta and Identity

  Analyze the Buddhist teaching of anatta (no-self) in relation to cultural identity formation; evaluate how understanding the impermanent nature of identity can reduce sectarianism and nationalism while maintaining healthy cultural appreciation; and synthesize understanding by developing approaches to heritage that honor origins without demanding conformity from others.
• 221The Life Story of the Buddha Shakyamuni

  Sequence and analyze the ten acts of Buddha’s life within their historical and geographical contexts; evaluate the universal themes in Buddha’s journey that relate to contemporary human experience; and synthesize understanding by examining how specific events in Buddha’s life demonstrate key Buddhist principles such as the four noble truths and the middle way.
• 225Homage and Praise as Practice

  Actively pay homage and express gratitude to those who have taught, guided, and transmitted wisdom—showing appreciation for those who bring us closer to the truth.