Culture

• 436The Story of the Frog in the Well

  Implement practices that cultivate an expansive, “bird’s eye view” perspective, and analyze the frog-in-the-well parable to illustrate the limitations of narrow viewpoints, and to remember that a bigger perspective is possible.
• 428Environmental Stewardship as Sacred Practice

  Compare and contrast Buddhist, indigenous, and Western perspectives on environmental responsibility; analyze how Buddhist principles of interdependence and compassion inform ecological ethics; and implement environmental practices that demonstrate Buddhist values of non-harm and care for all sentient beings.
• 433Shrine Room Etiquette

  Analyze shrine room etiquette practices as external expressions of internal reverence for the three jewels; evaluate how mindful behavior in sacred spaces cultivates respect, awareness, and devotion; and implement appropriate ritual conduct while explaining how these practices function as mind-training techniques that transform outer behavior into inner spiritual development.
• 432Rituals for Personal and Group Practice

  Analyze various ritual forms that support personal practice, and design simple rituals that effectively guide and inspire group practice.
• 429Mudras

  Demonstrate basic symbolic gestures (mudras) common across Buddhist traditions, and analyze the meaning and purpose of each.
• 227Transmission of the Dharma

  Analyze the role of lineage in preserving authentic dharma transmission across generations and cultures; evaluate contemporary methods of communicating Buddhist teachings (digital media, arts, education) against traditional oral and textual transmission; and synthesize understanding by creating innovative approaches to dharma communication that maintain authenticity while engaging modern audiences effectively.
• 228Unseen Beings

  Analyze the role of unseen beings across Buddhist traditions, and differentiate the unique qualities attributed to commonly referenced non-human entities. Evaluate how these symbolic relationships support practitioners’ cultivation of positive qualities such as protection, wisdom, and compassion.
• 229Monastic Traditions

  Analyze the historical development and contemporary roles of monastic communities across Buddhist traditions, evaluate the relationship between ordained and lay practitioners in preserving and transmitting dharma, and demonstrate understanding of how monastic traditions adapt to cultural contexts while maintaining essential functions.
• 236Visiting Holy Sites

  Identify and locate major Buddhist pilgrimage sites while analyzing their historical and symbolic significance, evaluate the practices and attitudes that constitute authentic pilgrimage versus religious tourism, and demonstrate culturally appropriate conduct that honors the sacred nature of Buddhist temples and holy places.
• 238History of Buddhism

  Trace and analyze the geographical and cultural spread of Buddhism from ancient India to contemporary global contexts; evaluate the factors that facilitated or hindered dharma transmission across different civilizations; and synthesize understanding by examining how Buddhist teachings adapted to diverse cultures while maintaining core principles throughout historical periods.