Question

which of the following three characteristics of existence refers to suffering?
anatta
mandala
anicca
dukkha
question 4
2 pts
which buddhist practice is meant to lead the practitioner to a state of nothingness in which there is neither perception nor nonperception?
the recitation of parittas
insight meditation
trance meditation
the recitation of dharanis
question 5
2 pts
in the context of buddhist teachings, which of the following statements is true of the four noble truths?
nirvana is caused by following the noble eightfold path.
the cause of suffering is desire.
it is possible to lead life without any desires.
addiction to life leads to satisfaction.

Explanation:

• Question 4: Trance meditation (also known as absorption meditation or jhāna meditation in Buddhist traditions) aims to lead the practitioner to deep states of concentration. The state of "neither perception nor non - perception" (saññā - vedayita - nirodha) is a very deep meditative state that can be achieved through such practices. Recitation of parittas is for protection and blessing, insight meditation (vipassanā) is more about observing the nature of reality (like impermanence, suffering, and non - self), and recitation of Dharanis is more of a mantra - like practice in some Buddhist traditions but not specifically for this state.
• Question 5: In the Four Noble Truths, the second noble truth states that the cause of suffering (dukkha) is craving or desire (tanha). Nirvana is the cessation of suffering and is achieved by following the Noble Eightfold Path, but it is not "caused" in the same sense as a physical cause - effect. Also, in Buddhist teachings, it is the excessive and unwholesome desires that are the problem, and it is the state of Nirvana where there is no more suffering - causing desire, but it's not about living life without any desires in a simplistic sense. Addiction to life (which is a form of craving) leads to more suffering, not satisfaction.

Answer:

• Question 4: Trance meditation
• Question 5: The cause of suffering is desire.