Buddhism
Buddhism is a spiritual tradition with 376 million followers throughout the world. It emphasizes personal spiritual development and the achievement of a deep understanding of the true meaning of life. According to Buddhism, all elements of life are interrelated; therefore, compassion is necessary. Buddhism is both a religion and philosophy based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, who is also known as the Buddha. There are many different sects of Buddhism with the two major sects being Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism. Buddhists achieve Enlightenment through leading lives of morality, wisdom, and meditation.
Buddhism History
Buddhism began in India and is currently being practiced in most parts of Southeast Asia as well as China and Japan. Buddhism is based on the teaching of Siddhartha Gautama who searched for a way to end human suffering.
Buddhism HistorySchools of Buddhism
The two major Schools of Buddhism include the Theravada School and the Mahayana School. Buddhism also include a third branch called the Vajrayana school which exists primarily in China, Tibet and Mongolia.
Schools of BuddhismConcepts & Beliefs
Buddhism is based on teaching the dharma, the Four Noble Truths. Other aspects of Buddhism include Karma, the Noble Eightfold Path and Samsara. Buddhists believe in rebirth and ultimate strive to achieve Nirvana or "Enlightenment."
Concepts & BeliefsBuddhism Customs
The primary customs of Buddhism include meditation, honoring of the Buddha, worshipping at a temple and the belief in the Sacred Mandala. Unlike other religions, Buddhism does not revolve around the belief in Gods.
Buddhism CustomsThe Buddha
The Buddhist religion is not based on the belief in Gods. The main figure in the religion is the Buddha himself. There have been different Buddhas for every era and the Buddha of this era is Siddhartha Gautama.
The Buddha
