Buddhism
Buddhism is a major world religion and philosophical tradition founded by Gautama Buddha in the 6th–5th century BCE in India. It encompasses a variety of teachings, practices, and cultural traditions aimed at ending suffering through the attainment of enlightenment (nirvana).[1]
Founder
Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, who was born in Lumbini (present-day Nepal) around 563 BCE. After years of meditation and spiritual search, he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, India.[2]
Core Teachings
The central teachings of Buddhism are based on:
The Four Noble Truths
1. Life is suffering (dukkha) 2. Suffering is caused by desire (tanha) 3. There is a way to end suffering 4. The path to end suffering is the Eightfold Path[3]
The Eightfold Path
- Right View
- Right Intention
- Right Speech
- Right Action
- Right Livelihood
- Right Effort
- Right Mindfulness
- Right Concentration
Branches
Buddhism has three major branches:
- Theravāda – Practiced in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia
- Mahāyāna – Found in China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam
- Vajrayāna – Primarily practiced in Tibet, Bhutan, and Mongolia[4]
Sacred Texts
- Tripitaka (Pali Canon) – Core scriptures in Theravāda
- Mahayana Sutras – Revered in Mahāyāna Buddhism
- Tibetan Book of the Dead – Important in Vajrayāna tradition
Symbols and Practices
- Dharma Wheel (Dharmachakra) – Symbol of the Eightfold Path
- Meditation – Key spiritual discipline
- Mindfulness and Compassion – Central ethical values
- Monastic Life – Important institution in all branches
Global Presence
Today, Buddhism has over 500 million followers worldwide, primarily in Asia, but with a growing presence in the West.[5]
Important Sites
- Bodh Gaya – Place of Enlightenment
- Sarnath – First Sermon
- Kushinagar – Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana
- Lumbini – Birthplace of the Buddha
Influence
Buddhism has had a profound influence on:
- Art and architecture (stupas, rock-cut caves)
- Ethics and nonviolence (e.g., Ahimsa)
- Mindfulness in modern psychology
- Education and philosophy across Asia