Lesson 16: Learning About World Religions: Buddhism
What are the main beliefs and teachings of Buddhism?
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Buddhism is a religion based on the teachings of the Buddha (BOO-duh), which means “Awakened One.” The Buddha was a man who lived in India from about 563 to 483 B.C.E. Before he became known as the Buddha, he was a young prince named Siddhartha Gautama (si-DAHR-tuh GOW-tuh-muh).
Prince Siddhartha grew up surrounded by wealth in the palaces of his father. At the age of 29, Siddhartha left his royal life to go in search of spiritual peace. During his journeys, he learned great truths that changed his life. By sharing these truths with others, he began the religion of Buddhism.
Buddhism was different from Hinduism in several ways. Whereas Hinduism was based on complicated rituals and beliefs in many gods, Buddhism was a way of life based on simple teachings. Unlike ancient Hinduism, Buddhism embraced all people regardless of their caste. It taught people how to reach enlightenment, or happiness that comes from the knowledge of deep truth. Buddhists believed that once they reached the level of enlightenment, they would escape from the cycle of rebirth.
Summary:
Siddhartha Gautama Buddhism is based on Siddhartha's teachings. Born a prince, he became an ascetic to find enlightenment. Later, he followed a middle way to reach nirvana. He became the Buddha and taught others how to seek enlightenment.
Buddha's Teachings Buddha shared his discovery of the Four Noble Truths about the state of suffering and the ways to end it. He believed that people could reach enlightenment by living according to the teachings of the Eightfold Path.
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