Summary
Highlights
Buddhism is the fourth largest and a transnational religion, with followers in every country and many majority Buddhist nations. It is broadly categorized into three main schools: Theravada Buddhism in South and Southeast Asia, Mahayana Buddhism in East Asia, and Vajrayana Buddhism in Tibet and Mongolia.
Buddhism originated with Prince Siddhartha, born in Nepal 2500 years ago. Prophesied to be a great emperor or spiritual teacher, his father shielded him from suffering. At 30, Siddhartha encountered human suffering, left his palace, and vowed to find a solution. After six years, he meditated under a tree for 49 days, achieving enlightenment and becoming known as the Buddha, meaning 'the awakened one'.
Unlike many religions, Buddhism is centered on humanity, not God. Buddha taught that individuals create their own suffering and hold the power to alleviate it by changing their perception. Suffering stems from craving, ego, and the illusion of permanence. Recognizing the impermanent and transitory nature of all things, including ourselves, is the path to Nirvana. Buddhists believe everyone is an enlightened Buddha who needs to realize this truth. The religion is self-empowering, focusing on meditation, contemplation, and introspection rather than worshiping a deity.