Introduction to Buddhism and Its Roots

Origin and Influence

• Buddhism originated in India, heavily influenced by Hinduism.
• Emphasizes self-discovery without a divine concept; anthropocentric rather than theocentric.

Practices and Beliefs

• Minimal reliance on Hindu rituals and sacred texts.
• Advocated a lifestyle change to address the cycle of rebirth.
• Offers a unique solution to end the endless cycle of the soul’s rebirth.

Siddhartha Gautama

• Siddhartha, the founder of Buddhism, was a prince from the warrior caste in present-day Nepal.
• Born around 563 BCE, destined to be either a great leader or a homeless monk.
• Recognized that human suffering is pervasive, transcending the pursuit of happiness.

Ashoka the Great

• King of the Mauryan Empire, ruled northern India for 35 years.
• Marked a pivotal moment in Buddhist history by promoting Buddha’s teachings.
• Mandated his citizens to follow Buddhism and sent missionaries to spread the faith internationally.

Spread of Buddhism

• Missionaries were dispatched to regions like Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
• Sri Lanka remains a significant center for preserving early Buddhist teachings and history.