Buddhism at a glance

 

Buddhism is a spiritual tradition that focuses on personal spiritual development and the attainment of a deep insight into the true nature of life.

Buddhism teaches that all life is interconnected, so compassion is natural and important.

  • Buddhism is 2,500 years old

  • There are currently 376 million followers worldwide

  • There are around 151, 816 Buddhists in Britain according to the 2001 census

  • Buddhism arose as a result of Siddhartha Gautama's quest for Enlightenment in around the 6th Century BCE

  • There is no belief in a personal God. It is not centred on the relationship between humanity and God

  • Buddhists believe that nothing is fixed or permanent - change is always possible

  • The two main Buddhist sects are Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism, but there are many more

  • Buddhism is a very colourful faith with many festivals throughout the year

  • Buddhists can worship both at home or at a temple

The path to Enlightenment is through the practice and development of morality, meditation and wisdom.

 

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Source: www.bbc.co.uk