Buddhism

Buddhism was a major religion that spread throughout South Asia and later moved through other parts of Asia where it is still practiced today. By 500 CE, the religion had continued through most parts of Asia, but phased out of South Asia.

“Ancient India’s caste system was challenged from within by Buddhism. Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, was born in 563 BCE in an elite chaste. He rejected the life of wealth and power however, and instead to attain enlightenment, or mystical union with the universe.” (1)

The Buddhists believe in the Eightfold Path which consists of:

“Panna:  Discernment, wisdom:

1) Samma ditthi Right Understanding of the Four Noble Truths

2) Samma sankappa: Right thinking; following the right path in life

Sila: Virtue, morality:

3) Samma vaca: Right speech: no lying, criticism, condemning, gossip, harsh language

4) Samma kammanta Right conduct by following the Five Precepts

5) Samma ajiva: Right livelihood; support yourself without harming others

Samadhi: Concentration, meditation:

6) Samma vayama Right Effort: promote good thoughts; conquer evil thoughts

7) Samma sati Right Mindfulness: Become aware of your body, mind and feelings

8) Samma samadhi Right Concentration: Meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness.” (2)

Question:

Why do you think that South Asia no longer practices Buddhism? Why do you believe the Buddha rejected
wealth and power?

     Works Cited:

     (1) Rowntree, et al. Globalization and Diversity: Geography of a Changing World. New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2011

      (2) Robinson, B.A. "Buddhism's Core Beliefs" Religious Tolerance. Web. 
http://www.religioustolerance.org/buddhism1.htm