Hinduism vs. Buddhism

Hinduism and Buddhism are two of the most interesting religions in the world. To date, people still practice these religions in varying parts of the world. Although originating from the country of India, some have difficulty in differentiating between the two. Although Hinduism and Buddhism share many similarities, they are also different. What is Hinduism? Hinduism, the largest of the eastern religion and one of the oldest in the world. (Curry). Hinduism denotes the religions of majority of the people in India and Nepal and of some communities in other continents, who refer to themselves as Hindus. (Flood). It is said to have existed from 1500-300 BCE. What is Buddhism? Many say that Buddhism is an offspring of Hinduism. However, Buddhism formed in the 5th century BCE is a religion that originated from Northern India, its uniqueness comes from Buddha also Siddhartha Gautama (563- 483 BCE). Some of his teachings included: The Four Noble Truths, The way of Inquiry and the Illusion of the Soul. It consists of three branches: The Theravada, Mahayana, and The Vajrayana. Certainly, there are many resemblances among them, some of which are, their belief in karma and reincarnation, their origination and the emphasis of compassion and nonviolence to human beings. Karma can be understood as the actions carried out by the people, in relation to their cycle of life. It is important to both religions because it is a goal aimed to achieve. Reincarnation is the process of living again in another soul or body. In other words death is not the end. Reincarnation allows karma to operate. When reincarnation is successful, it allows each soul a different experience, a fresh start, and self-realization. Buddhism and Hinduism originated...

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...gna (communal worship). Although originating from India, Hinduism and Buddhism have it similarities as well as its differences, however that does not stop them from being unique. I think Hinduism would suit me better because Buddhist’s are following the actions and teachings of one man, Buddha and Hinduism seems to be the easier religion to go by.

Works Cited

Adler, Phillip J. Wold Civilizations. Thomson Learning Inc., 2008.

Australia, The Buddhist Society of Western. What Is Buddhism? n.d.

Buddhism vs. Hinduism-Difference and Comparison. n.d. .

Curry, Tim. Sociology. United States: Pearson Education Inc., 2004.

Dictionary, Business. Principles. n.d. .

Flood, Gavin. An introduction to Hinduism. United Kingdom: Cambridge University, 1996.