why and how did buddhism start?
109409
Buddhism started after the buddha became awakened and began attempting to show people a way to enlightenment.  He sought a cessation to suffering.\n\nBuddhism affected many civilizations in many ways.  Kubla khan, the emperor of china when Marco Polo came to visit, had been converted to tibetan buddhism sometime prior to Marco polo's voyages.  Marco Polo was also given the task of converting Kubla Khan to christianity but he failed in this when Kubla Khan asked him to show him the benefits of chrisitanity.  whatever marco Polo showed him, it didn't work because the tibetan monk who had converted Kubla had apparently showed him how to levitate things.  These kinds of powers are known as mind jewels in tibetan buddhism.  \n\nSome other influences it has had are very evident in Tibet which was previously a theocracy run by the yellow hats.\n\nAlso, 97.4% of Thailand are theraveda buddhist and the king's puported role is to support buddhist practices.\n\nBuddhism has had its influences on ethics, philosophies and politics of many eastern countries, sometimes dominating the mainstream.\n\nMany buddhist are at the forfront of religous pluralism, as adapting to new cultures and ways of life rather than altering them, have almost always been a part of spreading the dharma, as the dharma can take any form.\n\nBuddhist are supposidly numbered at about 354 million worldwide, and while they don't hold much sway in the scope of geopolitics, there are a few outstanding figures like the dali lama, the king of thailand and many of the leaders of taiwan, japan and korea.\n\nHope that answered your questions.
5287
Gautama Buddha was the founder of Buddhism. He studied and practised Hindu discipline.\n\nKing Suddhodana and his queen Maha Maya ruled Kapilavastu. The queen gave birth to a baby boy on the way to her father’s place at Lumbini. The boy was named Siddharth. Queen Maha Maya died seven days after his birth. His maternal aunt (or step-mother?), Maha Prajapati Gautami brought up the child. \n\nAccording to legend, an astrologer foretold his father, the king, that young Gautama would give up the throne and luxury and renounce the world the day he would see four things (i) an old man, (ii) a sick man, (iii) a diseased man and (iv) a dead man. Hence, the king confined Gautama in a special palace which was provided with all worldly pleasures. He was married at the age of sixteen to Yasoddhra.
900214
In fundamental Buddhism, the emphasis is on seeing Truth, on knowing it, and on understanding it. The emphasis is NOT on BLIND faith. The teaching of Buddhism is on "come and see" but never on come and believe. Buddhism is rational and requires personal effort, stating that by only one’s own efforts can Perfect Wisdom be realized. Each individual is responsible for his or her own emancipation from anguish and suffering.
1137312
Stupid question .. Only a silly people will ask this question .. You really know nothing about Buddhism dont you''\nhahahhahahahhahahahah\n\nWait , are you so dirty minded that you have nothing to joke about already ?\n\nPity you
1029846
hello..\nactually i'm not a truly buddhist.. i'm an atheist but i learn lots from Buddhism..\n\nit's just hard to explain in words, Buddhist doesn't really care about religion, its focus in self-spiritual-development.. to gain wisdom and practice compassion..\n\n “Do not go by revelation or tradition, do not go by rumor, or the sacred scriptures, do not go by hearsay or mere logic, do not go by bias towards a notion or by another person’s seeming ability and do not go by the idea ‘He is our teacher’. But when you yourself know that a thing is good, that it is not blamable,  \nthat it is praised by the wise and when practiced and observed that it leads to happiness, then follow that thing.”\n\nThe Buddha taught us to try to understand our fears, to lessen our desires and to calmly and courageously accept the things we cannot change. He replaced fear, not with irrational belief but with rational understanding.\n\nthe Buddha saw that each human being had the capacity to purify the mind, develop infinite love and compassion and perfect understanding. He shifted attention from the heavens to the heart and encouraged us to find solutions to ¬ our problems through self-understanding.\n\nWe believe in humanity. We believe that each human being is precious and important, that all have the potential to develop into a Buddha — a perfected human being. We believe that humans can out¬grow ignorance and irrationality and see things as they really are. We believe that hatred, anger, spite and jealousy can be replaced by love, patience, generosity and kindness.  \n\nNo one saves us but ourselves, No one can and no one may. We ourselves must walk the path, but Buddhas clearly show the way
285107
The Mahayana appears to have developed between the 1st Century BC to the 1st Century CE. About the 2nd Century CE Mahayana became clearly defined. Master Nagarjuna developed the Mahayana philosophy of Sunyata (emptiness) and proved that everything is 'Void' (not only the self) in a small text called Madhyamika-karika. After the 1st Century CE., the Mahayanists took a definite stand and only then the terms of Mahayana and Hinayana were introduced. \n\nAround the first century CE, teachings of a different style appeared. The terms Mahayana and Hinayana appeared in the Saddharma Pundarika Sutra or the Sutra of the Lotus of the Good Law. Of great influence to the development of the Mahayana was Master Nagarjuna (2nd Century CE) who is known for his profound teachings on the philosophy of emptiness. About the 4th Century CE, the Masters Asanga and Vasubandhu wrote enormous amount of works on Mahayana. The Mahayana teachings were mainly written down in Sanskrit, and are now called the Mahayana Sutras. \nA clear division arose between the schools following the traditional teachings and Mahayana. Although the main philosophical differences may be small, they have profound consequences for the practices involved. \nThe Mahayana philosophy is based on the older tradition and fully accepts these teachings, but not all traditional interpretations. One of the most important aspects is for example the traditional interpretation that Buddhahood can be achieved only by very few people. The Mahayana teaches instead that every sentient being (being with a mind) can become a Buddha, the only thing preventing our full enlightenment is the failure to improve one's own actions and state of mind. The Mahayana tradition claims that all their sutras have been taught directly by Shakyamuni Buddha or have at least been inspired by the Buddha. \nThe main Mahayana motivation is to lead all sentient beings to enlightenment. Liberation from cyclic existence (Nirvana) and Buddhahood for oneself are regarded simply as fortunate by-products of one's efforts to help all beings. In fact, the only possible motivation with which one can become a Buddha is the altruistic wish to lead all sentient beings away from suffering. \nThis motivation is reflected in taking an additional set of vows, known as Bodhisattva vows on top of taking Refuge. The main vow is to free all sentient beings from suffering. These vows are not taken for this life only, but for all future lives as well, until this goal is achieved. The main practices of a Mahayanist are summarised in the 6 perfections: the perfection of giving, ethics, patience, joyous effort, concentration and wisdom. \nThe Mahayana tradition mainly developed in North India, and spread further North into China and Tibet. In China, Buddhist philosophy and practice was often mixed with Taoist and Confucian aspects. Via China, Mahayana Buddhism also spread to other countries like Korea, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Japan. Also, in China the Ch'an tradition evolved, which was introduced into Japan, and there developed into Zen. Also, the very popular Pure Land Buddhism developed, which focuses on being reborn in the Pure Land of Amitabha, mainly through recitation of Amitabha Buddha's name. Pure Land Buddhism is known as Jodo in Japan.\n\nIn contrast to the current very clear division between Theravada and Mahayana schools, it must be noted that for many centuries, monasteries in India were filled with monks of both traditions. It was considered a very personal decision to choose for individual liberation or Buddhahood. The monastic and ordination rules are virtually the same, and the teachings overlap to a great extent. See for example this important text from the World Buddhist Sangha Council convened by Theravadins in Sri Lanka in 1966.\n\nThere are tons more about the three Veichels of Buddhism here too the jewls the stories and the symbols hope this helps I had to do a paper for theolgy a few weeks a
1133854
My dear friend, \n\nBelow I have done my best to try and explain the sects of Buddhism to level comprehensible to the general public; I sincerely hope it helps you.\n\nHowever, I first must briefly touch on the answer given by [Ronin], which is undoubtedly more a source than an answer.  To comment, our friend here has asked us to help her understand the differences between the branches of Buddhism, as she hasn't "been able to understand them perfectly and was wondering if anyone could put them into layman’s terms for [her]".  Citing wikipedia does neither for her, and I believe you may even insult her by suggesting she does not know how to search for information.  People come her, to the answers services because they have been unsuccessful in their quest for an answer; hence it is up to people who may know the answer to try and assist them in any way that we can, and not simply throw them more incomprehensible information.\n\nA period after the pir-nirvana of the Lord Buddha, the "Elders" and the "Novices" of Buddhism had an argument regarding the preservation of offerings for an overnight situation.  This let to a fine separation into 2 factions of Buddhism: Theravada and Mahasamghika (Elders and Novices) - the terms used previously are given in the ancient language Sanskrit.  In fact, the Mahasamghika was the stepping stone or hint that another form of Buddhism would take place, and that form would be known as Mahayana Buddhism.  Mahayana Buddhism was introduced to the world by Nagarjuna Buddha (or Nagarjuna Bodhisattva - depending on tradition), and the Mahasamghika slowly dissipated into another form of Buddhism, known as Hinayana.\n\nSo to briefly bring things into perspective:  Hinayana, Mahayana and Theravada.  However, this is not the end yet.  Some people actually place Theravada Buddhism under the banner of Hinayana Buddhism.  So, there are mainly the two branches: Hinayana and Mahayana (but readers please take note, it is not that I am in total agreement of this; I merely wish to use it as an example to simplify matters).  Now, to help you understand the differences.  Places like Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Sri Lanka, India etc are all examples where Hinayana Buddhism is prominent; their Dharma Robes are easily distinguished tending to look like a very large cloth wrapped around their body.  Countries like China, Taiwan, Korea, Tibet, Japan etc are all examples where Mahayana Buddhism is prominent; their Dharma Robes are not so easily distinguished tending to vary from tradition, but one thing is certain, and that is they often have a look of Chinese Tang Dynasty Royal Family robes.\n\nWell, "is that all", you ask?  No, because within the Mahayana tradition there is another lineage of Buddhism, known as the Tantrayana (or Vajrayana).  All the countries mentioned in the category of Mahayana fit this description, but please take note that there is an extremely large amount of overlapping.  And to complicate matter even further, these branches of Buddhism are separated in another general manner:  Exoteric and Esoteric.\n\nSo to conclude:\nExoteric Buddhism - Hinayana Buddhism (Thailand, Sri Lanka...etc)\n             - Mahayana Buddhism (Taiwan, Korea, China)\n\nEsoteric Buddhism-Tantrayana Buddhism (China, Tibet, Japan)\n\nRemember, it all depends in what context you are speaking of.\n\nI hope I have helped you, and would appreciate criticism and education from the learned friends of the world wide web.\n\nvhy
90737
Buddhism started moving into China during the Han Dynasty following the opening of the Silk Road although there are records of missionaries in the earlier Qin dynasty. It also first started winning adherents amongst the Royal family and aristocracy during that period. A fresco shows the Emperor Han Wudi 156-87 BCE worshipping Buddha's although there is no record of him doing so in Chinese literature.\n\nBy the first century AD, an emperor became interested in Buddhism and sent for missionaries. From that period, Chinese scholars and Indian missionaries worked on translating Buddhist texts into Chinese. Bronze bells were also introduced at that time and would have an influence on Chinese music.
466360
Well, when I learned about Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism in class (not to say that you're practicing either of these religions),with Buddhism for sure, I don't think that it takes a set amount of time.  You just reach it once you feel it.  It took Buddha approximately 45 years to become enlightened.
520062
Buddhism doesn't dictate whether there is a God or not. There are different groups within Buddhism who have different views, for example their are some Buddhist Christians (or Christian Buddhists?!), who do believe in a creator and many other groups who don't.\nThe Buddhist idea is focused on following the Dharma to reduce suffering and reach Nirvana. They aren't especially preoccupied with the idea of a God, as it is irrelevant to their path in life.
355819
We first need to distinguish two types of "god". \nThe first type is God as creator of the universe etc. This kind of God does not exist in Buddhism. \nThe second type is a divine or supernatural being, and of these one could simply say there are two kinds of gods in Buddhism:\nNot all living beings live on planet earth, or would even be visible to us. One could say that these creatures live in different dimensions from us.  Some of these creatures experience because of their karma (past actions) almost exclusively happiness, and these are called Devas (Skt.) or gods. However, these gods are still within the cycles of uncontrolled rebirth and can be reborn in the 'lower realms' once their positive store of karma is exhausted.\nIf one defines a god as a supernatural being, one could say that a Buddha or an Arya being are "supernatural" in the sense that they are not bound to the same realms of cyclic existence as we are, and they are said to possess supernatural powers (siddhis). \n\nA Buddha is said to know everything, but not omnipotent (all-powerful). The logical reasoning behind this last is that if a Buddha would be omnipotent, He/She would instantly remove suffering from the universe, because compassion for all sentient beings (wishing to free alll from suffering) is the main motivation to become a Buddha.
961507
Or perhaps you were equaly frustrated in the former life as well. \n\nTrying to control things leads to frustration whether you were that way before or not.\n\nBuddhism is about what to do with your mind right now. The past may be interesting, but really, in Buddhism, it doesn't matter. Beliefs are also not important in Buddhism. For that matter, it's quite  possible to be a Buddhist & not spend any time thinking about past lives or related topics. \n\nHow do we act to reduce suffering for ourself & others right now? That's what's important. Everything else is ancillary (although eventually we learn how everything can help us as well) \n\nSo, to answer your question, I don't know. Maybe they thought you might be intrigued by the past life concept.\n\nI highly recommend looking more into Buddhism if you are so inclined to wish for more peace, self control & lovingkindness. This is what I have found, as well as a much improved memory!\n\nPeace to all,\n\n;-)
719648
Yes i do. He was a thinker who taught that in order for you to achieve happiness and inlightment you had to unattach yourself from things and concentrate. You must follow the 4 noble truths and a 8 way path in order to achieve this inlightment. He started buddhism.
537033
Buddhism is a way of life that was passed down in a teacher-student relationship, unlike most religion in the west which is God -  man.  Since religion is define as worship to a God, Buddhism can not really be label as a religion since its not about worship detities; its a teaching about life, universe and the path to enlightenment.\n\nBuddhism in a nutshell is the search of understand yourself and its surrounding; Buddhist believe that man was pure in heart but for various reason we were polluted and tainted by desires and sin.\n\nSo the goal of Buddhism is to purify your soul/mind and through various methods to revert back to our original state of being.\n\nBuddhist follow the teaching of Buddha, a man that exist in India around 500 B.C.  He was born a prince but he gave everything away to pursuit the path of enlightenment. He ultimately achieved its goal and spend all his time teaching / sharing his knowledge to his students and people.\n\nBuddhism use different method to achieve its goal,hence you see different practice method of Buddhism: Zen, pure-land, Tibetan and many others.\n\nThere is no disrespect to try to understand something and ask question, I'm sure your friend would be happy to answer any question you may have.\n\nThis is just a very brief outline of Buddhism. If you are interested, there is an non-profit organization that promotes Buddhism in the U.S.  They have books and videos for free distribution.  \n\nYou can write or call them and they can send you books free of charge too.  Their website is http://www.amtb-usa.org
1095034
You can start going to a local buddhist group.  Most communities have them.  Look in the phone book or on the internet.  Sangha or Dharma are good words to use.  Asian temples are often buddhist, so you can start there if nothing else.  Start reading buddhist books and practicing meditation.  If you do it you will become it.  And stop going to christian church if you don't want to be christian anymore.
1146999
Buddhism stated with Buddha, he was disappointed with life in the sense world....so he wanted higher answers and he got them....the story is long, basically he grew up in luxury and did not know anything about disease or old age ...one day he went out of his palace and has seen a old person, a dead person, a disease stricken person..and a crippled person...he was disgusted with the world, left his palace, became a monk and sought after enlightenment which he got after rigorous practice.\n\nand with caste of Hindus, Hindus divided people on the nature of their work ...for example, Brahmin's were scholars they worked on metaphysics and religion, the Kshatriyas were the kings, and they were responsible for the protection of the country...\nthe vaisyas were business  men, merchants...people who made money...and the sudras were people like barbers, cleaners..who used to get paid for a certain work like the above..\n\nHindus believe that after death, they will be reborn, and this cycle of births and deaths will continue until one attains enlightenment..\n\nand,  a person who seeks spiritual knowledge and strives for it in the present life will be born in better circumstances in his next life which will make it easier for him to concentrate on spiritual pursuits..\n\n\n\nI just read some of the answers, and what you have to know is caste system was not introduced by ashoka, but by the ancient aryans..who wrote the vedas and was called varnasrama, and yes buddhism is an offshoot of hinduism, and no people can change their caste, ie. if you are a brahmin, but like to be a king you can be..and will be called  a kshyatriya, the system was very flexible...
692195
Zen is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism which strongly emphasizes the practice of meditation.\n\nTraditionally, Zen traces its roots back to Indian Buddhism; it takes its name from the Sanskrit term, dhyāna, which means meditative concentration (zen is short for the rarely-used form zenna). According to traditional accounts, Chan was established in China around 500 CE by an Indian monk named Bodhidharma. Bodhidharma is said to have been the twenty-eighth patriarch of Zen and the last Indian successor in a line begun by the Buddha's disciple Mahakaśyapa. His school was also known as the Buddha Heart School