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ECUMENICISM

Buddhism

बुद्ध धर्म

The path to awakening through wisdom, ethics, and mental cultivation.

Founded: c. 500 BCE ~500M adherents Origin: Indian Subcontinent

"In the stillness between breaths, the mind settles like water, reflecting truth without distortion."

Overview

Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) in the 5th century BCE in India, has approximately 500 million followers worldwide. It is both a religion and a philosophical system focused on understanding the nature of suffering and the path to liberation.

The Four Noble Truths form its foundation: life involves suffering (dukkha), suffering arises from craving, suffering can end, and the Eightfold Path leads to that end. Key practices include meditation, ethical conduct, and the cultivation of wisdom.

Buddhism emphasizes inner peace, mindfulness, and compassion for all beings. It teaches that enlightenment is achievable through personal effort and spiritual development.

Wisdom & Perspectives

Explore Buddhism's approach to key life themes

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