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Important Texts: There are different scriptures and texts, but varying levels of importance are placed on them by different schools of Buddhism. One is called the Tripitaka.
Number of Believers: approx. 376 million
Gods? Goddesses?: None
Afterlife?: Cycles of reincarnation, with the possibility of achieving Nirvana.
Important Holidays/ Rituals: different festivals, vary by region
Founded: 535 B.C.E
Beliefs:
One of the core beliefs of Buddhism is The Four Noble Truths:
Life is suffering
The cause of suffering is desire
Nirvana is the end of suffering. Once a person reaches Nirvana, usually after many lifetimes, they no longer experience desire, and therefore, suffering.
The way to end suffering is through the Eightfold Path
The Eightfold Path is: 1. Right understanding. 2. Right Thought, 3. Right Speech, 4. Right Conduct, 5. Right Livelihood, 6. Right Effort, 7. Right Mindfulness, 8. Right Concentration.
The Eightfold Path is also called the Middle Way, because it encourages moderation, rather than living according to extremes.
History:
Buddhism is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. After giving up his wealthy lifestyle in order to pursue religion, he reached enlightenment while meditating under the bodhi tree. He espoused the idea that by following his teachings and living a good life, anyone could follow his example and become enlightened.
For more information, check out these sites:
The Four Noble Truths
AccessToInsight.org
BuddhaNet.net
Wikipedia.org on Buddhism
