Hinduism and Buddhism

Caste System

Information on Caste System Caste system is determined by birth. (cannot be changed) Believe in a continuous cycle of life, death and rebirth called samsara. Reincarnation- after “death” individual soul is reborn in a different form Hinduism- polytheistic religion, dominant in India

Karma Whether you have good karma or bad karma determines your role in next life. Achieving “good” karma is linked to Dharma, or moral duty. Duties include following religious laws and caste laws.

Hinduism Beliefs Code of Manu (3rd or 2nd Century BCE.) was about following these religious and caste laws. Many Gods (polytheistic). Brahma- Creator, Vishnu- Preserver, Shiva- The destroyer

Origins Aryans (invaders) brought with them collections of oral stories and prayers called the Vedas 1700-1200BCE, and also the caste system. Goal of Hinduism- union with Brahman (World soul) will result in moksha or liberation from known existence.

Buddhism Influenced by Hinduism. Founded by Siddhartha Gautama, an Indian prince. Renounced his life of royal privilege to live a life of meditation.

Buddhism Four Noble Truths are the core teachings Explain the nature of suffering – suffering is caused by attachment to things of this world

Buddhism Eight fold path – the middle way and path to enlightenment Buddha stresses honesty, charity, kindness to all creatures Final goal of Buddhism to reach nirvana- a union with the universe and release from cycle of rebirth

Hinduism and Buddhism similar Both believe in non-violence Both believe in karma, dharma, and the cycle of rebirth

Differences Buddhism worships no Gods Buddha forbid followers from worshipping him Buddhism rejects Caste system Buddhism-Enlightenment through meditation Buddhism-Not focused on rituals