1. Buddhism
An Introduction

2. Buddhism Today
400 million Buddhists, most live in Asia including Japan, China, Vietnam and the Koreas.
More than 2 million Buddhists in the United States
Although it began in India, India has very few Buddhists today.
Some Non-Buddhists see Buddhism as a source of wisdom.

3. Life of the Buddha According to the legend: Born as a pampered prince
Saw human misery and decided to be a teacher.
Found what he was looking for and spent 45 years sharing his message throughout India

4. Buddhist Beliefs
“Self” (that sense that you are you) was an illusion that disappears when one achieves enlightenment.
Everyone suffers because they have selfish desires.
Following the Eightfold Path is the way to overcome suffering.

5. Nirvana The goal of those who follow the Eightfold Path.
A state of blissful peace without desire or suffering.
Those who achieve it are at peace and freed from the reincarnation cycle.

6. Buddhism v. Hinduism They both believe in karma and reincarnation.
The Buddha did not believe in a permanent soul or believe in any god.
The Buddha did not accept the caste system, thinking actions were more important.