Buddhism is a spiritual tradition that focuses on personal spiritual development and the attainment of a deep insight into the true nature of life.
Buddhism teaches that all life is interconnected, so compassion is natural and important.
Some interesting facts:
- Buddhism is 2,500 years old
- There are currently 376 million followers worldwide
- There are around 418,749 Buddhists in Australia according to the 2006 ABS census
- Buddhism arose as a result of Siddhartha Gautama's quest for Enlightenment in around the 6th Century BCE
- There is no belief in either a personal or creator God
- Buddhists believe that nothing is fixed or permanent - change is always possible
- The two main Buddhist sects are Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism, but there are many more
- Buddhism is a very colourful faith with many festivals throughout the year
- Buddhists can worship both at home or at a temple.
The path to Enlightenment is through the practice and development of morality, meditation and wisdom.
Last Updated on Wednesday, 13 July 2011 00:08