1. The Beginnings of Buddhism Sec. #3

2. Siddhartha Gautama Young Indian prince once lived a life of luxury in a palace At 30 yrs. old, he went outside his palace and saw human suffering for the first time These events changed his life causing him to leave his family and life of ease to discover why there is suffering in the world After 7 years of wandering and meditation, he created the religion of Buddhism

3. The Teachings of Buddhism Buddha taught that the answer to suffering was having the right way of thinking and self- denial People must live in “the middle way” avoiding too much pleasure and worry To find the “middle way” people must treat each other fairly, tell the truth and avoid violence If people followed this path, they would reach nirvana, or lasting peace The cycle of reincarnation would end

4. Followers of Buddhism All people are equal under Buddhism and all could follow the path to nirvana regardless of social class Anyone could become a priest Missionaries spread Buddhism throughout India and China

5. Buddhism in India Buddha spent the rest of his life teaching During the rule of Asoka, the Golden Age of Buddhism occurred Both Hindusim and Buddhism existed side by side in India

6. Common Elements in Buddhism and Hinduism Non-violence is emphasized In Hinduism Buddha is the reincarnation of Vishnu Both believe that it is wrong to harm any living creature