1. BUDDHISM

2. Founding When: Mid 500 B.C.E. When: Mid 500 B.C.E. Where: Northern India Where: Northern India How it began: When Siddhartha Gautama left behind his royal life and became Buddha (the Enlightened one). How it began: When Siddhartha Gautama left behind his royal life and became Buddha (the Enlightened one).

3. Core Beliefs Four Noble Truths Four Noble Truths 1. There is suffering 2. Suffering is caused by desire 3. There is a way to end the suffering 4. To end suffering, follow the Eightfold Path.

4. Monotheistic or Polytheistic? Just as in Hinduism, Buddhists believe in the all-powerful spirit known as Brahman. Just as in Hinduism, Buddhists believe in the all-powerful spirit known as Brahman. But unlike Hindus, Buddhists do not represent Brahman with gods. But unlike Hindus, Buddhists do not represent Brahman with gods.

5. Core Beliefs Nirvana Nirvana The ultimate release from reincarnation The ultimate release from reincarnation Karma Karma Good actions causes good results Good actions causes good results Bad action causes bad results – to be born again! Bad action causes bad results – to be born again! Reincarnation Reincarnation Cycle of life and death Cycle of life and death

6. Places of Worship Temples Temples Pagodas

7. Practices and Rituals What is it? Actions a Buddhism must do. Why is it important? To reach NIRVANA Meditation Helps to bring focus on the Eightfold Path Eightfold Path

8. Festivals and Holidays Wesak (Buddha Day) When: When: May May Why: Why: To celebrate when Siddhartha Gautama became Buddha To celebrate when Siddhartha Gautama became Buddha How: How: Happy celebration festival Happy celebration festival

9. Number of Follower World: World: 300-500 million 300-500 million U.S. U.S. 1-3 million 1-3 million