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Hinduism vs Buddhism — 3 Major Similarities and 7 Major Differences

Hinduism and buddhism comparison overview, similarities between hinduism and buddhism, differences between hinduism and buddhism.

Hinduism, which emerged about 3,500 years ago, and Buddhism, which started around 2,800 years ago, are two of the world's main religions, both of which originated in India.

Hinduism worships Brahman — the supreme lifeforce from which atman (souls) and many other gods originate, however Buddhism worships incarnations of one god — Buddhas. Both believe in a continuing cycle of life, suffering, death, and rebirth , but for Buddhists the goal of enlightenment is call nirvana , while it is called moksha in Hinduism.

Hinduism and Buddhism are like twins sharing a lot of the same terminology and concepts, but each has its own distinguishing features.Let's learn the 3 major similarities and 7 major differences between Hinduism and Buddhism as below.

  Hinduism Buddhism
Similarities Started in India
Share common concepts such as , , and
Recognize symbols such as Dharmachakra and Mudra
Practice meditation, yoga, and mantra (although in different ways)
Differences Not founded by a single person Founded by Gautama Buddha
Followers are mainly in India Followers are mainly in East and Southeast Asia
Recognizes many gods Recognizes the existence of one god but does not focus on it
Focuses on religious rituals Focuses on ethical behaviors
Traditionally divides society with a caste system Recognizes that all humans are equal
Has temples for certain gods and believes that Buddha was a reincarnation of Vishnu Has temples only for Buddha
Festivals have banquets, ceremonies, and ritual activities. Festivals are for Buddhist practices and offerings in temples.

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It could be said that Buddhism emerged out of Hinduism because Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, grew up learning Hindu teachings before he became a traveling monk and gained enlightenment. Considering this overlapping background between Buddhism and Hinduism, it is natural that both share common ideas.

1. Similar Concepts

In both religions, you will come across similar vocabulary such as samsara (the cycle of rebirth), karma (cause and effect), or dharma (moral order).

Samsara refers to the endless cycle of birth and death. Both Hinduism and Buddhism see life as a cycle, which means that spirits are continually reincarnated into a new life after the end of their previous one. This cycle can only be broken by achieving enlightenment.

For Buddhists, enlightenment is referred to as attaining nirvana , while for Hindus this is referred to as moksha , or becoming one with Brahman, the supreme god. The concept of enlightenment is similar in the two religions, but they differ on the path towards achieving it.

Karma is the concept that any action or thought will directly result in a fitting consequence in the present or future life state. To put it plainly, if someone does bad things in this life, that person might be reborn in a less desirable state in the next life. Similarly, when good things happen to someone, karma states that it may be due to good deeds in a past life.

However, the idea of karma for Hindus and Buddhists is slightly different. Hindus see karma as fitting behavior according to the role of the person, often this includes religious rituals, while Buddhists see it as correct intent and ethical actions.

Dharma is a difficult word to translate and it vaguely means natural law, duty, moral order, right conduct, or role in the universe. This concept is central to both Hinduism and Buddhism, but the interpretations in the two religions are different. In Hinduism, it is tied closely with the duty of a person, or how a person is supposed to conduct oneself according to their caste. In Buddhism, it often refers to the teachings of Buddha.

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2. Similar Symbolism

Apart from similar concepts, there are similar symbols that occur in both Hinduism and Buddhism, including mudra and dharmachakra .

Mudra is a system of symbolic hand gestures with meanings, often used during meditation. Buddha is often portrayed using these hand gestures in statues or paintings. Mudra is commonly practiced in both Hinduism and Buddhism but the positions, meanings, and uses are different.

Dharmachakra is a symbol common to Hinduism and Buddhism that looks like a ship's steering wheel. The wheel appears in India's national flag as well as the Thai royal family's flag. It is also called the Wheel of Law. The number of spokes varies, but eight is most common , representing the Eightfold Path teaching for Buddhists. Dharmachakra commonly appears on Hindu temple walls as well, particularly in temples of the sun god, Surya.

3. Similar Practices

On the surface, you may notice that Hindus and Buddhists share a few common practices such as meditation and the use of mantras .

A mantra is the utterance of syllables or words in a melodic way, which is believed to have spiritual power and can bring the person to a higher spiritual awareness.

Hindus use mantras during rituals while worshiping gods. They also use it while praying. In Buddhism, mantra is more used as a meditation exercise to help the mind focus on certain things and let go of attachments.

Another shared practice between Hinduism and Buddhism is meditation. But again, the two religions have different perspectives on how to go about it and why you should practice it. Buddhists see meditation as a means of self-edification and attaining nirvana, while Hindus have varying purposes for meditation including physical, mental, and spiritual enhancement.

Both religions also have an inclination towards vegetarianism . In India, 33% of Hindus are vegetarians. While becoming vegetarian is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged in both Hinduism and Buddhism as an expression of non-violence.

Clearly, there are overlapping concepts and practices between these two religions, but while there are clear similarities there are even more differences. Some of Buddha's teachings were influenced by his disapproval of the Hindu practices at the time, especially regarding the caste system.

1. Different Perspective on God(s)

One of the most fundamental differences between Buddhism and Hinduism is their view on the existence of god.

Hindus worship numerous deities . A few of the most important include Lord Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu , Ganesh, and Lakshmi . Even though there are many gods in Hinduism, they are believed to all come from Brahman, the universal soul.

Hindus recognize that there is an individual soul inside each person, called an atman. Some Hindus believe that the atman and Brahman are ultimately the same, an idea that resonates with pantheism. However, views on this vary greatly.

On the other hand, Buddhists deny the existence of many gods . Instead, they believe in the existence of one god, but they do not believe it is necessary to seek god. This is reflected in their teachings which mainly talk about ethical behavior rather than worship towards a god.

Worshiping various different gods is very deeply ingrained in Hindu culture, but in Buddhism, followers are instead encouraged to focus more on self-discipline.

2. Different Morality

One of the most important teachings of Buddhism is the Eightfold Path . The eight practices are right view, right resolve, right speech, right conduct, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, and right samadhi (meditative union). This is believed to help a person achieve nirvana and release him/her from the cycle of rebirth, which is the ultimate goal in Buddhism.

Hinduism's view on morality goes hand in hand with their view of dharma. Hindus do not just focus on a person's moral behavior, but instead emphasize the fulfillment of duties and rituals expected for the person's particular lifestyle and socio-economic status.

3. Different Views on the Caste System

Although it is currently illegal in India, traditionally Hindus believe in the caste system which divides people into four hierarchical groups , or five if including the untouchables. Each caste has its own dharma, or expected behavior and actions. Historically, the caste system has been very prevalent in Hindu culture and determined many decisions such as who to marry.

Marriage with a different caste was highly discouraged throughout India and although older generations still may not approve, today, many young people participate in intercaste relationships and marriages.

The caste system benefits the upper castes but suppresses the lower castes. In fact, Hindus have to be of the Brahmin caste in order to achieve moksha, or enlightenment. The lowest caste, which is known as the untouchables, gets the worst end of it.

Disapproval of the caste system was one of the things that triggered some of Gautama Buddha's teachings. Instead of dividing the society into hierarchical categories, he taught that all people are of equal value , therefore there is no caste system recognized in Buddhism.

4. Different Views on Buddha

Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, is a historical figure who was born a prince of India and lived in the 4th century BC. Buddhists see him as an admirable teacher who achieved enlightenment and founded the Buddhist religion.

Some denominations of Hinduism also recognized the figure of Buddha, but they perceive him as the 9th avatar of the god Vishnu , one of the three most important gods in Hinduism. They believe that Vishnu incarnated as Buddha in order to restore dharma, or moral order, in the world. Buddhists, however, do not share this view.

5. Different Architecture/Function of Temples

The differences in architecture between Hinduism and Buddhism can be found mainly in their temples. Hindu temples are architecturally dedicated to the worship a certain god: Lord Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Ganesh, or Lakshmi , etc., while Buddhist temples or stupas are used to honor (incarnations of) Buddha and for meditation.

Hinduism architecture can be found in simple shrine structures by the side of roads or in large temple complexes like Swaminarayan Akshardham (the largest) in Delhi.

The famous originally Hindu-style temples Angkor Wat and Bagan in Cambodia and Burma respectively were later converted to Buddhist-style temples!

Buddhism temples are designed to represent the pure land or pure environment of a Buddha. The largest Buddhist temple in the world is Borobudur in Indonesia.

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6. Different Distribution "Homelands" for Hindus and Buddhists

Buddhism and Hinduism are the third and fourth-largest religions in the world after Christianity and Islam. In fact, 15% of the world's population is Hindu and 7% is Buddhist.

Hinduism is mainly focused in India . 92% of all Hindus come from India , which makes it an ethnic religion. The second largest populations of Hindus outside India are in Nepal and Mauritius. Less than 1% of Hindus live outside Asia and the Pacific.

Buddhism originated in northern India, but it is a religion that is distributed more widely. China has 18% of the world's Buddhists, the largest percentage. Thailand and the neighboring countries of Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia and other East Asian countries have the greatest numbers of Buddhists. Small numbers of Buddhists are found outside Asia.

7. Different Religious Festivals

All festivals in Hinduism are predominantly worshipful in character and significance. They usually combine with religious ceremonies of sacrifice and washing, semi-ritual spectacles, deity worship and prayer, and processions. The main festivals for Hindus include Diwali , Holi , Onam, Maha Shivaratri, and Ganesh Chaturthi. See The 12 Most Popular Festivals in India .

Festivals are also an important aspect of Buddhist practice . At festivals, Buddhist will go the local temple or monastery and offer food to the monks, honor Buddha, concentrate on the Five Precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, sensuality/fornication, wrong speech, and intoxicants), listen to a Dharma talk or chant of the Buddha's teachings, and meditate. The major Buddhist festivals are Vesak (Buddha Day), Nirvana Day, Magha Puja, and Dharma Day.

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Differences and Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism

Buddhism and Hinduism are two of the oldest and most complex religious traditions in the world. Know about Differences and Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism.

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Buddhism and Hinduism are two of the oldest and most complex religious traditions in the world. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences. Here are some key points of Differences and Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism.

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Buddhism and Hinduism

Hinduism, one of the world’s oldest religions, traces its origins to ancient India and lacks a singular founder, evolving over millennia by assimilating diverse cultural elements. Its sacred texts, including the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and epics like the Ramayana, embody its rich spiritual heritage. Hindus may embrace monotheism, polytheism, or pantheism, venerating deities like Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, and Devi. Central tenets include the cycles of reincarnation (samsara) and karma, with the ultimate goal being moksha—liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

In contrast, Buddhism, emerging in the 6th century BCE with Siddhartha Gautama in Nepal, crystallized around his enlightenment. Rejecting a caste system, Buddhism emphasizes equality on the path to enlightenment. The Tripitaka, Mahayana sutras, and other texts form its scriptures, while Nirvana represents the liberation from suffering and the cycle of birth and death. The Noble Eightfold Path guides practitioners toward enlightenment through right understanding, intention, action, and mindfulness, with places of worship including monasteries and stupas.

Differences Between Buddhism and Hinduism

Siddhartha Gautama in 6th century BCE, Nepal Evolved over thousands of years in ancient India
Generally non-theistic; focus on enlightenment Can be monotheistic, polytheistic, or pantheistic; major deities like Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Devi
Tripitaka, Mahayana sutras, Tibetan texts Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas
Samsara with emphasis on breaking the cycle through enlightenment (Nirvana) Samsara and karma; actions in this life affect future lives
Nirvana (liberation from suffering) Moksha (liberation from the cycle of rebirth) and reunification with the divine
Noble Eightfold Path (right understanding, intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, concentration) Various paths, including Jnana Yoga (knowledge), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Karma Yoga (selfless action), Dhyana Yoga (meditation)
Monasteries, shrines, stupas Temples
Rejects the caste system, advocates equality Historically structured around a caste system; ongoing efforts for reform or transcendence
Rejects the authority of the Vedas Considers Vedas important
Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path Embraces diversity in beliefs and practices; wide range of interpretations and rituals
  • Followers: Known as Buddhists.
  • Global Population: Approximately 520 million, constituting about 7% of the global population.
  • Places of Worship: Buddhist monasteries, shrines, temples.
  • Founder: Buddha, considered the all-transcending sage and highest teacher.
  • Spiritual Leadership: Dalai Lama in Tibetan Buddhism, associated with the Yellow Hat or Gelug school.
  • Monastic Titles: Male Monks – Bhikkhus, Female Monks – Bhikkhunis; Monastic Communities – Sangha.
  • Branches: Hinayana (Theravada) and Mahayana.
  • Primary Language: Theravada uses Pali; Mahayana and Vajrayana use Sanskrit.
  • Important Festivals: Vesak, Parinirvana Day, Buddha Purnima, Ullambana, Uposatha, Losar.
  • Sacred Texts: Tripitaka, Gandhara Texts.
  • Symbols: Conch, Dharmachakra, fish, lotus, vase, victory banner, parasol.
  • Marriage and Celibacy: Advice on maintaining a happy married life, but marriage not a religious duty; monks and nuns follow celibacy.
  • Followers: Known as Hindus.
  • Global Population: Approximately 1.25 billion, constituting about 16% of the global population.
  • Places of Worship: Temples.
  • Founder: Evolved over time with diverse cultural and religious elements.
  • Spiritual Leadership: No concept of a foremost spiritual leader.
  • Monastic Titles: Male Monks – Yogis, Sages, Rishis, Gurus, Priests; Female Monks – Sanyasini, Sadhvi, Swamini.
  • Denominations: Shaktism, Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Smartism.
  • Primary Language: Sanskrit; most works of Hindu Philosophy written in Sanskrit.
  • Important Festivals: Ganesh Chaturthi, Mahashivaratri, Ram Navami, Krishna Janmashtami, Navaratri, Durga Puja, etc.
  • Sacred Texts: Vedas, Bhagavad Gita, Ramayan, Upanishads, Puranas.
  • Symbols: Om, Swastika, etc.
  • Marriage and Sin: Marriage allowed; historical instances of polygamy. Sins committed deliberately repaid through Karmic consequences; repentance for unintentional sins prescribed.

Origins and Goal

  • Buddhism originated from Buddha, achieving enlightenment at Bodh Gaya in Bihar, India, in 563 B.C.E.
  • Hinduism began in the Indian subcontinent, predating 3000 B.C.E.
  • Buddhism aims for lasting, unconditional happiness.
  • Hinduism’s goal is freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth, ultimately attaining moksha or liberation.

Geographical Distribution

  • Buddhism followers found in Asian countries like India, Nepal, Japan, Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Laos, Thailand, Bhutan.
  • Hinduism mainly followed in India, Nepal, Bhutan, Mauritius, the Caribbean, North America, Bali in Indonesia.

Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism

Buddhism and Hinduism share several similarities, as both originated in the Indian subcontinent and have been influenced by the cultural and philosophical traditions of the region. Here are some key similarities between Buddhism and Hinduism:

Origin and Cultural Context 

Both Buddhism and Hinduism originated in ancient India, and they share a common cultural and historical background.

Both religions emphasize the concept of dharma, which refers to the moral and ethical duties and responsibilities that individuals should uphold in their lives.

Both Hinduism and Buddhism believe in the concept of karma, which is the law of cause and effect. According to this concept, the consequences of one’s actions (good or bad) will affect them in this life or the next.

Reincarnation (Samsara) 

Both religions subscribe to the idea of samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Individuals are believed to be reincarnated into a new life based on their karma from previous lives.

Moksha (Nirvana) 

While the terminology differs, both religions share the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Hindus seek moksha, the release from samsara, while Buddhists aspire to attain nirvana, a state of liberation from suffering and desire.

Concept of Self (Atman/Anatta) 

Hinduism traditionally teaches the existence of an eternal, unchanging self (atman), while Buddhism rejects the idea of a permanent self (anatta). Despite this difference, both agree on the impermanence of worldly phenomena.

Four Noble Truths 

Buddhism’s foundational teachings, encapsulated in the Four Noble Truths, outline the nature of suffering, its origin, the possibility of cessation, and the path leading to the cessation of suffering. While not directly present in Hinduism, the themes of suffering and the quest for liberation are shared.

Eightfold Path 

Buddhism presents the Eightfold Path as a guide to achieving nirvana, comprising ethical and mental practices. Hinduism also emphasizes ethical and moral conduct, as seen in the paths of dharma and righteousness.

Meditation and Mindfulness 

Both traditions advocate the practice of meditation and mindfulness as essential tools for spiritual development and self-realization.

Respect for All Life 

Both Buddhism and Hinduism promote non-violence and the idea of compassion and respect for all living beings.

Differences Between Buddhism and Hinduism UPSC

Buddhism and Hinduism, originating in ancient India, differ fundamentally in their perspectives on the self. Hinduism asserts the existence of an eternal self (atman) amid the cycle of reincarnation, seeking liberation (moksha) within a divine cosmic order. In contrast, Buddhism rejects a permanent self (anatta) and focuses on extinguishing desire to attain nirvana, liberation from suffering. Hinduism accommodates diverse deities and rituals within a hierarchical caste system, while Buddhism emphasizes a non-theistic approach and rejects caste distinctions. Despite shared cultural roots, these religions diverge in core concepts, emphasizing distinct paths to spiritual enlightenment and ultimate liberation.

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Differences and Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism FAQs

Who is the founder of buddhism and hinduism.

Buddhism was founded by Siddhartha Gautama in the 6th century BCE. Hinduism evolved over time without a singular founder.

What is the origin of Hinduism and Buddhism?

Hinduism evolved over millennia in ancient India, while Buddhism emerged around the 6th century BCE with Siddhartha Gautama in Nepal.

How do the concepts of karma and reincarnation differ in the two religions?

Both believe in karma and reincarnation, but Hinduism emphasizes the cyclical nature of life (samsara) and the goal of moksha, while Buddhism focuses on breaking the cycle through enlightenment (Nirvana).

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In This Article Expand or collapse the "in this article" section Buddhism and Hinduism

Introduction.

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  • Social and Geographical Issues
  • Philosophical Comparisons between Hinduism and Buddhism
  • Overt Comparisons with Western Thought
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Buddhism and Hinduism by GJ Mason LAST REVIEWED: 21 February 2022 LAST MODIFIED: 21 February 2022 DOI: 10.1093/obo/9780195393521-0273

A chronological approach is used in this bibliographic article in sequencing emergent categories and concepts as they appear in history, although technically what is understood as “Hinduism” as practiced today did not exist prior to Buddhism. Hinduism and Buddhism are terms framed by modern understandings of religion that delineate a coherent set of beliefs, texts, and practices, according to theorists of the “materialist turn” in religious studies. This argument is borne out in this bibliographical article. In the lived experience, the lines that delineate “Hinduism” and “Buddhism” are porous. As research into Hinduism and Buddhism progresses, interesting intersections and influences challenge categories. The examination of the relationships between Hinduism and Buddhism increasingly takes into account the interpenetrating influences of geography, history, and cultures that problematize any attempt at a discrete view of each religion. This selective record of texts and studies of Hinduism and Buddhism reflects the relationships and interpenetrating influences that continue to shape the field. There are very early texts that provide a history of the field’s beginnings. These texts are of perennial interest in that they provide a view of the foundations of the studies into Hinduism and Buddhism, for example, James George Jennings, The Vedāntic Buddhism of the Buddha: A Collection of Historical Texts Translated and Edited by J.G Jennings (1947). As the field progresses, the categories of research increase in number and overlap. In this regard, there are various comparative categories and any number of entries may fit into any number of these categories. Nevertheless, an attempt is made to find the most conducive category for each entry.

General Overviews

There are very few overview studies of Hinduism and Buddhism. Buddhist studies tends to see itself as discrete from Hinduism. Studies on Indian philosophy and Hinduism tend to include Buddhism within the Hindu context. A common approach is to view the Buddha or Lord Buddha as continuing the unfoldment of Indian orthodox philosophical traditions. Very often his perceived role was to bring Hinduism back to its spiritual roots, away from the decay that had influenced it due to social and philosophical ignorance. This section is divided into three sections; Early Studies , Dictionaries and Encyclopedias , and Textbooks .

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Hinduism + Buddhism

Buddhism developed in reaction to the established religion in India at the time—Hinduism.

6th century B.C.E. - present

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Pensive bodhisattvas.

When you see a pensive bodhisattva sculpture, you may wonder: what is he thinking? And why is he smiling?

How to recognize the Buddha

Who was the Buddha and how have artists depicted him as a visually recognizable figure in sculpture?

The Buddha and Buddhist sacred texts

A Buddha is seen as one who becomes awakened to the true nature of reality.

Sacred texts in Hinduism

Professor Julius Lipner discusses the distinctive nature of Hinduism and its sacred texts, drawing on the Vedas and epic compositions.

Sikh sacred places

Eleanor Nesbitt explores Sikh gurdwaras ('doorway to the Guru'), touching on the most notable ones, such as the Golden Temple, their common features, and the principles of worship within them.

Sikh prayer and worship

The Guru Granth Sahib plays an integral part in the lives of Sikhs. Eleanor Nesbitt describes the rituals that surround it and its role in the daily lives and life cycle rites of Sikhs, also exploring Sikh daily prayer, devotional songs, and festivals.

Origins and development of Sikh faith: The Gurus

Gurus are central to the Sikh faith. Eleanor Nesbitt looks at the founder of the Sikh faith – Guru Nanak, the concept of Guru in Sikhism, the central principles of the Gurus’ teachings and the sacred scripture – the Guru Granth Sahib.

Buddhist meditation and chant

There are many kinds of Buddhist meditations; here Dr Sarah Shaw describes the ‘middle way’ of the Buddha and explores key aspects of Buddhist meditation and chant, such as the use of Buddha-images and visualization.

Hindu deities

Hinduism cannot be considered polytheistic and discusses the way in which Hindu culture and sacred texts conceptualize the deities, as well as their role in devotional faith

The Emerald Buddha and pandemics

In the 19th century, King Rama II turned to Thailand’s protective deity, the Emerald Buddha, to stop the spread of cholera.

Jain cosmology

Professor Balbir introduces the distinctive cosmology of the Jain religion, discussing how it is structured and understood by followers of the faith.

An introduction to the Jain faith

Professor Nalini Balbir introduces the Jain religion, describing its key features, practices and expressions of faith.

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Works cited

  • Assam Tribune. (2022). Gandhi and his Concept of Hinduism. https://assamtribune.com/gandhi-and-his-concept-of-hinduism/
  • BBC News. (2021). India Profile - Timeline. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-south-asia-12557384
  • Buddhanet. (2022). Basic Buddhism: The Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path. https://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/5minbud.htm
  • Columbia University. (2022). Hinduism. https://www.columbia.edu/itc/mealac/pritchett/00routesdata/1500_1599/hinduism/hinduism.html
  • Fisher, M. P. (2014). Living religions (9th ed.). Pearson.
  • History. (2022). Buddhism. https://www.history.com/topics/religion/buddhism
  • Narayanan, V. (2018). Hinduism. Oxford University Press.
  • Newsela. (2022). Hinduism. https://newsela.com/read/hinduism-world-religions/id/14666/
  • Singh, U. (2021). Buddhism. Encyclopædia Britannica.
  • Smith, W. C. (2018). The Oxford Handbook of Religion and Society in the American Indians. Oxford University Press.

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Buddhism and Hinduism: A Comparison Essay

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Introduction

Differences.

It’s known that India has two main religions which are so related to each other in some ways but they have different theories, and practice. If we trace the history of India we will find that in ancient India there were two philosophical thoughts, the Shramana religion and the Vedic religion. Buddhism and Jainism are considered as continuations of the Shramana traditions, while modern Hinduism is a continuation of the Vedic traditions.

Both of Hinduism and Buddhism have shared beliefs but they are different in the practice of duties, worshipped, the founders of the religions. It’s important to identify the similarities and differences between the two religions in some details because of the many similarities between them they may appear the same but in fact they are not.

Buddhism has two characteristics which distinguish it from the other religion. Buddhism as a religion refutes the ideas of eternal (Atman) and immortality in nature (Brahman) this is not found in Hinduism.

The following will discuss the similarities and difference between the two religions.

Both of them have common similarities as follows:

The two religions emphasize the illusory nature of the world. Both believes in the concept of karma role in keeping men bound to this world, the transmigration of souls and the circle of birth and death for each soul.

They assure the importance of human begins life and non- violence and compassion are necessary to them. Both believe in the existence of several hells and heavens. They also believe in gods which are existing on different planes.

Despite that both of them call for non- violence, peace and not to harm people and animals, they still believe that war is justifiable in certain cases to prevail justice.

Both of their beliefs and goals are so similar. They shared the concept of life that you should not act violently toward others.

The two related religions have some light differences:

Both of them are different only in the way they are presented or practiced.

Definite points are stressed in Buddhism , which are mentioned in the Hinduism but not emphasized by it. Also the teaching of the Buddhism neglects the other aspects of the Hindu teaching.

The comments below apply to the Buddha’s original teaching on the Theravada tradition of Buddhism. All the comments may not apply to the Mahayana and the Zen Buddhist traditions.

Both Hinduism and Buddhism have different range of extension. Hinduism had no real expansion over the years and basically remained stable where it originated despite the influence of Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. Hindus respected and were attracted by the stress on elaborate worship, which in turn turned others away from Hinduism. On the other hand Buddhist expansion was huge, making a noteworthy grip in India, hundreds of monasteries sprang up and from these centers, the message of the Buddha was spread “Buddhism increase speedily throughout the lands of its birth.

Gautama was a great “campaign manager” as he avoided the highly sublime ideals of the Upanishads. Many Hindus were changed easily. The acceptance by the great emperor in 3 B.C. helped to uphold growth and spread Buddhism into Ceylon and parts of Southeast Asia, also making headway in Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. By the sixth century, it spread to Nepal, Tibet, Mongolia, China, Korea and Japan. Buddhism one could say “sprouted” out of Hinduism. Hinduism stayed the same for a long time while Buddhism grew rapidly all over the world.

One difference between Hinduism and Buddhism is their social order system. The caste system divides the Hindu people into four major classes, Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra, and “untouchables,” or people outside of all the classes. Members of certain castes have certain duties. Class is determined by birth, allowing no social advancement, career choice, or individual freedom. There are high class and low class, the castes are socially ordered, forming an upper and lower social classes of people.

Hinduism against Buddhism from philosophical questions

Philosophical questions: The Buddha discouraged philosophical pursuits and questions regarding the nature of the Universe, the existence of God and the like. His position was that such pursuits do you no good at all. His message was simple. You are suffering today in this life – so walk the path to the end of suffering.

The Hindu scriptures however contained detailed descriptions of the Brahman or the experience of oneness with God. Hinduism also presents many philosophical arguments proving the existence of the Brahman.

Buddhism spread, Hinduism stayed in India.

The Buddhist faith has spread too many countries in North and East Asia and in recent years to the West.

Hinduism is not just a religion. It is a way of life, a culture that has several points making up the practice of Hinduism including language. It is a way of looking at life unusual to India and cannot be exported.

Hinduism in Canada

When the first group of Hindus arrived to Canada as part of the large immigration of South Asia in 1960, they have been positively received. At that time Canada suffered from a shortage of qualified professors in universities that needs professional masters because it expended rapidly. Also there were vacancies in areas such as teaching, engineering, and medicine. It’s observed that well qualified Hindus as they came to Canada filled the empty positions and therefore they greatly received into the Canadian life because of their contributions to Canada in lots of cultural fields.

There were many educated persons in this large group of Hindus, upper- middle class of them who spoke English fluently were be able to fit in the life and Canadian community. They indulged and interfere easily in the host country.They were appreciated by the Canadian culture. Bu later groups of Hindus immigrants didn’t receive such a good welcome or appreciation in Canada. About 100 years ago the first group of Hindus is consisted of Indian immigrants who began arriving in British Columbia.

The other group is contained Canadian changes to the different sects of Hinduism through the efforts of the Hare Krishna, the Gurus during the last 50 years, and other organizations. The second major group of Hindus immigrated from SriLanka, goes back to the 1940s, when a few hundred SriLankans migrated to Canada.

The 1983 public riots in Sri Lanka precipitated the mass exodus of Tamils and Sinhalese with over 500,000 finding refuge in countries such as Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, France and Switzerland from then SriLankans have been immigrating to Canada in particular around Toronto and Greater Toronto Area. On the one hand, a war is being waged for a divide Tamil homeland within the small island currently named Sri Lanka. On the other side, efforts are being made throughout the world to make Sri Lankan a better known culture better, and understood by non-Tamil peoples, toward the end of establishing cross-cultural and cross-national union.

It’s known that Hindus don’t have a united set of beliefs and practices which are shared by all believers of that religion. Also this religion “Hinduism” has no holy place or temple for its believers to practice there worship. Their worship is centered to be practiced at home individually. This was especially the case with regard to orthodox Hindu practice in India.

The 2001 Census of Canada showed that, there were 297,200 practitioners of Hinduism. However, the non-profit organization Association for Canadian Studies estimates the Hindu population grew to 372,500 by 2006, or just under 1.2% of the population of Canada. The huge majority of Hindus reside in Ontario (primarily in Toronto, Scarborough, Brampton, Hamilton, Windsor & Ottawa), Quebec (primarily around the Montreal area) & British Columbia, (primarily around the Vancouver area).

Have major populations. The many organizations representing and working on behalf of the Hindu community are such as the Hindu Sabha, a religious society linked to temples and the World Maha Hindu Organization, a cultural organization. Indian Hindus also play a part in a number of non-sectarian organizations and networks representing the welfare of the Indo-Canadian community across religious lines. Hindu Youth Network – Canada is at this time the largest Hindu Youth movement in Canada with over 5000 registered members.

The Hindu Conference of Canada is an organization which emphasizes the political action – it is helpful to the traditional Party of Canada and the Bharatiya Janata Party in India and significant of the Congress Party.

Aiken, C.F. (1910). Hinduism. In The Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company.

Alisimo, A. (2007). Buddha From a Hindu Perspective .

Gangoli, N. (2007). Hinduism And Buddhism A Comparison .

Harold Coward (Professor of History Director, Centre for Studies in Religion & Society University of Victoria Victoria, BC) 2002 , Hindus in Canada.

Willard G. Oxtoby, ed., World Religions: Eastern Traditions. Toronto: Oxford University Press, 2002.

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    Hinduism, which emerged about 3,500 years ago, and Buddhism, which started around 2,800 years ago, are two of the world's main religions, both of which originated in India. Hinduism worships Brahman — the supreme lifeforce from which atman (souls) and many other gods originate, however Buddhism worships incarnations of one god — Buddhas.

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    1. Hinduism and Buddhism are often hailed to be two of the oldest religions of the world. While Hinduism comes from Sanatana Dharma, many believe that Buddhism is nothing but a branch of Hinduism. However, it is necessary to determine that these are two different branches with various similarities and differences.

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    Buddhism and Hinduism have common origins in the culture of Ancient India. Buddhism arose in the Gangetic plains of Eastern India in the 5th century BCE during the Second Urbanisation (600-200 BCE). [1] Hinduism developed as a fusion [2] [note 1] or synthesis [3] [note 2] of practices and ideas from the ancient Vedic religion and elements and deities from other local Indian traditions.

  5. Differences and Similarities Between Buddhism and Hinduism

    Hinduism asserts the existence of an eternal self (atman) amid the cycle of reincarnation, seeking liberation (moksha) within a divine cosmic order. In contrast, Buddhism rejects a permanent self (anatta) and focuses on extinguishing desire to attain nirvana, liberation from suffering.

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    Introduction. Buddhism and Hinduism were never discrete religio-cultural systems, even if they are often taken as such. Most people and scholars tend to use the names as catch phrases for the two religions—one reflecting the overwhelming importance of the Buddha, the other taking up a Persian word—to encompass a set of cultural religious ideas and practices extending back to the second ...

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    Sikh prayer and worship. The Guru Granth Sahib plays an integral part in the lives of Sikhs. Eleanor Nesbitt describes the rituals that surround it and its role in the daily lives and life cycle rites of Sikhs, also exploring Sikh daily prayer, devotional songs, and festivals.

  10. Research Guides: Introduction to Religion: Buddhism & Hinduism

    Deals with historical aspects of and modern concepts related to Buddhism, as well as geographic areas and important figures. Each article has a bibliography. In-depth essays on a wide variety of topics in Hinduism, including central concepts, religious symbols, relationship to other religions, important figures, modern issues, the role of ...

  11. Hinduism and Buddhism

    In Hinduism the concept of reincarnation refers to an eternal element that travels from one life to another. This element takes different forms and shapes of different living things among its eternal life. This is the soul, or the atman as it is called in Hinduism. In contrast, Buddhism has the concept of rebirth which is the continuation of ...

  12. Compare and Contrast Between Hinduism and Buddhism

    Hinduism and Buddhism are both religions that originated out of the Indian subcontinent and considered to be major world religions. The reason that religion is so important to India is that four major religions emerged out of this country but this paper will provide an overview of compare and contrast of Hinduism and Buddhism and a major role in Indian society.

  13. Buddhism and Hinduism: A Comparison

    Buddhism has two characteristics which distinguish it from the other religion. Buddhism as a religion refutes the ideas of eternal (Atman) and immortality in nature (Brahman) this is not found in Hinduism. The following will discuss the similarities and difference between the two religions. Both of them have common similarities as follows: The ...

  14. Buddhist Responses to Brāhmaṇa Challenges in Medieval India: Bodhgayā

    issue - the dominant religious forces were Jainism and the Saiva traditions of Hinduism. While Buddhism was certainly present in central India, archaeological remains, inscriptions ... G. Omvedt, Buddhism in India (London, 2003), p. 142; L. M. Joshi, Brahmanism, Buddhism and Hinduism: An Essay on Their Origins and Interactions (Delhi, 1970 ...

  15. Hinduism vs. Buddhism Essay

    Hinduism, the largest of the eastern religion and one of the oldest in the world. (Curry). Hinduism denotes the religions of majority of the people in India and Nepal and of some communities in other continents, who refer to themselves as Hindus. (Flood). It is said to have existed from 1500-300 BCE.

  16. Compare and Contrast Hinduism and Buddhism Essay

    The Emergence and Spread of Buddhism. In comparison to Hinduism, Buddhism was also first located in India. The religion quickly spread into China, Japan, Southeast Asia, etc. Buddhism briskly sprouted after Buddha, a title given to a person believed to transcend the cycle of rebirth, found the faith.

  17. Essay on Comparing Hinduism and Buddhism

    478 Words. 2 Pages. Open Document. Comparing Hinduism and Buddhism. While Hinduism and Buddhism come from the same cultural backgrounds, they are extremely diverse in their beliefs on afterlife, deity, and rituals. Both religions believe in reincarnation, but it is where an individual goes after he or she gets off the endless cycle that differs.

  18. Buddhism And Hinduism Essay

    For instance, in India, Buddhism evolved from Hinduism, a religion were people believe in 300, 000 gods. Even though, Hinduism and Buddhism have different similarities such as believes in god, soul, and rituals, which in some ways connected to each other, both religions believe of what happens after life.

  19. Essay on Hinduism and Buddhism

    Vishnu created the universe by separating the heavens and the earth and has rescued it on a number of occasions. As Hopfe and Woodward state "Vishnu is known as a god of love, benevolence, and forgiveness (Hinduism 94).". " In some incarnations, he has come as a man." (94). The third popular god is Brahma, the creator of the world.

  20. Hinduism Vs. Buddhism

    Hinduism is amassed in India, which makes it an ethnic religion. Hinduism has 1.1 billion followers worldwide, an estimated 15% of the world population. Hinduism is one of the four significant religions of the world by level of populace, this is because of the huge populace of India. Hinduism is developing in nations, for example, Ghana, Russia ...

  21. Compare and Contrast Hinduism and Buddhism Essay

    Unlike in Buddhism, in Hinduism there was a caste system. It was a group from a social system. Hindus had gone by using a caste system, but it was rejected in the Buddhism community which resulted in many Buddhist being laborers and craftspeople. Hindus and Buddha both had different beliefs. For example, "Hindus saw religion as a way of ...

  22. PDF The Comparative study between Hinduism and Buddhism

    Buddhism does not believe in the existence of souls as well in the first cause, whom we generally call God. Hinduism believe in the existence of Atman, that is the individual soul and Brahman, the Supreme Creator. Hinduism accepts the Buddha as an incarnation of Mahavishnu, one of the gods of Hindu trinity.

  23. Comparing Buddhism and Hinduism Essay

    For instance, in India, Buddhism evolved from Hinduism, a religion were people believe in 300, 000 gods. Even though, Hinduism and Buddhism have different similarities such as believes in god, soul, and rituals, which in some ways connected to each other, both religions believe of what happens after life.