The Origins of Buddhism

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The basic doctrine of Buddhism characteristically describes the importance of practices and experiences.

Buddhism was founded and recognized by Gautama Shiddhartha (the historical Buddha) who lived in India about twenty-five hundred years ago. The word “Buddha” literally means “one who has awakened to the truth” as well as the doctrines that are based on the teaching of one who had attained enlightenment. The basic doctrine of Buddhism describes how to be awakened to the truth of the universe and how to attain perfect enlightenment.

The content of this doctrine makes some religious experts say that Buddhism is not just a religion but also a philosophy. Others have also characterized Buddhism as a set of spiritual teachings and practices.The basic doctrine of Buddhism characteristically describes the importance of practices and experiences. The three guiding principals of this doctrine are the observance of the precepts, sitting in meditation and obtaining wisdom. In order to help people attain enlightenment (to become a Buddha), many scriptures were produced.

The “Twelve Causes”, “Four Noble Truths” and “Eightfold Path” are the some of the fundamental scriptures. More philosophical doctrines were added around the 1st century when Mahayana Buddhism was created.