The Development of Buddhism

The Development of Buddhism

Early Developments of Buddhism

  • Buddhism originated around the 5th century BCE with the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha.
  • The teachings were focused on four noble truths, including suffering, its origin, cessation, and the path leading to the cessation of suffering.
  • Monastic community, known as Sangha, was established which included both men and women.

Spread of Buddhism

  • Gradually, Buddhism spread from India to other parts of Asia including Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, and Cambodia, known as the Theravada tradition.
  • The Mahayana tradition of Buddhism spread to China, Korea, and Japan.

Development of Different Schools

  • Different interpretations of the Buddha’s teachings led to the formation of various Buddhist schools and sects.
  • Major schools include Theravada, Mahayana, and subsequently, Vajrayana.

Theravada Buddhism

  • Theravada Buddhism, also known as the “school of elders”, is the oldest surviving Buddhist school.
  • It emphasises individual enlightenment and follows early texts called the Pali Canon.

Mahayana Buddhism

  • Mahayana Buddhism developed later and brought new ideas, including concept of Bodhisattvas, beings who delay their own enlightenment to help others.
  • It introduced a variety of sutras, which are spiritual texts.

Vajrayana Buddhism

  • Considered a part of, or an extension to, Mahayana Buddhism, Vajrayana Buddhism introduced the practises of Tantras and rituals.
  • It flourished especially in Tibet and other parts of the Himalayan region.

The Emergence of Zen Buddhism

  • Zen Buddhism, a school of Mahayana Buddhism, emphasised meditation and direct perception of Buddha nature.
  • It has its origins in China and later spread to Japan and the rest of the world.

Contemporary Buddhism

  • In the modern era, Buddhism has spread globally, and is practised by millions of people worldwide.
  • There has been a rise in ‘engaged Buddhism’, a term coined by Thich Nhat Hanh, which applies Buddhist principles to social, economic and political issues.