Britannica
Sources used in this answer
- Hinduism - Hinduism and religions of Indian origin
- reincarnation
- Hinduism - The rise of devotional Hinduism (4thβ11th century)
- Hinduism - General nature of Hinduism
- Hinduism - Doctrine of atman - brahman
- Indian philosophy - Background
- samsara
- moksha
- bodhi
- Buddhism - Local gods and demons
- Buddhism - The cultural context
- Buddhism - Karma
How does Buddhism differ from Hinduism?
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Buddhism
Seated Buddha, bronze statue, 15th century, Thailand.
Buddhism and Hinduism share roots in ancient India, including concepts like rebirth and liberation from the cycle of existence. However, they diverge significantly. Hinduism accepts the authority of the Vedic tradition and the concept of an eternal soul (atman), while Buddhism rejects Vedic authority and teaches the doctrine of anatman (non-self).123
Hinduism often views ultimate reality as brahman, which can be understood as impersonal or personal, while Buddhism focuses on achieving nirvana, a state of enlightenment and freedom from suffering, through practices like the Eightfold Path. Buddhism also emphasizes the Buddha's teachings, while Hinduism centers on a diverse range of deities and philosophical schools.546