The Rise of Buddhism

From its development in sixth century B.C.E, Buddhism has spread across the world and influenced many different cultures through its ideas of reality and enlightenment while also having a profound impact on the human condition and on a new way of thinking as a religious philosophy. Buddhism emerged in India as a religious philosophy to gain understanding of the human condition through meditation and personal reflection. Buddhism’s ancient teachings, as described by Dr. Jay Stevenson, were developed as ideas about the reality of nature and to find a way to achieve enlightenment. (Stevenson 125-127) The focus of Buddhism was advanced ideas that encouraged a greater understanding of life and living. These ideas originated with the teachings of Buddha that have now become part of one of the most widespread philosophies in the world. This is shown over time as Buddhism has spread and also changed while emerging as an influential way of thinking.

Buddhism’s spread from not just Asia to the United States but also to the entire world has had a profound impact on the way people view the religion. The presence of Buddhism in many countries has shaped their cultures and the people that practice feel that their lives are fuller and richer because of it. According to Debra Mason the teachings and rituals of Buddhism “differ by time and place, the concept of following the Buddha's fundamental teachings and doctrines as a way of avoiding suffering holds constant.”(Mason 1) Having the practice of Buddhism spread as a new way of living and thinking will be very beneficial for many people as its principles deal with mindfulness, simple living and the interconnection of all living things. As the world grows more stressful and chaotic people are turning to Buddhism to seek peace and understanding. Buddhism is now considered the fourth largest religion in the world (Mason 1) and steadily growing. That growth is contributing to awareness, influence, and variety in the world with