Buddhism

Buddhism (Bauddha Dharma) is religion and philosophy encompassing a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices, largely based on teachings attributed to Siddharta Gautama commonly known as the Buddha ("the awakened one"). The Buddha lived and taught in the northeastern Indian contentment  some time between the 6th and 4th centuries BCE. He is recognized by Buddhist as an awakened or enlightened teacher who shared his insights to help sentiments being end ignorance (avidya) of dependent origination, thus escaping what is seen as a cycle of rebirth.

Two major branches of Buddhism are recognized: Theravada ("The School of the Elders") and Mahanashri and Southeast asia. Mahayana is found throughout East asia and includes the traditions of Pure land Zen, Nichiren Buddhism Tabiten Buddhism,Shigton, Tiantai and Shinnyoen. In some classifications —a form of Buddhism practiced in Tibet and Mongolia—is recognized as a third branch, while others classify it as a subcatagory of Mahayana. "The Great Vehicle". Theravada has a widespread following in

While Buddhism remains most popular within Asia, both branches are now found throughout the world. Estimates of Buddhists worldwide vary significantly depending on the way Buddhist adherence is defined. Lower estimates are between 350–500 million.

Buddhist school vary on the exact nature of the path to liberation, the importance, and especially their respective practices. The cardinal doctrine of dependent origination is the only doctrine that is common to all Buddhist teachings from Theravada to to the extinct schools. The foundations of Buddhist tradition and practice are the three jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma  (the teachings), and theSangha (the community). Taking "refuge in the triple gem" has traditionally been a declaration and commitment to being on the Buddhist path and in general distinguishes a Buddhist from a non-Buddhist.