Ancient Buddhism

Ancient Buddhism emerged in the 5th century BCE in India with the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha. It emphasizes understanding the nature of suffering, the importance of ethical conduct, and the pursuit of enlightenment through meditation and wisdom. Central concepts include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, guiding followers on how to overcome suffering and achieve Nirvana, a state of liberation. Buddhism spread across Asia, adapting to various cultures while maintaining its core principles. It significantly influenced philosophy, art, and spirituality in the regions it reached, establishing itself as a major world religion.