This page provides a brief overview of the spiritual tradition of Buddhism.
Buddhism at a glance
Last updated 2009-11-17
Buddhism at a glance
Buddhism is a spiritual tradition that focuses on personal spiritual development and the attainment of a deep insight into the true nature of life.
Buddhism teaches that all life is interconnected, so compassion is natural and important.
- Buddhism is 2,500 years old
- There are currently 376 million followers worldwide
- There are around 151, 816 Buddhists in Britain according to the 2001 census
- Buddhism arose as a result of Siddhartha Gautama's quest for Enlightenment in around the 6th Century BCE
- There is no belief in a personal God. It is not centred on the relationship between humanity and God
- Buddhists believe that nothing is fixed or permanent - change is always possible
- The two main Buddhist sects are Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism, but there are many more
- Buddhism is a very colourful faith with many festivals throughout the year
- Buddhists can worship both at home or at a temple
The path to Enlightenment is through the practice and development of morality, meditation and wisdom.
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