Budhism vs. Hinduism

1055 Words3 Pages

Buddhism and Hinduism though 2 very different religions practiced by many different peoples, are also very similar. These religions did derive from thought and a mentality of all knowing truths. The similarities may have different meanings but a lot of the same thought and beliefs are practiced on both ends. Both Hinduism and Buddhism are more philosophical than religious. Both describe an all-encompassing philosophy and define existence itself.
For instance, the essential Hindu concept defining the individual and his responsibilities is dharma. A convoluted term, dharma are the rules in which you must follow in society. One must fulfill his roles in society and the world. Such responsibilities include reproduction and caste duties, but extend into the philosophical realm of peaceful and humble acceptance of one's position. Dharma defines correct living for a Hindu. Buddhism has a similar concept, dhamma, they even have similar pronunciation. Dhamma does not imply specific social rules, but maintains comparable philosophical beliefs. The Buddhist definition of right conduct and personal obligation, dhamma is the path which must be taken to escape the suffering of worldly life.
Other similarities between Hinduism and Buddhism are easier to see. Both religions maintain a broad perspective of religious worship; they are very indirect about it in their teachings. Hinduism is polytheistic while Buddhism maintains no structured belief in an independent; Buddha himself did not want to be worshipped. Either of these concepts creates a religion which can adjust and conform to local tradition and adaptations in intellectual and spiritual thought. Both religions believe in a system of reincarnation..
Where the religions totally differ is Hinduism's caste system creates a sense of no escape for its low caste members. Buddhism concentrates on the individual's release from suffering, implying no overriding social definition. The caste system divides the Hindu people into four major classes, Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra, and "untouchables," or people outside of all the classes. Members of certain castes have certain duties. Caste is determined by birth, allowing no social advancement, career choice, or individual freedom. Basically it sucks. Caste, then, determines one's profession, one's potential education, one's social position, even defining these limitations for your children. These social limitations are reinforced by the concept that caste is determined by sins or virtues in a previous life: how well one fulfilled his dharma in the past. Or just how lucky you are.
Buddhism, on the other hand, plays little role in the social or political structure of a society.

Open Document