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What are the differences between Hinduism and Buddhism?

In: Hinduism, Buddhism

Answer:

Following are some of the differences we can see in the principles and practice of these two religions:

Hinduism is not founded by any particular prophet. Buddhism was founded by the Buddha.
Hinduism believes in the efficacy and supremacy of the Vedas. The Buddhist do not believe in the Vedas or for that matter any Hindu scripture.
Buddhism does not believe in the existence of souls as well in the first cause, whom we generally call God. Hinduism believe in the existence of
Atman, that is the individual soul and Brahman, the Supreme Creator.
Hinduism accepts the Buddha as an incarnation of Mahavishnu, one of the gods of Hindu trinity. The Buddhist do not accept any Hindu god either as equivalent or superior to the Buddha.
The original Buddhism as taught by the Buddha is known as Theravada Buddhism or Hinayana Buddhism. Followers of this do not worship images of the Buddha nor believe in the Bodhisattvas. The Mahayana sect considers the Buddha as the Supreme Soul or the Highest Being, akin to the Brahman of Hinduism and worship him in the form of images and icons.
The Buddhists consider the world to be full of sorrow and regard ending the sorrow as the chief aim of human life. The Hindus consider that there are four chief aims (arthas) in life which every being should pursue. They are dharma (religious duty), artha (wealth or material possessions), kama (desires and passions) and moksha (salvation.)
Hindus also believe in the four ashramas or stages in life. This is not followed in Buddhism. People can join the Order any time depending upon their spiritual preparedness.
Buddhists organize themselves into a monastic Order (Sangha) and the monks live in groups. Hinduism is basically a religion of the individual.
Buddhism believes in the concept of Bodhisattvas. Hinduism does not believe in it.
Buddhism acknowledge the existence of some gods and goddesses of Hindu pantheon, but give them a rather subordinate status.
Buddha, the Sangha and Dhamma are the three cardinal requirements on the eightfold path. Hinduism offers many choices to its followers on the path of self-realization.
Although both religions believe in karma and rebirth, they differ in the manner in which they operate and impact the existence of individual beings.

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Vishal

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