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Buddhism
What factors led to the rise of Buddhism in India ?
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1 Reply
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Several causes have contributed to the emergence of Buddhism in India. Around the sixth century BCE, there was social and theological unrest in the orthodox Brahmanical society. Siddhartha Gautama, later known as Buddha, rose to prominence as a charismatic spiritual leader who offered a different path to salvation. Buddhism’s teachings centred on the Four Noble Truths: admitting suffering, its cause, cessation, and the way to freedom.
Buddhism gained popularity among people of all socioeconomic backgrounds due to its rejection of caste differences and emphasis on individual merit rather than birth. Through his support and promotion of Buddhist precepts, such as nonviolence (ahimsa) and moral conduct, the Maurya Emperor Ashoka played a major role in the expansion of Buddhism. Furthermore, the use of Pali for scriptures permitted greater accessibility.
Buddhism connected with many societies since it adapted local beliefs and customs, contributing to its worldwide popularity. Monastic institutions evolved into centres of study, attracting scholars and encouraging intellectual development. Over time, trade channels encouraged the spread of Buddhist ideas beyond India, cementing its influence throughout Asia. The convergence of geopolitical, cultural, and doctrinal circumstances catalysed the emergence of Buddhism, determining its long-term impact on India and the Asian continent
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