Buddhism developed in reaction to the established religion in India at the time—Hinduism.
6th century B.C.E. - present
All content | Hinduism + Buddhism
Pensive bodhisattvas
When you see a pensive bodhisattva sculpture, you may wonder: what is he thinking? And why is he smiling?
How to recognize the Buddha
Who was the Buddha and how have artists depicted him as a visually recognizable figure in sculpture?
The Buddha and Buddhist sacred texts
A Buddha is seen as one who becomes awakened to the true nature of reality.
Sacred texts in Hinduism
Professor Julius Lipner discusses the distinctive nature of Hinduism and its sacred texts, drawing on the Vedas and epic compositions.
Sikh sacred places
Eleanor Nesbitt explores Sikh gurdwaras ('doorway to the Guru'), touching on the most notable ones, such as the Golden Temple, their common features, and the principles of worship within them.
Sikh prayer and worship
The Guru Granth Sahib plays an integral part in the lives of Sikhs. Eleanor Nesbitt describes the rituals that surround it and its role in the daily lives and life cycle rites of Sikhs, also exploring Sikh daily prayer, devotional songs, and festivals.
Origins and development of Sikh faith: The Gurus
Gurus are central to the Sikh faith. Eleanor Nesbitt looks at the founder of the Sikh faith – Guru Nanak, the concept of Guru in Sikhism, the central principles of the Gurus’ teachings and the sacred scripture – the Guru Granth Sahib.
Buddhist meditation and chant
There are many kinds of Buddhist meditations; here Dr Sarah Shaw describes the ‘middle way’ of the Buddha and explores key aspects of Buddhist meditation and chant, such as the use of Buddha-images and visualization.
Hindu deities
Professor Julius Lipner explains that Hinduism cannot be considered polytheistic and discusses the way in which Hindu culture and sacred texts conceptualize the deities, as well as their role in devotional faith
The Emerald Buddha and pandemics
In the 19th century, King Rama II turned to Thailand’s protective deity, the Emerald Buddha, to stop the spread of cholera.
Jain cosmology
Professor Balbir introduces the distinctive cosmology of the Jain religion, discussing how it is structured and understood by followers of the faith.
An introduction to the Jain faith
Professor Nalini Balbir introduces the Jain religion, describing its key features, practices and expressions of faith.
