Question

Buddhism has spread to many lands, and is the fourth largest religion in the world. It has shown the ability to adapt to history and culture. What are the interesting elements of Buddhism? Why are the teachings of The Buddha so attractive?

Answer 1

• There are three types of Buddhas. Samyaksambuddhas attain nirvana without a teacher and teach how to reach Nirvana after they get enlightened themselves. Pratyekabuddhas are the silent Buddhas who attain nirvana without any teacher too. But they don't teach the path or keep disciples. Although sometimes they do advise people on good conduct. Savakabuddhas are the disciples who attain enlightenment after following a teacher. They may choose to teach after nirvana.
• All of the Buddhas gained enlightenment under trees.
• Buddha is not ' God '. He is just an enlightened teacher.
• Buddhism is one of the most important religions and philosophical traditions in the history of the world. Though it originated in India just under three millennia ago, it quickly gained in prominence, and became one of the dominant religions throughout Asia. This was due to its emphasis on kindness, compassion, and the potential for any being to become enlightened, regardless of their station.
• Enlightenment is the ultimate aim of all Buddhists. It means to be completely liberated from all suffering, and to be without selfishness or desire. When we are enlightened, delusions and fears no longer cloud us, and we see everything exactly as it is. This is also known as ‘attainting Buddhahood‘, with the implication that every living being has the potential to become a Buddha.
• People turn to Buddhism primarily because they are looking for some solution to problems that they face and they are hopeful that Buddhism will be able to offer some way to deal with life.
  
• It is more compatible with a modern, humanist perspective which makes it more attractive to follow.Buddhism tends to have little emphasis on the authority of religious institutions. Instead, individuals are ultimately empowered to bring about their own salvation through enlightenment. The core of the teachings are focused on the human condition.
• Most religions require adherents to place their faith in a higher power of some form. Buddhism is one of the few religions that can be readily adopted by agnostics and atheists.
• Though most religious traditions discourage greed and materialism, living a simple life and being generous and thoughtful of others are both core parts of Buddhism. It’s very attractive to those seeking refuge from the “rat race.