Buddhism is a religion that has two branches of theravada and mahayana with traditions like pure land, zen, nichiren buddhism, shingon, tendai and shinnyo-en. The religion is largely based on teachings and beliefs attributed to siddhartha gautama-the awaken one. The awakened teacher shared his insights to end suffering-dukkha, achieve nirvana and escape a cycle of suffering and rebirth. The foundations of buddhism are the three jewels, the buddha, the dharma (the teachings) and the sangha (the community).

Buddhism is the fourth largest religion after Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. It was founded in Northern India. It has about 376 million followers. Buddhists believe in reincarnation-rebirth after death. After these cycles or reincarnation a person can achieve nirvana once they release their attachment to desire and self. This is the state of liberty and freedom from suffering. The Buddhism practices include sila the virtue, good conduct and morality. Samadhi which involves concentration, meditation and mental development to help achieve good conduct. Prajna for discernment, insight and enlightenment helps a Buddhist attain wisdom.

The Buddhists have five precepts or commands that govern their day to day lives. These are do not kill, do not steal, do not lie, and do not misuse sex, among others like taking ultimate meals. They believe in four noble truths that explain human suffering. These are dukkha that explains the existence of suffering, samudaya that states there is cause for suffering, nirodha the end of suffering and magga that talks of how to end suffering by following the eight fold path. Buddhism teaches one to understand oneself and the world in a different way. Buddhism addresses people of all sects regardless of age, race, nationality or gender. The traditions are characterized by non-violence, tolerance of difference and meditation to develop wisdom and compassion. Buddhism still remains to teach its followers in line with the doctrines they believe in to achieve the wisdom and self freedom from suffering.