Buddhism encompasses a variety of traditions, beliefs, and spiritual practices based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha), who lived in ancient India approximately 2,500 years ago. The Buddha's core teaching centers on the Four Noble Truths — the nature of suffering (dukkha), its cause, its cessation, and the path to its end.
Three major branches have developed: Theravada Buddhism (predominant in Southeast Asia), Mahayana Buddhism (predominant in East Asia), and Vajrayana Buddhism (predominant in Tibet and Mongolia). Each offers distinctive practices, philosophical frameworks, and paths to enlightenment. Common practices include meditation, mindfulness, ethical conduct, study of sutras, and monastic life.
In the modern era, Buddhism has attracted significant Western interest, particularly through meditation practices and mindfulness. Some Buddhist organizations, particularly certain Tibetan and Zen centers, have faced scrutiny regarding teacher misconduct, power dynamics, and institutional accountability — issues the broader Buddhist community continues to address.