Ch 4 (Culture & Religion)

Buddhism & India's Social Caste System:

Although Buddhism could never dislodge Brahmanism from its high position, it certainly jolted it and inspired institutional changes in Indian society.

Promotion of social equality and social justice helped Buddhism to cross the frontiers of the Indian sub-continent and became a world religion.

Buddha argued you can reach enlightenment in this lifetime, rather than in reincarnation.

"Much of the Buddha's teachings reflected the Hindu tradition from which it sprang. The idea that ordinary life is an illusion, the concepts of karma and rebirth, the goal of overcoming the incessant demands of the ego,"(160).

Buddha's message appealed to those in the lower caste groups because of their despair in this lifetime. Also to women who were specifically treated poorly and without value in this country and religion of Brahmanism.