Paris Traxler
HIST- 126
Scott Rausch
October 25, 2016
Hinduism Vs. Buddhism
Hinduism and Buddhism are two of the world’s greatest and most influential religions.
Both of these religions arose in South Asia, and thus stem from a similar philosophy and culture.
While contrasting greatly with the monotheistic religions of the West, Hinduism and Buddhism
also contrast greatly with each other. Although similar in respect to general philosophy,
Hinduism and Buddhism differ greatly on matters of social structure. The two religions also
contrast because Hinduism omits and Buddhism emphasizes individual freedom to progress
spiritually and socially in the current life. By comparing the two religions, one can easily see
why it is that Hinduism has proved the more stable and Buddhism the more humanitarian
philosophy.
Both Hinduism and Buddhism are more philosophical than religious. Both describe an all-
encompassing philosophy and define existence itself. For instance, the essential Hindu concept
defining the individual and his responsibilities is dharma. A convoluted term, dharma is a sense
of obligation. One must fulfill his roles in society and the world. Such responsibilities include
reproduction and caste duties, but extend into the philosophical realm of peaceful and humble
acceptance of one’s position. Dharma defines correct living for a Hindu. Buddhism has a similar
concept, dhamma (note even the linguistic similarity). Dhamma does not imply specific
biological or social obligations, but maintains a comparable philosophical construct. The
Buddhist definition of right conduct and personal obligation, dhamma is the path which must be
taken to escape the suffering of worldly life.
Other similarities between Hinduism and Buddhism are more apparent. Both religions maintain a
broad perspective of religious worship. Hinduism is polytheistic while Buddhism maintains no
structured belief in an independent, sentient god-like entity (especially in human form). Either of
these concepts yields a malleable religion which can adjust and conform to local tradition and
fluctuations in intellectual and spiritual thought. Both religions believe in a system of
reincarnation, and both religions emphasize the community over the self. The major rift between
the two religions seems to stem from the role of social structure in the two religions. Hinduism’s
caste system perpetuates a fatalism and apathy toward social rights and advancement while
reinforcing the ruling establishment. Buddhism concentrates on the individual’s release from
suffering, implying no overriding social definition.
