Buddhism, a spiritual and philosophical tradition founded by Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, in the 5th century BC, originated in the Indian subcontinent. Over the centuries, however, it transcended geographical, cultural, and linguistic boundaries, spreading extensively across East Asia. Ultimately, it experienced an intricate and multifaceted journey of Buddhism from its birthplace in India to the far reaches of East Asia, encompassing China, Korea, and Japan. We will explore the historical context, key figures, doctrinal adaptations, and the profound impact this movement had on the socio-cultural landscapes of the regions it touched. Buddhist Thought Was Centered on Peace and Compassion The historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, was born in Lumbini, near the present-day Indo-Nepal border, around the 5th century BC. His teachings, encapsulated in the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, offered a new way of understanding human existence and suffering. After attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, the Buddha spent the remainder of his life teaching across the Indian subcontinent. Read moreSection: HistoryAncient TraditionsPremiumRead Later