Comparison of Hinduism and Buddhism in Indian Society

Sociology

Compare and Contrast the Indian religions of Hinduism and Buddhism. Describe the
origins and development of each and analyse their impact on Indian society.
Hinduism is the third largest religion in the world which depicts the faith in people. It
is based on the belief of reincarnation and dharma in three gods. The concept of Hinduism
teaches that very living being has an external soul (Miller & Williams, 2017). On the other
hand, Buddhism works on the concept of teaching the root meanings through skilful means.
Both the religions originated in Indian society, but there exists a strong rivalry
between traditions. The Buddhist culture created hope and aspiration in the society whereas
Hindu rules were followed towards the policy of toleration. Hinduism was not found by any
prophet but Buddhism was founded by Buddha (Miller & Williams, 2017). For example,
Hindus believed in the efficacy and supremacy of Vedas whereas Buddhist didn’t believe in
it.
The cultures and beliefs were entirely different as Hinduism believed in the existence
of soul and ataman whereas Buddhism didn’t believe in it. For example, Buddhists believed
the world is full of sorrows and it affects the life of humans wherein Hindus considered four
aims in life that is dharma, artha, karma and moksha. Both the religions believed that there
exist a concept of birth and rebirth but they differ in the manner of operation.
If talking in technical term, it can be said that Hinduism is not a religion but it is a
group of religions and their beliefs (Vail & Soenke, 2018). On the other hand, Buddhism is a
well organised religion that has pre-defined set of beliefs and practices that is known as
dhamma.
Hindu followers believed in karma and there was no caste system in Hinduism but
there exists case system in Buddhism. The final destination of life in Hinduism was called