Comparisons between Hinduism and Buddhism

      We are leaving Nepal soon; I think I should do some comparisons between those two important religions before I leave.
     
      Let's talk about the differences of between them first. First, many beliefs of Hinduism are based on Caste system. Hindus think if they do their Dharma and take their responsibility, then their caste will ascend and finally they will reach moksha. However, Buddhism rejects caste system, and it offers salvation to everyone. Second, Hinduism does not have a specific founder, but Buddhism is founded by Siddhartha Gautama. But my guess about the origin of Hinduism is, when Aryans founded this religion after they invaded India. My assumption based on the fact that Aryans might had founded caste system first. Since Hinduism is largely based on caste system that is founded by Aryans, therefore Aryans might also be the founder of Hinduism. Thirdly, Hinduism is polytheistic and it has a lot of gods, such as Shiva and Vishnu. But Buddha, the founder of Buddhism rejects the existence of any gods.Also, Hinduism are most popular in India, while Buddhism spreads through China and southeast Asia.

   Castes in India

     There are also many similarities between them. They both believe in the existence of several hells and heavens. They both emphasize compassion and non violence towards all living beings. They both believe in certain spiritual practices like meditation, and concentration. Buddhism believes in the concept of Bodhisattvas. Hinduism does not believe in it. Bodhisattvas is someone that motivated by great compassion, and attains Buddhahood for the benefit of all sentient beings.

Twenty-Five Bodhisattvas Descending from Heaven