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Essays ~ FAQs Dictionary of China, Japan and the Koreas In Table
Form Both Hinduism and Buddhism originated in India. In the
Hindu religion, all gods are united in a supreme force called
Brahma. The ultimate goal of the believers is to be free of the
soul and become united to this universal soul. Since this is
believed to be accomplished in more than one lifetime,
reincarnation tends to support the caste system. If a person was
concerned about his status in future lives, he was more apt to
keep the rules of the caste system, keep himself under control,
and not expect to advance in this current life. In 500 B.C.
however, Siddhartha Gautama criticized the system and his reform
became the basis of Buddhism. He believed salvation was in
overcoming desire with Nirvana, a state of wanting nothing.
Although Hinduism was influenced by Buddhism, persecution of
Buddhism forced it to spread to China, South East Asia, and
beyond. After Alexander The Great invaded