What is Buddism?

Buddism (boo ·di ·zm) is a non- theistic religion. A non-theistic religion means not having a belief in a god or gods. 

This means that in Buddism:

There is no Creator.

There is no Judge. 

There is no Deity in charge. 

Buddhism originated in northern India, in what is now modern Nepal.

This religion was founded by an Indian prince, who knew only happiness and wealth.  

His name was Siddhartha Gautama

He became known as the Buddha. 

Siddhartha was predicted to become a great king or religious leader, when he was born.

 His father wanted him to be a king, so he had his son stay inside the palace.  

Siddhartha was allowed out side for chariot rides, but only after all the sick and sad people were taken away. 

Siddhartha was to see no death or sickness. 

His father had gardeners sweep away dead flowers, and take old and dying people away from the the palace.

   Siddhartha was always happy.

One day as Siddhartha was on a chariot ride he saw an old man.  His driver told him everyone got old.

Siddhartha then saw a sick man. His driver told him everyone got sick.

Siddhartha then saw a dead man.  His driver told him everyone died.

Siddhartha was troubled and sacred.

Siddhartha then saw a man meditating under a tree . The man was happy and calm.

How can the man be happy? Wondered Siddhartha.

The man was an ascetic. 

The man explained to  Siddhartha that he was  severely  disciplining and abstaining himself. 

The man did this so he  could pursue a life of peace, non-attachment and compassion.

Siddhartha liked the idea of a life of peacefulness and compassion.

He left his family and the safety and wealth of the palace .