Buddhism, founded over 2,500 years ago in India, is among the world’s major religions. It emerged as a reformist spiritual path during a time of social and philosophical churn. This summary outlines the religion’s origin, major sects, key teachings, and significant Buddhist councils that shaped its evolution.

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• Originated ~500 BCE in India by Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha)
• Tripitaka is core scripture; includes Vinaya, Sutta & Abhidhamma Pitaka
• 1st Council: 483 BCE, Rajgriha; split Buddha’s teachings into Vinaya & Sutta
• 2nd Council: 383 BCE, Vaishali; led to Mahasanghika & Sthaviravada split
• 3rd Council: 250 BCE, Patliputra; Abhidhamma finalized, missionaries sent
• 4th Council: 72 CE, Kashmir; division into Hinayana & Mahayana
• Hinayana: Focus on self-discipline, Pali language, no idol worship
• Mahayana: Worship Buddha, Sanskrit language, belief in Bodhisattvas
• Vajrayana: Mix of rituals, magic, idol worship; emerged in Bengal-Bihar
• Bodhisattvas like Avalokitesvara, Maitreya key spiritual figures