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Buddhism has provided us with an easy to understand, comprehensible, and widely accepted religion. The influence on humankind of Buddhist teachings was higher on the common people because of their simple emotional elements, simple ethical code, vernacular language, and method of instruction. As a result, this shattered the abstract philosophy of the Upanishads. Although Buddhism was exiled from its birthplace of India, the impact and significance of Buddhism on Indian culture still existed.
Popular Religion:
Buddhism gave us a religion that was easy to grasp, widely practised, and was simple to follow. Buddhism had a strong appeal to the general populace due to its simplicity, emotional component, short ethical code, use of common vernacular language, and teaching methods, among other factors.
Moral Teachings:
Changes led by Buddhism came with a flood of excellent attributes, like compassion, nonviolence, and the pursuit of truth. These beneficial attributes played a role in developing the human personality and character, respectively.
Monastic System:
Buddhism also made significant contributions to the formation of a monastic order. Everyone among the Buddhist monks was under the supervision of a single leader and followed a strict code of discipline. The monks chose the abbot in a monastery, who served as the institution’s spiritual leader. This monastic system was eventually adopted into Hinduism in the latter period.
Development of Literature and Language:
Buddhist preachers used the Pali language to give their sermons. The majority of the inhabitants spoke Pali, which was the language spoken by most people. During Kaniska’s rule, monks preached the teachings of Buddha in the Sanskrit language, which was then the official language of the country. As a result of such changes led by Buddhism, wherein the introduction of Buddhism was done through regional languages, the literature of these countries was substantially enriched.
Art, Sculpture, Architecture and Painting:
One of Buddhism’s most intriguing contributions to Indian culture was in the form of sculptures and architectural structures. The expansion of Buddhism assisted in increasing the production of Buddhist art and sculptures, which were among the other things that marked the significance of Buddhism. Changes led by Buddhism in artwork that would create a lasting impression include Asoka’s reign, which used stone extensively in art and architecture. Buildings such as stupas, chaityas, and pillars were constructed in various styles and sizes.
The stupas of Sanchi, Sarnath, Rummindei, Bharhut, Jaugad, and other Buddhist holy sites, are among the most beautiful works of art and architecture. They also include some of the world’s most important Buddhist art and text works that would have some influence on humankind. Art schools such as the Gandhara and Mathura art schools, both popular in the region, produced many Buddha and Bodhisattva statues. Buddhists, Hindus, and Jainas have dedicated cave temples for hundreds of years, and they continue to be so today.
Contact between Foreign Countries and India:
Because of Buddhism and changes led by Buddhism, India and other countries were able to establish close ties with one another. Buddhist monks have been disseminating the Buddha’s teachings throughout the world for millennia through pilgrimages and disciples worldwide. After being charmed by the country’s rich culture, the foreigners who arrived in India chose to abandon their names and religious beliefs to adopt Hindu names and beliefs. As a result, Buddhism’s influence on humankind played an important role in the synthesis that resulted in the formation of modern Hindu society.
Development of University:
For educational objectives, Buddhism monasteries were established. Prakrit literature was first developed in Buddhist monasteries, and it has since grown into a large body of work. Religious institutions, including Nalanda, Taxila Vikramasila, and Valabhi, emphasised education in the Buddhist tradition.
Respect for Animal Life:
Buddhism places a high value on nonviolence and respect for all living things, including animals. ‘Ahimsa Paramo Dharma’ became more widely known as a result. Sutta Nipata is one of the earliest Buddhist texts that declares the cattles to be the sources of nourishment, beauty, and happiness. As a Buddhist, I feel compelled to advocate for the safety of cattles.
After learning about Buddhism, the Hindus used to eat meat, but they switched to vegetarianism. Thus, Buddhism’s influence on humankind profoundly impacted India’s cultural traditions and
Hinduism and Indian culture were enriched in all of these areas. A missionary religion, Buddhism strives to spread Buddha’s teachings throughout all of humanity.
Conclusion:
Buddhism has provided us with an easy to understand, comprehensible, and widely accepted religion. The abstract philosophy of the Upanishads was shattered as a result of it. Buddhism appealed to the general populace due to its simplicity, emotional component, ethical code, and teaching methods. Buddhism showcased a strong influence on humankind and India’s cultural traditions. Art schools such as the Gandhara and Mathura produced many Buddha and Bodhisattva statues. Buddhists believe in karma (the law of cause and effect) and reincarnation, both taught in their religion.
