THE ANCIENT RELIGIONS IN INDIA:

In ancient times, people were forced to follow the religious beliefs decreed by their kings and emperors, even if those beliefs did not credibly explain life as we know it.  But when the Buddha experienced enlightenment, his understanding of life became profoundly clear, and he no longer relied on any beliefs.  Awakening to the true nature of “reality,” he realised that everything which exists is impermanent, that change is the only constant, and that all suffering Is caused by craving.  Most importantly, he also discovered a practical way to get beyond suffering, and that method is known as the Eightfold Noble Path.

Up to this point in history, India’s Vedic Literature has been associated with some cruel religious practices, including live animal sacrifice.  Human and animal rights violations are the order of the day.  But by Asoka’s time, things are changing.  Not only are the Buddhist monks preaching non-violence, but also a gentler theology and practice is evolving among India’s traditional priests and Brahmins, and their body of thought and rituals will soon emerge as modern Hinduism.  So by now both Hindu priests and Buddhist monks are encouraging the people of India to live compassionately and to be kind toward each other and all living creatures.

For those following the teachings of the Buddha, the purpose of life is to live wisely and compassionately, with kindness toward all living beings.  The ethical principle that guides their conduct is to always be beneficial, and never harmful.  The intention behind a Buddhist’s speech and conduct is always to be helpful, and to make choices that produce the greatest benefit.  Their goal is to still the mind and extinguish all cravings, in order to reach a blissful state beyond suffering called “nirvana.”