Spiritual tradition
Buddhism is a spiritual tradition that focuses on personal spiritual development and the attainment of a deep insight into the true nature of life.

Buddhism teaches that all life is interconnected, so compassion is natural and important.

Buddhism is 2,500 years old
There are currently 376 million followers worldwide
There are around 151, 816 Buddhists in Britain according to the 2001 census
Buddhism arose as a result of Siddhartha Gautama's quest for Enlightenment in around the 6th Century BCE
There is no belief in a personal God. It is not centred on the relationship between humanity and God
Buddhists believe that nothing is fixed or permanent - change is always possible
The two main Buddhist sects are Theravada Buddhism and Mahayana Buddhism, but there are many more
Buddhism is a very colourful faith with many festivals throughout the year
Buddhists can worship both at home or at a temple
The path to Enlightenment is through the practice and development of morality, meditation and wisdom.