Differences between Hinduism and Buddhism

In this article I will be discussing some points, which make up Hinduism and Buddhism a comparison.

As regards Buddhism and Hinduism they differ only in the way the doctrines are presented. Certain points are emphasized in Buddhism, which are mentioned in the Hindu scriptures but not stressed by them. Similarly the Buddhism teaching ignores certain other aspects of the Hindu teaching. So as far as Hinduism and Buddhism a comparison is concerned the difference lies in the emphasis of certain points.

These comments below apply to the Buddha’s original teaching on the Theravada tradition of Buddhism. All the comments may not apply to the Mahayana and the Zen Buddhist traditions.

Hinduism vs Buddhism on philosophical questions

The Hindu scriptures however contained detailed descriptions of the Brahman or the experience of oneness with God. Hinduism also presents many philosophical arguments proving the existence of the Brahman.

The Buddha kept a Noble Silence on these questions and the nature of the experience of Nirvana.

Discussion of philosophical questions is present in Hinduism. Buddhism has a more pragmatic approach.

Bliss emphasized by Hinduism. Buddhism stresses suffering

The Upanishads also acknowledge the suffering inherent in the human condition. But they lay greater stress on the bliss enjoyed on experiencing a union with God or the Self. Since we are all manifestations of God, bliss is an integral part of our nature. The Upanishads stressed on this experience of bliss to motivate the Hindu devotees to experience Moksha.

So, these different methods of motivating their followers are one of the differences between Hinduism and Buddhism.

Buddhism vs Hinduism on the Middle Path

“Yoga is not for him who eats too much or does not eat at all, nor sleeps too much or does not sleep at all.”

And again

“But Yoga becomes the discipline for the destruction of sorrow for him who moderate in eating and recreation, moderate in work and sleep and walking.”

However, the Buddha’s teaching on the Middle way carried a force and an authority born of personal experience. He himself had experienced extreme indulgence and extreme austerities. He became enlightened only when he forsook these extremes. Hence by his example his teaching on the middle way had a far more convincing effect.

So this is another of the differences between Hinduism and Buddhism.

Different skillful means in Buddhism and Hinduism

The Hindu doctrine mentions meditation as one of the ways to attain God.

This is the path of Raja Yoga. However, the Hindu scriptures also mention Karma Yoga (the path of action), Bhakti Yoga (the path of prayer or devotion) and Jnana Yoga (the path of knowledge). These are different paths, which lead to the same goal - Moksha, Nirvana or Union with God. All Roads lead to Rome.

So this is another point in Hinduism and Buddhism a comparison. Another point of comparison in Hinduism vs Buddhism.

Spread of Buddhism. Hinduism stayed in India

Hinduism is more than just a religion. It is a way of life, a culture that has several elements making up the practice of Hinduism including language. So it is not possible to be a practicing Hindu in the true sense in Europe or the United States. It is a way of looking at life peculiar to India and cannot be exported.

So, this is another point in Hinduism and Buddhism a comparison.

For more on Buddhist history, its influence in India and the spread of Mahayana please refer this page on Buddhism religion history

6) Many skillful means: The Buddhist tradition has many skillful means to attain enlightenment. For example the stress on contemplation on impermanence and mindfulness of death.

Some of these skillful means are not to be found in the Hindu tradition. Mindfulness on death has no place in the Hindu teaching as far as I know. In Advaita Hinduism, it is taught that the Mind–Body-Intellect-Feeling part of the ego is not the Self. This is what is stressed by some branches of Hinduism.

The Buddhist tradition also developed in many countries other than India and so the Buddhism practiced in those countries will contain many methods or skillful means peculiar to it and not to be found in Hinduism.

One of the most powerful skillful means is Mindfulness on Death. For more on the subject please refer this page on Buddhism beliefs practices

7) Anatta or No-Self: Regarding Buddhism vs Hinduism the Buddhist analysis of the ego concludes that there is no permanent, independent self to be found anywhere in it. It regards the ego as a changing process and the sense of a self, separate from the rest of existence as a delusion.

The Hindus, however regard that any being is a manifestation of God. Hence they will say that the Godhead is present in each individual and that It is changeless. The Buddhists do not even go into the question of whether there is a God or not. So, these are the various points that make up Hinduism and Buddhism a comparison.

So these then are the main differences between Buddhism and Hinduism. As can be seen the points of difference regarding Buddhism vs Hinduism lie mainly in differences in emphasis.

For more on the suffering caused by grasping at the ego and the five perverted view please refer this page on 5 facts Buddhism

I hope you enjoyed this article and that it will be useful to you

Stay tuned for more in this continuing series.

Eastern Philosophy and Meditation Home
Top of page Hinduism and Buddhism a comparison