Buddhism: An
Introduction
page 3
Upon his enlightenment, the Buddha began teaching his Middle Way to all
who would listen, regardless of caste, race, or sex. His first sermon
was to a group of five ascetics (his old colleagues) in Deer Park at Isipatana
(modern Saranath) near Benares, India. For the next forty-five years,
he and his disciples wandered throughout the larger Ganges River basin,
proclaiming his teachings. Buddhism rapidly spread, as many were in search
of truth and found this new teaching sensible and appealing. Today Buddhism
is practiced around the world, with some 500 million adherents primarily
concentrated in the Asian countries.
For additional information:
Numerous Buddhist temples and centers throughout North America, usually
in Asian communities. Look up Buddhist temples or centers in your phone
directory, or go to your metaphysical bookshop.
Recommended reading:
The Complete Guide to Buddhist America, by Don Morreale
What the Buddha Taught, by Walpola Rahula
Dhammapada: Wisdom of the Buddha, translation by Harischandra Kaviratna
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