Explain Buddhism.

Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, around the 6th century BCE, is a major world religion and philosophical system. Rooted in the quest for enlightenment and liberation from suffering, Buddhism revolves around the Four Noble Truths: the existence of suffering, the cause of suffering (craving and attachment), the possibility of cessation of suffering, and the path to liberation (the Eightfold Path).

The Eightfold Path encompasses right understanding, intention, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness, and concentration, guiding followers toward ethical conduct, mental discipline, and wisdom. Buddhism rejects the concept of a permanent self (anatta) and emphasizes impermanence (anicca) and the interconnectedness of all phenomena.

Central to Buddhist practice is meditation, aimed at achieving mindfulness and insight. Buddhism encompasses various traditions, including Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana, each with its distinctive interpretations and practices. Buddhist teachings have profoundly influenced art, culture, and philosophy across Asia and beyond, making it a global spiritual tradition with millions of followers seeking enlightenment and compassion.