Who is recognized as the founder of Buddhism?

Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as the Buddha, is recognized as the founder of Buddhism. He was born in present-day Nepal around the 6th century BCE and lived a life that included a profound journey of spiritual inquiry. After experiencing enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, Gautama began teaching the principles of Buddhism, which include the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path. These teachings address the nature of suffering and the path to enlightenment, forming the core of Buddhist philosophy and practice.

The significance of Siddhartha Gautama's role as the founder is rooted in his experiences and insights, which laid the foundation for a spiritual tradition that has influenced countless individuals and cultures over the centuries. Buddhism emphasizes concepts such as mindfulness, compassion, and the pursuit of wisdom, making Gautama's teachings highly relevant to both historical and contemporary spiritual practices.

Other individuals mentioned, such as Jesus Christ and Moses, are pivotal figures in Christianity and Judaism, respectively, and Mahavira is associated with the Jain tradition. Each of these leaders founded or significantly advanced their respective religions, but only Siddhartha Gautama initiated the distinct path that would become Buddhism. This is why he is correctly identified as the founder of Buddhism.