The Axial Age was a period of spiritual and intellectual revolution, as religions and philosophies appealed to people’s ethics. Pre-Axial Age religions focused on rituals and local gods. They were engaged with practical concerns in their daily existence. They had no concern for the future of the soul. Pre-Axial Age religions were not satisfying to many people because they were too focused on performing rituals and pleasing their gods. People were not trying to live a meaningful or ethical life, they were just concerned about their daily challenges. Although Buddhism and Hinduism both answer Axial Age questions, Buddhism provides a stronger solution to these questions mainly because Buddhism strives to find the middle way of life.
Even though…show more content… Buddhism is an Axial Age religion founded by Siddhartha Gautama and they don't worship any gods. The goal of Buddhism is to reach nirvana, to overcome one’s desire and end suffering. Additionally, Buddhism is based on the the four noble truths, which teaches that the cause of suffering is desire. In order to overcomes one’s desire one must follow the 8 fold path, which is a process of living life in moderation and helps to achieve the middle way. Moreover, Buddhism, similar to Hinduism, believes in karma. Buddhism and Hinduism share similarities, but are still different. Buddhism and Hinduism both believe in Karma, Dharma and Reincarnation. Both religions also believe in one ultimate goal, where one breaks from the cycle of reincarnation. On the other hand, Hinduism believes in many gods whereas Buddhists don't worship any. Hinduism is structured with a caste system, and Buddhism treats everyone equal, with no social hierarchy. Buddhism answers the Axial Age questions of how to live a meaningful and ethical life. There are ethical requirements to follow the eightfold path and to find the middle way, a balance between two extremes of asceticism and life of pleasure. Furthermore, Buddhists strive to reach Nirvana, by doing so one completely rids oneself of desires, which ends suffering. Finally, Buddhists treats everyone equally. Ultimately, Buddhists lives the most ethical and meaningful life during the
