Why are Hinduism and Buddhism Related?

Hinduism and Buddhism share a complex and intertwined history that has shaped the cultural, political, and religious landscape of South Asia for centuries. This article delves into the historical connections between these two religions, focusing on key figures, texts, and practices that highlight their shared roots.

The Great Brahman Story

The roots of Hinduism and Buddhism are deeply entwined, with their shared origins in what is now referred to as Sanatana Dharma (eternal law). This connection is evident in the early texts of both religions, which contain many common themes and legends.

The Enslavement of Bahujan or Natives by Brahman and the Inception of Brahmanical Caste System

Over time, however, the relationship between these religions evolved into one of conflict and domination. The Brahmins, who considered themselves the sacred priests, gradually established a rigid social hierarchy known as the caste system. This system was instrumental in the subjugation of traditionally "lower" classes, such as Bahujans, and in diluting the purity of Buddhist and other non-Vedic traditions.

Brahmans as Invaders

Similar to other foreign invaders, such as the British and Muslims, Brahmins conquered and assimilated the indigenous populations. However, their impact on the social fabric of India was significantly more insidious, as they transformed local spiritual practices into the veneer of Hinduism, a term that only gained widespread use in the 18th century, thanks to Mughal mispronunciations of the name.

The Power Play of Brahmins and the Destruction of Buddhism

By the 18th century, Brahmins had successfully co-opted the existing structure of higher learning, incorporating Buddhist and Jain monasteries (which housed both historical and sacred artifacts) into their own religious institutions. This included venerating Buddhist figures like Tara as Hindu deities, such as Durga and Kali, and Jain tirthankaras such as Parshvanath as Vishnu.

The Ghost of Brahman

While Brahman remained a significant figure in Vedic literature, it was only in the 16th century that the concept of caste as a rigid social hierarchy was institutionalized. Prior to this, "Hinduism" did not exist in the traditional sense, as most of what would later be termed Hindu practices were aspects of a broader spiritual tradition.

Further Reading and Investigation

For a deeper dive into these topics, we recommend watching the Science Journey and Rational World channels on YouTube. These channels offer fascinating insights into the historical and cultural contexts that have shaped both Hinduism and Buddhism.

Understanding the shared and divergent paths of these two religions is crucial to grasping the spiritual and socio-political dynamics of South Asia. It is a subject that continues to be both widely debated and deeply relevant in today's world, as the legacies of these religions continue to influence contemporary discourse and identity.

Conclusion

The relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism is complex and multifaceted. While they share a rich history and many common themes, the evolution of these religions into their current forms is a story of political power, cultural assimilation, and centuries of social transformation. By exploring these connections, we gain a deeper understanding of the rich and varied spiritual and cultural heritage of South Asia.