Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Response to Hannah's question

Why did Buddhism become so widespread so quickly in the Classical Age? What was it that was so appealing about Buddhism to so many different cultures?

I believe that Buddhism was very appealing to different cultures, especially women, because it offered freedom and independence. Buddhism allowed anyone to achieve enlightenment, or nirvana, both men and women, and as I said before, women could become nuns and bodhisattvas, who were revered greatly.
Another factor leading to the quick spread of Buddhism was that for the most part, other cultures and religions either accepted it or modified it for their own purpose!