"Hinduism and Buddhism"- Short essay comparing two old religions.

Hinduism and Buddhism, two old and sacred religions, are similar in many ways; however, their differences are distinct enough to separate them entirely. Both are two major religions of the world and are widely practiced. Many people in India and Nepal practice Hinduism, and there are over 700 million Hindus. There are 200 to 300 million Buddhist in several countries including: India, Thailand, Cambodia, Nepal, Taiwan, and China. Since Buddhism is a reformed version of Hinduism, their beliefs are closely related. Hindus have six main beliefs that one should follow, such as the good karma rule that is also taught in Buddhism. These beliefs should be lived by to achieve Moksha (Buddhists' Nirvana). Buddhists believe that Buddha found the Four Noble Truths and that knowledge will lead to true enlightenment and Nirvana. Buddhist and Hindus, however, have different viewpoints on life. Hindus practice the Atman, the true self, and a reincarnation cycle. They believe if you have a bad life it is because of the bad karma you gave in a past life, while the Buddhist believe everyone is suffering. Nevertheless, it does not have to last a lifetime. Buddhists say that when you free others and yourself of suffering your Nirvana can be reached. Another difference between the two religions is the belief in a god. While Hindus believe and put faith in a god, Buddhists do not believe in a god but Buddha and his teachings. Their ideas show that although Buddhism and Hinduism are very close, they are clearly different.