Who is considered the founder of Buddhism?

Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, is recognized as the founder of Buddhism due to his profound transformations and teachings that occurred after his enlightenment. Around the 5th century BCE, he rejected the comforts of royal life to seek understanding of suffering and the nature of existence, ultimately attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. His insights on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path provide the foundational framework for Buddhist philosophy and practice, guiding followers in overcoming suffering and achieving Nirvana.

In contrast, figures such as Moses, Jesus Christ, and Zoroaster are central to other religious traditions—Judaism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianism, respectively—and their teachings do not pertain to the origins or principles of Buddhism. Understanding Siddhartha Gautama’s life and teachings is crucial for grasping the essence of Buddhism and its growth into a major world religion.