FOUND IN
translation
EXPERIENCE BUDDHISM IN FOUR EAST ASIA COUNTRIES
by Justin Gibson
O
riginating in India sometime between the 6th
and 4th centuries B.C., the spread of Buddhism
throughout Asia was gradual, yet vast. Flowing
like water, the religion crossed borders, swept up
converts and adapted to each region it landed in, melding
the teachings and wisdom of Siddhārtha Gautama
(Buddha, for the unfamiliar) with the interpretations and
traditions of the locale.
No matter your own religion, a visit to the following
nations’ historic temples, shrines and festivals is
not only enlightening, but also remarkably fulfilling.
There’s no promise that you’ll find nirvana (some
people spend their entire lives looking for it, after
all), but it is increasingly likely you’ll find the next
best thing: serene experiences, dazzling sights and a
breath of fresh perspective.