Buddhism Facts

Despite being the birthplace of Buddhism, India today has less than 1% Buddhist population, a dramatic decline that occurred over the past thousand years.

Most Japanese schools don't have dedicated janitors. Instead, children do the daily cleaning, which originated from the Buddhist traditions that associate cleaning with morality.

Emperor Ashoka of India, who ruled from 268-232 BCE, underwent a dramatic transformation after converting to Buddhism. He issued edicts carved into rocks and pillars across his empire that promoted animal welfare, limited executions, established hospitals for humans and animals, and advocated religious tolerance - making him one of the most progressive ancient rulers.