​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

In this lesson, you will learn about the life of Siddhartha Gautama, an Indian prince who was born around 563 B.C.E. He introduced a new way to achieve nirvana, or happiness, through enlightenment, or spiritual insight. Siddhartha became known as the Buddha. Buddha’s teachings developed into the religion of Buddhism. Buddhism is now followed by millions of people around the world.

​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

Read the Introduction in the Student Text.

What do you see?

​Why do you think the man in the palace is holding a baby?


What details tell us that this baby is unique?

​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

Read Section One: Prince Siddhartha's Birth

What do you see?

​Who is the young man holding a bow?


What do these details reveal about Siddhartha's early life?

​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

Read Section Two: The Prince's Royal Life

What do you see?

Who is the man sitting in the carriage?

Who are the figures in front of the carriage?

​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

Read Section Three: The Prince Discovers Three Forms of Suffering

What do you see?

Why do you think Siddhartha is alone?

​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

Read Section Four: The Prince Becomes Ascetic

What do you see?

Who is the man in the center of the image?



Who are the people surrounding him?

​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

Read Section Five: The Prince Becomes Buddha

​Learning About World Religions: Buddhism

Read Section Six: The Buddha's Teachings