While Hinduism and Buddhism come from the same cultural backgrounds, they are extremely different in their beliefs on afterlife, deity, and rituals. Both religions believe in reincarnation, but it is where an individual goes after he or she gets off the endless cycle that differs. These religions also part when it comes to whom they do or do not worship. Every religion comes with rituals and Hinduism and Buddhism are no exception to the rule.
Hindu followers have no doubt they go to moksha after they accomplish redemption, but Buddhists believe that the main goal is to achieve nirvana in the afterlife. A Hindu can conquer redemption by living a life of asceticism. After becoming a Sadhu, or holy man, and renouncing all material possessions they are able to be one with Brahma Nerguna. In order for a Buddhist to become one with the universe he or she must follow the Eight Fold Path. The Eight-Fold Path basically states pupils should have the right knowledge, speech, aspirations, behavior, livelihood, efforts, mindfulness, and know self-concentration. Following the Eight-Fold Path leads to achieving nirvana. .
Another distinction between Hinduism and Buddhism is their concepts of deity. Although Hinduism claims to be a monotheistic religion, worshiping only Brahma Nerguna, Hindus worship 33 million other gods that are aspects of Brahma Nerguna. Some of the most common gods or aspects are Ganesha, the god of good luck; Vishnu, the god of families, health, and children; and Shiva; the destroyer. Buddhism has different branches that seem to contradict its original teachings. Some Buddhists worship Buddha, while the remainder of Buddhist think of Buddha as just a man and follow his teachings. .
An additional division of Hindus and Buddhists are their unique rituals and practices. The most fundamental ceremonies for every Hindu are those that involve the rites of passage. These begin with the first time a child eats solid food.
