South Asia
Birthplace of Dharmic religions — Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
Sub-topics
World's oldest living religion, ~1500 BCE in the Indus Valley. No single founder — a vast family of traditions united by concepts of dharma, karma, samsara, and moksha. ~1.2 billion adherents.
Founded by Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha) ~5th century BCE in India. Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path to end suffering (dukkha). ~500 million adherents worldwide.
Founded by Mahavira ~6th century BCE in India. Radical non-violence (ahimsa), asceticism, and karma as material substance. Two main sects: Digambara (sky-clad) and Svetambara (white-clad). ~4-5 million adherents.
Founded by Guru Nanak in 1499, Punjab. Monotheism, equality, service, and honest living. Synthesizes Hindu devotionalism and Islamic monotheism while rejecting caste and idol worship. ~30 million adherents.