Assessment of Religious Knowledge (ARK) Practice Exam

Buddhism's primary distinction in its belief system compared to Hinduism lies in its emphasis on personal enlightenment rather than the worship of a supreme deity. In Buddhism, the ultimate goal is to achieve enlightenment (nirvana) through individual effort, meditation, and understanding of the Four Noble Truths. This path encourages personal experience and introspection, allowing practitioners to explore their own consciousness without reliance on the divine or on ritual practices.

Hinduism, while it also involves paths to liberation and understanding, includes a pantheon of gods and emphasizes devotion to deities as a means of achieving moksha (liberation). Therefore, while personal spiritual growth is significant in both religions, Buddhism uniquely fosters a more individualistic approach that does not involve the worship of a singular god or multiple deities as central to its practice. This foundational difference shapes the respective spiritual paths and practices within each tradition.