We live in a world full of different religions and all of them, for the most part, have many similarities between them. Some of these similarities include beliefs or practices, art, statuary, and architecture or buildings such as temples or churches. They serve as reminders of teachings or beliefs and also as a place of gathering and worship. Architecture or structures are so revered by those who build them that they become intricate works of art themselves. Another form used is that of statues. Most religions use some form of statuary as a shrine to visit or pray to, also as a representation of the image conveyed by their chosen religion. A religion with a strong representation of this practice is Buddhism. Today, Buddhism is recognized as one of the world's major religions. Buddhism as a religion originated in India between the 5th and 6th centuries (Dehejia, 2007). A young prince named Siddhartha Gotama, born in Lumbini, which is present-day Nepal, came to the conclusion that worldly positions and monetary riches would not ultimately bring him true happiness. Siddhartha spent the next six years meditating and studying different philosophies in search of enlightenment. During his studies, Siddhartha arrived at what he calls “the middle way” (Lowenstein and Bently, 2006). According to Lowenstein and Bently, after his enlightenment, Siddhartha was then known as Buddha, derived from the word budhi which means to awaken. The Buddha then spent the rest of his life, until his death at the age of 80, teaching his principles. He called these principles the Dhamma or Truth. Although today it is known as Buddhism, its founder calls it Dhamma-Vinaya, meaning "the doctrine and discipline." Buddhism uses art middle of paper......odhi Temple. This temple is the oldest brick structure in India and is built on the spot where Siddhartha Gotama attained his enlightenment (Huntington, 1985). In conclusion, Buddhism is a religion rooted in tradition and enhanced by art and structure. It is no wonder that the popularity of Buddhism continues to grow and prosper. These depictions of art and religion will undoubtedly continue to attract pilgrims and followers. Śaśibālā, , and Chandra Lokesh. Buddhist art: Praise of the Divine. New Delhi: Luster Press, 2003. Print. Lowenstein, Tom and Peter Bently. Treasures of the Buddha: The glories of sacred Asia. London: Duncan Baird, 2006. Print. Sowing the Seeds of the Lotus: A Journey to the Great Pilgrimage Sites of Buddhism, Part I" by John C. Huntington. Guidance, November 1985. Print.