Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, Islam, Christianity, and animism are the main religions that have influenced Southeast Asia. Hinduism was the first major religion to arrive in the 1st century AD and emphasized concepts like Brahman, karma, and samsara. Buddhism, which teaches the four noble truths and eightfold path, mixed with local beliefs and appealed to common people. Confucianism promoted order, harmony, and education through five key relationships. Islam gained prominence in the 15th century AD with the five pillars of faith being central tenets. Christianity and animism also took hold by appealing to both the elite and poor, and believing spirits inhabit natural elements respectively.

1. Audrey Novak<br />TSEA<br />Mrs. Clover<br />Religions of Southeast Asia<br />Hinduism<br />1st century ADFirst religion in Southeast AsiaMain Beliefs<br />Brahman – ultimate truthMany Gods – Vishnu, Shiva, BramaKarma – what goes around comes aroundSamara- Cycle of rebirthMoksha- release + union with Brahman<br />DeclineCast system- replaced with egalitarian beliefs<br />Confucianism<br />No god or higher power, bassed on Confucus TeachingsMain beliefs<br />Order, harmony, education5 relationships that structure society<br />Impact<br />Burocratic admin. - Layers of government and societyPromoted individual behaviorEconomic growth<br />Buddhism<br />Theravada, MahayanaMain beliefs<br />4 noble truths8 fold path3 jewels<br />Impact<br />Mixed with other religionsNo cast system, appealed to commonersSimplicity of religionsMaking merit (food to monks, helping, visiting temples)<br />Islam<br />15th century ADMain beliefs<br />5 pillars: faith, prayer, Alms, Ramadan, HajjKoran<br />Impact<br />Mixed with other religionsBased on individual beliefsImpact on the way people live their lives<br />Christianity<br />Main beliefs<br />Monotheistic: God, Jesus as savorBible<br />Impact/appeal<br />Appealing to poor as well as elite<br />Animism<br />Main beliefs<br />spirits exist in living and nonliving thingsspirits must be propitiated<br />