For this paper will use the framework of understanding and show the many similarities and differences between Hinduism and Buddhism. Although these two religions have a lot in common, they also have many differences as well. There are many different branches or deviations of each religion. I will be talking them both overall and as a general whole, unless otherwise stated. I will show the differences based on the foundational difference of the beliefs in having a soul vs. not having a soul. There is a big difference between Hinduism and Buddhism in terms of being a human. In the Hindu religion they believe that we have an eternal, unchanging soul. This is referred to as the atman, which simply means “soul”. Whereas Buddhism believes that there is no permanence, which is referred to anatman meaning no eternal self or “no soul”. Although both religions believe in the cycle of rebirth, it is hard to understand who is being reborn if you have no soul. It is explained as if a flame is being passed from candle to candle and is eventually blown out, which is different from Hinduism because you have a soul so you are actually completing the cycle of rebirth. Like in most religions, there is a basic problem in life. They both have very similar problems. In Hinduism karma is the problem. You will be trapped in the cycle of rebirth if you do not have good karma. Being stuck is called samsara. You must live each life and past life until you no longer have karma holding you back, then you will finally be able to reach liberation. In Buddhism suffering (which is called dukkah) and attachment is the main problem. You must learn to not have attachment so that you do not suffer from the desire of wanting things, anything. It is easiest to understand Buddhism if you think of yourself as wanting to become empty. The problems for these religious followers are caused by basic