The teachings of Buddha (b. circa 525 BCE) developed in India as a reformative outgrowth of Hinduism and provide an extensive cosmological picture, a basis for ethical behavior and a self-empowering philosophy of life. Rupas (statues) of the Buddha and of his innumerable incarnations, called bodhisattvas, serve to focus a meditator's inward devotional practice. Buddha achieved ultimate realization. This he delineated as the Law of the Wheel: 1) Life is suffering; 2) Suffering's cause is desire; 3) Elimination of desire brings an end to suffering; 4) This state of nirvana can be achieved by following the Eightfold Path of right living. Approximate size: 5.75" tall x 4" wide (14.5cmx10cm)