A note before starting
Buddhism is not one uniform religion. It includes many traditions, countries and cultures, so almost any broad statement has exceptions. The points below correct common misunderstandings in general terms. If something differs where you travel, local practice is the best guide.
“Every Buddha statue shows the same person”
Many statues do depict Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, often called Shakyamuni. But Buddhist art also shows other buddhas, such as Amitabha, Medicine Buddha and Maitreya (the future buddha in many traditions), as well as bodhisattvas like Avalokiteshvara or Guanyin and Kannon. Teachers, monks and local figures are depicted too. Clues to identity include Buddha mudras (hand gestures), posture, colour and attributes, and Buddha iconography follows fairly consistent conventions within each region. Bodhisattva images often differ from buddha figures by wearing crowns or jewellery. The laughing figure often called the “Laughing Buddha” in China is usually Budai, a folk figure linked to Maitreya, not the historical Buddha.
“Buddhists worship the Buddha as a god”
Most traditions do not see the Buddha as a creator god. Offerings and bows to images are generally understood as expressions of respect, gratitude and reflection on the teachings. Understandings differ: some Mahayana and Vajrayana practices address buddhas and bodhisattvas more directly, and popular devotion in many countries includes prayers for blessings. Describing this as “worship” or “veneration” depends on the community, and it is better to ask than assume.
“All Buddhists are vegetarian”
Not all. Some traditions, particularly in parts of East Asia and for many monastics in Chinese and Korean Buddhism, follow vegetarian diets. In many Theravada countries, monks traditionally eat what is offered, with certain restrictions, and lay people often eat meat. Tibetan Buddhists in high, cold regions have often eaten meat, though many choose vegetarian practice at times. Korean temple food and the vegetarian meals served at many temples show the other side. Do not assume what a person eats from their religion, and follow house rules if you stay at a temple.
“Buddhism is just a philosophy, not a religion” (or the reverse)
Both claims are too simple. Buddhist traditions include philosophy, ethics, meditation, ritual, festivals, pilgrimage and devotion. Different communities emphasise different parts. Labels matter less than understanding what a given community actually does.
“Buddhists don’t believe in rebirth or karma” or “everyone believes the same about rebirth”
Most traditional Buddhist teachings include rebirth and karma, but they are explained differently from school to school, and some modern Buddhists emphasise other aspects. The popular idea of karma as simple fate or cosmic reward misses how texts discuss intention and its results.
“Pilgrimage is required of every Buddhist”
Pilgrimage is respected and widely practised, and the Pali texts describe four places worth visiting with reverence. But it is not a formal obligation in the way some other religions teach. Many Buddhists never travel to India, and local circuits, such as the Shikoku pilgrimage in Japan or walking around a stupa near home as part of circumambulation practice, are important too.
“Bodh Gaya, Lumbini and the rest are the only real sites”
The four places linked to the Buddha’s life are central, but pilgrimage sites also include Sri Lankan, Burmese, Thai, Tibetan and East Asian sacred places. Each tradition has its own geography.
“Monks and nuns can be touched or photographed freely”
Customs are quite specific. In many Theravada countries, women should avoid touching monks or handing things directly, and people usually ask before taking photographs. Dress modestly, be quiet, and follow local guidance.
“A pilgrimage is a holiday with a temple stop”
Pilgrims often treat the journey as practice, with chanting, offerings, walking and reflection. Visitors who are not Buddhist are generally welcome as long as they are respectful, but some areas are restricted. Conditions at sites change, so check current official sources.
Finding good information
Be cautious about quotes attributed to the Buddha online, since many are paraphrases or invented. A source from a recognised monastery, university or museum is usually more reliable than a social media post. Some traditions also hold teachings that are not public, so you may not find, or be shown, everything.