Final answer:
The statement that Buddhism spread from its origin point in all directions is true. It became a widely practiced religion across numerous countries and cultures due to its universal teachings and adaptability. Buddhism's dissemination throughout Asia was aided by trade routes, empire expansions, and the universal appeal of its messages.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'Buddhism eventually spread north, south, east, and west from the place it originated' is true. Buddhism, founded in the 6th century BCE by Siddhartha Gautama, extended beyond its birthplace in India due to various factors such as the conversion of Ashoka and subsequent empires that facilitated its spread. It reached to diverse places like China, Korea, Japan, and throughout Southeast Asia. The appeal of Buddhism lay in its egalitarian ethos and its opposition to the caste system, making it attractive to various societies and social classes. As trade routes expanded, so did Buddhism, which transformed into different branches, the two main ones being Theravada Buddhism in places like Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, and Mahayana Buddhism which moved through the trade routes to reach China, Korea, and Japan, blending with local traditions.
Today, Buddhism is a global religion with schools varying geographically and culturally, where Theravada Buddhism is dominant in Southeast Asia, and Mahayana Buddhism is prevalent in East Asia. With its focus on spiritual enlightenment and a lack of caste distinctions, Buddhism remains a faith with wide-reaching influence and diverse practices amongst its followers.