Question

Explain how Buddhism changed as it spread from India to other parts of Asia.
30 points

Answer 1

By contrast, as Buddhism spread along land routes, it underwent profound change. There were great overland trade routes in those days and in later centuries too, that joined China even to the Mediterranean. Along these routes Buddhism proliferated to northwest India and beyond, along the fabled east-west Silk Route. Monasteries and great universities grew. As the teachings reached people of different civilizations, the demand for adapting them to local customs shaped the Buddha's ideas in different ways. Above all, a less austere way to Nirvana (eternal bliss) -- than came to be taught in Southeast Asia -- seemed needed. The new way would provide a path open to all and not only to the withdrawn hermits and holy men who had practiced the Teachings over their countless solitary lives. A Large Vehicle

Answer 2

As it spread, Buddhism changed, blending with elements of different beliefs systems, a process known as "syncretism."