There are many reasons for a person to become a Buddhist and the following is guide that can begin to show you how to become a Buddhist. It is important to understand that Buddhism is a life philosophy with an ancient history and deep cultural roots around the world. Becoming a Buddhist shouldn't be something you rush into, but rather, something you consider and approach with much thought and deliberation.http://www.parami.org/duta/buddhist.htm It can take a life time of learning and studying to understand the many different concepts that go into this religion, and to ultimately reach the stage of Nirvana.

By becoming a Buddhist it is necessary for a person to practice meditation on a regular, if not daily basis. It is also important for one to find an experienced teacher so that they can receive good advice. Unlike many other major religions, there is no set written doctrine in Buddhism, and the practice of Buddhism can vary by region and sect. Some schools of Buddhism advocate vegetarianism, as a way to show respect for all living things.

Once one has chosen to become a Buddhist and to begin practising Buddhism, they must start by learning about the father of Buddhism Siddartha Gautama and his teachings. Two of the major concepts to become familiar with are the Eightfold path and the Four Noble Truths.

The Eightfold Path is the practical guideline to mental and ethical development with the goal of freeing you from attachments and delusions, leading to an understanding of all things.http://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/authors/bogoda/wheel397.html The Eightfold Path can be broken down into three categories: wisdom, morality and conduct. The eight fold path is not to be understood as individual, chronological steps but rather as interdependent principles to be seen in a relationship with each other. http://www.thebigview.com/buddhism/eightfoldpath.html

The four noble truths are based on four basic principles. Life means suffering, the origin of suffering is attachment, the cessation of suffering is attainable and the path to the cessation of suffering.http://www.meditateinlondon.org.uk/buddhism-the-four-noble-truths.php There are also several other concepts and principles that do not need to be accepted, just considered: karma, rebirth, the Five Precepts, the Pure Land and Aimda Buddha are all part of the basics of Buddhism.http://www.thebigview.com/buddhism/fourtruths.html

The second step is to choose which type of Buddhism you would like to pursue. There are many branches of Buddhism, with countless sects and schools of practice. To start your exploration of the philosophy of Buddhism, it is good to familiarize yourself with the two main branches:

Theravada Buddhism
This is considered the most traditional style of Buddhism, practiced in many parts of South East Asia and India. This is a highly disciplined practice, that requires serious meditation and isolation for extended periods of time, outside of mainstream society.

Mahayana Buddhism
This branch of Buddhism developed to adapt to different cultures and lifestyles. This branch is considered less disciplined and more open than Theravada. Zen Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism are two sects of Buddhism that fall into this branch.http://www.religioustolerance.org/buddhism.htm http://www.racialjustice.org.uk/Types%20of%20Buddhism.htm

Beginning to understand the teachings of Siddartha Gautama is only the beginning of following the philosophy of Buddhism. Buddhism must be practiced in your every day life. Joining a Buddhist Sangha or attending services and retreats may be a great way to immerse yourself in the practices of Buddhism. To officially become a Buddhist one must complete and Affirmation or Ordination Ceremony. They are two types of ceremonies to mark ones decision to become a Buddhist. These ceremonies are similar to a Jewish persons circumcision in order to distinguish that person is of the Jewish religion.