Buddhism was founded in India in the 6th century BCE by Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha or "Enlightened One." He taught the way to Nirvana, the end of all suffering, through moral life and meditation, which leads to knowledge of the true nature of reality. Buddhism is based on this knowledge and on compassion for all living beings. It accepts belief in reincarnation and karma, the results of good and evil actions.