Buddhism in Singapore: Encyclopedia II - Buddhism in Singapore - History

Buddhism in Singapore - History

The presence of Buddhism in Singapore was evident during the Srivijayan times. However, as Islam spread to the local Orang Laut population in the 14th and 15th century, the influence of Buddhism and Hinduism eventually waned and almost disappeared. Buddhism's revival in Singapore is a recent trend, although many of the Chinese inhabitants also mix in Taoism and other Chinese folk religions with Buddhist tradition.

The Singapore census includes detailed data on religion and ethnicity. Figures for religion in the year 2000 are:

Buddhism - 42.5% Taoism - 8.5% Islam - 14.9% Christianity - 14.6% Hinduism - 4% Other Religions - 0.6% No Religion - 14.8%

Compared to the 1990s census:

Buddhism - 31.2% Taoism - 22.4% Islam - 15.3% Christianity - 12.7% Hinduism - 3.7% Other Religions - 0.6% No Religion - 14.1%

Compared to the 1980 census:

Buddhism - 27.0% Taoism - 30.0% Islam - 15.7% Christianity - 10.1% Hinduism - 3.6% Other Religions - 0.5% No Religion - 13.0%

As shown, the percentage of Buddhist adherents have risen from 27.0% in 1980 to 42.5% in 2000. It was also noted that there is a significant increase of interest in the Buddhist teachings (Dharma) and practises (i.e Meditation).

Adapted from the Wikipedia article "History", under the G.N U Free Docmentation License. Please also see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki