There are four major sects of Buddhism. Each stresses a different path to nirvana, which is a state of ultimate enlightenment and peace. Instead of trying to avoid hell or strive for a place in heaven, Buddhists journey to nirvana. Until Nirvana is reached, believers cannot be freed from the cycle of death and rebirth. Since Buddhism is more of a philosophy of living that helps develop spiritual purity and mental clarity, it is often difficult to explain the process of seeking nirvana.
Understanding also comes from meditation.
But when Buddhists bow before a statue of Buddha, they are not praying to an all-powerful deity, Franks said. A lot of teachings are based on the premise that no body can help you but yourself. Buddha can't save you. Buddha's not like a savior. Buddhism has the reverence of religion but it doesn't have the worship to a powerful deity.