Religions of Southeast Asia
Buddhism
Buddhism was created around 500 BCE in India. Siddhartha Gautama Buddha was the starter of Buddhism. They are taught that there are four noble truths in life. They also believe in reincarnation, which is birth cycle. There sacred text is called the Trip Taka. Most followers of Buddhism are found in Southern and Eastern Asia.
Hinduism
Hinduism started off in India around 1500 BCE. It is the third largest religion in the entire world. Hinduism is practiced in India, where about 80% of Indians are Hindu. Hinduism does not come from one mans teachings, but many gods and goddesses. To Hindus there is not a sacred text. There are Vedas to teach them instead of them reading sacred texts. They believe that every living being has souls. They believe in reincarnation. This is when you die and come back as someone or something else. They do this until they reach Moksha;which means freedom of the cycle.
Islam
Islam began in the 7th century around the Arabian Peninsula. Muhammad created this religion and their sacred text is called the Qur'an. Muslims believe in one god, and rely on the Five Pillars of Faith. These are the five pillars; Go to Mecca, Believe in one God, pray five times a day, and to fast during the month of Ramadan. Today Muslims are found in Southern and Eastern Asia.
Shintoism
Shintoism was the earliest religion in Japan. In this religion they believe in one god, but there are no rules on how to live there life. This religion has not spread, it is mostly followed in Japan. They do not have a sacred text since they do not have to follow rules. It centers on the reverence of Kami, which means divine sprits that live in nature.
Confucianism
Confucianism originated in China around c. 500 B.C.E. Most people who follow this religion think of it more as a philosophy than a religion. They believe that there are five basic relationships among men; ruler and subject, father and son, husband and wife, older brother and younger brother, and friend and friend. There are four books written around 300 BCE that they consider a sacred text. Most people who follow Confucianism still live in China.
This Video above gives some more information on Southeast Asia's major Religions.