Abstract

Buddhism, like Hinduism, Islam, Catholicism, Protestantism and Confucianism, has been formally acknowledged in Indonesia. In addition to this, not only have those religions been acknowledged by the state but recently there has also been recognition of the local beliefs rooted in the Indonesian archipelago.
Until now, there has been a lack of studies on Buddhism in Bali since Bali has been known as a part of the Hindu mosaic in Southeast Asia. However, it is important to understand the existence of Buddhism in Bali and its relationship with Southeast Asia in particular and Asia in general. Indeed, from the historical perspective, we know that in Bali the relation between Hinduism and Buddhism could not be separated, so finding the Buddhism contribution in shaping the Balinese multicultural society is a significant issue.
To contribute to the discussion, this paper will address some important questions: Firstly, what are the lessons of Buddhism in terms of religious and philosophical aspects? Secondly, to what extent did Buddhism spread in Bali? And, Thirdly, what was the contribution of Buddhism in the context of philosophical concepts in the making of the nation/state building in the regions? By looking at these issues, it is expected to reach a better understanding of how Buddhism has contributed significantly in the creation of a multicultural society in Asia in general and in Southeast Asia in particular.

Keywords: Buddhism; Philosophical concept; Cultural heritage; The nation/state building; Asia and Southeast Asia