Buddhism beliefs and philosophy, based on the teachings of Gautama Buddha, is a branch of Eastern philosophy. Since the time of its start Buddhism has had a firm philosophical element. Buddhist philosophy rejects a number of traditional notions like those of atheism, theism, monism, and dualism. Lord Buddha criticized all these concepts and encouraged his disciples to discuss the problems in metaphysics, phenomenology, ethics and epistemology. Buddhism does not believe in the existence of a God who created the universe. As per Lord Buddha, one should emphasize on the practical ways of life, which will help a person in attaining enlightenment. However, at the same time, Buddha did not rule out the existence of a God or gods altogether. With the growth and spread of Buddhism, local deities and religious practices were included in it.