[gniewkoit]

2. Where should I start reading? Would it be best to start with the Tipitaka or should I start with books on Buddhism before I start reading the Sutras?

Generally, most students start with books. Without some basic understanding, the scriptures (Tipitaka) can be too complex.

3. Where do all the different Buddhas come from? I know the Buddha is siddarth who founded the Buddhist philosophy, but where do the other ones come from like the fat man you always see in Chinese restaurants that is referenced to as Buddha.

Just like in Christianity or in Islam, in Buddhism human beings have the tendency to change the teachings or religious emphasis to suit their personal needs or disposition. This especially has happened in Mahayana Buddhism (but it also has happened in Theravada Buddhism) when the original Buddhism was losing its popularity in India. So the fat Buddha, I think, is a Chinese Buddha, to symbolise good fortune. (see link)

Kind regards

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