悉达多·乔达摩

Siddhartha Gautama

Buddhism · person

Siddhartha Gautama (c. 5th century BCE), known as the Buddha ('the Awakened One'), was a spiritual teacher from ancient India and the founder of Buddhism. Born a prince in Lumbini (modern-day Nepal), he renounced his privileged life after encountering old age, sickness, and death. Through meditation and insight, he realized the nature of suffering and the path to liberation. His first sermon at Deer Park set in motion the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, forming the foundation of all Buddhist traditions.

All conditioned things are impermanent — strive on with diligence.

— Mahaparinirvana Sutra (Buddha's final words)

What Are the Key Facts About Siddhartha Gautama?

  • Tradition: Buddhism
  • Chinese: 悉达多·乔达摩
  • Category: Person
  • Definition: Siddhartha Gautama (c.

Frequently Asked Questions About Siddhartha Gautama

Who was the Buddha?

Siddhartha Gautama (c. 5th c. BCE), the historical Buddha ('Awakened One'), was a prince of the Shakya clan in present-day Nepal who attained enlightenment and founded Buddhism.

What does 'Buddha' mean?

Buddha' means 'awakened' or 'enlightened one' — one who has awakened to the true nature of reality and is freed from the cycle of rebirth.

What was the Buddha's key insight?

Under the Bodhi tree he realized the cause of suffering (craving) and the path to its end (the Middle Way between indulgence and self-mortification) — expressed in the Four Noble Truths.

Did the Buddha claim to be a god?

No. He presented himself as a human teacher who found the path; Buddhism is nontheistic about gods, though it accepts their existence in the cosmos.

Further Reading