Buddha Biography and Quotes

Famously Known For

Siddhartha Gautama Buddha is famously remembered in most countries that practice Hinduism for his great teachings on how he can achieve happiness and peace from within. 

Early Life

Buddha was born into a royal family, and like any other royal child, greatness was expected out of him. His father Suddhodana was a King in the Shakya clan and his mother Maya was a Koliyan princess. During his times, India allowed all kinds of spiritualism, and there were several philosophical views in society.

Growing up, Buddha was always shielded from the harsh reality of the world. His parents provided him with everything he needed to fulfill his desires. It is recorded that Buddha had 500 ladies for pleasure, to distract him. 

Personal Life

Buddha married his wife Yasodhara, after winning her as a prize in an archery contest he had taken part in. It is however said that his father had arranged the marriage. The couple was only blessed with one child, a boy by the name Rahula. 

Buddha’s Enlightenment

Buddha had not experienced or witnessed real suffering until he was 29 years old. While traveling to meet his subjects, he managed to see an older man and the thought of people aging disturbed him a great deal. What followed were several trips during which he was able to see sick people and a dead body. This knowledge that people could get old, ill and die disturbed Buddha, and he finally decided to become an ascetic. 

Away from home, Buddha experienced many encounters with mediators and always learned all their techniques. Six years after escaping home, Buddha came to a place known as Bodhgaya, where he decided to stay and meditate until he could understand the full potential of his brain. It is at this place that Buddha was able to reach full enlightenment and became Buddha.  

After his enlightenment, Buddha traveled a lot of teaching people about what he had learned. People of all ranks came to see and ask “the awakened one” questions, which he answered dully. 

Death

Buddha died peacefully aged 80 years. He was content that he had fulfilled his purpose on earth. 

“I can die happily. I have not kept a single teaching hidden in a closed hand. Everything that is useful for you, I have already given. Be your own guiding light.” were Buddha’s words in his final days.

Quotes by Buddha

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