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Buddha is best known for establishing the spiritual and philosophical framework of Buddhism, a path focused on the cessation of suffering and the realization of ultimate reality. Born Siddhartha Gautama, his journey began with the realization that the human condition is fundamentally tied to dissatisfaction and impermanence. Unlike many thinkers of his time who sought answers in extreme asceticism or ritualistic Vedic traditions, the Buddha proposed the 'Middle Way'—a balanced approach avoiding the extremes of sensual indulgence and severe self-denial. At the core of his teaching are the Four Noble Truths: the truth of suffering, its cause in craving and ignorance, the possibility of its cessation, and the path leading to that cessation.
Spiritual Teacher · Philosopher
Siddhartha Gautama, known globally as the Buddha ('The Awakened One'), was a spiritual teacher and philosopher whose profound insights formed the foundation of Buddhism. Born a prince in the Shakya republic (modern-day Nepal/India border), he renounced a life of royal luxury at age 29 to confront the universal realities of sickness, old age, and death. After years of rigorous asceticism, he discovered the 'Middle Way'—a path of moderation between indulgence and self-mortification—and attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. His teachings centered on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, offering a systemic diagnosis of human suffering (dukkha) and a practical prescription for its cessation (Nirvana). For 45 years, the Buddha traversed the Gangetic Plain, challenging the rigid caste system and establishing a monastic community (Sangha) dedicated to wisdom, ethical conduct, and mental cultivation.
Featured highlights
"Through Knowledge (of Truth)All evils are washed away.The true Enlightened One stands firm,Scattering the clouds of delusionLike the sun shining in a cloudless sky. Quoted in Jesus lived in India, p. 6"
"The secret of health for both mind and body is not to mourn for the past, nor to worry about the future, but to live the present moment wisely and earnestly."
"Having torn one's fetters asunder, like a fish breaking a net in the water, not returning, like a fire not going back to what is already burned, one should wander solitary as a rhinoceros horn. § 60-62"
"Just as a mother would protect her only child with her life, even so let one cultivate a boundless love towards all beings."
"“The tongue is like a sharp knife, it kills without drawing blood; words in the hands of someone skilled can do more damage than a weapon in the hands of a warrior.” M. Walshe, trans. (1987), Sutta 1, verse 5"
"Ardently do today what must be done. Who knows? Tomorrow, death comes."
"The Dharma for benefiting oneself and others is complete. If I were to live longer it would be of no further benefit. All of those who could be crossed over, whether in the heavens above or among humans, have already crossed over, and all of those who have not yet crossed over have already created the causes and conditions for crossing over. From now on all of my disciples must continuously practice. Then the Thus Come One' s Dharma body will always be present and indestructible."
"Purity or impurity depends on oneself. No one can purify another."
"Radiate boundless love towards the entire world."
"How then can it be compassionate to gorge on other beings' blood and flesh? Monks who will not wear silks from the East, whether coarse or fine; who will not wear shoes or boots of leather, nor furs, nor birds' down from our own country; and who will not consume milk, curds, or ghee, have truly freed themselves from the world. Part VII, Chapter 2: On Killing"
"Our life is shaped by our mind; we become what we think."
"Any kind of material form whatever, whether past, future, or present, internal or external, gross or subtle, inferior or superior, far or near, all material form should be seen as it actually is with proper wisdom thus: “This is not mine, this I am not, this is not my self.” Sutta 62, verse 3, p. 527"
"Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace."
"One with true wisdom is a secure boat for crossing over the ocean of old age, sickness, and death. He is also like a great bright lamp in the darkness of ignorance, a good medicine for all kinds of illnesses , and a sharp axe for cutting down the tree of afflictions."
"Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, And the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared. From The Teaching of Buddha, by Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai (Society for the Promotion of Buddhism), Pg 132. It is a paraphrased version of Section 10 of the Sutra of Forty-two Sections"
"Listen well, listen well, and mull it over in your thoughts! To Ratnākara, on the practices carried out by bodhisattvas in purifying the lands. Chapter I, as translated by Burton Watson, Columbia University Press, 2000, ISBN: 0231106572."
"Contentment is the greatest wealth."
"Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn't learn a lot today, at least we learned a little."
"“Potthapada, that is not conducive to the purpose, not conducive to Dhamma, not the way to embark on the holy life; it does not lead to disenchantment, to dispassion, to cessation, to calm, to higher knowledge, to enlightenment, to Nibbana. That is why I have not declared it.” M. Walshe, trans. (1987), Sutta 9, verse 28, p. 164"
Quick answers about Buddha.
The Buddha's analysis of the mind and the mechanics of suffering provides a timeless antidote to the anxiety, dissatisfaction, and confusion prevalent in modern life. His emphasis on mindfulness and compassion forms the root of contemporary psychology and global wellness practices.
Apply his thinking by practicing 'Right Mindfulness,' observing your thoughts and emotions without judgment to reduce reactive stress. Cultivate compassion for yourself and others to navigate conflict and build a more ethical, balanced existence.
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"Ultimately, the Buddha represents the highest potential of human consciousness, reminding us that peace is found not in controlling the world, but in mastering the mind."