Inspiring Thoughts: Know the Gautam Buddha, Teachings, Early History, Quotes and More

Gautam Buddha, whose real name was Siddhartha Gautama, was born in 563 BC in Lumbini (presently in Nepal). He was a prince of the Shakya clan and his father was King Shuddhodhan. Siddhartha lived a happy and luxurious life since childhood, but when he saw old age, illness and death, he became acquainted with the real sorrows of life. 

Born as Siddhartha Gautama, he lived a privileged life, shielded from suffering. However, he became deeply troubled by the unavoidable realities of aging, sickness, and death. 

When he bored of the indulgences of royal life, Gautama wandered into the world in search of understanding. In facts, it was his keen interest and his deep internal thoughts in search of truth, fow which at the age of 29, he abandoned the palace, family and comforts. 

After years of rigorous penance, he attained bodhi (enlightenment) while meditating under a peepal tree in Bodh Gaya (India). After attaining enlightenment, he was called Gautam Buddha and dedicated his life to preaching truth, compassion and non-violence.

Gautama Buddha's life is a profound story of struggle, enlightenment, and the dissemination of powerful teachings. Here's a breakdown:

Life Struggle:

Princely Origins and Discontent:

Born Siddhartha Gautama, he lived a privileged life, shielded from suffering. However, he became deeply troubled by the unavoidable realities of aging, sickness, and death.

This existential angst led him to abandon his comfortable life in search of spiritual truth.

The Ascetic Path:

He embarked on a rigorous ascetic journey, practicing extreme self-denial. This period was marked by intense physical hardship.

He found that this extreme path did not lead to enlightenment.

The Middle Way:

Realizing the futility of both extremes (indulgence and self-mortification), he discovered the "Middle Way." This path emphasizes balance and moderation.

It was under the bodhi tree, that he achieved enlightenment.

According to Gautam Buddha, "Wisdom can only be gained through experiences, not by teachings. One can only attain wisdom by going through difficult circumstances and hard times. Wisdom cannot be taught. As much as you try to listen to the teachings of people you respect, true wisdom can only be learned from yourself."