The Life and times of Buddha Siddhartha Gautama The Life and times of Buddha

Introduction Buddha was born Siddhartha Gautama Born around 563 BCE (Before Jesus) Born in the Kingdom of Shakya which is now in Nepal His father was a King, named Shuddhodana Born into a family of Hindus

The Early life of buddha Buddha’s birth was “miraculous” as he descended from heaven and entered his mother’s womb in the form of a white elephant ~ a symbol of purity His mother died a week after giving birth and he was raised by his aunt After he was born, legend has it he took 7 steps and said “this is my last birth” A wise man suggested he may become an important figure or leader

Life of buddha His father wanted him to take over his rule and become a King.. he was not happy that he may become a religious figure He lived a quiet and pleasant life until he was 29 and witnessed the FOUR SIGHTS 1) Old man 2) Sick man 3) Corpse 4) Ascetic Hindu monk What does Ascetic mean???

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tilBs32zN7I

Continued… Siddhartha become a wanderer seeking spiritual knowledge He learned to: 1) Meditate 2) Find the “Middle Way” He found the middle way between luxury and asceticism, finding that life needs balance in order to be happy

Finding the great enlightenment Siddhartha Gautama sat in meditation for 49 days in a spiritual struggle against the evil god, Mara He was successful and achieved the Great Enlightenment, and was henceforth known as the Buddha He stayed in this state for 7 days (or weeks) Rather than choosing to enter Nirvana, he decided to stay on earth to share his insights

Buddha’s death: Parinirvana When the Buddha was 80 years old, he was in poor health Rather than have a replacement, he insisted the that dharma be people’s guide when he’s gone

Buddha’s Life https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1o9pPjiLf0&feat ure=youtu.be