The Role Of Gautama Buddha In Hinduism

Gautama Buddha is the founder of Buddhism, a religion that is heterodoxy to Hinduism. In Hinduism, Gautama Buddha is viewed as the ninth avatar, or a purposeful descendant of a supreme being, of the God Vishnu-specifically in Vaishnava Hinduism. It is believed that he lived and taught between the sixth and fourth centuries BCE. The word “buddha” refers to the first awakened being during in a Yuga era, but Gautama Buddha is regarded as the Supreme Buddha.

Buddha is mentioned in all the Puranas, but it is not clear if they refer to the same person. Very little is mentioned of worshiping Buddha, except that those who desire beauty should worship him. This makes sense, since he is often described as being beautiful with blue eyes, a fair complexion,

and a body built like a god.

Gautama Buddha became prince Siddharta shortly after his birth. The Brahmans told the king that Siddharta would either become a great king or lead of life of severe self discipline due to his reaction to seeing the pain and suffering of the world. In order to prevent his son from abstaining from indulgence, the king kept Siddharta away from the world to protect him. Buddha was then married to his cousin, Yashoda, who he had a son named Rahula with. On the night of his son’s birth, Buddha left to confront the evils of the world. He ended up practicing with Brahman hermits but felt no closer to enlightenment. He was unsatisfied with the current teachings and so he began his own. Buddha’s teaching included the “middle way”, a manner of living that neither over indulged nor sacrificed indulgence. He also preached of non-violence. He travelled greatly and spoke to everyone who would listen, earning him many followers. When Buddha returned home, his family also became devoted to his teachings. His wife even inspired him to create a nunnery within the faith for women to participate in.