Buddha Purnima 2024: 10 Interesting Facts About Gautam Buddha You Probably Didn't Know

Buddha Purnima, also called Buddha Jayanti, is an important festival celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death (parinirvana) of Prince Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism. Born in Lumbini, Nepal, between 563 and 483 BCE, Gautama Buddha's life and teachings still inspire millions worldwide. This sacred day is joyfully observed in countries like India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. It's a time for reflection, meditation, and acts of kindness.

On Buddha Purnima, followers visit temples, offer prayers, practice generosity, and take part in rituals to honor Buddha's wisdom and compassion. This celebration reminds us of Buddha's timeless principles of compassion, non-violence, and mindfulness, encouraging devotees to seek inner peace and spiritual awakening.

In 2024, it is believed to be the 2586th Birth Anniversary of Gautama Buddha. This year, Buddha Purnima (Vesak) or Buddha Jayanti will be celebrated on Thursday, May 23rd. Purnima Tithi begins on May 22, 2024, at 06:47 PM and ends on May 23, 2024, at 07:22 PM. As we approach Buddha Purnima 2024, let's take a look into some fascinating facts about Gautam Buddha that you probably didn't know.

1. Birth in a Royal Family

Gautam Buddha, originally named Siddhartha Gautama, was born into a royal family in Lumbini, which is now in Nepal. His father was King Suddhodana, and his mother was Queen Maya Devi. Despite his royal lineage, Siddhartha chose a path of spiritual awakening.

2. A Prophecy at Birth

At Siddhartha's birth, wise men predicted he would become either a great king or a revered spiritual leader. His father, hoping for the former, shielded him from all forms of suffering. Happy Buddha Purnima wishes and quotes to share.

3. Four Sights That Changed His Life

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At the age of 29, Siddhartha ventured outside his palace and encountered four sights: an old man, a sick man, a dead body, and an ascetic. These experiences profoundly impacted him and led him to seek a deeper understanding of life and suffering.

4. Years of Asceticism

Before achieving enlightenment, Siddhartha practiced extreme asceticism, believing it would lead him to his goal. He fasted and meditated intensively, nearly starving himself. However, he eventually realised that such extreme measures were not the path to enlightenment.

5. The Bodhi Tree

Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India. The tree has since become a symbol of his teachings and is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

6. Middle Way Philosophy

After his enlightenment, Buddha advocated for the Middle Way¡ªa balanced approach to life, avoiding both extreme indulgence and severe asceticism. This principle is central to Buddhist philosophy. Most inspiring quotes by Gautam Buddha

7. First Sermon at Sarnath

Buddha's first sermon, known as the "Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta" or "Setting the Wheel of Dhamma in Motion," was delivered at Sarnath. In this sermon, he introduced the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, fundamental teachings of Buddhism.

8. The Sangha

Happy Buddha Purnima wishes images to share on WhatsApp | Photo: Freepik

Buddha established the Sangha, a community of monks and nuns, to continue his teachings. The Sangha played a crucial role in preserving and spreading Buddhism after his death.

9. Teachings on Compassion and Non-Violence

Buddha emphasised the importance of compassion and non-violence (ahimsa) in his teachings. These principles have influenced not only Buddhism but also various other religions and philosophies around the world.

10. Parinirvana

Gautam Buddha attained Parinirvana (final nirvana) at the age of 80 in Kushinagar, India. His passing is commemorated by Buddhists as a moment of great spiritual significance, marking the end of his earthly journey and his attainment of complete enlightenment.

As we celebrate Buddha Purnima 2024, reflecting on these lesser-known facts about Gautam Buddha helps deepen our understanding of his life and teachings. His journey from prince to enlightened teacher continues to inspire millions, offering timeless wisdom on compassion, mindfulness, and the pursuit of a balanced life.

By learning about the profound legacy of Gautam Buddha, we can appreciate the rich heritage of Buddhism and its enduring impact on the world.

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