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Buddha Purnima 2022: 7 unknown facts about Gautam Buddha
News9Live Staff
16 May 2022 14:56:PM
Devotees praying on the occasion of Buddha Purnima. (Photo credit: PTI)
Lord Buddha introduced a new religion called Buddhism. He is also regarded as the ninth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe in the Hindu religion.
Mahabodhi Temple, situated in Bodh Gaya, became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002
On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, a special prayer is organised under the Bodhi tree
Buddha was born as prince Siddhartha in 536 BCE at Lumbini in Kapilvastu.
New Delhi: Buddha Purnima or Buddha Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Gautam Buddha, is one of the festivals that Indians celebrate with lots of Enthusiasm. Buddha was born as prince Siddhartha in 536 BCE at Lumbini in Kapilvastu. His father was Suddhodana, chief of Shakya Gana. His mother's name was Mayadevi. It is interesting to note that Maharashtra consists of the maximum Buddhist population (about 58 percent of the state's population). On the occasion of Buddha Purnima, a function is organised at Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya where Buddha attained enlightenment under the pious Bodhi tree. Here in this article, we will tell you unknown facts about Buddha Purnima.
Buddha Purnima date discrepancy
There are discrepancies in the birth and death date of Buddha. According to Buddhist tradition, Buddha was born on April 8, 1029 BCE. He died on February 15, 949 BCE. However, many Buddhist scholars place his birth five hundred years later. Many Buddhists celebrate Buddha's birth anniversary on April 8. This year, the birthday anniversary of Gautam Buddha is being celebrated on May 16.
Name and clan details
Buddha, also known as Shakyamuni Buddha, was the son of the Shakyas (a small clan whose kingdom was located at the foot hills of the Himalayas). His family name was Gautama (best cow). According to the scholars, the title of Siddhartha (goal achieved) was bestowed on him by Buddhists in honour of the enlightenment he attained.
Gautam Buddha's teachings and dharma chakra
The dharma chakra or dharma wheel (wooden wheel with eight spokes) represents Gautam Buddha's teachings on the path to enlightenment. It is a widespread symbol used in South Asian religions (Hinduism, Jainism and especially Buddhism). Earlier, the dharma chakra was used as a decoration on East Asian statues and inscriptions.
Stupas
After the death of Gautam Buddha, his body was divided into eight parts. Eight stupas were built on them. A stupa refers to a mound-like or hemispherical structure. It contains relics used as a place of meditation. India's largest stupa is Kesariya stupa located in Patna (Champaran – east district of Bihar).
Formal announcement of Buddha Purnima day
It is interesting to note that the followers of Buddhism have been celebrating Buddhist festivals (Buddha Purnima) for centuries. However, the decision to celebrate this day was only taken at the first conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) held in Sri Lanka in the year 1950. WFB is an international Buddhist organisation established in 1950.
Bodhi Tree, also known as Bodhi Fid Tree or Bo Tree, is a sacred tree of the Buddhists situated in Bodh Gaya, Bihar. Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment under that tree. Bodhi Tree is a frequently visited place by Buddhists.
Buddha idol worship
It is interesting to note that Buddhists are divided into several sects. Hinayana sect means small vehicle in Sanskrit. It did not believe in the divinity of the Buddha and stressed on individual salvation through self-discipline and mediation.
Published: 16 May 2022 14:37:PM
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