Tathagata Buddha: An Embodiment of Uniquely Talented Personality

Abstract

The Sanskrit term ‘Buddha’ is rendered into English as ‘An Awakened One or An Enlightened One’. According to Tibetan etymology, “One who has awakened from the sleep of ignorance and spread his intellect to all objects of knowledge is called Buddha.” As per this etymology, the term ‘Buddha’ refers to all awakened beings, not only to Śākyamuni. The essence of Śākyamuni’s practical experience is called Buddha Dharma. The concept of Pratītyasamutpāda is the special characteristics of His teachings because this concept includes the system of formation and destruction of the universe, Law of Karma and its Result, Existence of Past and Future Lives etc. His concept of Bahujana Hitāya Bahujana Sukhāya as well as middle path and secular thought gives Him high status in Indian Philosophy.