The Life of the
Buddha.
From prince to the Awakened One — the extraordinary journey of Siddhārtha Gautama.
Born as Prince Siddhārtha Gautama around 563 BCE in Lumbini, Nepal, the Buddha embarked on one of history's most profound spiritual journeys. His teachings have guided millions toward peace, wisdom, and liberation for over 2,500 years.
Eight chapters of awakening
Birth of Prince Siddhartha
Born in Lumbini, Nepal around 563 BCE, Prince Siddhartha Gautama was destined for greatness. His father, King Suddhodana, sheltered him from the world's suffering within palace walls.
The Four Sights
At age 29, Siddhartha ventured beyond the palace and encountered four significant sights: an old man, a sick person, a corpse, and a wandering monk. These encounters awakened him to the reality of suffering and inspired his spiritual quest.
The Great Renunciation
Leaving behind his royal life, wife, and newborn son, Siddhartha embarked on a spiritual journey, seeking answers to life's fundamental questions about suffering, aging, and death.
The Enlightenment
After six years of ascetic practices and deep meditation, Siddhartha sat under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. On the full moon night, he achieved complete enlightenment, understanding the true nature of reality and becoming the Buddha - 'The Awakened One.'
Teaching the Dharma
For 45 years, the Buddha traveled throughout India, teaching the Dharma - the path to liberation from suffering. He established the Sangha, the community of monks and nuns, and taught countless disciples.
Parinirvana
At age 80, in Kushinagar, India, the Buddha passed into Parinirvana - the final release from the cycle of birth and death. His final words were: 'All conditioned things are impermanent. Strive on with diligence.'
Sacred moments
Buddha's core teachings
The truth of things
- 01Dukkha — The truth of suffering
- 02Samudaya — The cause of suffering
- 03Nirodha — The end of suffering
- 04Magga — The path to the end of suffering
The way of practice
- 01Right Understanding
- 02Right Intention
- 03Right Speech
- 04Right Action
- 05Right Livelihood
- 06Right Effort
- 07Right Mindfulness
- 08Right Concentration
"All conditioned things are impermanent.
Strive on with diligence."
Walk the path.
Explore the teachings and begin your own journey toward awakening.