Significance of Sakyamuni
Sakyamuni is another name for the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, who is renowned as the founder of Buddhism. He is celebrated for his teachings on compassion and liberation, and in various traditions such as Tibetan and Mahayana Buddhism, Sakyamuni embodies perfect wisdom and serves as a figure of ultimate refuge. The life and teachings of Sakyamuni are fundamental to Buddhist philosophy, chronicled in texts like the Buddhacarita, highlighting his significant role in fostering spiritual practices and community.
Synonyms: Buddha, Siddhartha gautama, The enlightened one, The awakened one, Tathagata, Gautama, Siddhartha, Enlightened one
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Sakyamuni'
Sakyamuni, also known as Siddhartha Gautama or Gotama, represents the historical Buddha whose teachings on compassion and liberation form the foundation of Buddhism and guide individuals towards enlightenment and a pure life.
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) Another name for Buddha, referenced in the context of Sman-bla.[1] (2) The founder of Buddhism who established the initial community and its governing rules.[2] (3) Another name for Siddhartha Gautama, used especially among Southern Buddhists.[3] (4) A name often used for Siddhartha in the Northern Buddhist tradition, meaning 'the sage of the Sakya.'[4] (5) The founder of Buddhism, who did not leave behind written works, and whose teachings were derived from ancient sacred texts.[5]
From: Buddhacarita
(1) Lit., 'Sage of the Shakyas'; the historical Buddha whose life and teachings form the basis of Buddhism.[6] (2) The historical Buddha, whose life and teachings are chronicled in the Buddhacarita.[7]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The historical Buddha who appeared and provided answers to Erakapatta's daughter's questions.[8] (2) The historical Buddha, identified with the Bodhisattva Uttara in his earlier lifetime.[9]
From: Lotus Sutra (Saddharma-Pundarika)
(1) A specific title for Buddha, referencing his historical and spiritual identity in Buddhist teachings.[10] (2) The historical Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, who attained enlightenment and shared his teachings with the world.[11]
From: Vimalakirti Sutra
(1) The historical Buddha, who lived in India in the fifth century B.C.E.[12]
From: The 6th Patriarch Platform Sutra
(1) A title for Gautama Buddha, highlighting his role as a competent teacher in guiding individuals towards a pure life.[13]
From: Abhidharmakośa
(1) Referring to the historical Buddha, associated with the teaching of various concepts in the text.[14]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) The Buddha, who embodies perfect wisdom and compassion, mentioned as a figure of ultimate refuge.[15]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Another name for the historical Buddha, referred to in relation to teachings on compassion and liberation.[16]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The historical Buddha known as Gotama, the founder of Buddhism.[17]
From: Guhyagarbha Tantra (with Commentary)
(1) The sage associated with human beings, represented by the syllable U.[18]
The concept of Sakyamuni in local and regional sources
Sakyamuni, meaning 'Saint of Sakya of Kapilavastu,' refers to Siddhartha, highlighting his noble lineage and connection to the Sakya clan, which is significant in understanding his identity and teachings within Buddhism.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A name given to Siddhartha meaning 'Saint of Sakya of Kapilavastu,' derived from his noble lineage.[19]