Question

UPSC Prelims 2024 Question:

With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known by which of the following epithets?

Nayaputta

Shakyamuni

Tathagata

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1, 2 and 3
4. None of the above are epithets of Gautama Buddha

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2: 2 and 3 only

Detailed Solution

Explanation:

- In ancient texts, epithets such as Arhats, Parivrajaka, Vira etc were common uses for great monks belonging to Ajivikas, Buddhism & Jainism.
- Under Jain texts, the epithet Nataputta or Nayaputta was referred to Mahavira. So, point 1 is not correct.
- The epithets of Tathagata & Shakyamuni is associated with Buddha where he is called as:

Tathagata: “One who has thus gone” or liberated himself from the endless cycle of Samara or Death & Birth. So, point 3 is correct.

Shakyamuni: Ashoka's Lumbini Pillar inscription mentions the birth of Shakyamuni or Buddha at Lumbini, as he belonged to Shakya Clan. So, point 2 is correct.

Therefore, option (2) is the correct answer.

Subject: History| Buddhism and Jainism

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