PREVIOUSLY ASKED IN:
PSC Miscellaneous Prelims 2018
Answer
Lumbini
Explanation
Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, was born in 563 BCE in the sacred gardens of Lumbini, located in present-day Nepal near Kapilavastu. His childhood name was Siddhartha. He was born into the royal family of the Shakya clan to King Suddhodana and Queen Maya Devi. Lumbini is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Rummindei Pillar inscription by Emperor Ashoka confirms this as Buddha's birthplace.
Key Points
- > Buddha was born in Lumbini (in modern-day Nepal) around 563 BCE.
- > He attained enlightenment (Nirvana) at Bodh Gaya under a Pipal tree.
- > He delivered his first sermon at Sarnath. This event is known as 'Dharmachakra Pravartana'.
- > He passed away (Mahaparinirvana) at Kushinagar at the age of 80.
- > His father was King Suddhodana of the Shakya clan.
- > The core Buddhist texts are called the Tripitaka, written in Pali.
Additional Information
Key Events in the Life of Gautama Buddha
| Event | Buddhist Term | Location | Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth | - | Lumbini | Lotus and Bull |
| Enlightenment | Nirvana | Bodh Gaya | Bodhi Tree |
| First Sermon | Dharmachakra Pravartana | Sarnath | Wheel |
| Death | Mahaparinirvana | Kushinagar | Stupa |
Memory Tips
- LBSK Timeline: Follow Buddha's journey from Lumbini (Birth) -> Bodh Gaya (Knowledge) -> Sarnath (Teaching) -> Kushinagar (Death).