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

1. Nayaputta
2. Shakyamuni
3. 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

Explanation

Nayaputta is incorrect

• “Nayaputta” is associated with Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, rather than Gautama Buddha. The Pāli Nikāyas refer to him as Nigantha Nataputta.

Shakyamuni and Tathagata are correct

• Gautama Buddha was known by the following names:
  • Shakyamuni – The sage (muni) of the Shakya clan.
  • Mahamuni – The Great Sage.
  • Tathagata – One who has attained the enlightenment or the “Thus Gone One.”
  • Siddhartha – His childhood name.
  • Buddha – The Enlightened or Awakened One.

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Easy