With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known b...

UPSC Prelims 2024 Ancient History

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:

Explanation

1. Nayaputta: This term means 'the son of Naya' and is NOT associated with Gautama Buddha rather this epithet is used for Mahavira. 2. Shakyamuni: This epithet means 'Sage of the Shakya clan'. Gautama Buddha belonged to the Shakya clan, making this a correct epithet. 3. Tathagata: This term means 'one who has thus gone' or 'one who has thus come'. It signifies enlightenment and is a common epithet for Gautama Buddha. Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct.