"Believe nothing, no matter where you read it or who has said it, not even if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own sense of reason and your own common sense."

What is a Buddha?

A buddha is a person who is enlightened to Universal Truth. "Buddha" is the title that Indian tradition gave to Shakyamuni. It is one who embodies these truths and as a result, gains complete freedom from all attachments, realizing the eternity of life. Based on this definition, Jesus, Krishna, and Mohammed would also be examples of buddhas. Shakyamuni taught in the Lotus Sutra that buddhas have appeared in the infinite past, exist in the present, and will appear in the future. Every buddha is manifested by the great life force of the Universe, or the "Eternal Buddha." Their teachings are essentially the same, focusing on the great Truths of the Universe.

Who is Shakyamuni Buddha?

Shakyamuni Buddha was born a prince of the Shakya tribe in India. His father was so full of joy at his birth, that he named him Siddhartha, which means "Every Wish Fullfilled." He was given all that he desired and was shielded from the outside world. One day, he secretly left the palace to explore the city. There he witnessed poverty, sickness, and death. He was deeply distressed by all the problems of human existence. Being a very sensitive and compassionate person, he began to search for an answer to the question, "How can I eliminate suffering?" At the age of 29 he left his home and devoted himself to liberating all human beings from suffering and guide them all to a truly meaningful way of living. In pursuit of this goal, he lived as a nomad, monk, and as an ascetic. At this point he had experienced both a life of excess and of extreme self-denial. He knew that living to either extreme was fruitless. He saw that the Middle Path was one of balance and harmony. Still searching for more answers, he began to meditate. It was during this meditation that he achieved enlightenment. He realized that all sentient beings are endowed with wisdom and light, and it is only because of delusion and attachment that they do not see the truth. Having this deep insight, he understood the Univeral Truth (Dharma) that is applicable for everyone, in whatever time and space.

What is Buddhism?

Buddhism was established 2,500 years ago in India. It refers to the teachings of Shakyamuni. These teachings were compiled into sutras (text). In the Lotus Sutra, he taught that it is possible for all people to attain Buddhahood. This is done through the manifestation of our buddha nature. By becoming aware of the wisdom and light within ourselves and bringing them into the present moment, we are able to clear away the delusion and attachments that inhibit us from spiritual growth and enlightenment.

There are basic principles common to all sects of Buddhism. These important tools are: The Seal of the Three Laws, The Four Noble Truths, The Eightfold Path, and The Law of the Twelve Causes .

Originating in India, the philosophy and teachings soon traveled to China, Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, and into the western world. Buddhism is unique in its constant growth, function, and its adaptability to whatever culture it serves. Currently, there are over one billion Buddhists in the world.