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

Question

1. Nayaputta

2. Shakyamuni

3. Tathagata

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) None of the above are epithets of Gautama Buddha

Answer 1

(b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Nayaputta: This is not an epithet commonly associated with Gautama Buddha. It seems to be a reference to Mahavira, who is known as "Nayaputta" (son of Naya or Nata clan) in some texts.

• Shakyamuni: This is a common epithet of Gautama Buddha, meaning "Sage of the Shakyas." Gautama Buddha belonged to the Shakya clan.

• Tathagata: This is another common epithet of Gautama Buddha. It means "one who has thus come" or "one who has thus gone," and it is used by the Buddha to refer to himself.

Therefore, the correct answer is (b) 2 and 3 only.