Introduction

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of “Discovering Buddhism,” where we embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. This series is intended for beginners to learn more about Buddhism. We start this series by asking, “Where did Buddha come from?”. Thus, we delve into the enigmatic origins of the revered Historical Buddha. The one and only, Shakyamuni Buddha.

A Real Figure Beyond Time: Buddha’s Enduring Essence

Shakyamuni Buddha is a historical figure. Like all of us, he was an ordinary being before enlightenment. His earthly remains are still being honored around the world. His teachings offer solace and wisdom to countless followers around the world, reminding us that he was a real individual with profound wisdom. His teachings continue to impact humanity across continents and generations.

The Celestial Prelude: Bodhisattva Śvetaketu’s Radiant Realm

Upon his enlightenment, Shakyamuni Buddha remembered all his past lives and he recounted his past existences to his followers. Most of his tales served to educate us about morality and virtues.

Before being born as Prince Siddhartha, he was Bodhisattva Śvetaketu—a celestial being dwelling in the luminous Tushita Heaven. Bodhisattva is a title for any being who decides to pursue enlightenment. Therefore, anyone of us can aspire to become a Bodhisattva.

Unraveling the Cosmic Mystery: Heaven Revealed

According to Buddha, there are various heavens and each of these heavens are inhabited by their unique celestial beings. In the highest heavens, beings are without a physical form. Then there are heavens where beings have physical form and are very pure in nature. In the lower heavens, celestial beings enjoy themselves fully and the narratives are very similar to the description of paradise in various cultures.

However, it is important to note that only good beings can be reborn in Heaven. From this perspective, all heavenly beings embody common goodness and are, therefore, worthy of respect. In that manner, a Buddhist respects all virtuous people and religions without any need to denounce other religions.

In a Buddhist story, a youth was reborn in heaven after he developed a deep faith in Buddha while he was dying. This story existed for more than 2,500 years in Buddhism. Therefore, there is no doubt that Buddhists have a ticket to heaven. The reason this narrative is not being emphasised in Buddhism is that we are taught to aim higher than heaven.

We will go into that in later chapters.

Summary

Prior, to being born as Prince Siddhartha, Buddha Shakyamuni was a divine being in Tushita Heaven, known as Bodhisattva Śvetaketu.

Bodhisattva is a title for any being with the intention of attaining enlightenment.