by Carrie Fleharty

Created on: September 23, 2009

Buddha the "enlightened one" has attributes and characteristics that are unlike others except for Jesus Christ;according to the research conducted from many sources. To understand the characteristics of Buddha we must look at his legend.

In a nutshell Buddha was born in the Royalty Caste, and his name was Siddhartha. While leading a life or ease and protection from the outside world. He succeeds four times and each time he meets four men; 1) an old man, 2) a sick man, 3) a dead man, and 4) a religious man. Confused he decides to to find the solution to suffering which lies in the religious ways. Siddhartha sets out on his 29th birthday in his quest. He seems to not be able to attain his enlightenment in which he seeks. There upon he is joined by five disciples who become known as the "Those of the Happy Group." He then sits himself under a Bod-hi Tree, and the awakening begins through meditation.

During his meditation he becomes aware that suffering is part of occurring with rebirth. He is repeatedly attacked by the demon of death, and the army of the demon of death. He even sends his three daughters to him: Thirst, Displeasure and Voluptuousness to seduce him. All efforts are in vain. During the third watch he becomes fully "conscious" and "awakened." Within this consciousness and awakening becomes the characteristics and attributes of the Buddha which will keep away suffering.

Mental discipline or control of the mind is of great importance; for craving either sensual pleasures or material possessions is the root of all evil. Mental discipline makes people see things as they really are which will lead to insight and wisdom. Wisdom comes as we apprehend the truth of situations. Intention of an act brings about Karma or Dharma. Intention and deeds go hand in hand and the action is expected to be one of good will.

One should receive and understand that all good things, and truths are impermanent. Therefore we must not become attached to life, things or desires. All things are made up of parts, and the sum of those parts. Then the we must deny the permanency of things and destroy our selfish desires and self-interest. To escape from the cycle of rebirths and suffering, Nirvana, is the goal of the Buddhist. One can only reach Nirvana by becoming enlightened.

The characteristics of the Buddha are one that seeks out enlightenment and consciousness while disregarding himself. He seeks the truth of all situations through the act of controlling his mind. His intention when he accomplishes good and noble acts are of good intent and brings about good Karma. The Buddha realizes that all is impermanent and things are made by parts and the sum of those parts. Buddha seeks to escape the cycle of suffering, death and rebirth by reaching Nirvana which is actually undefinable.

Buddha is a seeker of enlightenment and consciousness through the act of meditation. Without meditation and controling one's mind conflict among yourself will occur. Deny the mind, and control it, and enlightenment will follow.

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