In various traditions, Buddha is seen as the ninth incarnation of God Vishnu, while others consider Balarama, the elder brother of Krishna, to be the eighth and Krishna to be the ninth avatar. Though we have chosen to focus on Buddha, we invite you to learn more about Balarama as well.
The title “Buddha” is given to those who have achieved a profound understanding of the Dharma, the true nature of things, or the universal law. However, the term is most commonly associated with Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. This can confuse believers as to which Buddha is being referred to.
According to various puranas, the Buddha mentioned here is not Gautama Buddha but an avatar of God Vishnu known as Sugata Buddha, born to Anjana in Bodh-Gaya. However, some traditions hold that Gautama Buddha is the Buddha in question. Regardless, the essence of the avatar’s message remains the same. God Vishnu took on the form of Buddha, meaning “the enlightened one,” to impart the values of compassion, non-violence, and righteousness.
