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UPSC Prelims 2024 Question on – Epithets of Gautama Buddha | Shakyamuni & Tathagata
Q. With reference to ancient India, Gautama Buddha was generally known by which of the following epithets?
1. Nayaputta
2. Shakyamuni
3. Tathagata
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
✅ Correct Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Nayaputta – Incorrect: This epithet refers to Mahavira, not Buddha. Nayaputta (Nata-putta) means “son of the Jnatrika clan.”
- Shakyamuni – Correct: Means “Sage of the Shakyas.” Gautama Buddha belonged to the Shakya clan.
- Tathagata – Correct: After enlightenment, Buddha often referred to himself as “Tathagata,” meaning “one who has thus gone” or “one who has thus come.”
