Buy Shakyamuni Buddha Wooden Tangkha Panel (44 x 33 cm)

Although we often speak of “the Buddha,” there are many Buddhas in Buddhism. Moreover, the many Buddhas have many names and forms and play multiple roles. The word “Buddha” means one who awakened,” and in Buddhist teaching, such an enlightened individual is technically a Buddha. In addition, the word Buddha is often used to denote the principle of Buddha-nature. But there is, of course, one historical figure who is normally considered the Buddha.

Shakyamuni Buddha is a name given to the historical Buddha, especially in Mahayana Buddhism. Thus, it is almost always the case that when someone talks about Shakyamuni, he or she is talking about the historical figure who was born Siddhartha Gautama but only became known as Shakyamuni after he became the Buddha. This person is also sometimes called Gautama Buddha after his enlightenment.

However, people also refer to Shakyamuni as a more transcendent figure who is still around, rather than a historical figure who lived long ago. Especially if you are new to Buddhism, this can be confusing.