The Two Buddhas: Gautama Buddha and Vishnu’s Buddha Avatar
Introduction
Buddha is a revered figure in both Hinduism and Buddhism, but there exists a fascinating distinction in how he is perceived within these two traditions. In Buddhism, Gautama Buddha is the founder of the faith, whereas in Hinduism, some traditions consider Buddha as the ninth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This article explores the key differences between Gautama Buddha, the historical figure, and Buddha as an avatar of Vishnu, along with their respective celebrations—Buddha Purnima (May 12, 2025) and Buddha Jayanti (October 2, 2025) in the Hindu Dashavatara tradition.
1. Gautama Buddha: The Historical Founder of Buddhism
Birth and Early Life
Gautama Buddha, also known as Siddhartha Gautama, was born around 563 BCE (or 480 BCE, according to some sources) in Lumbini (present-day Nepal). He was a prince of the Shakya clan and led a luxurious life before renouncing his royal privileges in search of enlightenment.
Enlightenment and Teachings
After years of meditation and self-discipline, he attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. He then preached the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path, emphasizing:
- Non-violence (Ahimsa)
- Compassion (Karuna)
- Mindfulness and wisdom
- Liberation from suffering (Nirvana)
Buddha Purnima – His Birth Anniversary
The most important festival celebrating Gautama Buddha is Buddha Purnima, also called Vesak. It is observed on the full moon day of Vaishakha month (April–May). In 2025, Buddha Purnima falls on May 12. This day marks:
- His birth in Lumbini
- His enlightenment in Bodh Gaya
- His Mahaparinirvana (death) in Kushinagar
Buddhists across the world celebrate this day with prayers, meditation, and charity. Temples are decorated, and sermons on the life and teachings of Buddha are conducted.
2. Buddha as Vishnu’s Ninth Avatar in Hinduism
The Dashavatara Concept
Hinduism believes that Lord Vishnu incarnates in different forms to restore cosmic balance. These ten incarnations are collectively called the Dashavatara:
- Matsya (Fish) – Saved the Vedas during the Great Flood.
- Kurma (Tortoise) – Supported Mount Mandara in the churning of the ocean.
- Varaha (Boar) – Rescued Earth from the demon Hiranyaksha.
- Narasimha (Half-Man, Half-Lion) – Killed Hiranyakashipu to protect his devotee Prahlada.
- Vamana (Dwarf Brahmin) – Defeated King Mahabali with three steps.
- Parashurama (Warrior Sage) – Destroyed corrupt Kshatriya rulers.
- Rama (Prince of Ayodhya) – Killed Ravana and upheld dharma.
- Krishna (Divine King) – Played a key role in Mahabharata and gave the Bhagavad Gita.
- Buddha (or Balarama in some traditions) – Preached non-violence to reform Vedic sacrifices.
- Kalki (Future Warrior) – Yet to come; will end the age of darkness (Kali Yuga).
Why Is Buddha Considered an Avatar of Vishnu?
According to Hindu texts like the Bhagavata Purana and Dashavatara Stotra, Vishnu took the form of Buddha to stop people from engaging in excessive Vedic sacrifices and to promote non-violence. This Buddha is different from Gautama Buddha and is sometimes depicted as misleading demons away from Vedic rituals to restore cosmic order.
Buddha Jayanti in Dashavatara Tradition
Unlike Buddha Purnima (which celebrates Gautama Buddha), Buddha Jayanti in Hinduism falls on a different date and is associated with the Vishnu avatar. In 2025, Buddha Jayanti in the Dashavatara tradition falls on October 2, coinciding with the Hindu calendar’s Dashami Tithi. This observance is more prominent among Vaishnavite Hindus.
3. Key Differences Between the Two Buddhas
| Aspect | Gautama Buddha | Buddha as Vishnu’s Avatar |
|---|---|---|
| Belief System | Buddhism | Hinduism (Vaishnavism) |
| Identity | Siddhartha Gautama, historical figure | Vishnu’s ninth incarnation |
| Purpose | Attained enlightenment, spread Buddhism | Stopped animal sacrifices, misled demons |
| Sacred Texts | Tripitaka, Buddhist Sutras | Puranas (Bhagavata Purana, Dashavatara Stotra) |
| Major Festival | Buddha Purnima (May 12, 2025) | Dashavatara Buddha Jayanti (October 2, 2025) |
4. Controversy and Alternative Views
- Some Hindu traditions do not consider Buddha as Vishnu’s ninth avatar and instead believe that Balarama (Krishna’s elder brother) holds that position.
- Many Buddhists reject the idea that Gautama Buddha was an incarnation of Vishnu, as Buddhism does not recognize a creator god like Vishnu.
- The integration of Buddha into the Hindu pantheon may have been an attempt to reconcile Buddhism with Hinduism in medieval India.
Conclusion
The concept of two Buddhas—one as the historical Gautama Buddha and the other as Vishnu’s ninth avatar—illustrates the complex relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism. While both figures share a common name and association with non-violence, their purposes, beliefs, and traditions differ significantly.
In 2025, those observing Buddha Purnima on May 12 will honor the spiritual teachings of Gautama Buddha, while Vaishnavite Hindus celebrating Buddha Jayanti on October 2 will recognize Vishnu’s incarnation for reforming ancient practices.
Understanding these distinctions helps in appreciating the deep interconnections between two of the world’s most influential religions.
