Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, is a key figure in the development of philosophy and religion. Millions of people worldwide have been impacted by the spiritual tradition known as Buddhism, which he is recognized as having founded.

Childhood 
In the fifth or fourth century BCE, Siddhartha Gautama was born into a royal family in what is now Nepal. King Suddhodana, Siddhartha's father, gave him a life of luxury and pleasure in order to protect him from the harsh realities of life. Siddhartha finally left the palace walls, though, and despite his best attempts, he came across the "Four Sights"—an old man, a sick person, a dead body, and an ascetic. He was deeply impacted by these encounters and came to understand that suffering is a necessary component of being human.

In Search of Enlightenment 
Siddhartha left his regal life behind and set out on a spiritual journey because he was driven by a desire to comprehend the nature of suffering and discover a means to end it. He underwent intense asceticism and studied under a variety of instructors because he thought that denying himself would help him achieve enlightenment. But after years of intense practice, he discovered that this route was not leading him to the answers he was looking for. 
Siddhartha ultimately made the decision to choose a different strategy. In Bodh Gaya, India, he took a seat beneath a Bodhi tree and made a pledge to remain there until he achieved enlightenment. Following a period of intense meditation, he had a profound awakening during which he understood the nature of reality and the way to be freed from pain. After that, he became into,"THE ENLIGHTENED ONE" (BUDDHA).

Fundamental Instructions 
The Path to the Cessation of Suffering, known as Magga, outlines the Eightfold Path as a means to overcome suffering. This path consists of eight interconnected practices: Right Understanding, which involves comprehending the nature of reality and suffering; Right Intent, focusing on positive thoughts and intentions; Right Speech, promoting truthful and harmonious communication; Right Action, encouraging ethical conduct; Right Livelihood, advocating for a profession that does not harm others; Right Effort, emphasizing the cultivation of positive states of mind; Right Mindfulness, fostering awareness of the present moment; and Right Concentration, developing deep states of meditation. Together, these teachings guide individuals toward spiritual awakening and inner peace by addressing the root causes of suffering and promoting a mindful, ethical way of living.