Buddha as an Avatar
Many Puranic lists name the Buddha as the ninth avatar; others, especially in South India and Vaishnava traditions, place Balarama there. Here is what each tradition says, respectfully kept distinct from Buddhism's own understanding.
Two lists
[Traditional account]
The Gita Govinda of Jayadeva (12th c.) and several Puranas list the Buddha as the ninth avatar. Many South Indian and some Vaishnava lists name Balarama, Krishna's elder brother, instead (and then count Krishna as the source of all avatars).
The historical Buddha
[Archaeological evidence]
Siddhartha Gautama lived around the 5th century BCE in the Ganga plain; he is the founder of Buddhism, a distinct religion with its own teachings and scriptures.
The journey continues for members
- How the Puranas describe him
- A respectful note
Sources
- Bhagavata Purana — 1.3.24
- Gita Govinda — Dashavatara stotra