Buddha is a term used to refer to the awakened one, the enlightened one, or the awakened being. In some Buddhist traditions, it is applied to the historical figure Siddhartha Gautama (c. 563 - c. 483BCE), who reached full liberation and enlightenment through his own experience of contemplative and meditative practice. But it is also used more generally to refer to any human being who has achieved the same level of enlightenment and insight, regardless of personal history. Through a progressive process of training and transformation, these individuals embody an understanding of the ultimate nature of reality and the freedom of non-attachment and unconditional love that comes with it.

See also: awareness, dharma, suffering, awakening, noble truth