Life of the Buddha (2)

Study of Upanishadic ideals -- i.e., the doctrine of Brahman as the Absolute present in all things, as well as meditational techniques

engagement in vigorous ascetic practices for six years, almost starving to death

mental self-discipline under the Bodhi Tree in Bodh Gaya, recalling an incident from his youth, sitting in the cool shade of a rose-apple tree, unexpectedly entering a state of aloofness / a state of absorption (jhana)

first watch of the night (9 pm - 12 midnight),	recollection of his previous existences,
middle watch of the night (12 midnight - 3 am)	knowledge of all beings and cycle of samsara; knowledge of the law of Kamma / karma.
last watch of the night (3 am - 6 am)	"things as they are;" rooting out craving and ignorance once and for all: knowledge of the Four Noble Truths

Gautama reaches enlightenment / nirvana (nibbana), is henceforth known as the "awakened one" (Buddha), or the "Sage of the Sakya tribe" (Sakyamuni)

after staying under tree for weeks, leaves for Varanasi / Banares (Deer Park) to teach his first sermon: Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta - the Setting the Wheel of the Law in Motion

ordination of first couple of monks

career of teaching for ca. 45 years

Death (Para-nirvana) in Kusinara at age 80:

"Decay is inherent in all things: be sure to strive with clarity of mind."