The Buddha achieved enlightenment. He avoided the two extremes of self-indulgence (which retards spiritual progress) and self-mortification (which weakens the intellect), and instead discovered and followed the middle path (Majjhima Patipada) which led to his enlightenment. Thereafter he taught this path until his death.
The Buddha is not a God, nor a savior who can save others. He explained that deliverance from suffering can only be gained by self-exertion and advised his disciples to be self-reliant.
“Striving should be done by yourselves. The Tathagatas (Buddhas) are only teachers.” (Dhammapada, verse 276)
[pdf]http://www.dhammikaweb.com/pdfs/IntroducingBuddhism.pdf[/pdf]
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Sadu Sadu Sadu
I am the co-author of Introducing Buddhism with Venerable Balangoda Ananda Maitreya. I am the copyright holder.
A more up-to date edition is available. You are welcome to add this to your website.