The word Buddha means ‘awakened one’ or ‘ enlightened one’. Buddha is also used as a title for the first awakened being in an era. In most Buddhist traditions, Siddhartha Gautama is regarded as the Supreme Buddha. Gautama taught a middle way between sensual indulgence and the severe asceticism found in the Sramana (renunciation) movement. Buddhism was a widespread phenomenon even in the Buddha's lifetime and every place and person, devoted to this new path, cherished the desire to feel the presence of the Master. Tibetan Buddhist practice features several rituals and spiritual practices such as the use of mantras and yogic techniques. Supernatural beings are prominent in Tibetan Buddhism. Buddhism was transmitted into Tibet mainly during the 7th to 10th centuries.
