Definition of a Paccekabuddha
(i) The paccekabuddha is the same as the sammäsambuddha in that he achieves enlightenment (bodhi) without assistance from a teacher {satthar).2
(ii) In contrast to the sammäsambuddha, the paccekabuddha does not, after his enlightenment, become a teacher (satthar) in the sense that he does not promulgate a dhamma and found a sangha or sävaka (disciple) tradition. 3 *
(iii) The paccekabuddha cannot co-exist with a sanunäsambuddha and therefore belongs to a different era.
- As Naomi Appleton demonstrated, Paccekabuddha’s DO teach… they just don’t create dispensations, or cultural movements "carrying on in their name.
see also
The Paccekabuddha: A Buddhist Ascetic
A Study of the Concept of the Paccekabuddha in Pali Canonical and
Commentarial Literature
by Ria Kloppenborg
Buddhist Publication Society, Kandy• Sri Lanka, The Wheel Publication No. 305–7
Ascetic Figures before and in Early Buddhism
Martin G. Wiltshire