An interesting fact that I uncovered while reading "Buddhism: The illustrated Guide" A reference classic by Duncan Baird Publishers: General Editor Kevin Trainor. Interesting! Really a must read guide for all interested in Buddhism!
The Legend of Baarlam and Josaphat (p23)
While it was only in the 19th century that detailed information about the Buddha's life became available to a Western audience, elements of the Buddha's biography formed the basis of a widespread and very popular collection of legends that circulated throughout medieval Europe from the 11th century.
The legends which appear to have made their way into Christian tradition via Arabic sources, concerned as Indian prince named Josaphat who was converted to Christianity by an ascetic sage named Baarlam. The biblical-sounding name Josaphat derives from the Sanskrit Bodhisattva, a term used to refer to the Buddha prior to his enlightenment, and many of the details of Josaphat's life closely parallel episodes from the Buddha's youth, including his closeted early life within his father's palace before a transformative encounter with old age, sickness, death, and an ascetic renunciant. Josaphat and Baarlam were venerated as Christian saints in both the Greek and Roman churches. 19th century scholars uncovered the true origins of the saints' lives when accurate information about the life of the Buddha began to appear in Europe.
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