The concept of upaya or skillful means is one of the most critical concepts in Buddhist tradition. Not only does upaya explain innovation and development in teachings, it advances the notion that to be an enlightened being one must become assiduously resourceful and exigent to a world that requires our mindful engagements. Here we explore upaya as it is developed in early Buddhism and how this idea is used to explain the experience that creates Buddhas and distinguishes their abilities as we progress on the path of resourceful action and contemplation.