| J.340 |
Visayha Jaataka |
The bodhisatva was once born as Visayha, a banker of Benares, and gave alms daily
to 600,000 persons in six parts of the city. Sakkaís throne was heated by his great
generosity, and feeling nervous for his own safety, contrived that Visayhaís possessions
should all disappear. Quite undaunted, Visayha became a grass-cutter and for six
days gave alms from the money so earned, he and his wife fasting. On the seventh
day, he fainted from lack of nourishment, and Sakka, appearing before him, suggested
that he should be moderate in his generosity. Visayha rejected the suggestion as
unworthy and declared that his aim was Buddhahood. Thereupon Sakka praised him and
made him prosperous. The Jataka was related to Anathapindika as mentioned in the
Khadirangara
Jataka (J.040). Visayhaís wife is identified with Rahulamata. See also Jatakamala
No.5 where the banker is called Avisayha. |
58/647 |
Jaataka |
Khuddhaka |
J.iii.128ff. |
generosity |