Devadhamma Jataka, Devadhamma-jātaka: 1 definition
Introduction:
Devadhamma Jataka means something in Buddhism, Pali. If you want to know the exact meaning, history, etymology or English translation of this term then check out the descriptions on this page. Add your comment or reference to a book if you want to contribute to this summary article.
In Buddhism
Theravada (major branch of Buddhism)
Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper NamesOnce the Bodhisatta was born as Mahimsasa, son of the king of Benares. His brother was Canda and his stepbrother Suriya. Suriyas mother, having been granted a boon, claimed for him the kingdom. Mahimsasa and Canda thereupon went into exile, but they were accompanied by Suriya. Arrived in Himava, Mahimsasa sent his two brothers to fetch water from a pool. There, first Suriya and then Canda, were seized by a demon who had been allowed by Vessavana to eat anyone entering the pond, provided he did not know the Devadhamma. Mahimsasa then went himself to the pond, and on being questioned by the demon, preached to him the Devadhamma - which is to shrink from sin. The demon was pleased, and offered to release one of his victims. Mahimsasa chose Suriya, and gave as his reason that he was afraid of being blamed by others. Thereupon the demon gave up both his brothers and showed the Bodhisatta great honour. The Bodhisatta converted him and he gave up his evil ways.
The story was related in reference to a rich man of Savatthi who joined the Order after his wifes death. But he continued to enjoy all kinds of luxuries until, arraigned before the Buddha, he pulled off his robes and stood only in his waist cloth. The Buddha told him it was not the first time he had had to show him the error of his ways. He is identified with the water demon, Ananda with Suriya, and Sariputta with Canda (J.i.126ff; DhA.iii.74-6).
The Nacca Jataka was preached in reference to the same monk.
Theravāda is a major branch of Buddhism having the the Pali canon (tipitaka) as their canonical literature, which includes the vinaya-pitaka (monastic rules), the sutta-pitaka (Buddhist sermons) and the abhidhamma-pitaka (philosophy and psychology).
See also (Relevant definitions)
Partial matches: Jataka, Devadhamma.
Full-text: Mahimsasa, Suriyakumara, Candakumara.
Relevant text
Search found 1 books and stories containing Devadhamma Jataka, Devadhamma-jātaka; (plurals include: Devadhamma Jatakas, jātakas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:
The Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6 (by Robert Chalmers)
Jataka 32: Nacca-jātaka < [Book I - Ekanipāta]
Jataka 6: Devadhamma-jātaka < [Book I - Ekanipāta]