Kumbha Jataka, Kumbha-jātaka: 2 definitions

Introduction:

Kumbha 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)

[«previous next»] — Kumbha Jataka in Theravada glossary
Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names

The story of how a forester, Sura, accidentally discovered strong drink, and how, with the help of his accomplice, the ascetic Varuna, he spread abroad the discovery, thus leading to the destruction of all Jambudipa, had Sakka not appeared on earth and by his exposition of the evils of drink induced Sabbamitta, king of Savatthi, to abstain from its use.

The story was told in answer to a question by Visakha as to the origin of drink. Once during a drinking festival at Savatthi five hundred women, friends of Visakha visited Jetavana in her company. On the way they became drunk, which led to their behaving improperly in the monastery. The Buddha frightened them by his iddhi power and restored them to their senses. (J.v.11ff; the DhA.iii.100ff gives a slightly different version of the doings of Visakhas friends).

The story of the past is also given in the Jatakamala (No.17).

context information

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).

Discover the meaning of kumbha jataka in the context of Theravada from relevant books on Exotic India

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