In Buddhism

Theravada (major branch of Buddhism)

Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names

The Buddha visits the Makhadeva ambavana, and, at a certain spot, smiles. In reply to Anandas question, he tells him the story of Makhadeva, of how he renounced the world when gray hairs appeared on his head and became a recluse, enjoining on his eldest son to do likewise when the time came. Makhadeva developed the four Brahmavihara and was reborn in the Brahma world. Eighty four thousand of his descendants, in unbroken succession, followed the tradition set by him; the last of the kings to do this was Nimi, and his virtue having been remarked by the gods of Tavatimsa, Sakka invited him there. Nimi accepted the invitation, but later returned to earth to rule righteously and to observe the four fast days in each month. Nimis son was Kalarajanaka, who broke the high tradition and proved the last of the line.

Makhadevas tradition led only to the Brahma world, but the teachings of the Buddha lead to Enlightenment and Nibbana.

Makhadeva is identified with the Buddha. M.ii.74 ff.; cp. Makhadeva Jataka and Nimi Jataka.

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).

See also (Relevant definitions)

Partial matches: Makhadeva, Sutta.

Full-text: Makhadeva Ambavana, Makhadeva, Mithila.

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