Tambadathika, Tambadāthika: 1 definition
Introduction:
Tambadathika 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 NamesA public executioner of Rajagaha. He had copper coloured teeth and tawny skin, and his body was covered with scars. He wished to join a band of thieves, but, for some time, the ringleader refused to admit him on account of his inordinately cruel looks. In the end he was admitted; but when the thieves were captured and no one could be found willing to kill as many as five hundred of them, Tambadathika agreed to do it for a reward, and slew all his colleagues. He was afterwards appointed public executioner and held the post for fifty five years. When he became too old to behead a man with one blow, another was appointed in his place, and he was deprived of the four perquisites to which he had, for so many years, been entitled - old clothes, milk porridge made with fresh ghee, jasmine flowers, and perfumes.
On the day on which he was deposed from office, he gave orders for milk porridge to be cooked, and having bathed and decked himself out, he was about to eat, when Sariputta, out of compassion for him, appeared at his door. Tambadathika invited the Elder in and entertained him hospitably. When Sariputta began the words of thanksgiving, his host could not concentrate his thoughts, being worried by memories of his past wickedness. Sariputta consoled him by representing to him that he had merely carried out the kings orders. At the end of the sermon, Tambadathika developed the qualities necessary for becoming a Sotapanna. When Sariputta left, Tambadathika accompanied him on his way, but on the way back he was gored to death by a cow.
The cow was a Yakkhini who also killed:
Pukkusati,
Bahiya Daruciriya
Suppabuddha
(DhA.ii.35; UdA.289).
The Buddha said he had been reborn in the Tusita world. DhA.ii.203ff.
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)
Full-text: Suppabuddha.
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