Significance of Anathapindika
Anathapindika, according to Buddhism, is a wealthy lay disciple known for his remarkable generosity and devotion to the Buddha and the Sangha. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Jetavana Monastery in Savatthi, offering significant charitable support and inviting the Buddha to reside there. Anathapindika's character embodies kindness and charity, demonstrating dedication to the Buddhist community and serving as a key figure in inviting the Order to his home, making him a symbol of generosity in Buddhist teachings.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Anathapindika'
Anathapindika, a wealthy merchant in Buddhism, is celebrated for his unparalleled generosity and pivotal role in establishing the Jetavana Monastery, reflecting his deep commitment to the Buddha and charitable acts within the community.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A great merchant and the father-in-law of Sujata, who hosts the Master and his disciples at his home.[1] (2) A character depicted in the story who is the Lord High Treasurer and known for his wealth and generosity.[2] (3) A rich man who was kind to his friend Curse and employed him to manage his property.[3] (4) A wealthy lay supporter of the Buddha who, alongside other families, contributes to the old woman's newfound fortune by sending provisions as well.[4] (5) A wealthy merchant who contributed to the reverence of the bo-tree and was involved in planting it before Jetavana.[5]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A well-renowned rich man of Savatthi, father of Kala, who is worried about his son's spiritual well-being.[6] (2) A wealthy merchant whose cows were tended by Nanda and who occasionally hosted the Buddha.[7] (3) A great householder known for his generosity and the father of Sumanadevi, who experienced profound grief upon her death.[8] (4) A wealthy supporter of Buddhism who played a pivotal role in establishing the Jetavana Monastery and inviting the Buddha to Savatthi.[9] (5) A prominent and wealthy lay disciple of the Buddha known for his extreme generosity, particularly towards the Buddha and the Sangha.[10]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A wealthy merchant who invites the Buddha for a meal and plays a role in the events following the confrontation with the Naga King.[11] (2) A merchant in Savatthi and father of Culasubhadda.[12] (3) The wealthy individual who became the donor of Jetavana monastery and first heard the word 'Buddha' from his brother-in-law.[13] (4) A wealthy donor of the Jetavana monastery who supported the Buddha and the monks.[14] (5) A wealthy merchant whose household had a custom of observing precepts on holy days.[15]
From: Vinaya (2): The Mahavagga
(1) The name of a wealthy lay disciple who provided the Jetavana park for the Buddha and his followers.[16] (2) The owner of the Jetavana garden and a key figure in the Buddha's community.[17] (3) A lay householder who, like others, sought the Blessed One's guidance on how to behave towards the Bhikkhus.[18]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) The name of the grove, indicating its significance or ownership.[19] (2) A householder who invited the Blessed One for a meal and dedicated the Jetavana.[20]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (3): Khandhaka
(1) The householder Anathapindika was the husband of a sister of a great merchant of Rajagaha and plays a crucial role in inviting the Order with the Awakened One.[21]
From: The Catu-Bhanavara-Pali (critical study)
(1) The benefactor who donated the Jetavana monastery where the Blessed One stayed while delivering his teachings.[22]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) A wealthy householder who carried merchandise to Rajagaha, heard about the Buddha, and made significant charitable offerings.[23]