Significance of King of Benares
The King of Benares is a significant figure in various Buddhist narratives, often portrayed as a monarch with complex relationships and moral dilemmas. This ruler, identified with names like Brahmadatta and Subahu, experiences personal struggles, desires for power, and the impact of his past actions on his rule. The stories associated with him emphasize themes of leadership, familial responsibilities, and interactions with bodhisattas and ascetics, illustrating the balance between royalty and spiritual pursuits within the framework of Buddhist teachings.
Synonyms: Benares king, King of kashi
In Dutch: Koning van Benares
In Finnish: Benaresin kuningas
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'King of Benares'
The King of Benares, notably Brahmadatta, is portrayed as a significant Buddhist figure representing authority, moral dilemmas, and transformation through encounters with characters like the Bodhisatta, ultimately illustrating the interplay between power, spirituality, and personal growth.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The title held by the Bodhisatta during his rule, underlining his authority and role in implementing moral laws and protecting the welfare of his subjects.[1] (2) A reference to Sariputta, indicating his significance in the story as a ruler and counterpart to Devadatta.[2] (3) The ruler who expressed desire to possess the female Kinnara.[3] (4) A historical figure in the story; represents authority and power, but also a character who neglects the worth of those close to him.[4] (5) The king who employs the Bodhisatta and the young villager, showing authority in the narrative.[5]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) A ruler by the name of King Kasi who possessed great wealth and resources, signifying a position of power.[6]
From: Milindapanha (questions of King Milinda)
(1) A royal character who holds the title of king over the city of Benares.[7]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The ruler who tasted the intermediary meal prepared by the royal cook.[8] (2) A neighboring monarch to whom the small sovereign eventually hands over his sovereignty, signifying the transfer of power.[9] (3) The royal figure in the narrative whose family faced difficulties in bearing children.[10] (4) A character in the text who, after experiencing distress and reflection on his happiness, interacts with the silent buddhas and seeks their guidance.[11] (5) The ruler of the city of Benares, whose son desired to renounce the world.[12]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The title held by Bodhisattva Padmaka while he ruled over the city and cared for his subjects.[13] (2) The ruler associated with Nanda's past life, illustrating the importance of royal lineage in Buddhist narratives.[14]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The ruler who interacts with Asthisena and offers him material wealth, showcasing the social dynamics between royalty and the mendicant.[15]
Hindu concept of 'King of Benares'
The King of Benares in Hinduism encompasses various interpretations, depicting him as a complex figure involved in themes of rivalry, murder, and familial anxieties, particularly surrounding marriage and challenges posed by opposing rulers.
From: Devi Bhagavata Purana
(1) A concerned monarch who became anxious upon hearing about the obstructions faced by Sudarshana.[16] (2) The ruler named Subahu who is central to the narrative as he arranges the marriage of his daughter.[17] (3) Subahu, who is anxious about his daughter's marriage and the potential wrath of the powerful kings gathered for the Svayamvara.[18]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The ruler mentioned in the tale where the Bodhisatta is associated with the subduing of the Goblin.[19] (2) The monarch who is identified as the enemy of the King of Vatsa, presenting a challenge to his ambitions.[20] (3) Brahmadatta, identified by the King of Vatsa as a potential threat due to his ill nature.[21]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) A ruler who was murdered by his queen using poison hidden in her anklets.[22]