Significance of Wealthy family
In Buddhism, the concept of a wealthy family encompasses various rebirths characterized by affluence and social status linked to past meritorious actions. Figures such as Saparivarasana, Sayanadayaka, and the thera Paduma were reborn into prosperous households, highlighting the connection between wealth and favorable karmic conditions. This notion extends across different branches of Buddhism, including Mahayana and Theravada traditions, each illustrating how past deeds influence one's social and economic status in subsequent lives, leading to opportunities for spiritual growth.
Synonyms: Affluent family, Prosperous family, Rich family, Luxurious family, Well-to-do family
In Dutch: Rijke familie; In Finnish: Varakas perhe; In Spanish: Familia rica; In German: Wohlhabende Familie
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Wealthy family'
In Buddhism, a wealthy family signifies favorable socio-economic conditions that enhance spiritual development, seen in various figures like Padasannaka and Venerable Kotthita, whose affluent backgrounds contrast with their later ascetic pursuits.
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The family into which Subhadda was reborn, characterized by abundance and resources.[1] (2) The prosperous family into which Sayanadayaka was reborn after accumulating merit through his actions.[2] (3) The family into which Bhisadayaka was reborn, indicating a favorable rebirth due to his past meritorious acts.[3] (4) The privilege of being born into affluence in the city of Savatthi after past meritorious deeds.[4] (5) The family into which Cunda was reborn during the time of the Glorious One Siddhattha, indicative of his favorable karmic conditions.[5]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) The family into which the Bodhisatta was born in the Kingdom of Kasi during Brahmadatta's reign.[6] (2) The family background of the Bodhisatta, indicating status and comfort before choosing a religious life.[7]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Kumara Kassapa was born into a wealthy family which provided him an advantageous start in his spiritual journey.[8] (2) The social background of Venerable Kotthita, indicating his privileged upbringing in the royal city of Hamsavati.[9] (3) Vangisa was born into a wealthy family in the city of Hamsavati during the time of Buddha Padumuttara.[10] (4) The social status into which Anathapindika was reborn, exemplifying financial prosperity.[11]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) The affluent background from which Venerable Revata came, showcasing his initial status before embracing monastic life.[12]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) It refers to a household with abundant material resources, which is sometimes seen as a potential obstacle to spiritual practice due to the allure of worldly pleasures.[13] (2) The affluent background of Bakkula's last lifetime in Kaushambi, where he was born before being caught in a fish.[14] (3) The family background of Jambuka, indicating a life of privilege that contrasted sharply with his later ascetic practices.[15]
The concept of Wealthy family in local and regional sources
The term "Wealthy family" indicates a young man's privileged background and highlights his family's elevation in status due to astute financial decisions and resourcefulness, signifying both inherited wealth and self-made success.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) A descriptor of the young man’s background, indicating that he comes from a family of significant means.[16]
From: Folklore of the Santal Parganas
(1) The improved status of the family after successfully acquiring wealth through clever and resourceful actions.[17]
The concept of Wealthy family in scientific sources
Wealthy family, in the regional context, signifies a household with substantial financial resources. This is demonstrated by assets such as livestock (fatted calves, goats), house servants, and a banquet hall.
From: Religions Journal (MDPI)
(1) A wealthy family from the neighboring village of Petryliv is mentioned as Bun's family, who kept him in a cave and fed him raw meat.[18] (2) It is a household possessing significant financial resources, indicated by the presence of fatted calves, goats, house servants, and a banquet hall.[19]