Significance of Yakkha
In Finnish: Yakkha; In Spanish: Yakkha; In Dutch: Jakkha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Yakkha'
Yakkha in Buddhism encapsulates supernatural beings with diverse traits, often linked to moral challenges, guardianship, and historical encounters in South Asian mythology, influencing the spiritual landscape and teachings of Buddha.
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A spiritual companion who had a past existence as a friend and offered a valuable spell for strength and speed.[1] (2) The Yakkha, Punnaka, is a general who offers to bring Vidhura’s heart to Irandati, demonstrating his capabilities.[2] (3) A supernatural being in the forest who feeds on those who come near its tree; pivotal in the story.[3] (4) Mystical beings within the narrative, paralleling and commenting on the moral dilemmas faced by the main characters.[4] (5) A being who inflicted pain on the king by destroying his eyes.[5]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) When Gotama came hither the first time he drove forth the yakkhas, indicating a significant event in the island's history.[6] (2) The herdsman Citta and the slave Kalavela were reborn as yakkhas and kept guard over the child in the mother's womb.[7] (3) Supernatural beings that Vijaya had to confront and ultimately defeat to establish his rule in Lanka.[8] (4) Spirits dwelling in Lanka; the Buddha encountered them and converted many through his teachings.[9]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (2): Bhikkhuni-vibhanga (the analysis of Nun’ rules)
(1) A yakkha is a mythological creature; in this context, it indicates a being that is not human, which would lead to an offence if a nun were to accept offerings from such a being.[10] (2) A supernatural being or creature which is specified as not being considered in the context of the offenses described.[11] (3) A supernatural being or spirit in this context, related to the food that could be mistakenly offered.[12]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Supernatural beings that can harass or possess people, often showing disobedience to the Buddha's teachings.[13]
From: Vinaya Pitaka (1): Bhikkhu-vibhanga (the analysis of Monks’ rules)
(1) A term for a type of supernatural being, often considered predatory, not to be confused with 'fairies' or 'goblins.'[14]
From: Vinaya (3): The Cullavagga
(1) A class of spirit or supernatural being in the text; specifically, one named Sivaka who offers encouragement to Anatha Pindika during his journey.[15]
From: Patipada (path of practice)
(1) Yakkhas are included in all beings, and metta encompasses everyone, including those who might be considered enemies, all people, the Devatas, Indra, Brahma, and Demons.[16]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Supernatural beings in Buddhist texts, with Digha Parajana being a specific yakkha mentioned in relation to the Buddha.[17]
The concept of Yakkha in local and regional sources
Yakkha signifies non-human, malevolent beings integral to tovil rituals, where they are commanded by exorcists, and is also associated with malevolent spirits appeased during devil-dancing ceremonies.
From: Buddhist Ceremonies and Rituals of Sri Lanka
(1) Non-human beings, often malevolent, that are significant in tovil rituals and are commanded by the exorcist.[18] (2) Malevolent spirits that are placated during devil-dancing rituals.[19]