Dhonasakha Jataka, Dhonasākha-jātaka: 1 definition

Introduction:

Dhonasakha Jataka 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)

[«previous next»] — Dhonasakha Jataka in Theravada glossary
Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names

Once a prince of Benares, named Brahmadatta, learned the arts from the Bodhisatta, then a teacher at Takkasila. The teacher (Parasariya), having observed his character, warned him against harshness and counselled him to be gentle. In due course, Brahmadatta became king, and on the advice of his chaplain, Pingiya, went out at the head of a large army and captured alive one thousand kings.

He could not, however, take Takkasila, and Pingiya suggested that a sacrifice be offered, to take the form of blinding the captive kinks and letting their blood flow round the rampart. This was done; but when Brahmadatta went to bathe, a Yakkha tore out his right eye, and, as be lay down, a sharp pointed bone, dropped by a vulture, blinded his left eye. He died in agony and was born in hell.

The story was related in reference to Bodhirajakumara who blinded the architect of his palace (Kokanada), lest he should build another as grand.

Bodhi is identified with Brahmadatta and Devadatta with Pingiya (J.iii.157.161).

context information

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).

Discover the meaning of dhonasakha jataka in the context of Theravada from relevant books on Exotic India

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