Katthahari Jataka, Kaṭṭhahāri-jātaka: 1 definition

Introduction:

Katthahari 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»] — Katthahari Jataka in Theravada glossary
Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names

Brahmadatta, king of Benares, while wandering about in a grove, seeking for fruits and flowers, came upon a woman merrily singing as she gathered sticks. He became intimate with her, and the Bodhisatta was conceived then and there. The king gave the woman his signet ring, with instructions that if the child was a boy, he should be brought to the court with the ring. When the Bodhisatta grew up his playmates nicknamed him No father. Feeling ashamed, he asked his mother about it and, on hearing the truth, insisted on being taken to the king. When confronted with the child, the king was too shy to acknowledge his parentage, and the mother, having no witness, threw the child into the air with the prayer that he should remain there if her words were true. The boy, sitting cross legged in the air, requested the king to adopt him, which request was accepted, his mother being made queen consort. On his fathers death he became king under the name of Katthavahana.

The story was told to Pasenadi on his refusal to recognize the claim to the throne of Vidudabha, his son by Vasabha Khattiya (J.i.133ff; iv.148; DhA.i.349).

Perhaps the story has some connection with that of Dusyanta and Sakuntala, as given in the Mahabharata and later amplified by Kalidasa in his drama.

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 katthahari jataka in the context of Theravada from relevant books on Exotic India

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