Mahasilava Jataka, Mahāsīlava-jātaka: 1 definition

Introduction:

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

Mahasilava Jataka Mahasilava Jataka (No. 51)

The Bodhisatta was once king of Benares under the name of Mahasilava. He built six almonries and ruled in all goodness. One of his ministers, having intrigued with a member of his harem, was expelled and took service under the king of Kosala. He caused several bands of ruffians to invade the territory of Mahasilava at different times. When they were caught and brought before Mahasilava, the latter gave them money and sent them away, telling them to act differently in the future. In this way the king of Kosala was easily persuaded by his minister that Mahasilavas kingdom could easily be captured. He therefore set out with an army, and as the people of Mahasilava were allowed to offer no resistance, the king and his ministers were captured alive and buried up to their necks in the cemetery. In the night, when jackals approached to eat them, Mahasilava fastened his teeth in the neck of the jackal that came to him. The jackal started howling and his companions fled. In his struggles to get free, the jackal loosened the earth round Mahasilava, who managed to free himself and then his companions.

In the cemetery two Yakkhas were having a dispute about a dead body, and they asked Mahasilava to settle it. But he wished first to bathe, and they fetched him water and perfumes and food from the usurpers table in Benares and also his sword of state. With this he cut the body in half, giving half to each Yakkha, and, with their aid, he entered the usurpers room where he slept. When the latter showed signs of terror, Mahasilava told him of what had happened and granted him forgiveness. His kingdom was then restored, and Mahasilava exhorted his subjects on the virtues of perseverance.

The story was related to a backsliding monk. Devadatta is identified with the treacherous minister of the Jataka. J.i.261-8.

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

See also (Relevant definitions)

Relevant text

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: