In Buddhism

Theravada (major branch of Buddhism)

Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names

When the world was yet young, a golden swan, who had been elected king of the birds, had a lovely daughter, and to her he promised the boon of being allowed to choose her own husband. When all the birds were assembled, she gazed on them, and, by reason of his beautiful colouring, chose the peacock. Overjoyed by his good fortune, the peacock spread his feathers and began to dance, thus exposing himself, and feeling no shame. The swanking was so shocked by this lack of modesty that he gave his daughter to a young swan.

The story was related in reference to a monk who was charged before the Buddha with possessing too many clothes. On being questioned by the Buddha, he removed all his clothes and stood naked in the assembly. The people expressed disgust at his behaviour, and he became a layman. He is identified with the peacock of the story.

J.i.206ff. The story is sculptured in Bharhut; see Stupa of Bharhut. Pl.zzvii. (11).

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).

See also (Relevant definitions)

Partial matches: Nacca, Jataka.

Full-text: Devadhamma Jataka.

Relevant text

Search found 1 books and stories containing Nacca Jataka; (plurals include: Nacca Jatakas). You can also click to the full overview containing English textual excerpts. Below are direct links for the most relevant articles:

Triveni Journal

Our National Bird: The Peacock its Myths and Legends < [October 1966]

Our National Bird: The Peacock its Myths and Legends < [October 1966]

show preview