Vasetthi, Vāsetthī: 1 definition
Introduction:
Vasetthi 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)
Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names1. Vasetthi. A brahnninee, wife of King Esukis chaplain. She was the mother of Hatthipala (the Bodhisatta), and is identified with Mahamaya. J.iv.483, 491.
2. Vasetthi Theri. She was born in Vesali, and after being happily married bore a son. The child died very young, and his mother was mad with grief. One day she ran away from home, and, in the course of her wanderings, came to Mithila, where she saw the Buddha, who calmed her grief. He taught her the Doctrine and had her ordained at her own request. She soon after became an arahant.
The story of her childs death and her subsequent history, are contained in Thig.vs.133 8; see also ThigA.124f.
It is said* that the brahmin Sujata, father of Sundari (q.v.), met Vasetthi (probably in Benares), and, hearing her story, himself sought the Buddha at Mithila where he joined the Order, becoming an arahant at the end of three days.
* Thig. 312-24; ThigA.228f; according to Thig.312 Vasetthi would seem to have lost seven children, but the Commentary explains this as a rhetorical phrase.
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)
Ends with: Bhavasetthi, Devasetthi.
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