Significance of Rajagriha
Rajagriha, known as an important city in ancient India, holds significant relevance in both Buddhism and Jainism. In Buddhism, it served as a pivotal location for various events and teachings of the Buddha, including his interactions with key figures and the delivery of important sermons. Jainism recognizes Rajagriha as the city where King Shrenika ruled, encompassing significant events within its narrative. Additionally, it features in discussions about concepts such as Light and Darkness and the derivation of the Law, marking its cultural and historical importance.
Synonyms: Girivraja
In Dutch: Rajagriha; In German: Rajagriha; In Finnish: Rajagriha; In Spanish: Rajagriha; In Swedish: Rajagriha; In Malay: Rajagriha; In French: Rajagriha
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Rajagriha'
Rajagriha, a significant city in Buddhism, is known for its historical importance as the Buddha's teaching site, including Venuvana and Vulture Peak, where key events and transformative encounters occurred, influencing early Buddhist activity and teachings.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The city where the Buddha is said to have delivered teachings, specified in the context of the prologue to the Mppsh.[1] (2) The city where the Buddha was dwelling, mentioned to provide context to the teachings.[2] (3) A great city in the kingdom of Mo k’ie t’o (Magadha) where significant events in the lives of the characters unfolded.[3] (4) The city where the Buddha visited and where Nitha's story unfolds, serving as the backdrop for the encounter that led to Nitha's transformation.[4] (5) Another important location where the Atanatikasutra occurs in its second version.[5]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) The city where the Enlightened One delivered teachings and where significant events in the narrative take place.[6] (2) A city where the events take place, significant in Buddhist texts as a location associated with the teachings of the Buddha.[7] (3) A city where the Exalted One stayed and where important proclamations were made.[8] (4) The chief city mentioned where the Buddha produced an apparition and delivered teachings.[9] (5) The city where the Buddha is found staying, also an important location related to the royal invitation.[10]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) A significant historical city in India where the Buddha delivered many teachings.[11]
From: Akshayamatinirdesha [english]
(1) The House of the King, a great town, seen as the place of the Awakened Lord and significance in the realm of religion.[12]
From: The Fo-Sho-Hing-Tsan-King (A Life of Buddha)
(1) The historical city where significant events and teachings in early Buddhism took place.[13] (2) The town where Ashvajit and Vashpa went to beg for food.[14] (3) The city in Magadha where a casket and prophecy related to Ashoka were discovered.[15]
Hindu concept of 'Rajagriha'
Rajagriha in Hinduism is interpreted as a sacred city notable for its unique palatial designs, spiritual practices dedicated to goddess Shakambhari, and significant events in narratives like Damannaka's journey, emphasizing its importance in spiritual offerings and rituals.
From: Samarangana-sutradhara (Summary)
(1) Refers to specific palatial designs or styles highlighted in the text, which include unique features that set them apart from others.[16]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) The location where Damannaka was on his journey, marking a critical point in his story involving a death letter.[17]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Rajagriha is a city that the envoys are instructed to travel to with coursers of the fleetest breed, according to the instructions given.[18]
Jain concept of 'Rajagriha'
Rajagriha in Jainism serves as a pivotal city for significant dialogues involving Bhagavan Mahavira, key events, and important characters, embodying both spiritual and historical relevance in religious teachings and cultural narratives.
From: Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
(1) A city where the discussion regarding the derivation of the Law takes place.[19] (2) The name of a city where the discussed events and statements take place.[20] (3) A city mentioned during the descension phase of the time-cycle.[21] (4) A city where discussions regarding the objects of organs of senses take place.[22] (5) A city mentioned in the text where the events take place.[23]
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The city where significant events involving the sage and his teachings unfold, including his interactions with his vassals.[24] (2) The city where King Brahmadatta lived, serving as a setting for the events surrounding the fast.[25] (3) The location of Narayana's existence, where he is expected to go to the third hell.[26] (4) The final hamlet where the Brahman Sthavara lived, marking the end of that cycle.[27] (5) Another significant location where important characters and events are mentioned.[28]
The concept of Rajagriha in local and regional sources
Rajagriha is the capital city central to historical narratives, notably Bimbisara-raja's visit. It is also linked to Tathagata's earlier life, intertwining with his teachings and prophecies, underscoring its significance in the region’s heritage.
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) The capital city where significant events in the narrative unfold, including the visit of Bimbisara-raja.[29] (2) The city associated with Tathagata's earlier life, linking to his teachings and predictions.[30]