White Lotus

My photo
Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
I wished to dedicate this blog to all sentient beings. At the same time, it is my intention to share my humble knowledge of the Buddha Dharmma with all. Upon reading these articles, may all sentient beings acquire some spiritual wisdom. Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Yours in the Dharmma, White Lotus

Aug 25, 2011

The 18 Arahants Part 1


Arahants (or Arhats in Sanskrit) are enlightened beings who having removed all causes for future becoming, are not reborn after biological death into any samsaric realm. They have realized the goal of Nirvana (ultimate spiritual attainment) and are referred to as the "Worthy Ones"

Deer-sitting Arahant ( Pindola the Bharadvaja)

Sitting dignified on a deer in deep thought and with perfect composure, he is contented with being above worldly pursuits. He was a Brahmin, a powerful Government Official in India who left his position to become a monk. He later convinced the King to give up his throne to his son and join him in the monastery as a monk.

Happy Arahant (Kanaka the Vatsa)

His posture is one of decimating the demons and hands raised for jubilation, and wild with joy. Kanaka the Vatsa was a well-known public speaker and debater of the Buddhist doctrines. When asked what happiness is, he would answer that it is experienced through the five senses. When asked what bliss is, he would reply that bliss is joy coming not from the five senses but from deep within, like feeling Buddha in his heart.

Raised-Bowl Arahant (Kanaka the Bharadvaja)

He was a Buddhist mendicant monk who used to ask for alms by raising his bowl. His posture is in majestic grandeur, as joy descends from heaven, he raised the bowl to receive happiness,



Raised-Pagoda Arahant (Nandimitra)

He was the last disciple of the Buddha. In memory of his dear beloved master, Nandimitra often carried a specially made pagoda with him, signifying that Buddha was always there, forever and ever.

Meditating Arahant (Nakula)

Nakula was a warrior with immense strength who later gave up the life of fighting and killing to become a monk. He practiced meditation diligently and finally attained Nirvana, but still physically exhibited his muscular body.



Oversea Arahant (Bodhidruma)

Bodhidruma in Sanskrit means virtuous and sagacious. He traveled the world to spread the teaching of the Buddha, carrying always with him the Sutras.

No comments:

Post a Comment