Maha Ariyavamsa Sutta, Mahā-ariyavamsa-sutta: 1 definition

Introduction:

Maha Ariyavamsa Sutta 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»] — Maha Ariyavamsa Sutta in Theravada glossary
Source: Pali Kanon: Pali Proper Names

On the four Ariyan lineages, reckoned as ancient and pure, and held in esteem by discerning recluses and brahmins of all times. A monk is content with any kind of robe; he does not, for the sake of robes, resort to unseemly conduct; he is free from either selfishness or greed with regard to robes; neither does he exalt himself because of his contentment. So it is with other requisites. He also delights in abandoning and in bhavana. A monk possessed of these four Ariyavamsa verily becomes a sage, praised by Brahma himself (A.ii.27ff).

This sutta was evidently a favourite topic for a sermon (AA.i.385, 386). The Commentary explains (AA.ii.494) how, for instance, anyone who preaches on the first three Ariyavamsa (catupaccayasantosa) could bring the whole Vinaya Pitaka to bear on the discussion, while a discussion on the bhavanarama ariyavamsa could include the two other Pitakas, chiefly the nekkhammapali of the Patisambhidamagga, the Dasuttara Sutta of the Digha Nikaya, the Satipatthana Sutta of the Majjhima Nikaya, and the Niddesapariyaya of the Abhidhamma.

The full name of the sutta seems to have been Catupaccayasantosabhavanarama Mahaariyavamsa Sutta (AA.i.385). It was also probably called Vamsa Sutta for short.

It is probably this Mahaariyavamsa Sutta which was held in such high esteem by Voharaka Tissa, that he ordered almsgiving throughout Ceylon whenever the Ariyavamsa was read (Mhv.xxxvi.38; but see Mhv.Trs.258, n. 6). It is said that people would journey five yojanas to hear a monk preach the Ariyavamsa (E.g., AA.i.386), and mention is made of Mahaariyavamsabhanaka, who, judging from the stories of them (E.g., SA.iii.151), were extremely able and eloquent preachers.

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).

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