Bhaddavatī2
PersonAlso known as Bhaddavatikā
A female elephant belonging to King Udena, originally owned by Caṇḍappajjota, who helped Udena elope with Vāsuladattā and, after being neglected in old age, had her royal honours restored following the Buddha’s intercession.
A female elephant belonging to King Udena. She had belonged originally to Caṇḍappajjota. She could travel fifteen leagues in a day (DhA.i.196). Udena made use of her in his elopement with Vāsuladattā (DhA.i.198). At first the king paid her great honour, declaring that his life, queen and kingdom were all due to her; her stall was smeared with perfumed earth and hung with coloured hangings, a lamp burned perfumed oil and a dish of incense was set on one side. She stood on a coloured carpet and ate royal food of many flavours. However, when she grew old she was neglected and became destitute. One day she saw the Buddha entering the city for alms, fell at his feet, and complained of the king’s neglect. The Buddha reported the matter to the notice of Udena, and all former honours were restored to Bhaddavatī. This incident led to the teaching of the Daḷhadhamma Jātaka. J.iii.384 f.
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