He was the son of a leader of a caravan of Kāsi, and once, when he was fifteen, he went with his parents to Rājagaha and then into the Veḷuvana-vihāra. He had with him fifty-five companions. He saw Dāsaka Thera, and, very pleased with him, he entered the Order, after starving for three meals, until his parents gave their consent. He soon became an Arahant and leader of one thousand monks. Later, as Soṇaka sat in a trance, he was seen by Siggava and Caṇḍavajjī, who spoke to him. However, he would not answer, and when they heard his explanation, they entered the Order under him. Mhv.v.104, 114 ff; Dpv.iv.39 f; v.79 f; Sp.i.32, 235; Vin.v.2.