Maudgalyayana

Maudgalyayana (5th century BCE) was one of the ten principal disciples of the Buddha, renowned as foremost in supernatural powers.

Background

Maudgalyayana was born in a Brahmin family in Koligama village. Along with his friend Shariputra, he initially followed the Brahminical tradition before encountering the Buddha’s teaching through the monk Assaji. He attained arhatship shortly after becoming a disciple.

Spiritual Contribution

Maudgalyayana was celebrated for his mastery of psychic powers (abhijna) and his ability to traverse cosmic realms. He is credited with developing meditation techniques for traversing the heaven worlds and communicating with beings across different planes of existence. He played a crucial role in the establishment of the bhikkhuni (nuns’) order by persuading the Buddha to accept women into the sangha.

Legacy and Impact

Together with Shariputra, Maudgalyayana embodied the twin ideals of wisdom and supernatural attainment. His story of visiting hell realms and his dramatic death at the hands of a rival sect became important Buddhist narratives about the impermanence of physical powers and the importance of spiritual practice.

Verification Notes

• Referenced in Pali Canon (Samyutta Nikaya, Majjhima Nikaya)
• Praised by Buddha as foremost in supernatural powers
• Central figure in bhikkhuni ordination narrative