Purna
Purna, the disciple of Buddha, was well known for his teaching abilities.

Share this Article:

Purna, the disciple of Gautama Buddha, was famous for his teaching abilities. Purna was also known as "Purnamaitrayaniputra" which literally means preaching endlessly and bestowed with abundant compassion. He was one of those disciples of Buddha who came from a well to do family. In spite of being loved and pampered by his parents Purna felt that the temporal possessions are ephemeral and renounced sansara. He took refuge with Buddha and spread the knowledge about the Truth and the ways to achieve it. Purna was instrumental in spreading the Buddha marga.

The dedication showed by Purna was unprecedented. He overcame all kinds of hindrances to spread the Dhamma. After being constantly turned down by people numerous Bhikshus lost the initiative to spread Buddhism. Purna encouraged these followers to set out again to complete their task. He was of the view that though the path to achieve the end was difficult it was not impossible. Once people go through pain and suffering they would willfully accept Buddhism to be released from sansara. He viewed the poor as beggars who needed the help from Buddhist missionaries to bask in the glory of Buddhist Dhamma and hence enjoy the subsequent happiness that comes with it.

Buddha had always stressed the need to preach in a way to which the layman can associate. Purna adapted himself according to the need of various people. His ways of teaching a doctor differed from that of a farmer. Such policies helped Purna in successfully spreading the Buddhist principles. One of the major events in the life of Purna is his journey to Sudan to spread Buddhism. Although Buddha was a little worried about this but Purna`s keenness compelled him to give him permission.

As Purna arrived at Sudan he learnt the local language to communicate with the natives. But what he realized was that it was more necessary for the local poor people to have a better standard of living. Hence he attended to the sick and taught others the ways of farming. He also spread the principles of Buddhism in Sudan. Buddha himself hailed Purna as one of his finest disciples.


Share this Article:

Related Articles

More Articles in History of India


History of Uttar Pradesh
The state was the heart of Mahabharata war and the history of Uttar Pradesh is very much the history of India. The place finds its mentions in Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.
History Of Archaeology In India
History of archaeology in India contributes a lot to define the past history and the social life of India.
Mughal Architecture during Babur
Mughal Architecture during Babur is of adequate significance in Mughal history, as the emperor introduced Mughal architecture in India, during 16th century.
Princely State of Patdi
Princely State of Patdi or Patri was incorporated as a part of the Baroda Agency, which was a sub division of Western India States Agency.
Architecture during Sayyid and Lodi Dynasty
Architectures during the Sayyid and Lodi dynasty were mainly the tombs and monuments for the dead rulers. It were carefully designed and meticulously constructed.
Brahmanical Sources of Ancient History
Brahmanical Sources of ancient history are contained in the Vedas and they constitute one of the most important literary sources of information about ancient India.
Female Education In British India
The over brimming enthusiasm among zealous Hindu reformers welcomed female education in British India.
Revenue System of Mauryan Empire
Revenue system of Mauryan Empire can be divided into eight categories. The principal revenue of the state was the land revenue, taxes from traders, artisans and professional taxes were also collected.
Mughal Architecture During Jahangir
Mughal architecture during Jahangir`s period was relative dull in comparison to that of Akbar dynasty.
Princely State of Satlasna
Princely State of Satlasna was amongst the former native states of India that was appointed as one of the Indian princely states during the early 19th century.
Coins of Chola Empire
Coins of Chola Empire were issued in gold, silver and copper and carried the Chola emblem.
Social Life during the Pala Period
Religious toleration and simple living were the characteristics of social life during the Pala period.
Coins of the Chalukya Dynasty
Coins of the Chalukya Dynasty was reintroduced in the South India after a brief break of coinage less period of nearly three century. Chalukyas issued coins only in gold and they exhibit a brilliant artistic skill of the engraver.
Costumes of Indus Valley Civilisation
Costumes of Indus valley Civilization have been considered as the basis for Indian clothes. Sophisticated ornaments and make up were used during that age.
Development of Science under Gupta Empire
Development of Science under Gupta Empire was progressive and it had attained considerable perfection. Mathematics, astronomy, medicine, chemistry, physics and metallurgy were the most prominent of the sciences at that time.
Culture under Delhi Sultanate
Culture under Delhi Sultanate had enduring aspects to it. It included the society, the religious condition, literature and art and architecture of that period.
Princely State of Hapa
Princely State of Hapa was incorporated as a part of the Baroda Agency, which was under the administrative control of the Western India States Agency.
Economy Under Chola Dynasty
Economy under Chola dynasty was strong and well developed. The economic life of the people of the Chola Kingdom was well balanced with their social life.
Coins of Khilji Dynasty
Coins of Khilji Dynasty had an influential feature that was followed by the other dynasties.
Religion During Mauryan Dynasty
Religion during Mauryan dynasty became a considerable episode in Indian history with an esteemed lineage of rulers.