Biography (ජීවිත කථාව)
Birth and family
Sumana was born in a noble royal city. His father was King Sudatta, and his mother was Queen Sudattā. He belonged to the Kshatriya class.
Era and lifespan
Sumana lived in a distant past kalpa. In his time, the average human lifespan was 90,000 years. His own lifespan was recorded as 90,000 years.
Renunciation and enlightenment
After seeing the four sights, Sumana renounced worldly life. He attained enlightenment under the nāga tree, rediscovering the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
Teachings and disciples
His first sermon was delivered at a great park to his first disciples. His chief disciples were Sāla and Upasāla. His attendant monk was Sumaṅgala. His Sangha grew vast, with countless arahants attaining liberation.
Symbolic meaning (සංකේතමය අර්ථය)
Sumana symbolizes serenity and clarity. His era reflects the flourishing of Dharma in times of long lifespans, reminding us that peace and wisdom are the true treasures of existence.