Biography (ජීවිත කථාව)
Birth and family
Sumedha was born in a noble royal city. His father was King Sudatta, and his mother was Queen Sumedhā. He belonged to the Kshatriya class.
Era and lifespan
Sumedha 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, Sumedha renounced worldly life. He attained enlightenment under the mahā‑sāla 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 Sujāta and Sumangala. His attendant monk was Uttara. His Sangha grew vast, with countless arahants attaining liberation.
Symbolic meaning (සංකේතමය අර්ථය)
Sumedha symbolizes profound wisdom and serenity. His name evokes calm strength, reminding us that Dharma is the stillness that endures across ages.
Sources and Further Reading (මූලාශ්ර සහ වැඩිදුර කියවීම)
- Buddhavaṃsa — SuttaCentral (English)
- Buddhavaṃsa — SuttaCentral (Pāli)
- Sumedha Buddha — Wikipedia
- Sumedha Buddha — Dhamma Wiki