The Story of Matthakundali

Matthakundali, a young Brahmin, lay dying on his family’s verandah. His father, Adinnapubbaka was a stingy man who never gave to charity and had refused to seek medical help for his son until it was too late.

The Buddha, sensing Matthakundali’s fate, appeared before him and the youth professed his faith mentally. With a devoted heart, Matthakundali passed away and was reborn in the Tavatimsa Heaven.

Departing from his celestial abode, Matthakundali appeared to his grieving father, informing him of his rebirth in heaven and urging his father to invite the Buddha to a meal.

The Buddha accepted the invitation and, at Adinnapubbaka’s house, Matthakundali appeared again, this time in person, adorned with celestial ornaments and glory. He shared his story with everybody, convincing all that even a mental profession of faith in the Buddha can lead to great glory.

Moral of the Story

Even a moment of true devotion can lead to a brighter future, and faith in the Buddha can bring great rewards, regardless of past actions or charitable deeds.

The above story appears in Dammapada Verse 2 and has been around for more than 2,500 years. Approximately 543 years before Christianity. Yet, it is intriguing that Buddhism does not promote this story at all. (argh….)

Most Buddhist elders would go: “tsk tsk tsk”, because, “how can you encourage people to go to heaven? Nirvana is better!” Heaven is still within Samsara.

Therefore, Buddhism did a great “favor” to itself by self-censoring a passage in the Buddhist scriptures.

But has anyone wondered if Nirvana is everybody’s cup of tea? After all, only those who are spiritually mature have the wisdom to understand the beauty of Nirvana. The beginners might be more interested in a happy paradise with an endless buffet, ice cream, entertainment, and most importantly; being together with their loved ones in the afterlife.

So before we shove the Nirvana down somebody’s throat, take a second. Be considerate enough to ask, “What do you hope or wish for?”, “What do you expect?” “What is your fear?”

First step, first.

Help them develop that unshakeable faith in the concept of Buddha, the Savior. Tell them the above story. A real Buddhist should not be afraid of their afterlife. Tell them about the promised heaven!

Then tell them that the lifespan there is approximately 36,000,000 years. That is equivalent to eternal for many people. Furthermore, who are we to say that there are no Buddhist teachers in Tavatimsa Heaven? Didn’t the king of that heaven take refuge in Buddha too? That means, beings there can also advance in Buddhist practices.

I think this message is of great significance. We cannot expect every Buddhist to be keen on letting go. We need to have that compassion and patience to introduce Dharma per their aptitude.

And for those who realized that 36 million years aren’t enough, we can then introduce the idea of Buddha Pureland. Teaching them, how to practice. Take baby steps, one step at a time. But the main thing is;

Once you have faith in Buddha, heaven is already attained. Thereafter, you can only achieve better attainments.

Isn’t that an inspiring and encouraging message?

May all be well and happy.