THE ORDINATION OF PRINCE RAHULA

In this mural, the Buddha sits at home in front of his former palace. 

When the Buddha returned to his hometown, he was greeted with much fanfare and celebration. His family and former community were overjoyed to see him, and many came to hear him speak and receive teachings. However, his return also brought up some difficult emotions and challenges for those closest to him, particularly his wife and son.

After he had been home for seven days, his wife, Princess Yasodhara, brought his son Rahula before him. Rahula, who is now seven years old and had been raised by his mother and grandfather, the king. Princess Yasodhara told Rahula to ask the Buddha for his inheritance, for the throne of the kingdom. 

Rahula went to the Buddha, and asked for his inheritance. The Buddha left the palace, but the boy followed him and kept asking. 

The Buddha knew that Rahula only wanted his wealth. But the Buddha did not want his son to suffer from worldly troubles. Instead, he gave him the best inheritance he could think of: he had him ordained as a monk by Sariputtha, his disciple. Moggallana became his teacher. 

When King Suddhodana heard about this, he was deeply hurt. He told the Buddha how sad he had been when he left home. He said that he had focused his love on his grandson, Rahula, but now again the one he loves must leave him. The King asked the Buddha not to ordain any more children without their parent’s permission, and the Buddha agreed. 

Rahula became a very important disciple, known for his eagerness to learn and his dedication to the teachings of the Buddha. His story illustrates how children can be seen as hindrances to the spiritual life, but also as people who are open to the teachings of the Buddha and can walk the path of Enlightenment. Furthermore, the ordaining of Rahula as a monk, despite his young age, shows the deep understanding and wisdom of the Buddha, as he recognized the potential for enlightenment in all individuals, regardless of their age or background.