Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c13.92

v1.c13.92

A devatā, who lived in the upper storey of his palace, had to come with her children down to the ground floor whenever the Buddha visited Anāthapiṇḍika. She tried to check the merchant’s munificence by talking to his manager and his eldest son, but all in vain. At last, when as a result of his extreme piety Anāthapiṇḍika’s wealth was exhausted, the devatā ventured to approach him and warn him of his impending ruin if he did not take heed. He ordered her out of the house, and she had, perforce, to obey. In despair she sought the aid of Sakka, who suggested that she should recover for the merchant all his debts, and reveal to him his hidden treasure which had been lost sight of. She did so, but Anāthapiṇḍika, before consenting to pardon her, took her to the Buddha, who then related this Jātaka. The Velāmaka Sutta was also preached on this occasion.¹ For a continuation of the story see the Siri Jātaka.