Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c16.458

v1.c16.458

Cātummahārājikā.—The inhabitants of the lowest (Cātummahārājika) deva world. This world derives its name from the Four Great Kings (Cattāro Mahārājāno) who dwell there as guardians of the four quarters; Dhataraṭṭha of the East, Virūḷhaka of the South, Virūpakkha of the West, and Vessaraṇa of the North.¹ They keep large retinues consisting, respectively, of Gandhabbas, Kumbhaṇḍas, Nāgas and Yakkhas, all of whom dwell in the same world as their lords and accompany them on their travels. These kings are mentioned² as having undertaken the protection of the Buddha from the moment of his conception in his mother's womb, and in the Āṭānāṭiya Sutta (q.v.), they appear as protectors not only of the Buddha but also of his followers.³