Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c16.524

v1.c16.524

1. Citta (called Cittagahapati).—A householder of Macchikāsaṇḍa, where he was Treasurer. He was later declared by the Buddha to be pre-eminent among laymen who preached the Doctrine.¹ On the day of his birth the whole city was covered knee-deep with flowers of various hues, hence his name. When Mahānāma visited Macchikāsaṇḍa, Citta, pleased with his demeanour, invited him to his park, the Ambāṭakārāma, and built for him a monastery there. And there the Elder preached to Citta the Salāyatana-vibhatti and Citta became an Anāgāmin. Thereafter many monks visited the Ambāṭakārāma and accepted Citta’s hospitality. Among them was Isidatta (q.v.), a former acquaintance of Citta, but Isidatta left when he found that his identity had been discovered. Mahānāma and Mahaka did likewise, after having performed miracles at the request of Citta. The Citta Samyutta² contains a record of conversations between Citta and members of the Order, among whom, besides those already mentioned, were Kāmabhū and Godatta. Citta is also said to have had discussions with Nigaṇṭha Nātaputta and Acela Kassapa and to have refuted their views.