Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c7.252

v1.c7.252

Many examples are given of Ānanda’s solicitude for the Buddha, particularly during the Buddha’s last days, as related in the *Mahā Parinibbāna Sutta*. Ānanda was the Buddha’s equal in age (having been born on the same day), and it is touching to read of this old and most devoted attendant ministering to his eminent cousin, fetching him water, bathing him, rubbing his body, preparing his bed, and receiving last instructions from him on various matters of importance. It is said that when the Buddha was ill, Ānanda became sympathetically sick.⁹ He was aware of every change that occurred in the Buddha’s body.¹⁰