Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c27.1514

v2.c27.1514

Pāricchattaka.—A tree in Tāvatiṃsa, which grew in the Nandanavana as the result of the Kovilāra-tree planted by Magha outside the Sudhammāsālā. It is one hundred leagues in circumference and at its foot is the Paṇḍukambalasilāsana.¹ The Cittapāṭali in the Asura world corresponds to the Pāricchattaka in Tāvatiṃsa, but the flowers are different.² The colour of the flowers is visible fifty leagues away, while their perfume travels one hundred leagues. The devas eagerly watch each stage of development of leaf and flower, and each stage is marked by great rejoicings.³ When the flowers are fully open they shine like the morning sun. They are never plucked; a wind arises and sweeps away the faded flowers and scatters fresh ones on the seats of Sakka and the other gods of Tāvatiṃsa. The bodies of the devas are completely covered with the sweetly scented pollen, making them resemble golden caskets. The ceremony of playing with the flowers lasts four months.⁴ The Pāricchattaka is one of the seven trees which last throughout the kappa.⁵