Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c29.1010

v2.c29.1010

The Brahmās are represented as visiting the earth and taking an interest in the affairs of men. Thus, Nārada descends from the Brahma-world to dispel the heresies of King Aṅgati.²⁴ When the Buddha hesitates to preach his doctrine, because of its profundity, it is Sahampati (q.v.) who visits him and begs him to preach it for the welfare of the world.²⁵ Sahampati is mentioned as visiting the Buddha several times subsequently, illuminating Jetavana with the effulgence of his body. It is said that with a single finger he could illuminate a whole Cakkavāḷa.²⁶ The Brahmās Sanaṅkumāra (g.v.) was also a follower of the Buddha. The Brahmās appear to have been in the habit of visiting the deva-worlds too, for Sanaṅkumāra is reported as being present at an assembly of the Tāvatiṃsa gods and as speaking there the Buddha’s praises and giving an exposition of his teaching. But, in order to do this, he assumed the form of Pañcasikha.²⁷