Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c31.2592

v2.c31.2592

Mātali.—The name given to the chariot-driver (saṅgāhaka) of Sakka. The Mātali of the present age had a son, Sikhaṇḍhi, with whom Bhaddā Suriyavaccasā, daughter of Timbarū, was in love; but later she transferred her affections to Pañcasikha.¹ Mātali is Sakka’s constant companion and accompanies him everywhere, more as a confidant than as a servant.² Thus, he was by Sakka’s side in the war against the Asuras and drove his chariot when he fled with his bride Sujātā. The chariot is called Vejayanta-ratha and is drawn by one thousand Sindh horses.³ Mātali often accompanied Sakka on his journeys to the world of men, changing his form—e.g., to that of a fish in the Culladhanuggaha Jātaka, a brahmin in the Bilārakosiya Jātaka and in the Suddhābhojana Jātaka, and a big black dog in the Mahākaṇha Jātaka. On several occasions he was sent by Sakka to fetch human beings to Tāvatiṃsa—e.g., Guttila, Nimi, Makhādeva and Sādhīna—and he proved an excellent guide, pointing out to the visitors the places of interest passed on the way.⁴