Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c34.206

v2.c34.206

Licchavī.—A powerful tribe of India in the time of the Buddha. They were certainly khattiyas, for on that ground they claimed a share of the Buddha's relics.¹ Their capital was Vesāli, and they formed a part of the Vajjian confederacy, being often referred to as the Vajjis (q.v.). Their strength lay in their great unity; if one Licchavi fell ill, all the others would visit him. The whole tribe would join in any ceremony performed in the house of Licchavi, and they would all unite in honouring any distinguished visitors to their city.² They were beautiful to look at and wore brilliantly coloured garments, riding in brightly painted carriages.³ The Buddha once compared them to the gods of Tāvatiṃsa.⁴