Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c34.9

v2.c34.9

In the assembly of monks the Buddha ranked him as foremost among sweet-voiced monks⁵ (*mañjussarāṇaṃ*). Several stories connected with Bhaddiya are recorded in the books. Because of his shortness and his youthful appearance he was sometimes mistaken for a novice.⁶ Elsewhere⁷ it is said that, because he was ugly and hunch-backed, he was despised by his companions, and the Buddha had to proclaim to them his greatness and hold him up as an example of a man who, though small, was of great power. Another account⁸ relates how novices used to pull his hair and tweek his ears and nose saying, “ Uncle, you tire not of religion? You take delight in it?” But he showed no resentment and took no offence.