Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c36.2784

v2.c36.2784

1. Sirimā Thera.—He was born in the family of a householder of Sāvatthi and was called Sirimā on account of the unfailing success of his family. His younger brother was Sirivaḍḍha. They were both present when the Buddha accepted Jetavana, and, struck by his majesty, they entered the Order. Sirivaḍḍha, though possessed of no special attainments, received great honour from the laity and recluses, but Sirimā was little honoured. Nevertheless, exercising calm and insight, he soon won arahantship. Ordinary monks and novices continued to disparage him, and the Thera had to blame them for their faulty judgment. Sirivaḍḍha, agitated by this, himself became an arahant.