Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v2.c38.210

v2.c38.210

Cakkavatti.—The special name given in the books to a World-ruler. The world itself means “Turner of the Wheel,” the Wheel (Cakka) being the well-known Indian symbol of empire. There are certain stock epithets used to describe a Cakkavatti: dhammiko, dhammarājā, cāturanto (ruler of the four quarters), vijitāvī (conqueror), janapadatthavāriyappatto (guardian of the people’s good), and sattaratanasamannāgato (possessor of the Seven Treasures). More than one thousand sons are his; his dominions extend throughout the earth to its ocean bounds (sāgarapariyantam); and is established not by the scourge, nor by the sword, but by righteousness (adaṇḍena asatthena dhammen’eva abhivijiva).¹