The Lord Buddha Revisits the City of the Five Hills explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• The Pilgrim's Path

  The Buddha's solitary journey and reflection on his spiritual evolution from ascetic to enlightened master.

• Renunciation and Worldliness

  The Buddha's farewell to Rajagriha and his choice to avoid the noisy monastery, seeking solitude over worldly bustle.

• The Nature of Nirvana

  The Buddha's contemplation of his imminent entry into Nirvana, the final rest from Sansara.

Characters to notice

• The Lord Buddha

  The Master returns to Rajagriha, reflecting on his past and preparing for his final journey into Nirvana.

• Ananda

  The Buddha's cousin and faithful companion, leading the monks ahead to the mango grove.

• Sariputta

  The wise disciple leading a band of young monks from the West, expected to arrive at sunset.

• Bimbisara

  King of Magadha, who once visited the Buddha in the cave and later became a follower.

Key passages

• “Thus have I heard: That the time came when the earthly sojourn of the Lord Buddha should be ended, and journeying from place to place in the land of Magadha, he came to Rajagriha.”

  The Buddha, nearing the end of his life, traveled through Magadha and arrived at Rajagriha.

  Opening of the chapter, setting the scene for the Buddha's final visit.

• “Fair indeed art thou, Rajagriha, City of the Five Hills! ... For the last time do I behold thy lovely borders from this, the fairest of all places whence thy children love to look upon thee.”

  The Buddha bids a heartfelt farewell to Rajagriha, knowing he will see it only once more.

  Expresses the Buddha's emotional farewell and awareness of his impending death.