<b> <c c="#a00149">Mahākappina</c> </b> <br>One of the most eminent disciples of the Buddha, considered foremost among those who taught the monks. <c c="#3b6bd3">AN.i.25</c> The Vinaya <c c="#3b6bd3">Vin.i.105</c> records that when Kappina was in the Deer Park at Maddakucchi he wondered whether he need attend the uposatha ceremonies, since he himself was pure. The Buddha appeared before him, telling him to go. He sent for him and asked him to teach the Doctrine to his associates. This Kappina did, and at the end of a single sermon one thousand listening recluses became arahants, hence the title conferred on him.<br>The Theragāthā contains verses in which he celebrates wisdom and equanimity in theface of death. <c c="#3b6bd3">Thag.547–556</c> <br>Kappina is described by the Buddha as pale, thin, and having a prominent nose. It was owing to his psychic powers that he was able to follow the Buddha to the Brahma world. <c c="#3b6bd3">SN.i.145</c> <c c="#3b6bd3">SN.v.315</c> <br>Mahā Kappina was quite often in the company of Sāriputta, and it is said <c c="#3b6bd3">Thag.1086</c> that once, seeing the profound homage the gods payed to his colleague, he smiled by way of congratulation.<br> <br> </deftext>
(masc, masc, comp) name of an arahant monk; great disciple of the Buddha; foremost disciple in instructing the monks [lit.] great Kappina Construction: mahā + kappina