Sīvali

Sīvali (Pali: Sīvali; Burmese: ရှင်သီဝလိ pronounced [ʃɪ̀ɴ θìwəlḭ]; Thai: พระสีวลี RTGS: phra siwali; Chinese: 尸婆羅) is an arhat widely venerated among Theravada Buddhists. He is the patron saint of travel and is believed to ward off misfortunes at home such as fire or theft.[1] His veneration predates the introduction of Theravada Buddhism into Burma.

Common attribute of Sivali statue, this one at Wat Ratcha Singkhon, Bangkok

Sīvali is typically depicted standing upright and carrying a walking staff, an alms bowl and Buddhist prayer beads.[2] Born to Queen Suppavasa, Sīvali is believed to have remained in his mother's womb for seven years because of past karma.[2] After a week in labor, Sīvali's mother gave birth to a precocious boy who could immediately speak. Thereafter, Gautama Buddha's chief disciple, Sariputta, admitted Sīvali into the sangha.[3] The Burmese believe that he is still living, that he can be invoked to come by a special incantation and that his mere invisible presence will bring them prosperity and good fortune.[3]

See also

References
  1. Cooler, Richard M. "Chapter III The Pagan Period: Burma's Classic Age - 11th To 14th Centuries". The Art and Culture of Burma. Northern Illinois University. Retrieved 18 March 2012.
  2. Paw, Maung. "Maha Sivali Thera" (PDF). Retrieved 18 March 2012.
  3. Maung Htin Aung (2 October 2008). "Shin Thiwali". Folk Elements in Burmese Buddhism. Retrieved 18 March 2012.
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