Shariputra & Maudgalyayana Statue Sets | Disciples of the Buddha

Shariputra & Maudgalyayana Statue Sets | Disciples of the Buddha

Sariputra and Maudgalyayana were two of the most prominent and revered disciples of Gautama Buddha. They were born in India around the same time as the Buddha and became central figures in early Buddhist sangha (monastic community). Their friendship and spiritual journey reflect both profound devotion and remarkable accomplishments in the path to enlightenment.

Sariputra, also known as Upatissa, was born in a Brahmin family in the village of Nala, near Rajagaha (modern Rajgir). From a young age, he showed exceptional intelligence and a philosophical mind. Maudgalyayana, originally named Kolita, was born in a neighboring village. The two became close childhood friends, and they shared a mutual aspiration to seek ultimate truth and liberation from the cycle of suffering (samsara). Disillusioned by worldly life, they became wandering ascetics in search of deeper spiritual wisdom.

Their search eventually led them to meet a monk named Assaji, one of the Buddha’s first five disciples. Assaji’s simple yet profound teaching "Of those things that arise from a cause, the Tathagata has told the cause, and also what their cessation is: this is the teaching of the Great Recluse" had a powerful effect on sariputra. He attained the first stage of enlightenment (Sotapanna) on the spot. He then brought Maudgalyayana to meet the Buddha, and both soon became his followers. Within two weeks, Maudgalyayana attained arahantship, followed shortly by sariputra.

Sariputra was renowned for his deep wisdom and analytical mind. The Buddha praised him as the disciple who was foremost in wisdom. He was known for his ability to explain complex Dhamma (teachings) with great clarity and depth, making the profound teachings of the Buddha more accessible to others. sariputra was often entrusted with the responsibility of guiding and teaching new monks and clarifying doctrinal matters. His humility and reverence toward the Buddha were profound, and he always remained a loyal supporter of the sangha.

Maudgalyayana, on the other hand, was foremost in supernatural powers. After attaining enlightenment, he developed extraordinary abilities, such as walking through walls, flying, and visiting different realms of existence. He used these powers compassionately to help beings in distress, to convert skeptics, and to support the Buddha's mission. He had deep compassion for all beings, including those suffering in hell realms, and often communicated with spirits and celestial beings to gather knowledge and spread the Dhamma.

Despite their greatness, both sariputra and Maudgalyayana remained humble and obedient to the Buddha’s guidance. They never claimed superiority and always acted as faithful disciples. Their lives demonstrated the balance between wisdom and compassion, intellect and supernatural ability, and discipline and service.

Both passed away before the Buddha's own parinirvana. sariputra died peacefully at his birthplace, after teaching Dhamma to his mother and leading her to spiritual realization. Maudgalyayana met a tragic end; he was killed by a group of bandits who were hostile to Buddhism. Despite the violent nature of his death, he maintained a peaceful and forgiving mind, illustrating the depth of his spiritual realization.

Together, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana embody the twin pillars of wisdom and spiritual power in Buddhism. They serve as models of ideal discipleship, reminding practitioners of the importance of clarity, insight, humility, and compassionate action. Their teachings and legacy remain deeply embedded in Buddhist traditions across Theravada and Mahayana schools.

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This is a handmade artifact, and minor variations in color, texture, or size may occur. These natural imperfections celebrate the artisan’s touch, making your statue a unique masterpiece.