Uppalavanna facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Bhikkhuni Uppalavannā
Relics of Uppalavanna in Wat Rachatiwat, Bangkok
Religion	Buddhism
Senior posting
Title	Chief Female Disciple
Religious career
Teacher	Buddha

Uppalavanna was a very important Buddhist nun, also known as a bhikkhuni. She was one of the two main female students of the Buddha. Her name, Uppalavanna, means "color of a blue water lily." She got this name because her skin had a bluish color when she was born.

She is known as one of the Buddha's two chief female disciples. The other chief female disciple was Khema.

Who Was Uppalavanna?

Uppalavanna was a famous bhikkhuni (Buddhist nun). She was considered one of the top female followers of the Buddha. She was known for her wisdom and special abilities.

Her Early Life

According to one story from the Theravada tradition, Uppalavanna was born into a wealthy family. Her father was a rich merchant. Many rich and powerful men wanted to marry her because of her great beauty.

However, Uppalavanna decided not to marry. Instead, she chose to become a nun. She joined the monastic life under the Buddha's guidance.

Becoming a Nun

After becoming a bhikkhuni, Uppalavanna focused on her meditation. She used a special meditation method called a fire kasina. This involves focusing on a flame or a mental image of fire.

Less than two weeks after she became a nun, she achieved enlightenment. This is a state of deep understanding and peace in Buddhism.

Special Powers

After reaching enlightenment, Uppalavanna developed amazing spiritual powers. These powers are called iddhipada. Because of her mastery of these abilities, the Buddha declared her his female disciple who was best at psychic powers.

Her male counterpart, who also had great psychic powers, was Maha Moggallana.