Journal of International Buddhist Studies (Jun 2024)
Marvel as Superhuman Power Performance (Iddhi-pāṭihāriya) in Dhammapada Scriptures
Abstract
This article aims to understand the power of miracles that appeared in Dhammapada scriptures from the Theravāda Buddhist perspective. Notwithstanding, the author does not attempt to criticize the accuracy or credibility of the stories recorded as evidence in the Buddhist scriptures. Marvel as superhuman power performance or iddhi-pāṭihāriya in Pali depicts supernatural phenomena or extraordinary things. It is the product of human mental training grounded on the belief that certain phenomena are beyond the laws of nature and science. They cannot be proven by any scientific instruments. In real life, human beings invented innovations to fulfill their needs, imagination and dreams. They are just physical miracles created under the fundamental laws of physics of space-time. In Dhammapadaṭṭhakathā, commentary to the Dhammapada, magical events appeared overwhelmingly throughout the books in which the author has selected just some of them to present and analyze in this paper. The Buddha himself, like all previous Buddhas, performs the twin miracle (yamakapāṭihāriya). Including his disciples who are qualified to perform miracles in different times and places. Moreover, non-Buddhist ascetics were also able to demonstrate these magics through the form of pseudo sciences (tiracchānavijjā). It is worth noting that the Buddha laid down the Discipline to not allow monks to perform any miracles. What was the true reason? It is a great challenge for Buddhists to find the answers.
