Shakyamuni Buddha

Display of Prowess and Marriage

As a result of this prediction, the young prince’s father took pains to ensure the future of his realm. To that end, he began shielding his son from unpleasant experiences that might spark a wish to renounce his princely duties. At the same time, the king undertook to satiate the young prince with pleasures to bind him to the royal life. Prince Siddhārtha’s early life was otherwise typical of that of a young heir to the throne. He trained in the areas of study appropriate to his princely caste, including literature, statecraft and military training. Whenever his skills were put to the test, his prowess astounded all present. For example, during an archery competition, his arrow passed straight through the targets of all the other competitors, and went on to pierce the earth so deeply that water gushed forth where it landed. In due course, Siddhārtha chose Yaśodharā as his first wife, and many other women later entered his harem. In short, the Buddha-to-be led a life of pleasure and privilege--yet found no contentment in either.

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