Analysis of Aggañña Sutta

Abstract

This article aims to analyse the main point, principles and the influence of Aggañña Sutta in Buddhist and Lanna literature. The results are as follows. 1. The main point of Aggañña Sutta is concerned with human equality, genesis and behavior. 2. The principles in the Aggañña Sutta are Tilakkhana, Paticcasamuppada, Kusalakammapatha, and Bodhipakkhiya-dhamma. All four principles are consistent and supportive of the main point which is to break down the caste system of the Brahman who believe human beings are not equal because of their origins and because people are trapped in a cycle of suffering. 3. The tales related to the beginning of the earth, human beings, society and the caste system in Aggañña Sutta have impacted and affected Buddhist Literature which describes the Knowledge of the world and its organisms according to the Buddhist precepts. Moreover, it has affected Lanna literature in legends of the country. The purpose of the legends is to describe the origin of the Lanna Kings which had a direct lineage from Lord Buddha. However, both types of literature do not show the main theme of Aggañña Sutta.