Meghiya Thera. He belonged to a Sákyan family of Kapilavatthu, and having joined the Order, was for some time the personal attendant of the Buddha. Once, when the Buddha was staying with him at Cáliká (this was in the thirteenth year after the Enlightenment, BuA.3), Meghiya went to Jantugáma for alms, and, on his return, was much attracted by a mango grove on the banks of the river Kimikálá. He asked the Buddha's permission to dwell there in meditation. Twice the Buddha refused, but, on his third request, let him go. There, however, Meghiya was consumed by evil thoughts and returned to the Buddha. The Buddha preached to him on the five things which make the heart ripe for emancipation good friends, virtuous life, profitable talks, zealous exertion, insight and admonished him. Meghiya thereupon attained arahantship. A.iv.354ff.; Ud.iv.1; Thag.66; AA.ii.794; DhA.i.289 says, however, that at the end of the Buddha's sermon Meghiya became a sotápanna.
Ninety one kappas ago, on the death of Vipassí Buddha, there was a great earthquake. The people were very frightened, but Vessavana explained to them the reason for it and dispelled their fears. Meghiya was then a householder, and having thus heard of the Buddha's qualities, was filled with joy. Fourteen kappas ago he was a king named Samita (UdA.217ff.; ThagA.i.149f). He is evidently to be identified with Buddhasaññaka of the Apadána. Ap.i.151f.
Meghiya Vagga. The fourth section of the Udána.
Meghiya Sutta. Preached to Meghiya (q.v.) on the five factors which make the heart ripe for emancipation. A.iv.354ff.
Meghiya Thera Vatthu. The story of Meghiya Thera (q.v.). DhA.i.287ff.