The Licchavis’of Vaiśālī: Catalysts in the Dissemination of Buddha Dhamma

Abstract

The Licchavi clan of ancient India, based in Vaiśālī, played a significant role in disseminatingBuddha Dhamma. This paper critically examines the political, social, and cultural factors that enabled the Licchavis to adopt and support Buddha Dhamma, facilitating its growth beyond Vaiśālī. By highlighting their governance model, alliances, and patronage, this paper argues that the Licchavis’ support was instrumental in establishing Buddha Dhamma as a major spiritual tradition. This paper critically examines how the Licchavis’ governance, alliances, and cultural support were pivotal in establishing Buddha Dhamma as a major spiritual tradition, fostering its expansion beyond Vaiśālī and solidifying its roots in the Indian subcontinent.