A Study of the Principles of the Four Great Kings (Cātummahārājikā) that Should be Observed and Practice

Abstract

The objective of this research article way to study the principles of the Four Great Kings (Cātummahārājikā) in Buddhism that should be adopted in daily life. These principles are reflected through the roles of the Four Great Kings, celestial beings who reside in the Cātummahārājika heaven and serve as guardians of the four directions, according to Buddhist cosmology: Dhatarattha (East), Virūḷhaka (South), Virūpakkha (West), and Kuvera or Vessavaṇa (North). This study employs a descriptive analysis approach based on the Tipiṭaka, its commentaries, and related research documents concerning the principles of the Four Great Kings in Theravāda Buddhism. The aim way to explore the connection between these deities and essential Dhamma teachings such as the Three Bases of Merit (Puññakiriyāvatthu): generosity (dāna), morality (sīla), and mental development (bhāvanā). The findings found that the Four Great Kings are not merely regarded as cosmic guardians in Buddhist cosmology, but also serve as symbolic representations of fundamental Buddhist virtues—namely generosity (dāna), morality (sīla), and mental cultivation (bhāvanā). These virtues form an integral part of the ten meritorious actions and the path toward spiritual perfection. Each king can be seen as a moral exemplar, inspiring ethical practice and fostering harmony between personal virtue and social peace. Moreover, the study suggests that recognizing the ethical symbolism embodied by the Four Kings can encourage individuals to apply Buddhist teachings in daily life, deepen their understanding of Three Bases of Merit, and actively contribute to the preservation of Buddhism while promoting peaceful coexistence in modern society.