The Renunciation of King Nami (Namipabajja Uttarajjhayana Suya)

Summary

This story from the *Uttarādhyayana Sūtra* describes the renunciation of King Nāmi. Nāmi ruled a prosperous kingdom and was devoted to his subjects. One day the deity Śakra (Indra) visited him and praised his virtues but suggested that he could accomplish even greater good by remaining on the throne. Nāmi responded that all worldly power is transient and that he wished to seek liberation. He abdicated, distributed his wealth to the poor and joined the order of monks. Indra tried to tempt him with visions of heavenly pleasure, but Nāmi remained steadfast. He practised austerities, meditated on the impermanence of the body and gradually purified his soul. The article remarks that even kings, the highest worldly authorities, are subject to death and decay and should therefore cultivate detachment. Nāmi eventually attained omniscience and taught others to renounce internal passions. His story demonstrates that renunciation is open to all, regardless of social status.