King Bhathikabhaya - House of Moriya i | Anuradhapura - (BC 19 - 9) - Sri Lankan History - Kings - Governors - Prisidents

King Bhathikabhaya

House of Moriya i | Anuradhapura - (BC 19 - 9)

King Kutakannatissa (or Makalantissa) had two sons. Of these, the elder, Prince Bhatikabhaya, ascended to the throne following his father’s demise. In the Mahavamsa, he is referred to as Bhatikabhaya, while in the Dipavamsa, he is called Abhaya. Other texts, such as the Pujavaliya, mention him as Bathiya Raja. Some inscriptions refer to him as Khathiyatissa Maharaja, and in the Rajagala inscriptions, he appears as Lajakathissa Raja. In a letter from Duwegala, he is mentioned as Lappakaraja Bhatikabhaya, as noted by Professor Senarath Paranavithana. The name “Lajaka” had previously been used by Prince Lajjitissa, the son of King Saddhatissa. “Lappi” is a variant form of “Lajaka” (or “Lanjaka”), likely a scribal corruption that arose over time. While the word carries literal meanings like “visible” or “admirable,” Professor Paranavithana explains that it also conveys a sense of exaltedness or superiority. In texts such as Milinda Panha, Sangyuttanikaya, and Ekuttaranikaya, terms like Charalanchaka and Dipalanjaka appear. In Pali texts, a staff called a Lampaka (or Lanjaka), held as a symbol of kingship, is mentioned. Thus, a king who assumes the royal position with authority is often referred to by this title. In Prakrit Sinhala, the term appears as “Lajaka.” The use of the prefix “Bhati-” is clarified in the chronicles as a designation highlighting his relation as the brother of the later Mahadathikamahānāga Raja. Two inscriptions referring to him as Bathika or Bathiya have survived, indicating that this name was in official use during the king’s lifetime. These two princes maintained a harmonious relationship, supporting each other in state duties and serving the kingdom diligently. Their cooperation served as an exemplary model for other ambitious princes who sought the throne through fratricide. King Bhatikabhaya acted as the governor of the southern province (Dakshina Desha), first during the initial years of his father Kutakannatissa’s reign and later formally as the heir apparent. Inscriptions from both regions confirm his administrative role. The Mahavamsa dedicates a brief section of three verses to Bhatikabhaya, focusing entirely on his religious and administrative deeds. Despite the brevity, these passages reveal the peaceful and prosperous state of the kingdom, free from internal and external turmoil. One of his earliest acts was renovating the Lovamahapaya, originally refurbished by King Saddhatissa. The chronicle shows that Bhatikabhaya further improved this structure. He also constructed the Kucchavedika and Muddhavedika of the Maha Seya. He paid remarkable attention to decoration: the Maha Seya’s walls were plastered with scented materials, adorned with precious stones, and decorated with flower garlands. Using water engineering, water was brought from the Abhaya tank for ritual sprinkling, resembling a floral and water-based worship. These rituals demonstrate the advanced hydraulic and mechanical knowledge of the Sinhalese during his era. The Abhaya Tank, originally constructed by King Pandukabhaya, had reached a level where it could supply water for ceremonial purposes during Bhatikabhaya’s reign. A recent inscription prohibits fishing in this tank. Located near the Ruwanweliseya, the Abhaya Tank’s elevation suggests knowledge of advanced water technology. He also placed hundreds of pearl stones in the Maha Seya’s stucco work, another testament to his accomplishments. The chronicle describes Bhatikabhaya sending envoys to the Roman province of Parasumudra to acquire valuable items, including gold vessels, which were used in the Maha Seya’s rituals. Pliny the Elder mentions a Sinhalese shipwreck that aligns with these events. Scholars like Professor Paranavithana point out that Pliny’s account corresponds with the events described in the Mahavamsa. During King Claudius’ reign (41–54 CE), these diplomatic and trade interactions occurred. Bhatikabhaya’s reign also included notable religious events. When the king visited the Maha Seya at Gantamba, he witnessed a sound of chanting (pirith) emanating from within the stupa. He approached respectfully, without entering forcibly, and later replicated these events for public veneration. Some chronicles attribute the stupa’s sacred relics as having been brought by Shakra Devendra. Such events highlight his pious character and dedication to religious and administrative duties. In addition to the Lovamahapaya, he is credited with performing 28 Vesak rituals, though inscriptions suggest that some of his regional acts have also survived. Currently, about five inscriptions related to Bhatikabhaya exist across various regions of Sri Lanka, indicating that his administrative and royal influence extended over the entire island. The southern province was under his brother’s supervision, while his son Gamini Abhaya governed Rohana. Inscriptions mention a son of Bhatikabhaya, though chronicles remain silent on this matter. These records suggest that his governance was well-organized, stable, and respected throughout the island. One inscription from Kalaoya Valley describes land offerings for religious purposes, dating to his reign. It confirms that Bhatikabhaya was indeed the son of King Kutakannatissa. The inscription also mentions the chief officer “Ahalan Amathiya,” who served under King Tissamahasena, indicating the naval organization during Bhatikabhaya’s time. He oversaw naval operations along the western coast and sent envoys to Rome and later China for trade. Bhatikabhaya also maintained the judiciary. Pali commentaries state that he was responsible for court proceedings, particularly final verdicts, which were considered the king’s official judgment. Strict laws regarding cattle slaughter and grazing were enforced, with offenders punished appropriately. His administration reflects ethical governance and adherence to dharma. He regularly paid homage to sacred structures, such as the Maha Seya and Ruwanweliseya. Some associate his image with the western entrance of Ruwanweliseya, though others attribute it to King Malathisa. He conducted worship at multiple temples across the island and is venerated by the public. An inscription at Mihintale records that the stupa of “Pootakanagamini Abhaya Raja’s son, Gamini Abhaya Maha Raja” was dedicated during this period. Professor Paranavithana concludes that the stupa represents Bhatikabhaya’s revered status and public recognition. Overall, Bhatikabhaya’s reign demonstrates how religious dedication, just governance, and economic prosperity can coexist, resulting in a stable and flourishing society. The chronicles and inscriptions differ slightly in the duration of his reign: 12 years according to Rajaratnakara, 18 years according to the Rajavaliya, and 28 years according to the Mahavamsa. Scholars generally accept the Mahavamsa’s account.