How to Defend the Republic
Licchavi Mahali, the commander of the Vajjian Republic, first met the Buddha in Rajagaha. After benefiting from the Vipassana meditation, he became Buddha's first Licchavi disciple. Inspired by him, many Licchavis of Vajjian Republic became the devoted disciples of the Buddha within a few days.
The Buddha did not teach his lay disciples to neglect their social and professional responsibilities. On the contrary, he encouraged them to gain more proficiency in them. Hence, he provided Licchavis detailed explanation of seven principles for protection and prospering of their kingdom. The kingdom of Vesali remained invincible till Licchavis followed the principles given by the Buddha. These principles are useful even in the present world.
This book contains the discourse given by the Buddha to Licchavis at Vesali along with the history of Licchavis and Vajjian Republic related to this context.
This book is intended as a companion volume to the book ‘Defence against External Invasion’ and is ideal for Vipassana meditators as well as non-meditators.