Angulimala

Angulimala, whose birth name was Ahimsaka, is a significant figure in Buddhist scripture, primarily known for his transformative journey from a murderer to a disciple of the Buddha. Accounts of his life are found in the Pali Canon, particularly in the Majjhima Nikaya and Anguttara Nikaya.

Originally a talented student of Brahmanical studies, Ahimsaka became consumed by jealousy and paranoia instilled by his jealous teacher. His teacher, seeking to ruin him, instructed him to collect a thousand human fingers as a sacrificial offering. Driven by this misguided command, Ahimsaka went on a murderous spree, killing innocent people to fulfill the horrific task.

As his victim count approached a thousand, his deeds drew the attention of the Buddha. The Buddha, understanding the karmic implications and the potential for redemption, intervened. He appeared before Angulimala as he was about to commit his final murder, a devoted mother. The Buddha's compassionate presence and powerful teachings are said to have instantly halted Angulimala's violent path.

Overwhelmed by remorse and the profound wisdom of the Buddha, Angulimala abandoned his murderous ways. He approached the Buddha, expressed his deep regret, and requested to become a monk. The Buddha accepted him, and Angulimala, now a fully ordained bhikkhu, dedicated his life to the practice of the Dharma. Despite his past, he achieved enlightenment, becoming an arhat. His story serves as a powerful testament to the possibility of radical transformation and the efficacy of the Buddha's teachings on compassion and redemption.