The Bodhisatta was once born as Visayha, setthi of Benares, and gave alms daily to six hundred thousand persons in six different parts of the city. Sakka's throne was heated by his great generosity, and, feeling nervous for his safety, Sakka contrived that all Visayha's possessions should disappear. Quite undaunted, Visayha became a grass cutter, and for six days gave alms from the money so earned, he and his wife fasting. On the seventh day, while cutting grass, he fainted, and Sakka, appearing before him, suggested that he, should be moderate in his generosity. Visayha rejected the suggestion as unworthy and declared that his aim was Buddhahood. Thereupon Sakka praised him and made him prosperous.
The story was related to Anāthapindika, as mentioned in the Khadirangāra Jātaka. Visayha's wife is identified with Rāhulamātā. J.iii.128 32; see also J.i.45.
The story is given in the Jātakamālā (No. 5), where the setthi is called Avisayha.