The context of the Prophecy of Maitreya(vv.

1-4); riputra and the Buddha Out of the several Buddhist texts describing Maitreya, the Prophecy of Maitreya stands out as it is entirely and solely devoted to explaining the characteristic of this future Buddha; it consists of one hundred and eight Sanskrit verses (an auspicious number). Its title Maitreyavykaraa can here be translated as Prophecy of Maitreya, since prophecy is one of the possible senses of the word vykaraa (which can also mean, more broadly, an explanation or clarification). Vykaraa or prophecy is one of the subdivisions of the Buddhas Words (Buddhavacana), hence understood as one of the standard possible way in which the Buddha expresses his teachings. Here follows a translation of the initial verses: 1. riputra, the greatly wise lord-general of the Dharma, Out of compassion for those in the world asked the Teacher: 2. In the past, in other Stras, the Doctrine of the Guide of the World, The future Buddha called Maitreya, has been spoken of. 3. Explain his strength and power increasing the good of all; Best Among Men! We wish to hear about that Guide. 4. Having heard this, the Bhagavan said: Listen to the might