The Great Renunciation

At the age of 29, Yashodhara gave birth to their only child. Siddhartha names him Rahula. His name means "fetter," "shackle," or "impediment," symbolizing the emotional bond Siddhartha viewed as an obstacle to liberation. Siddhartha quietly goes to see his newborn son. His wife was sleeping with the baby beside her. The prince said to himself, “If I try to move her hand so I can take the child for one last cuddle I fear I will wake her and she will prevent me from going.” On the night of his son’s birth, the prince left the palace. Siddhartha was 29 years old. This departure is called the Great Renunciation.