The birth of his son Rahula made it easier for him [the Buddha] to leave. In the India of his day, providing an heir to carry on the family line was a major duty toward one's ancestors. To abandon home, even for the sake of pursuing enlightenment, without furnishing an heir was considered undutiful. Though natural affection may have hindered him, the birth of his son provided the occasion for Shakyamuni's departure, since he had fulfilled his duty to his father and his wife.
---Kogen Mizuno---
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