The Four Lineages of the Naga Kings
According to records in the Pali Canon (Tipitaka), the most important scripture of Buddhism, the Nagas are said to be governed by Virupakkha, one of the Four Great Heavenly Kings (Cātummahārājika Devas), who rule over the Heaven of the Four Great Kings.
Traditional legends and chronicles further describe that the Naga kings can be classified into four great lineages. Each lineage differs in power, supernatural abilities, dwelling places, and number of members.
1. The Virupakkha Lineage (Golden Lineage)
The Nagas of the Virupakkha lineage, also known as the Golden Lineage, are considered the highest class or ruling class of Nagas. They are said to be opapātika beings—spontaneously born in fully developed form, like celestial beings. Their food and dwellings are divine, and they reside mainly in the Heaven of the Four Great Kings.
They are regarded as the most magnificent and beautiful of all Nagas, with radiant golden bodies and shimmering golden scales. This lineage is believed to possess the greatest supernatural power—capable of defeating opponents even with a mere gaze. Any Naga born into this lineage is considered to possess immense merit and spiritual perfections.
Some accounts mention Suddha Naga King (Phaya Sri Suddho) as a ruler of the Virupakkha lineage in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. He is described as a Bodhisattva cultivating perfections toward future Buddhahood.
2. The Erapatha Lineage (Green Lineage)
The Erapatha lineage, or Green Lineage, is also considered a high class of Nagas. Most are born as andaja beings (from eggs). They are believed to dwell in the subterranean Naga realm (Naga-loka), approximately one yojana (about 16 kilometers) beneath the earth, with some residing in caves as deep as 50 yojanas (around 800 kilometers).
This is believed to be the most numerous lineage. These Nagas have emerald-green bodies and radiant jewel-like scales. Because they frequently appear in the human world, many legends of love between Nagas and humans are associated with this lineage.
Although born from eggs, if they cultivate sufficient merit and spiritual power, they may rise to the ruling class among Nagas.
3. The Chabyaputta (Chappayaputta) Lineage (Rainbow Lineage)
Most Nagas in this lineage are jalābuja beings (born from a womb). They reside in the Naga realm beneath the earth, in deep forests, or in mountainous regions.
They are exceptionally beautiful and often multicolored. Any Naga that is not gold, green, or black may belong to this lineage. Some even possess scales of many colors on a single body, displaying rainbow-like iridescence. This lineage is considered rare and inhabits mysterious realms.
4. The Kanha-Gotama Lineage (Black Lineage)
Most Nagas in this lineage are samsedaja beings (born from moisture or fermentation). They are not considered a high class of Nagas, but they are no less powerful than other lineages.
They are said to be the largest in size, with dark, obsidian-like bodies and black jewel-like scales. They dwell in hidden realms and are rarely encountered, as many remain dormant for long periods. Members of this lineage often serve as attendants to higher-ranking Naga kings.
Conclusion
Although these four lineages are widely mentioned in legends and certain scriptural references, it is believed that the Naga race is far more extensive. However, these four are regarded as the most powerful and most frequently described in tradition.
According to belief, regardless of lineage, all Nagas must cultivate morality, meditation, and spiritual perfections to increase their wisdom and power. Even those from lower lineages may ascend to ruling status through great merit and spiritual attainment.
It is also believed that the number of heads (or hoods) a Naga can expand symbolizes its accumulated merit and power—the more hoods displayed, the greater its authority and spiritual stature.
References:
Pali Canon, Vol. 17 (Suttanta Pitaka, Book 9: Discourses on the Four Types of Naga Birth)
Biography of Venerable Phra Ajahn Chob Thanasamo
Traditional Thai Naga legends and related publications