Category: Buddhist Tales

95. CLEAR-SIGHTED THE GREAT, KING OF THE WORLD [IMPERMANENCE]

linda changLeave a comment

95. CLEAR-SIGHTED THE GREAT, KING OF THE WORLD [IMPERMANENCE]

It is said that there are two ways to practice religion. One is to live apart from the ordinary everyday world as a monk, a nun or a holy one. Those who are sincere in this way have as their highest goal the direct experience of complete Truth — full Enlightenment.

The other way to practice religion is within the ordinary world. Those who are sincere in this way have as their highest goal the harmony of an undivided world, living peacefully under a perfectly wholesome ruler — a ‘King of the World’.

Once upon a time the Enlightenment Being was born and given the name ‘Clear-sighted’. As he grew up he developed ten rules of good government: absence of hidden ill will, absence of open hostility, harmlessness, self-control, patience, gentleness, charity, generosity, straightforwardness and goodness.

The people of the world began to notice the wholesomeness and fairness of Clear-sighted, who lived strictly according to these rules. Gradually those in his vicinity volunteered to live under his authority as king, rather than under the dishonest politicians of the time.

As his reputation spread, every king in the world came to Clear-sighted and said, “Come, oh lord, you are welcome, my kingdom is your kingdom, advise me how to rule in your name.”

Then Clear-sighted said, “Do not destroy life. Do not take what is not given. Do not behave wrongly in sexual desires. Do not speak falsely. Do not take alcohol that clouds the mind. My commands to the world are only these five. As long as these five are obeyed, my sixth rule is freedom for all to follow local customs and religions.”

After all the people on earth had come to live under his peaceful rule, he became known as Clear-sighted the Great, King of the World. His royal city, the capital of the whole world, was called Kusavati. It was a beautiful and prosperous city with four magnificent gates — one golden, one silver, one jade and one crystal.

Outside the gates, Kusavati was surrounded by seven rows of palm trees — a row with golden trunks and silver leaves and fruits; a row with silver trunks and golden leaves and fruits; a row with cat’s-eye trunks and crystal leaves and fruits; a row with crystal trunks and cat’s-eye leaves and fruits; a row with agate trunks and coral leaves and fruits; a row with coral trunks and agate leaves and fruits; and finally a row with trunks and leaves and fruits of every kind of jewel found in the world!

When breezes blew through these marvelous palms the sweet sounds of gentle music were heard throughout the city. This music was so enticing and pleasant that some of the citizens were enchanted into stopping their work and dancing for joy!

Clear-sighted the Great, King of the World, had a couch encrusted with jewels from the wonderful palms. After a long, righteous and peaceful reign, he lay on the rich couch for the last time. He knew that his end was near.

Of all his 84,000 queens, the one who loved him most was called, ‘Most-pleasant’. Sensing the state of his mind she said, “You rule over all the cities of the world, including this beautiful Kusavati with its four magnificent gates and seven rows of marvelous palms. Think about this and be happy!”

The King of the World said, “No, my dear queen don’t say that. Instead you should advise me to give up attachment to the cities of the world and all they contain.” Surprised she asked, “Why do you say this, my lord?” “Because today I will die,” he said.

Then Queen Most-pleasant started to cry, wiping away the tears as they flowed. And all the other 84,000 queens also broke into tears. And the king’s ministers and his whole court, both men and women, could not keep from weeping and sobbing. All eyes overflowed with tears.

But King Clear-sighted the Great said, “Your tears are useless. Be at peace.” Hearing this the wailing subsided and his subjects became silent. Then he said to Queen Most-pleasant, “Oh my queen, do not cry, do not lament. Anything that comes into being, whether it be a kingdom including the whole world, or just a tiny sesame seed — it cannot last forever. Anyone who comes into being, whether it be the King of the World, or the poorest petty thief — all must decay and die. Whatever is built up, falls apart. Whatever becomes, decays. The only true happiness is in the moment when becoming and decaying are not.”

In this way the Enlightenment Being got them to think about what most people don’t want to think about — that all things come to an end. He advised them to be generous and wholesome. Then the King of the World, like everyone else, died. He was reborn as a god in a heaven world, where in time, like everyone else, he died.

The moral is: “All good things come to an end.”

95. Clear-sighted the Great, King of the World [Impermanence]

Link: https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2024/09/10/95-clear-sighted-the-great-king-of-the-world-impermanence/

#Buddhisttalesforyoungandold #Buddhiststories #storiesforkids #moralstories #Buddha #Jatakastories #PansiyaPanasJataka

A True Friend

linda changLeave a comment

Once, in a quiet monastery nestled in the hills, the Buddha sat before his disciples. The evening sun painted the sky in hues of gold and crimson, and the air was filled with a profound stillness, broken only by the occasional rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. The monks, eager for wisdom, sat in reverence as the Buddha began to speak.

“Monks,” the Buddha said, “in this world, there are many who come and go in our lives. Some pass by like the wind, leaving no trace, while others remain, their presence felt deeply in our hearts. Among those who remain, there is a rare kind of person, a true friend, who is like a shelter from life’s storms, a beacon of light in the darkest of times. Such a friend is endowed with seven precious qualities, and these qualities are worth cultivating, for a friend like this is rare indeed.”

The monks listened attentively as the Buddha continued, “Which seven qualities are these? First, a true friend gives what is hard to give. He does not withhold generosity, even when it is difficult. Whether it be his time, his effort, or his possessions, he offers them freely, without hesitation. This kind of giving is rare, for many are willing to give when it is convenient, but few give when it costs them something.”

The Buddha paused, letting his words sink in, then added, “Second, he does what is hard to do. A true friend will go beyond his comfort zone for the sake of his companion. He will stand by you when others shy away, face challenges with you, and make sacrifices when needed, not for his own gain, but for the sake of friendship.”

The monks reflected on this as the Buddha continued, “Third, he endures what is hard to endure. Life is not always easy. There are times of joy, but also times of suffering and hardship. A true friend remains steadfast during the difficult times. He does not flee when the winds of adversity blow; instead, he endures alongside you, bearing the weight of the struggle as if it were his own.”

Then, the Buddha smiled softly and said, “Fourth, he reveals his secrets to you. Trust is the foundation of true friendship. A true friend does not hide behind a mask or shield himself with falsehoods. He shares his heart with you, revealing his vulnerabilities, knowing that in doing so, the bond of trust between you will grow ever stronger.”

“Fifth,” the Buddha continued, “he keeps your secrets. Just as he trusts you with his, so too does he honor your trust. He safeguards what you confide in him, never betraying your confidence, never allowing the winds of gossip to carry away what you have entrusted to him.”

The Buddha’s voice softened as he spoke of the sixth quality. “When misfortunes strike, he doesn’t abandon you. Life is unpredictable, and at times, suffering may come upon you like a sudden storm. A true friend does not turn his back on you in these moments. He stands beside you, offering support, comfort, and strength. He is like a tree with deep roots, unshaken by the winds of fate.”

Finally, the Buddha said, “The seventh quality is this: When you’re down and out, he doesn’t look down on you. In times of failure or disgrace, when the world seems to turn its back on you, a true friend remains by your side, never judging, never scorning. He sees you not for your misfortune, but for who you truly are. His respect for you does not waver, even when you are at your lowest.”

The monks, inspired by these words, bowed their heads in gratitude as the Buddha’s voice grew gentle. “Such a friend, endowed with these seven qualities, is a rare and precious gift. He gives what is beautiful yet hard to give, does what is hard to do, and endures the bitter words that life may bring. His heart is open to you, and he protects your heart in turn. In the darkest of times, he will not leave you, and even when you falter, his love for you does not falter.”

The Buddha paused for a moment, letting the weight of his words fill the air before continuing, “To cultivate such a friendship is a blessing for both parties. A friend like this is not just a companion but a guide, a mirror that reflects your virtues and helps you grow. Such a bond nurtures the spirit and brings peace to the heart. Therefore, monks, seek to be such a friend. Cultivate these seven qualities within yourself, and you will draw others of similar virtue to your side.”

The monks looked at one another with renewed purpose, understanding now that friendship was not a simple matter of convenience or shared interests but a profound practice of giving, endurance, and trust. The Buddha’s words had opened their hearts to the deeper meaning of companionship, and they resolved to embody the qualities of a true friend in their own lives.

And so, as the evening deepened and the stars began to appear in the sky, the monks rose, filled with a sense of peace. They knew that in cultivating these seven qualities, they would not only find true friends but would become true friends themselves—vessels of compassion and wisdom in a world often marked by fleeting connections.

The Buddha smiled as he watched them depart, knowing that the seeds of his teaching had taken root in their hearts, and that in time, they would bear the fruits of deep and enduring friendships, blessed with the seven qualities of a true friend.

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/09/05/a-friend/

A Sacred Bodhi Leaf

linda changLeave a comment

The Spiritual Journey of Chiang Wei-Kuo

Chiang Wei-Kuo(蔣偉國）, the son of the former Kuomintang Chairman Chiang Kai-Shek (蒋介石), is often remembered as a prominent political figure. However, many may not know that he was also a deeply devout Buddhist, with a profound understanding of Buddhist teachings. His dedication to Buddhism led him to engage in meaningful discussions and exchanges with Western religious figures, leaving a lasting impact. In fact, the president of a league of eighty-three American universities once said that Chiang Wei-Kuo was his godfather. But beyond his public life, Chiang Wei-Kuo’s spiritual journey was one of deep significance.

In his early years, Chiang Wei-Kuo made a special pilgrimage to India, seeking to connect with the sacred sites of the Buddha and attain enlightenment.

While standing beneath the Bodhi Tree, where Shakyamuni Buddha himself attained supreme enlightenment, Chiang Wei-Kuo made a solemn vow to benefit all living beings. At that very moment, a large leaf suddenly fell from the tree. This leaf, unusually large compared to the others, seemed to be a sign. Deeply moved, Chiang Wei-Kuo took the leaf back home and showed it to his father, Chiang Kai-Shek. Touched by the story, Chiang Kai-Shek instructed his son to enshrine the leaf in the family’s ancestral hall. Since that day, the Bodhi leaf became a revered object of worship in the Chiang family’s ancestral hall.

Years later, in May 1995, Master Yi Yungao (H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III) led a delegation of eight individuals to visit Taiwan. During this visit, Chiang Wei-Kuo, with deep reverence and devotion, requested to become a disciple of Master Yi Yungao. As part of his request, he presented the sacred Bodhi leaf as an offering. In a heartfelt gesture, Chiang Wei-Kuo personally inscribed the story of how he obtained the leaf in Bodhgaya, its significance to his family, and the profound spiritual connection it held. This offering symbolized his deep respect for the Buddha and his unwavering commitment to his spiritual path.

On November 13, 2008, the U.S. Congress hosted a special art exhibition featuring the works of Buddha Mother (Professor Yuhua Shou Zhiwang) at the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. To ensure the safe transport of these precious artworks, a decision was made to rent an RV (Recreational Vehicle) and form a convoy with trucks carrying the pieces. Namo H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, along with Buddha Mother and their disciples, stayed in the RV throughout the journey, embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage across America.

The convoy, led by Namo H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III and accompanied by several dozen disciples, departed from Los Angeles on October 25, 2008. Over the course of 33 days, they journeyed across more than 20 states, traveling from the west coast to the east coast. Despite the busy preparations for an exhibition in Washington, D.C., Namo H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III delivered teachings to his disciples almost every evening. These teachings were later compiled into a 19-volume collection titled Teachings from the Eastward Journey.

Throughout the journey, numerous sacred signs appeared wherever Namo H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III visited. One such miraculous event occurred when the Buddha and his disciples were resting under a Western Bodhi tree. As the Buddha was speaking to Venerable Tsemang and other disciples about Chiang Wei-Kuo’s offering of a Bodhi leaf years ago, a rustling sound suddenly came from above. With a distinct “thud,” a Western Bodhi leaf fell from the tree, astonishing everyone present.

Western Bodhi leaves typically have white veins with light pinkish veins on the back. However, this particular leaf was different. While it shared the same shape as other Bodhi leaves, its veins were strikingly red on both sides, without any trace of white veins.

Moreover, it was extraordinarily large, much larger than any other leaf on the tree. The timing of this event was miraculous, coinciding precisely with the Buddha’s recounting of how Chiang Wei-Kuo had obtained a large Bodhi leaf in India. This unique leaf falling from the Western Bodhi tree signified that wherever the true Dharma of the Tathagatas is spoken, profound responses occur.

Additionally, after the Eastward Journey ended and they returned to Los Angeles, Namo H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III manifested amrita (nectar) at the Vajra Mandala in Pasadena. This further confirmed that the “Teachings from the Eastward Journey” are the pure and supreme authentic Dharma of the Buddha, a testament to the spiritual power and significance of the journey.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2024/08/22/the-sacred-bodhi-leaf/

Karmic Retribution and the Compassion of Guanyin: A Tale of Forgiveness and Resolution

linda changLeave a comment

In the Guanyin Spiritual Inspiration Records, there is a story about karmic retribution.

During the Qing Dynasty, a merchant from Anhui named Cheng Bolin was a devout believer in Guanyin Bodhisattva. He had settled with his family in Yangzhou, Jiangsu. At that time, war and conflict were common. When Cheng Bolin heard that marauding soldiers were approaching Yangzhou, he prayed earnestly to Guanyin Bodhisattva for protection.

Guanyin appeared to him in a dream and said, “There are seventeen people in your household. Sixteen will be spared from harm, but you have a fixed karma that cannot be avoided, and you will not escape this disaster.” When Cheng awoke, he was very anxious. He prayed again, asking, “Oh, I cannot avoid this fate. Bodhisattva, is there any way out?”

Out of great compassion, Guanyin once again appeared in his dream and told him, “Among the approaching soldiers, there is a man named Wang Mazi. In your past life, you struck him twenty-six times and caused his death. In this life, he has come to take his revenge. Have your family take shelter in the eastern wing, while you wait in the main room. Do not involve them.”

Although Guanyin did not offer a direct means of escape, the dream subtly revealed the karmic connection from Cheng’s past life, and Cheng believed it wholeheartedly.

Five days later, the soldiers arrived and began pounding on the door of Cheng’s house. Calmly sitting in the main hall, Cheng spoke, “Stop knocking. Who among you is Wang Mazi? Let him come forward.” Wang Mazi, fierce and angry, approached. As they met, they both felt a deep hatred flare up. Wang Mazi was astonished and asked, “How do you know my name?” Cheng replied, “I am a devotee of Guanyin Bodhisattva. She came to me in a dream and told me that in my previous life, I struck you twenty-six times and took your life. Now I have no regrets. You may strike me twenty-six times in return.”

Suddenly, Wang Mazi’s conscience awakened, and he sighed, “In our past lives, you struck me twenty-six times, which led me to come seek revenge in this life. But if I now strike you twenty-six times, then in the next life, you will come back and strike me again. When will this cycle ever end?”

Wang Mazi then said, “Since Guanyin Bodhisattva told you that you owe me twenty-six strikes, turn around!”

He picked up his knife, but instead of using the blade, he struck Cheng Bolin twenty-six times with the back of the knife and said, “Since you struck me twenty-six times in the past, now I have struck you twenty-six times. With this, our karma is settled!”

There is a saying that encourages people to strive for self-improvement: “You reap what you sow.” Everything has a cause. The law of cause and effect is all-encompassing and ever-present, even in our thoughts and intentions. For instance, when we see someone doing a good deed and feel joy in our hearts, seeing the good deed is the cause, and feeling joy is the effect. That joyful feeling then becomes a new cause, and by planting this seed of good karma through positive thoughts, we will eventually reap good results.

Similarly, when others treat us poorly, it may be because we owed them something from a previous encounter. If we can endure this mistreatment with patience, without resentment or blame, and even forgive the other person, it is possible to resolve and dissolve the karmic debt. Otherwise, the cycle of revenge and retribution will continue endlessly.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2024/08/16/karmic-retribution-and-the-compassion-of-guanyin-a-tale-of-forgiveness-and-resolution/

Source: https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/19/7/13/n11383088.htm

Gratitude

linda changLeave a comment

Gratitude

“Monks, I will teach you about the nature of a person without integrity and a person with integrity. Listen carefully and pay close attention.”

“Yes, Lord,” the monks replied in unison.

The Blessed One began, “What defines a person without integrity? Such a person is ungrateful and unthankful. This ingratitude and lack of thankfulness are characteristics of rude individuals and belong entirely to those without integrity. These individuals fail to recognize and appreciate the good done to them by others. They are driven by selfish desires and a sense of entitlement, neglecting the virtue of gratitude, which is the foundation of a harmonious and compassionate society.

“In contrast, a person with integrity is grateful and thankful. This gratitude and thankfulness are traits of civilized individuals and belong entirely to those with integrity. They recognize the value of the kindness and support they receive from others and make it a point to express their appreciation. Such individuals foster positive relationships and contribute to a community where mutual respect and support flourish.

Photo by Emma Bauso on Pexels.com

“Monks, there are two people who are difficult to repay. Who are they? Your mother and father. Even if you were to carry your mother on one shoulder and your father on the other for 100 years, attending to their needs by anointing, massaging, bathing, and rubbing their limbs, even if they were to defecate and urinate right there on your shoulders, you still would not have repaid them. If you were to establish them in absolute sovereignty over this great earth, filled with the seven treasures, you still would not have repaid them.


“Why is that? Because parents do much for their children. They care for them, nourish them, and introduce them to this world. From the moment of birth, parents make countless sacrifices, enduring sleepless nights and countless worries to ensure their child’s well-being. They provide food, shelter, education, and unconditional love, guiding their children through the complexities of life. These acts of love and devotion create a debt that is immeasurable.

“However, monks, the greatest way to repay one’s parents is not through material means or physical care alone. True repayment comes from leading them towards the path of virtue and wisdom. If someone inspires his unbelieving mother and father to have faith, guides his unvirtuous parents towards virtue, encourages his stingy parents to be generous, and leads his foolish parents to wisdom, then, to that extent, he has repaid his mother and father.

“Consider the transformative power of such actions. When you rouse your unbelieving parents to embrace faith, you open their hearts to a greater understanding of life’s purpose. By encouraging them to practice virtue, you help them cultivate qualities that bring inner peace and happiness. Inspiring them to be generous allows them to experience the joy of giving, and guiding them towards wisdom leads them to a deeper comprehension of the world and their place in it.

“Monks, remember that integrity and gratitude are the cornerstones of a meaningful life. By embodying these virtues and helping others, especially your parents, to do the same, you contribute to a legacy of compassion and understanding that extends beyond your lifetime. This is the true measure of repayment and the highest expression of filial piety.”

The monks, deeply moved by the Blessed One’s words, reflected on the profound teachings and resolved to cultivate integrity and gratitude in their own lives, vowing to honor and repay their parents in the most meaningful way.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2024/08/02/gratitude/

Source: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/07/27/gratitude/

89. THE PHONEY HOLY MAN [HYPOCRISY]

linda changLeave a comment

89. THE PHONEY HOLY MAN [HYPOCRISY]

Once upon a time there was a man who looked and acted just like a holy man. He wore nothing but rags, had long matted hair, and relied on a little village to support him. But he was sneaky and tricky. He only pretended to give up attachment to the everyday world. He was a phoney holy man.

A wealthy man living in the village wanted to earn merit by doing good deeds. So he had a simple little temple built in the nearby forest for the holy man to live in. He also fed him the finest foods from his own home.

He thought this holy man with matted hair was sincere and good, one who would not do anything unwholesome. Since he was afraid of bandits, he took his family fortune of 100 gold coins to the little temple. He buried it under the ground and said to the holy man, “Venerable one, please look after this my family fortune.”

The holy man replied, “There’s no need to worry about such things with people like me. We holy ones have given up attachment to the ordinary world. We have no greed or desire to obtain the possessions of others.”

“Very well, venerable one,” said the man. He left thinking himself very wise indeed, to trust such a good holy man.

However, the wicked holy man thought, “Aha! This treasure of 100 gold coins is enough for me to live on for the rest of my life! I will never have to work or beg again!” So a few days later he dug up the gold and secretly buried it near the roadside.

The next day he went to the wealthy villager’s home for lunch as usual. After eating his fill he said, “Most honourable gentleman, I have lived here supported by you for a long time. But holy ones who have given up the world are not supposed to become too attached to one village or supporter. It would make a holy man like me impure! Therefore, kindly permit me to humbly go on my way.”

The man pleaded with him again and again not to go, but it was useless. “Go then, venerable sir,” he agreed at last. He went with him as far as the boundary of the village and left him there.

After going on a short way himself, the phoney holy man thought, “I must make absolutely sure that stupid villager does not suspect me. He trusts me so much that he will believe anything. So I will deceive him with a clever trick!” He stuck a blade of dry grass in his matted hair and went back.

When he saw him returning, the wealthy villager asked, “Venerable one, why have you come back?” He replied, “Dear friend, this blade of grass from the thatched roof of your house has stuck in my hair. It is most unwholesome and impure for a holy one such as myself to ‘take what is not given’.”

The amazed villager said, “Think nothing of it, your reverence. Please put it down and continue on your way. Venerable ones such as you do not even take a blade of grass that belongs to another. How marvellous! How exalted you are, the purest of the holy. How lucky I was to be able to support you!” More trusting than ever, he bowed respectfully and sent him on his way again.

It just so happened that the Enlightenment Being was living the life of a trader at that time. He was in the midst of a trading trip when he stopped overnight at the village. He had overheard the entire conversation between the villager and the ‘purest of the holy’. He thought, “That sounds ridiculous! This man must have stolen something far more valuable than the blade of dry grass he has made such a big show of returning to its rightful owner.”

The trader asked the wealthy villager, “Friend, did you perhaps give anything to this holy looking man for safekeeping?” “Yes friend,” he replied, “I trusted him to guard my family fortune of 100 gold coins.” “I advise you to go see if they are where you left them,” said the trader.

Suddenly worried, he ran to the forest temple, dug up the ground, and found his treasure gone. He ran back to the trader and said, “It has been stolen!” “Friend,” he replied, “No one but that so-called holy man could have taken it. Let’s catch him and get your treasure back.”

They both chased after him as fast as they could. When they caught up with him they made him tell where he had hidden the money. They went to the hiding place by the roadside and dug up the buried treasure.

Looking at the gleaming gold the Bodhisatta said, “You hypocritical holy man. You spoke well those beautiful words, admired by all, that one is not to ‘take what is not given’. You hesitated to leave with even a blade of grass that didn’t belong to you. But it was so easy for you to steal a hundred gold coins!” After ridiculing the way he had acted in this way, he advised him to change his ways for his own good.

The moral is: Be careful of a holy man who puts on a big show.

89. The Phoney Holy Man [Hypocrisy]

Link: https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2024/07/30/89-the-phoney-holy-man-hypocrisy/

#Buddhisttalesforyoungandold #Buddhiststories #storiesforkids #moralstories #Buddha #Jatakastories #PansiyaPanasJataka

88,28. THE BULL CALLED DELIGHTFUL [ALL DESERVE RESPECT]

linda changLeave a comment


88,28. THE BULL CALLED DELIGHTFUL [ALL DESERVE RESPECT]

Once upon a time, in the country of Gandhara in northern India, there was a city called Takkasila. In that city the Enlightenment Being was born as a certain calf. Since he was well bred for strength, he was bought by a high class rich man. He became very fond of the gentle animal, and called him ‘Delightful’. He took good care of him and fed him only the best.

When Delightful grew up into a big fine strong bull, he thought, “I was brought up by this generous man. He gave me such good food and constant care, even though sometimes there were difficulties. Now I am a big grown up bull and there is no other bull who can pull as heavy a load as I can. Therefore, I would like to use my strength to give something in return to my master.”

So he said to the man, “Sir, please find some wealthy merchant who is proud of having many strong bulls. Challenge him by saying that your bull can pull one hundred heavily loaded bullock carts.”

Following his advice, the high class rich man went to such a merchant and struck up a conversation. After a while, he brought up the idea of who had the strongest bull in the city.

The merchant said, “Many have bulls, but no one has any as strong as mine.” The rich man said, “Sir, I have a bull who can pull one-hundred heavily loaded bullock carts.” “No, friend, how can there be such a bull? That is unbelievable!” said the merchant. The other replied, “I do have such a bull, and I am willing to make a bet.”

The merchant said, “I will bet a thousand gold coins that your bull cannot pull a hundred loaded bullock carts.” So the bet was made and they agreed on a date and time for the challenge.

The merchant attached together one-hundred big bullock carts. He filled them with sand and gravel to make them very heavy.

The high class rich man fed the finest rice to the bull called Delightful. He bathed him and decorated him and hung a beautiful garland of flowers around his neck.

Then he harnessed him to the first cart and climbed up onto it. Being so high class, he could not resist the urge to make himself seem very important. So he cracked a whip in the air, and yelled at the faithful bull, “Pull, you dumb animal! I command you to pull, you big dummy!”

The bull called Delightful thought, “This challenge was my idea! I. have never done anything bad to my master, and yet he insults me with such hard and harsh words!” So he remained in his place and refused to pull the carts.

The merchant laughed and demanded his winnings from the bet. The high class rich man had to pay him the one-thousand gold coins. He returned home and sat down, saddened by his lost bet, and embarrassed by the blow to his pride.

The bull called Delightful grazed peacefully on his way home. When he arrived, he saw his master sadly lying on his side. He asked. “Sir, why are you lying there like that? Are you sleeping? You look sad.” The man said, “I lost a thousand gold coins because of you. With such a loss, how could I sleep?”

The bull replied, “Sir, you called me ‘dummy’. You even cracked a whip in the air over my head. In all my life, did I ever break anything, step on anything, make a mess in the wrong place, or behave like a ‘dummy’ in any way?” He answered, “No, my pet.”

The bull called Delightful said, “Then sir, why did you call me ‘dumb animal’, and insult me even in the presence of others? The fault is yours. I have done nothing wrong. But since I feel sorry for you, go again to the merchant and make the same bet for two-thousand gold coins. And remember to use only the respectful words I deserve so well.”

Then the high class rich man went back to the merchant and made the bet for two-thousand gold coins. The merchant thought it would be easy money. Again he set up the one-hundred heavily loaded bullock carts. Again the rich man fed and bathed the bull, and hung a garland of flowers around his neck.

When all was ready, the rich man touched Delightful’s forehead with a lotus blossom, having given up the whip. Thinking of him as fondly as if he were his own child, he said. “My son, please do me the honor of pulling these one-hundred bullock carts.”

Lo and behold, the wonderful bull pulled with all his might and dragged the heavy carts, until the last one stood in the place of the first.

The merchant, with his mouth hanging open in disbelief, had to pay the two-thousand gold coins. The onlookers were so impressed that they honored the bull called Delightful with gifts. But even more important to the high class rich man than his winnings, was his valuable lesson in humility and respect.

The moral is: Harsh words bring no reward. Respectful words bring honor to all.

88,28. The Bull Called Delightful [All Deserve Respect]

Link: https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2024/07/30/8828-the-bull-called-delightful-all-deserve-respect/

#Buddhisttalesforyoungandold #Buddhiststories #storiesforkids #moralstories #Buddha #Jatakastories #PansiyaPanasJataka

84. A QUESTION FROM A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD [SIX WORTHY WAYS]

linda changLeave a comment

84. A QUESTION FROM A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD [SIX WORTHY WAYS]

Once upon a time there was a rich man living in Bane’s, in northern India. He had a son who was intelligent, curious and eager to learn. Even though he was only seven years old, he was determined to find out what is really valuable.

One day the little boy asked his father, “What are the ways to gain the most valuable things in life?”

His father said, “Only worthy ways lead to worthwhile goals. These are the six worthy ways:

  • Keep yourself healthy and fit;
  • Be wholesome in every way;
  • Listen to those with more experience;
  • Learn from those with more knowledge;
  • Live according to Truth;
  • Act with sincerity, not just energy.”

The boy paid close attention to his father’s words. He tried hard to practice these ways from then on. As he grew up and became wise, he realized that the six worthy ways, and the most valuable things in life, could not be separated.

The moral is: “A serious question deserves a serious answer.”

84. A Question From a Seven-year-old [Six Worthy Ways]

Link: https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2024/06/11/84-a-question-from-a-seven-year-old-six-worthy-ways/

#Buddhisttalesforyoungandold #Buddhiststories #storiesforkids #moralstories #Buddha #Jatakastories #PansiyaPanasJataka

The Consequences of Lying: A Lesson from Buddhist Teachings

linda changLeave a comment

When we were young, our parents and elders all taught us not to lie. Many stories and fairy tales illustrate the consequences of lying, such as a child being eaten by a wolf or having a long nose like Pinocchio. Different cultures and religions praise honesty and disapprove of liars. However, most of us have told a lie at one time or another, often to gain an immediate benefit, without realizing that the long-term consequences of lying can be very costly. In Buddhism, one of the ten precepts is to abstain from lying.

There is a recorded story in a Buddhist sutra about Shakyamuni Buddha teaching his son to refrain from lying.

The Buddha’s son, Rahula, was quite mischievous in his youth. He often enjoyed playing pranks on others, using deceptive words to tease people. For instance, when someone came to see the Buddha, Rahula, knowing that the Buddha was not present, would intentionally mislead them about the Buddha’s whereabouts, causing them to search in vain for amusement.

When the Buddha learned of this, he asked Rahula to bring him some water to wash his feet. After washing his feet, the Buddha pointed to the water and asked Rahula, “Can this water be drunk?”

Rahula replied, “The water is dirty from washing feet; it cannot be drunk.”

The Buddha then asked, “Can this basin, used for washing feet, be used to hold food?”

Rahula replied, “No, it cannot. The basin is dirty and cannot be used to hold food.”

The Buddha sternly said, “You are like this water. The water was originally very clean, just as you were originally a prince, able to renounce the false glories of the world and become a monk. But if you do not diligently pursue the path, do not purify your body and mind, and do not speak carefully, the impurities of the three poisons will fill your heart, just like the clean water being soiled by washing dirty feet. You are like this basin. Although you have become a monk, if you do not practice precepts, concentration, and wisdom, and do not purify your body, speech, and mind, how can the food of the Great Path fill your heart?” After speaking, the Buddha kicked the basin, causing it to roll. Rahula was very frightened. The Buddha asked, “Are you afraid the basin will break?”

Rahula replied, “No, the basin is a coarse utensil; it doesn’t matter if it breaks.”

The Buddha said, “Rahula, you don’t cherish this basin, just as people will not cherish you. As a monk, if you do not uphold dignity and discipline, and speak deceitfully, the consequence is that no one will care for you or value you. When your life ends, you will not attain enlightenment, but will only increase your delusion.”

From then on, Rahula changed his mischievous ways, strictly observed the precepts, and diligently practiced the path.

According to the teachings of the Buddhist sutras, we should take a long-term view and consider the consequences of lying for both this life and future lives.

In this life, if we frequently lie, deceive, or slander others, we will inevitably face retaliation from those we have wronged. In the mundane world, most people are naturally inclined to protect themselves and have a tendency for “an eye for an eye” revenge, unless they are saints who have subdued their own minds. If we deceive others, the victims, unwilling to be deceived, will expose our misdeeds among people. As word spreads from one to ten and from ten to a hundred, our bad reputation will quickly become widespread. Our credibility will be utterly destroyed, and our trustworthiness will plummet. From then on, even if we speak the truth, it will be seen as a lie, and people will be wary of us to avoid being deceived. No one will trust us. In such a predicament, we will constantly feel the pain of isolation and helplessness. Our lives will shrink, and our careers will suffer as a result.

In future lives, under the influence of the dark karma of lying, one will inevitably fall into the three lower realms. When the bad karma diminishes and one is reborn as a human, the residual effects of lying will manifest in various speech-related congenital obstacles in both body and mind. These may include having an impaired tongue root, stuttering, or unclear speech. Additionally, there will be a habitual tendency to lie, and sometimes, even when one wishes to speak the truth, it will come out as a lie involuntarily. In interactions with others, one will frequently be slandered and deceived. Even when speaking the truth, people will not believe it. Moreover, even when preaching the true Dharma, others will be unwilling to listen.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2024/06/13/the-consequences-of-lying-a-lesson-from-buddhist-teachings/

Source: https://fo.china.com/m/fostory/20001207/20231107/25809400.html

The Monkey Trap: A Lesson in Letting Go

linda changLeave a comment

African indigenous hunters have a unique method for catching monkeys.

First, they find a hole just big enough for a monkey’s hand. They place food that monkeys like inside the hole. When a monkey passes by and sees the food, it reaches in to grab it. With its hand full of food, the monkey’s hand gets stuck in the hole. Most monkeys won’t let go of the food and instead try to pull it out from different angles.

When the hunters arrive, the monkey is still struggling and trapped, making it easy for the hunters to catch it.

Many people’s anxiety and suffering stem from holding on to too many things and being unwilling to let go, which prevents them from truly obtaining what they need.

In reality, letting go appropriately allows us to broaden our horizons, take time to adjust ourselves, and better engage in our current work.

The Young Man and the Zen Master: A Lesson in Detachment

Once upon a time, a young man visited a Zen temple to seek guidance from an old Zen master. On his way, he witnessed an interesting sight and decided to test the master. Upon arriving at the temple, he and the master chatted over tea. Suddenly, the young man asked, “What does ‘going round and round’ mean?”

“It’s because the rope hasn’t been cut,” the Zen master replied casually.

The young man was stunned and amazed. He said, “Master, I am surprised that you knew! Today, on my way here, I saw a cow tied to a tree. The cow wanted to go far to graze, but because the rope was through its nose, it kept going round and round, twisting itself without being able to break free. It was quite amusing. I thought that since you hadn’t seen it, you wouldn’t be able to answer. But you answered correctly right away.”

Photo: http://his.newdu.com/m/view.php?aid=358718

The Zen master laughed and said, “You asked about an event, and I answered with a principle. You asked about a cow tied by a rope and unable to break free; I answered about the mind being entangled by worldly matters and unable to find liberation. One principle can explain many situations.

“A kite, no matter how high it flies, cannot soar into the vast sky because it is tethered by a string. Similarly, what often binds us in life, preventing us from being free? A single win or loss can exhaust us; a gain or loss can cause us great anguish; an exam can keep us tossing and turning; a relationship can tie us in knots.

“For power and money, we run around in circles; for fame and desire, we are constantly entangled. Fame is a rope, desire is a rope, profit is a rope; the attachments and temptations of the world are all ropes. So the Zen master said, ‘All beings are like that cow, bound by many ropes of worries and sufferings, unable to achieve liberation throughout life and death.'”

The Wisdom of Living in the Present

A young monk once asked an old monk, “Master, what did you do when you were young?”

The master replied, “I chopped wood, fetched water, and cooked.”

The young monk asked, “And what do you do now that you’ve attained enlightenment?”

The master said, “I still fetch water, chop wood, and cook.”

The young monk, puzzled, asked, “What’s the difference? It seems like you haven’t made any progress in your entire life.”

The old monk explained, “You’re wrong. There is progress. When I was young, I would think about fetching water while chopping wood, and think about cooking while fetching water. Now that I am enlightened, when I chop wood, I chop wood; when I fetch water, I fetch water; and when I cook, I cook.”

Reflecting on myself, I often feel that I need to do something else while eating to avoid “wasting time.” So, I like to chat with others, watch TV, or think about other things while eating. No wonder I sometimes feel like “I don’t even know what I just ate.”

Enjoying the time spent eating and treating each bite with attention, I savor the sweetness of the rice, the freshness of the vegetables, and the richness of the soup. The world on my taste buds is indeed wonderful, bringing much joy to everyday life.

While walking, I now instinctively let my phone rest and focus on walking, feeling my feet propel my body, enjoying the natural comfort of the breeze, smelling the flowers, hearing the birds, and seeing the colorful flowers, green leaves, and various passersby. The scenery is infinitely beautiful, something I rarely appreciated before. Missing out and becoming numb was inevitable.

This series of practices has gradually cultivated the quality of “focus” in me. I increasingly embrace the concept of “living in the moment.” Of course, I know this is just the beginning; focus is a lifelong practice.

Link: https://peacelilysite.com/2024/05/30/the-monkey-trap-a-lesson-in-letting-go/

Source: https://gospelexpress.id/2023/01/20/%E6%9D%BE%E6%89%8B%E6%94%BE%E4%B8%8B/, http://his.newdu.com/m/view.php?aid=358718， https://www.sohu.com/a/240312612_761892