Tag: Buddhiststories

The Crane and the Crab [Trickery]

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Buddhist Tales for Young and Old, volume 1, Prince Goodspeaker, Stories 1-50


38. The Crane and the Crab [Trickery]

Once upon a time, there was a crane who lived near a small pond. Right next to the pond was a big tree with a fairy living in it. He learned by observing the various animals.

There were also many small fish living in the small pond. The crane was in the habit of picking up fish with his beak and eating them. Since there happened to be a drought in the area, the water level in the pond was becoming lower and lower. This made it easier for the crane to catch fish. In fact, he was even getting to be a little fat!

However, the crane discovered that no matter how easy it was to catch fish, and no matter how many he ate, he was never completely satisfied. But he did not learn from this. Instead, he decided that if he ate all the fish in the pond, then he would find true happiness. “The more the merrier!” he said to himself.

In order to catch all the fish in the pond, the crane thought up a clever plan. He would trick the fish, and deceive them into trusting him. Then when they trusted him the most, he would gobble them up. He was very pleased with himself for thinking up such a trick.

To begin with, the crane sat down on the shore. He remained quietly in one position, just like a holy man in the forest. This was intended to get the fish to trust him.

The fish came to him and asked. “Sir crane, what are you thinking?” The holy-looking crane answered, “Oh my dear fish, it makes me sad to think of your future. I am thinking about the coming miserable disaster.”

They said, “My lord, what disaster is coming to us?” To which the crane replied, “Look around you! There is very little water left in this pond. You are also running out of food to eat. This severe drought is very dangerous for you poor little ones.”

Then the fish asked, “Dear uncle crane, what can we do to save ourselves?” “My poor little children,” said the crane, “you must trust me and do as I say. If you allow me to pick you up in my beak, I will take you, one at a time to another pond. That pond is much bigger than this one. It is filled with water and covered with lovely lotuses. It will be like a paradise for you!”

When they heard the part about the beak, the fish became a little suspicious. They said, “Mr. Crane, how can we believe you? Since the beginning of the world, there has never been a crane who wanted to help fish. Cranes have put fish in their beaks only to eat them. This must be a trick. Or else you must be joking!”

The crane then raised his head and made himself look as dignified as possible. He said, “Please don’t think such a thing. Can’t you see that I am a very special crane? You should trust me. But if you don’t believe me, send one fish with me and I will show him the beautiful pond. Then when I bring him back here, you will know I can be trusted.”

The fish said to each other, “This crane looks so dignified. He sounds like an honest crane. But just in case it’s a trick, let us send with him a useless little troublemaker fish. This will be a test.” Then they found a young fish who was known for playing hooky from school. They pushed him towards the shore.

The crane bent his head and picked up the little one in his beak. Then he spread his wings and flew to a big tree on the shore of a beautiful big pond. Just as he had said, it was covered with lovely lotuses. The fish was amazed to see such a wonderful place. Then the crane carried him back to his poor old pond, just as he had promised.

Arriving home, the little fish described the wonders of the beautiful big pond. Hearing this, all the other fish became very excited and rushed to be the first to go.

The first lucky passenger was that same useless little troublemaker. Again the crane picked him up in his beak and flew to the big tree on the shore of the beautiful new pond. The little one was sure the helpful crane was about to drop him into the wonderful pond. But instead, the crane suddenly killed him, gobbled up his flesh, and let the bones fall to the ground.

The crane returned to the old pond, brought the next little fish to the same tree, and ate him in the same way. Likewise, one by one, he gobbled up every last fish!

He became so stuffed with fish meat that he had trouble flying back to the little pond. He saw that there were no more fish left for him to trick and eat. Then he noticed a lonely crab crawling along the muddy shore. And he realized that he was still not completely satisfied!

So he walked over to the crab and said, “My dear crab, I have kindly carried all the fish to a wonderful big pond not far from here. Why do you wish to remain here alone? If you simply do as the fish have done, and let me pick you up in my beak, I will gladly take you there. For your own good, please trust me.”

But the crab thought, “There is no doubt this over-stuffed crane has eaten all those fish. His belly is so full he can hardly stand up straight. He definitely cannot be trusted! If I can get him to carry me to a new pond and put me in it, so much the better. But if he tries to eat me, I will have to cut off his head with my sharp claws.”

Then the crab said, “My friend crane, I am afraid I am much too heavy for you to carry in your beak. You would surely drop me along the way. Instead, I will grab onto your neck with my eight legs, and then you can safely carry me to my new home.”

The crane was so used to playing tricks on others, that he did not imagine he would be in any danger — even though the crab would be grasping him by the throat. Instead he thought, “Excellent! This will give me a chance to eat the sweet meat of this foolish trusting crab.”

So the crane permitted the crab to grab onto his neck with all eight legs. In addition, he grasped the crane’s neck with his sharp claws. He said, “Now kindly take me to the new pond.”

The foolish crane, with his neck in the clutches of the crab, flew to the same big tree next to the new pond.

Then the crab said, “Hey you stupid crane, have you lost your way? You have not taken me to the pond. Why don’t you take me to the shore and put me in?”

The crane said, “Who are you calling stupid? I don’t have to take that from you. You’re not my relative. I suppose you thought you tricked me into giving you a free ride. But I’m the clever one. Just look at all those fish bones under this tree. I’ve eaten all the fish, and now I’m going to eat you too, you stupid crab!”

The crab replied, “Those fish were eaten because they were foolish enough to trust you. But no one would trust you now. Because you tricked the fish, you have become so conceited you think you can trick anyone. But you can’t fool me. I have you by the throat. So if one dies, we both die!”

Then the crane realized the danger he was in. He begged the crab, “Oh my lord crab, please release me. I have learned my lesson. You can trust me. I have no desire to eat such a handsome crab as you.”

Then he flew down to the shore and continued, “Now please release me. For your own good, please trust me.”

But this old crab had been around. He realized the crane could not be trusted no matter what he said. He knew that if he let go of the crane, he would be eaten for sure. So he cut through his neck with his claws, just like a knife through butter! And the crane’s head fell on the ground. Then the crab crawled safely into the wonderful pond.

Meanwhile, the inquisitive fairy had also come to the new pond and seen all that had happened. Sitting on the very top of the big tree, he said for all the gods to hear:

“The one who lived by tricks and lies,
No longer trusted now he dies.”

The moral is: The trickster who can’t be trusted, has played his last trick.

38. The Crane and the Crab [Trickery]

Link: https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2022/10/04/the-crane-and-the-crab-trickery/

INTERPRETER’S INTRODUCTION – BUDDHIST TALES FOR YOUNG AND OLD, VOLUME 1, STORIES 1-50

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

Control Your Anger and Do not React

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Many people struggle with the challenge of controlling their emotions. When faced with situations that contradict our feelings, desires, or goals, frustration and anger can easily overwhelm us, causing us to lose our temper and shift blame onto others. Unfortunately, such reactions often exacerbate the problem, leading to harm for ourselves and those around us. However, there are valuable lessons we can learn from a story that might inspire us to gain control over our anger and maintain peace and calm within our hearts.

The following story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of non-reaction:

Once upon a time, there was a young man who was very interested in Zen Buddhism. He had read many books and articles about it, and he was eager to learn more. One day, he decided to visit a Zen master to ask him about the art of non-reaction.

The Zen master was a very old man with long white hair and a beard. He was sitting in the Lotus position on a cushion in his meditation room. The young man bowed respectfully and asked the Zen master to teach him about non-reaction.

The Zen master smiled and said, “Non-reaction is the ability to let go of your thoughts and emotions. It is the ability to see things as they are without judgment or attachment. When you can non-react, you are free from suffering.”

The young man was confused and asked, “How can I let go of my thoughts and emotions? They are a part of me.”

The Zen master replied, “Your thoughts and emotions are not a part of you. They are simply passing through you. You are the witness, not the actor. When you can see your thoughts and emotions for what they are, you will be free from them.”

The young man thought about this for a moment. He had never thought of his thoughts and emotions as being separate from him before, but the Zen master’s words made sense. “I will try to practice non-reaction,” he said.

The Zen master smiled and said, “Good, but remember, it is not something that can be forced. It comes with practice.”

The young man left the Zen master’s house and went on his way. He tried to practice non-reaction throughout the day, but it was difficult. Every time he thought about something that made him angry or upset, he would react. But the young man didn’t give up; he kept practicing, and slowly but surely, he began to get better at it.

He started to notice that when he didn’t react to his thoughts and emotions, they would eventually pass away on their own. One day, while walking down the street, he saw a man arguing with a woman. The man was yelling at the woman, and she was crying. The young man felt angry and upset, but he remembered what the Zen master had said. He took a deep breath and let go of his anger. He saw the man and the woman for what they were: two people caught up in their own suffering of karma. The young man walked away feeling peaceful and at ease. He had finally learned the art of non-reaction.

The young man continued to practice non-reaction throughout his life. He found that it was a powerful tool that helped him live a more peaceful and fulfilling life. He was able to let go of his anger, fear, and sadness, and he was able to see the world with a clear and open mind. The art of non-reaction is a powerful tool that can help us live happier and more fulfilling lives. It is not easy to master, but it is worth the effort.

Control Your Anger and Do not React

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/07/27/control-your-anger-and-do-not-react/

#BuddhismTeaching #BuddhistTales #BuddhistStory #Non-reaction # ControlAnger #Peace#Calm #Innerpeace #Happiness

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8h36cFt6X8

Six Powerful Habits That Will Change Your Life Forever

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Once upon a time, a young man was very much troubled by his bad habits. His life was completely disturbed due to his bad habits. He did not value his time at all. He would just waste the whole day on useless things. He was also very lazy and drowsy. Whenever his family members asked him to do some work, he would try to avoid that work by making excuses. And for some reason, if he had to do that work, he would do it in haste without any interest. Whenever his parents tried to teach him something, he would argue with them without admitting his mistake. He would always postpone important tasks and decisions for tomorrow and try to avoid all kinds of responsibilities. Slowly and slowly, when all his friends started outdoing him, he began to realize that his bad habits are now causing him to lag. He tried many times to improve his bad habits, but every time he failed in it. Then one day, one of his friends told him that a monk is staying in a hut outside the village for a few days. He suggested him to meet the monk for his problem. Although the young man did not believe, he still reached the monk to meet him the next day.

When he reached there, the monk was meditating with his eyes closed. The young man went in front of him and bowed to him. The monk opened his eyes and with a smile on his face, he asked the young man to sit. The young man told his problem to the monk and told him how he wanted to change his habits but he failed every time. The monk listened to the young man patiently. Then he thought for a moment and said, “My friend, you want to change your habits in a few days, but you must know that just as it takes a long time to form habits, similarly, it will take a long time to change those habits. For this, you have to give time and change your bad habits with good habits. For example, if you want to leave the habit of lying, then you will have to adopt the habit of telling the truth first.” Then the monk became serious and said, “Son, today I will tell you about six such habits which will not only change your old habits but can also change your life.”

The first habit to adopt is reading books. Books contain answers to the questions that arise in your mind. Many people before you have had the same questions and have written down their answers in books. By reading books, you can gain knowledge and learn from the experiences of others.

It’s a way to discover your shortcomings and develop new and positive thoughts that will help you progress in life. Successful people often have the habit of reading books, so start reading today to bring about a miraculous change in your life.

The second habit recommended is writing. While reading books is a great way to gain knowledge, it’s easy to forget what you’ve learned. Writing down valuable information helps you retain and implement what you’ve learned. It also allows you to connect with your inner self, focus your mind, solidify your thoughts, and generate new ideas. Writing down your goals and keeping them visible can inspire you to work towards them.

The third habit is meditation, described as a solution for mental problems. Often, our troubles stem from dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Meditation brings you to the present moment, reducing the flow of thoughts, calming your mind, and preventing overthinking. Regular meditation enhances your focus, reduces stress, and keeps your mind healthy.

Expressing gratitude for what you have is the fourth recommended habit. By focusing on what you have instead of what you lack, you can fill your life with happiness. Even during difficult times, taking a moment to appreciate what is going well can keep you content. Expressing gratitude reminds you of the abundance in your life and fosters a positive outlook.

The fifth habit is waking up early. This habit is common among successful individuals. Rising early makes you feel refreshed, happier, and more energetic. Mornings offer a peaceful environment with fewer distractions, enabling better concentration on work, studies, or activities such as yoga, meditation, exercise, or a morning walk. Waking up early reduces stress, anger, and fosters an optimistic and positive attitude.

The sixth habit is self-discipline. It involves creating a daily routine that promotes punctuality and hard work. Discipline contributes to present happiness and a promising future. It forms habits that shape your identity. Examples of disciplines include waking up early, consistent meditation, reading good books, consuming healthy food, avoiding junk food, exercising regularly, and practicing breathing exercises.

By adopting these six habits, your life can experience miraculous changes. Just as the young man who listened to the monk’s advice, make a promise to yourself to incorporate these habits into your life. If you want to bring positive change and progress towards your goals, start adopting these habits today. You will witness improvement and transformation in your life.

Six Powerful Habits That Will Change Your Life Forever

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/07/14/six-powerful-habits-that-will-change-your-life-forever/

#Self-discipline #ReadingBooks#Meditation #Gratful #Writing #Monk #Buddhism #Gratitude

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUmL0zSV4Fw

Refrain from Harsh Words, Kind Speech Will Bring Wealth for Love

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Photo by Sharath G. on Pexels.com

A Jataka Tale: The Ox Named Great Joy

The Buddha recounted this tale in response to a dispute between two monks, highlighting the destructive nature of harsh words. Gathering a large group in the monastery hall at Jetavana, he addressed them, saying:

“Monks and nuns, even animals suffer unhappiness due to harsh words. Allow me to share with you a story from ancient times, when bitter words caused a farmer to lose his fortune.”

Once, in a bygone era, the Future Buddha manifested as a bull and was gifted to a farmer. Overjoyed, the farmer named the young calf “Great Joy” and treated him like his own child. He provided the bull with the best rice and milk, fostering his growth. Great Joy flourished and became a mighty ox, black as the night sky and as radiant as the stars. Despite his immense strength, he remained gentle and obedient.

After years of tender care, Great Joy felt immense gratitude towards the farmer. He thought to himself, “The farmer has raised me with loving kindness and made great sacrifices for my well-being. He has even gone hungry at times to ensure I am well-fed. I must find a way to repay him for all his kindness!” The next morning, as the farmer brushed the bull, Great Joy spoke to him, saying, “Master, I have devised a plan to repay you for your many years of care.”

Pausing his brushing, the farmer gently placed his hand upon the bull’s large head and replied, “Great Joy, you already plow my fields, turn my well wheel, and carry heavy loads to and from the village. You work tirelessly, and there is no need for you to repay me. Do not trouble yourself with such matters.”

However, Great Joy was determined to execute his plan. “Master, please listen. I have a marvelous idea that will make you instantly wealthy. Journey to the town today and find a merchant who owns a vast herd of oxen. Make a bet with him for a thousand silver pieces, claiming that your bull is the mightiest in all of India. Wager that tomorrow morning, in the village square, your ox will draw a hundred carts overflowing with rocks, stones, and gravel!”

Skeptical, the farmer replied, “My dear friend, how could any ox in the world pull a hundred loaded carts? It has never been done before. The entire town will think I have gone mad.”

Unyielding, Great Joy persisted, “I possess the strength, and I will not let you down.”

“But what if you fail to pull such a heavy load? A thousand silver pieces comprise all I possess! If you lose, I will be left impoverished!”

Remaining steadfast, Great Joy reassured him, “I promise you, I will not let you down. I will not lose the wager, and you shall not lose your money.”

And so, the farmer followed the ox’s suggestion. He ventured to the village and positioned himself in the town square, where business transactions took place. Eventually, a wealthy merchant dressed in fine robes approached him. Seizing the opportunity, the farmer boldly proclaimed, “Did you know, gentlemen, that I am the owner of the strongest ox in the kingdom? I doubt there is a bull in all of India that can rival mine! In fact, my bull may be the largest and mightiest in the entire world!”

The crowd fell silent upon hearing his boast. All eyes turned towards the farmer. Finally, the wealthy merchant broke the silence and retorted, “It is widely known that I, sir, possess an entire herd of the world’s strongest oxen. What makes your single bull so exceptional?”

Photo by Ricky Esquivel on Pexels.com

Realizing he had found the ideal opponent, the farmer promptly replied, “I have a bull capable of effortlessly pulling a hundred fully loaded carts!”

Mockingly, the merchant responded, “And where might this extraordinary bull be found? In the land of fairies and dreams?”

“He resides at my home,” answered the farmer confidently.

“Well, if you hold him in such high regard, let us make it a wager,” challenged the merchant.

“Certainly,” agreed the farmer. “I will bet you a thousand silver pieces that my bull can move one hundred carts fully loaded with rocks, stones, and gravel. Prepare the carts and meet me here in the village square at sunrise tomorrow morning.” With a firm handshake, the deal was sealed, and both parties made their preparations.

The following morning, before daybreak, the farmer fed Great Joy sweet milk and hay, bathed him, and brushed his coat until it shone. Speaking gentle and soothing words, just as he did every day, the farmer adorned the ox’s neck with a garland of flowers.

Great Joy knew the moment had arrived to prove himself.

At dawn, the farmer led Great Joy to the village square. Excited onlookers, including men, women, and children, filled the streets, eager to witness the outcome of this seemingly impossible bet. The farmer was astounded by the sight that greeted him—an unprecedented number of carts, each loaded to the brim with rocks. If any doubts lingered in the farmer’s mind, they were quickly replaced by certainty that he had been foolish to believe a mere animal’s promise.

Photo by Karen Lau00e5rk Boshoff on Pexels.com

Nevertheless, Great Joy stood proudly at the head of the line of carts, awaiting his harnessing. Magnificent and towering, his shoulders surpassing any other ox, he captured the awe of the crowd. Two men struggled to secure the heavy yoke upon his broad back, and then they attached the carts in a long chain.

Anxious, the farmer anticipated his impending humiliation before the townsfolk. Clutching the leather goad tightly, he muttered to himself, “I cannot afford to lose this wager. The ox has made a promise, but I am his master. I must ensure that he pulls the carts without fail. Ailee! I have risked my life savings on the word of a mere beast!” With determination, the farmer raised his goad and struck Great Joy forcefully, shouting, “Now, you beast, pull the carts! Pull! Pull, you rascal!”

Great Joy was taken aback by this treatment. He thought, “I am not a rascal! I am not a beast! He has never spoken to me like this before or used a whip on me. I will not move an inch!” Ignoring the lashes of the whip and the harsh words from his friend, Great Joy planted his hooves firmly, like the roots of four Banyan trees, and remained immobile.

Instantly, the crowd erupted in laughter and mockery, witnessing the farmer’s stubborn ox refusing to obey. Once again, the farmer struck Great Joy with the goad and cursed him, but the ox gazed straight ahead, disregarding the goad, the farmer, and the jeering crowd. In no time, the crowd began pelting both the farmer and the ox with mud and dung. Overwhelmed with shame, the farmer hung his head low and reluctantly handed over his entire savings to the merchant.

Jingling the coins in his hands, the merchant chuckled and said, “Whenever you wish to make another wager, seek me out! What ox could possibly pull a hundred loaded carts?” he laughed.

Despondent and penniless, the farmer unharnessed Great Joy from the line of carts and led him back home. The villagers taunted them along the way, hurling insults, rotten fruit, and mud. The farmer tied the ox to a stake and retreated inside his home, overcome with grief. “I am a pauper! It took me twenty years to earn that silver!” he wailed and moaned.

Hearing the farmer’s pained sobs from outside, Great Joy approached the window and inquired what was wrong. “I have lost all my money because of you!” the farmer bitterly exclaimed. “You promised me you wouldn’t let me down!”

Great Joy replied, “Ah, but master, it was you who let me down! Throughout all the time I have lived under your care, have I ever harmed anyone? Have I ever been clumsy or broken a pot? No. I have carried children gently on my back, even allowing the smallest of them to lead me. I have always done exactly as you asked.”

“Yes, I suppose you are right,” sniffed the farmer.

“Well, then, go once more to the town and bet the merchant double the silver. We shall meet him again in the square tomorrow morning at sunrise. But remember, treat me kindly as you always have, and I will treat you as I always have!”

Hurriedly, the farmer returned to town, found the merchant, and presented him with a new offer. Laughing at the prospect of making even more money, the merchant agreed to another wager.

At dawn the next morning, the village square mirrored the scene from the previous day. One hundred carts stood in a long line, each loaded with rocks. Once again, the streets were filled with eager spectators. Great Joy, bathed and brushed with a fresh garland around his neck, walked proudly alongside the farmer to the front of the carts. However, people chatted and joked, not taking the two participants seriously.

The weighty wooden yoke was placed upon Great Joy’s back, and the ropes were securely fastened. The farmer stood beside his ox, gently stroking his powerful shoulders. After a while, he leaned over and spoke softly into the bull’s ear, “Now, my fine fellow, my friend, pull the carts forward!”

Upon hearing these words, Great Joy seemed to grow in size. His muscles tensed, and he leaned against the ropes with all his might, causing them to tighten, cart by cart, until reaching the hundredth. Great Joy strained and pulled, taking one step and then another, each accompanied by a surge of momentum. Step by step, with unwavering determination, Great Joy continued his effort until the final cart stood exactly where the first one had started.

Photo by Renjith Tomy Pkm on Pexels.com

It was a sight to behold! Cheers and applause filled the air as flowers and money rained down upon the bull and the farmer. Great Joy, glistening with sweat, stood nobly and proudly in his place.

The merchant shook his head in disbelief but paid the two thousand silver coins as agreed. Children reached out to stroke the mighty ox, marveling at his remarkable perseverance. There was much celebration. Before the morning came to an end, the farmer and his faithful companion, Great Joy, trotted down the dusty road back home, where they lived happily and prosperously ever after.

Thus, the Buddha finished his lesson with the monks and nuns, sayingagain that harsh words please no one. And he spoke this verse in conclusion:

Speak only kind words: never be unkind.

For he who speaks gently, the ox moves the whole earth,

And brings him wealth for love.

A Jataka Tale: The Ox Named Great Joy

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/06/28/refrain-from-harsh-words-kind-speech-will-bring-wealth-for-love/

#Kindness # Buddha #BuddhistTales #JakataTales#GreatJoy #Ox

Source: Kindness A Treasury of Buddhist wisdom for Children and Parents By Sarah Conover Page 111-118

A Jataka Tale Depicted by Art

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The complete Prince Mahasattva jataka tale mural. Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou, 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy

Prince Mahasattva

Jataka tales are fascinating narratives that shed light on the past lives of the Buddha. These captivating stories unveil the incarnations preceding Prince Siddhartha Gautama’s birth and illustrate the ways in which he accumulated virtuous karma through selfless acts of sacrifice.

Before his existence as Prince Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha’s soul had already amassed immense virtue from numerous previous lifetimes, embodying various selfless beings.

One remarkable representation of these Jataka tales can be found in a Dunhuang mural. Located on the eastern wall of Mogao Cave 428, this mural intricately portrays a renowned Jataka tale featuring Prince Mahasattva. The entire narrative is depicted across three registers, capturing the essence of the story within its captivating artwork.

Detail of the three princes paying their respects to the king and queen before they leave for the forest. First register, right section. Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou, 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy.

The mural commences on the right-hand side of the first register, where a captivating scene unfolds. Three young men, their hands pressed together in a gesture of genuflection, kneel before a majestic blue pagoda. Inside the pagoda, two figures exuding regal aura can be identified as the king and queen, bidding a heartfelt farewell to their sons, the three young men.

As the story progresses, the mural transitions to subsequent scenes, unveiling the brothers’ journey into the forest for a hunting expedition. Within this vibrant forest setting, an array of deer and tigers roam, coexisting with the majestic presence of towering trees and majestic mountain ranges. The undulating mountains, adorned with a multitude of colors, gracefully assume a smaller scale compared to the trees, animals, and human figures, harmoniously framing each scene of the narrative.

Detail of the three princes hunting in the forest. First register, middle section. Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou, 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy.

The story unfolds on the second register, commencing from the left-hand side. As the three brothers venture deeper into the forest, they eventually dismount from their horses, seeking respite at the foothills of towering mountains.

While taking a moment to rest, the brothers catch sight of a tigress accompanied by seven adorable cubs. The tigress is portrayed with her mouth agape, and her painted figure exudes a somber aura with limbs hanging low. Her gaze fixates upon the playful cubs frolicking around her, creating an illusion of impending maternal aggression, as if she were poised to devour her own offspring.

Detail of the starving tigress and her baby cubs. Second register, middle-left section. Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou, 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy.

The brothers convene to discuss the matter of the tigress. Not wanting to watch a mother devour her own children, the brothers resolve to help her find food. However, there does not appear to be any food nearby.

Prince Mahasattva suddenly comes up with an idea. He keeps it to himself and tells his two brothers to leave the forest to find some food while he stays behind to watch over the tigers.

After his brothers leave, Prince Mahasattva strips off his clothes and lies down in front of the tigress, offering himself to the tigress. He decides to offer himself as food for the tigress so that she wouldn’t have to eat her own children. 

The tigress sniffs at his body but makes no move to harm him even though she is starving.

When we offer help to someone and they are unable to accept what is offered, it’s a chance for us to feel good about having attempted goodness without losing anything. We can think to ourselves, well, we tried to help. In the case of Prince Mahasattva, he understood that good intentions alone would not save a life. It would take determined and complete self-sacrifice to save the tigers.

Realizing that the tigers will not eat him alive, Prince Mahasattva climbs to the edge of a cliff, cuts open his neck and throws himself off the ledge. With his neck bleeding profusely, his body drops in front of the tigress and her cubs. At Prince Mahasattva’s second attempt to offer his body, the tigers devour him as nourishment.

Detail of the Prince Mahasattva’s sacrifices to the tigers. Second register, right section. Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou, 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy.

Snaking across and down the three registers, the story continues on the third register by beginning on the right-hand side again. Prince Mahasattva’s brothers return and they understand what happened in their absence when they see the bones left behind by the tigress and her cubs.

The brothers’ bodies contort across the scene in shock, anguish, and grief in reaction to the death of their third sibling.

Detail of the grieving brothers and their return to the palace. Third register. Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou, 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy.

The two brothers practically fly back to the palace on their horses to tell the king about what happened to Prince Mahasattva. 

The story actually ends on the topmost right corner of this image, returning to the place where the two princes found their brother’s corpse. After reporting to the king, the family builds a stupa over Prince Mahasattva’s bones and hair to commemorate his selfless actions.

Detail of the brothers building a stupa over Prince Mahasattva’s remains. Third register. Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou, 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy.

Many of the Mogao caves at Dunhuang have central pillars that take after the stupa form.

Scholars have theorized that worshippers could have circumambulated these central pillars inside the Mogao caves at Dunhuang as one would do around stupas in the open air.

The central pillar in Mogao Cave 428. Northern Zhou dynasty. 557-581 CE. Dunhuang. Image courtesy of the Dunhuang Academy.

Prince Mahasattva

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/06/09/a-jataka-tale-depicted-by-art/

#PrinceMahasattva #Mural #Dunhuang#MogaoCave #BuddhistTeaching #BuddhistSutra #BuddhistTales #moralstories #Buddha #Jatakastories #BuddhistWisdom #BuddhistWisdomforChildrenandParents #Jatakatales

Source: http://dunhuangfoundation.us/blog

The Best Buddhist Dharma to Rebirth at Paradise of Ultimate Bliss

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Buddhist Devotee Hou Yushan Passed Away, Leaving a Legacy of Spiritual Journey

On June 1st, 2002 Buddhist disciple Hou Yushan peacefully passed away at his home in Los Angeles. Witnessed by his wife, Hou Li Qingqiu, the celestial realm appeared before him as Shakyamuni, Amitabha Buddha, and Avalokiteshvara, guiding him towards the ultimate state of bliss. Prior to his passing, Hou Yushan expressed his unwavering determination to learn Buddhism in this lifetime under the guidance of his master.

Hou Liqingqiu, a devoted practitioner of Chinese medicine in California, addressed over 20 monks who gathered in their home for a Buddhist practice session in honor of Hou Yushan. She shared the remarkable journey of her husband, stating that he had dedicated many years to the study of Buddhism. Diagnosed with lung cancer four years ago, Hou Yushan had endured arduous and prolonged treatments. However, his life took a transformative turn a year and a half ago when he and his wife attended the Yiyungao International Cultural Foundation, where they listened to the enlightening teachings of Master Yiyungao (H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III).

Deeply inspired by the teachings on the pre-recorded dharma discourse, Hou Yushan developed profound admiration and sincerity towards Great Master Yi. He actively participated in the group cultivation programs of the foundation, he never missed an opportunity to listen to the pre-recorded dharma discourse. Despite the advice of others to focus on rest and recovery, Hou Yushan insisted on continuing his full-time volunteer work at the foundation, driven by his desire to meet Master Yun Gao Yi as soon as possible.

In February of year 2002, Hou Yushan and his wife sought refuge under the guidance of Great Master Yi Yungao (H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III) through the American Master Yiyungao International Cultural Foundation, led by Lobsang Gyatso Rinpoche. Upon meeting the revered master, they were pleasantly surprised to find that their preconceived notions were far from reality. Master Yi was not the distant figure they had imagined, instead, he displayed approachability and warmth. With utmost sincerity, they sought empowerment to learn the Dharma, presenting their offerings. However, Master Yi, without even glancing at them, humbly declined their offerings, explaining that he could not set such a precedent. Nonetheless, Great Master Yi graciously provided them with the empowerment and transmission of the Dharma. Hou Yushan diligently practiced the teachings and swiftly progressed, experiencing a sudden disappearance of his cancer pains.

Hou Yushan’s wife Hou Liqingqiu shared the incredible experience with the monastery

On the auspicious occasion of Buddha Bathing Day in May 2002, Hou Yushan and Hou Liqingqiu had the opportunity to reunite with Master Yi Yungao (H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III). When asked about his wishes, despite his terminal illness, Hou Yushan expressed his sole desire to learn how to attain a stable rebirth in the Land of Ultimate Bliss. In response, Master Yi advised him to adopt a different practice method, specifically the Pure Land School’s method of reciting Buddha, with a particular emphasis on Amitabha. Additionally, Master Yi imparted a secret handprint of rebirth, promising that through this method, Hou Yushan would soon witness the state of Amitabha and be guided by Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to the Paradise of Ultimate Bliss. The compassion demonstrated by the master was profound, as he called Hou Yushan to his side and secretly shared the sacred handprint with him. Hou Yushan experienced indescribable excitement and joy upon receiving this precious gift—the profound Great Dharma of the Supreme PureLand Buddha Dharma.

Ever since Hou Yushan received the transmission of Amitabha Dharma on the Buddha Bathing Festival, his wife has witnessed a remarkable transformation in his condition. Hou Liqingqiu, the wife saw golden rays of yellow and red light radiating from his head and back at any given time. As a result, all the cancer-related pains in his body have vanished, along with the swelling. He no longer required the morphine painkillers prescribed by the hospital.

One day, Hou Yushan asked his daughter Lily, who worked as an anesthetist in the hospital, about his complexion. Lily responded, saying, “Dad, your complexion is genuinely vibrant, and your spirits are high. One would never guess that you are a patient.” On the morning of May 25, Hou Yushan shared with his wife that during his Dharma practice the previous night, he entered a state of samaya and visited the Land of Ultimate Bliss. He described the indescribable beauty of the paradise, filled with captivating shades of red, green, and purple.

Hou Liqingqiu eagerly inquired, “Can you provide me with an analogy to illustrate its beauty?” After a moment of contemplation, Hou Yushan responded, “The Paradise of Ultimate Bliss surpasses any scenery in this world. Do you recall our visit to West Lake when we were young? In the early morning, the misty air and the colorful reflections on the lake created a breathtaking view. However, the beauty of the Paradise surpasses even that. Furthermore, the Buddha informed me that he would come to fetch me in seven days, urging me to proclaim to the world that the greatest Dharma in existence is with our master.”

On May 31, Hou Yushan carefully settled all family matters and left final words for his daughter. He advised her, “Do not hold your mother responsible for everything in her life. However, there is one thing you can admonish her for: if your mother ever strays from Buddhism and deviates from following Vajra Master (Master Yi Yungao – H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III), remind her to earnestly practice under our Master Yungao’s guidance without hesitation.” Then, he turned to his wife, Hou Li Qingqiu, and earnestly said, “In your life, it doesn’t matter if you make other mistakes, but there is one thing you must not falter in: wholeheartedly follow the Vajra Master in dedicated practice. Your success lies solely in following his guidance, as his Dharma is the true path.”

Hou Yushan informed his wife that he would pass away that night and advised her, “Pay close attention tonight. At the moment of my passing, I fear I may fall into drowsiness and enter a demonic realm. Do not sleep, but remind me to visualize the Vajra Master above my head and Amitabha Buddha atop my head, while reciting the mantra wholeheartedly.” That night, in their seaside home, Hou Li Qingqiu had already foreseen that her husband, Hou Yushan, would depart to the Buddhist realm. Therefore, she set four alarms to ring at different times, once every hour. True to her premonition, at 6:15 a.m. on June 1st, Hou Yushan’s pulse and breathing slowed down. Hou Li Qingqiu shook his bed, and together they chanted, “Namo Vajra Guru! Namo Amitabha!” Hou Yushan held the secret handprint taught by Master Yi Yungao.

At that moment, Hou Li Qingqiu heard heavenly music, and Hou Yushan’s body emitted increasingly powerful golden light. She witnessed the appearance of Shakyamuni Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, Guanyin Bodhisattva, and other Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in the sky by the seaside. The merging rays of light grew more potent. After about five minutes, the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, along with the celestial splendor, disappeared. It was then that she remembered to check Hou Yushan’s pulse, which had ceased along with his heartbeat.

Zhang Tianyou, the president of the American Master Yi Yungao International Cultural Foundation, was the first to arrive at Hou Yushan’s residence after his passing. He observed Hou Yushan, who appeared peacefully asleep, with no signs of pain on his face. Hou Yushan’s hands held the secret handprint from his previous life.

The incident deeply moved Long Hui, the chairman of the International Federation of Buddhist Monks and Nuns and the abbot of Huazang Temple. She continuously praised the greatness of Master Yi, stating that she often witnessed the suffering experienced by lung cancer patients at the end of their lives. However, the Pure Land method of reciting Buddha taught by Master Yi could transform a lung cancer patient’s condition within a month, filling their surroundings with auspicious golden light and relieving their pain. This would ultimately lead them to be reborn in the Land of Ultimate Bliss under the guidance of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Long Hui marveled at the tremendous power of Tathagata-rectification, beyond the capacity of words to express.

On the night before his passing, Hou Yushan personally prepared gifts and $5,000, and said to his wife, “The master never accepts offerings. He did not accept my offerings. Tonight, as I pass away, tomorrow you shall make the offerings and send them to the master. Please ensure he accepts them.” On June 1st, Hou Li Qingqiu faithfully followed her husband’s final instructions and sent the offering package to Yi Yungao, kneeling on the ground with tears in her eyes. She implored Master Yi to accept the offering, shouting loudly, “My supreme Buddha Vajra Master!” The master replied, “Do not address me as such, for I am not a Buddha. I am merely an ordinary practitioner, just like everyone else.” Hou Li Qingqiu explained that it was Hou Yushan’s testamentary offering, to which the master responded, “It seems there is no other way. These relics of Layman Hou shall be displayed in the temple and not for individual use.” The master immediately transferred $6,000 from his personal funds for Layman Hou’s burial expenses and informed the masters of two prominent temples to offer their support in accumulating merit for the deceased.

Photo from weixin.com

Buddhist Devotee Hou Yushan Passed Away, Leaving a Legacy of Spiritual Journey

Link: https://peacelilysite.com/2023/06/09/the-best-buddhist-dharma-to-rebirth-at-paradise-of-ultimate-bliss/

#DorjeChangBuddhaIII #HHDorjeChangBuddhaIII#DorjeChangBuddha #PureLand #Shakyamuni Buddha #AmitabhaBuddha #Avalokiteshvara #Cancer #ParadiseofUltimateBliss #MasterYiYungao #HouYunshan #Compassion #SupremeBuddhaDharma

The Broom Master

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From Kindness A Treasury of Buddhist wisdom for Children and Parents By Sarah Conover

Long ago, during the time of the Buddha, lived a boy named Chundaka. Chunda-as he was fondly called–was a happy and good youngster, but unable to learn to read or write. In comparison, Chunda’s older brother became quite knowledgeable, with a keen interest in Buddhism. When the older brother decided to lead a monk’s life, Chunda followed along. He sought to live near his brother; but secretly, he also hoped to work alongside the monks and learn about Buddhism.

“Why don’t you ask the Buddha if you can become a monk, too?” his brother encouraged. But Chunda had no confidence. “Brother, how can I?” Chunda sadly replied. “I can’t memorize, and I can’t read or write. I have no knowledge of scriptures, and I won’t be able to learn them. A monk must be able to teach others many things.”
But his brother assured him that both riches and knowledge were meaningless to the Buddha.” He values only the compassion we have for one another and the ways to help all creatures suffer less. No one is as gentle and kind as he is. I know he will not disappoint you, Chunda. Go and hear for yourself,” prodded his brother hopefully.

So Chunda mustered all his courage. He bathed and purified himself. When he was certain he was quite ready, he approached the Buddha. The Buddha observed that this humble young man had an earnest and pure heart. He could see that Chunda would try his very best. The Buddha welcomed him as the newest monk in the community.
The next morning, Ananda, head of all the monks, gave Chunda a small scripture to memorize, just 6 lines long. It was the first of hundreds that each monk was expected to learn by heart. But a week later, having tried his hardest, poor Chunda could still not recite it from beginning to end. Completely disheartened, he went back to the Buddha and admitted his failure.

But the Buddha was not greatly disappointed; he had total faith in Chunda’s good intentions. The Buddha and Chunda sat thoughtfully together in silence. An idea suddenly occurred to the Buddha. “Chunda, are you a hard worker?” asked the Buddha.”Do you think you can sweep the temple and keep it spotlessly clean?” “Oh yes, Buddha I’m a good worker, and I’m very good at sweeping. I just cannot seem to learn scripture.”


So the Buddha gave Chunda the task of keeping the temple perfectly clean. He was to hold no other job but temple sweeper. The Buddha then requested that Chunda speak two lines while sweeping: remove all dust, remove all dirt. But as soon as poor Chunda attempted his task, the words completely vanished from his mind. Luckily, Ananda overheard the Buddha’s instructions and could help Chunda remember them over and over again.

At last, a month later, Chunda had it learned by heart.”Remove all dust,” the monks heard Chunda whisper with the sweep of the broom. “Remove all dirt, he murmured with the return sweep. Behind Chunda’s back, the other monks snickered at his memory problem. More than a few took some pride in the extent of their learning. Day and night Chunda poured his heart into his work, repeating those six words again and again. Eventually, however, over time every monk couldn’t help but admire Chunda’s perseverance. They had never witnessed such single-minded determination. In time, the few words that the Buddha had given him to memorize became more and more meaningful to Chunda. His chores became a meditation upon the words.


Chunda’s curiosity deepened, and he suspected that the Buddha knew all along that these words were not as simple as they first appeared. “Did my teacher want me to sweep outer dust and dirt or inner dust and dirt?” he wondered. “What is inner dirt? How would one go about cleaning inner dirt?” he asked himself many times.
Some months later, Chunda found the answers to these questions himself. While he worked, insight nudged its way into his heart. Once in awhile now, the monks saw Chunda thoughtfully pausing from his endless task, leaning against his broom and looking at the far off horizon.
At last a day came when Chunda felt ready to discuss his thoughts with the Buddha.
“Venerable sir” said Chundaka enthusiastically, “I think I finally understand the real meaning of the words you gave me.”
“Please tell me what you understand,” encouraged the Buddha.
“I believe that inner dust and dirt is a grasping, said Chunda. “If we don’t like something in our lives, we grasp for a different situation. But if we really like something that we have, then we also grasp because we don’t want it to change.” Chunda continued, “To look at life clearly, we must always see through this. We must sweep the dust and dirt away and keep our inner temple clean.” The Buddha smiled warmly at Chunda’s thoughtful words.

And so, as the years passed, Chunda swept and meditated and thought deeply. He found he did not have to memorize scriptures as the other monks did, for teachings seemed to arise from within. After a time, he became known as one of the wise and gentle teachers of Buddhism, affectionately called “Chundaka, the Broom Master.” He lived a long and happy life. And for many years people journeyed to the monastery from distant places, not just to hear from the learned monks, but to listen especially to Chundaka, the Broom Master. He was their favorite, loved for his very simple, yet very wise sayings.

The Broom Master

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/06/07/the-broom-master-2/

#Buddhism #BuddhistWisdom #BuddhistStoryforChildren #Kindness #Broom #BroomMaster #Buddha #Sweeping #RemoveDust #RemoveDirt

Learn to forgive others’ faults

linda changLeave a comment

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com


There was an elementary school teacher who taught in a remote town.
One day, he asked the little children in his class, “Do you have anyone you hate?”
After thinking it over, some of the little children remained silent while others nodded with great force.
The teacher then passed a bag to everyone and said, “Let’s play a game.
Now, all of you think about who has offended you and what hateful things have been done to you in the past week. Once you have them in mind, go find a rock by the riverside on your way home after school.
“Paste a little paper note, written with the person’s name, on the rock. If his fault was big, then find a bigger rock; if his fault was small, then find a smaller rock.
“Every day, place what you have collected in a bag and bring it with you to school and show me!”
All the students felt that it was very interesting and new.
After school, every one rushed to the riverside to find rocks. Early next morning, all the students brought their bags, filled with pebbles to school, and discussed about it happily.
With the passing of one day passed, two days, and three days, some of the students’ bag grew larger and larger. It had become a burden.
Finally, someone protested and said, “This is so tiring!” The teacher smiled but did not respond. Immediately, someone picked the conversation and continue to complaint, “Exactly! Carrying all these rocks to school is so tiring!”


At that moment, the teacher spoke up and said, “Now put down these rocks which represent the faults of people who have offended you!”
The students were all surprised, so the teacher explained, “Learn to forgive others’ offenses. Do not keep them as treasures in your mind, nor bear them on your shoulders. No one can stand it overtime.”
That week, the students of the class learned an extremely precious life lesson.
The greater the number and the bigger the rocks held in the bag, the deeper the tired accumulated in the mind, and the heavier the burden. If you have rocks written with others’ names, you should know what to do.

Learn to forgive others’ faults

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/05/05/learn-to-forgive-others-faults/

#Forgive #Burden #Offenses #Rocks #Hate

Example of a Right Mindset

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A true story about a female worker who was saved from being locked inside a freezer at work, due to her having a modest and respectful mind.
A lady worked for a food processing factory. One day, at the end of her work, she routinely walked into the freezer for a final check. Suddenly, an unfortunate moment happened, the door accidently closed behind her and she got locked inside the freezer. Although she exhaustedly screamed and pounded on the door, no one could hear her crying voice, she was totally out of people’s sight. All the workers were off from factory at this moment and no one could hear what had happened inside. Five hours later, when she was at the brink of death, the security guard of the factory opened that door and miraculously saved her.
Afterwards she asked the security guard why he would open the door since that was not his daily job.
He explained, “I have been working at this factory for 35 years. Every day there are several hundred workers who enter and walk out: however, you are the only one who greet me with “How are you?” in the morning and say “Goodbye, see you tomorrow.” in the evening.
Many people do not see me as if I were transparent. Today, you came to work in the morning as usual and asked me “How are you?”, but at the end of the work day, I did not hear you say to me “Goodbye, see you tomorrow.”
As a result, I decided to take a look inside the factory. I anticipated your “Hi” and “Goodbye”, because these words remind me of who I am and make me very happy. Without hearing your word of goodbye, I knew something might have happened. That was the reason why I searched for you in every corner of the factory.”


He who loves others is constantly loved by them; he who respects others is constantly respected by them. Helping others is truly helping ourselves.

Example of a Right Mindset

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/05/05/example-of-a-right-mindset/

#Love #Respectful #kind #help #RightMindset #MoralStory

The Woodcutter and Dragon Snake

linda chang1 Comment
Photo by Tobias Aeppli on Pexels.com

Once there was a poor woodcutter who found a wounded dragon snake in the mountains. The woodcutter kindly nursed the dragon snake back to health and later released it into a hole in the mountain. There, a precious ganoderma lucidum grew, which the dragon snake protected day and night.

One day, the emperor fell ill and needed ganoderma lucidum to cure his disease. He offered a heavy reward for anyone who could provide it. The woodcutter remembered the dragon snake and went back to the mountain to find it. The dragon snake, grateful for the woodcutter’s kindness, gave him the ganoderma lucidum. The woodcutter presented it to the emperor, who gave him a lot of gold and silver as a reward.

Photo by Zlau0165u00e1ky.cz on Pexels.com

The woodcutter now lived a life of luxury but was not satisfied. He wanted to become an official and saw an opportunity when the queen lost her sight. The emperor announced that whoever could restore her sight with the eye of a dragon snake would become the prime minister. The woodcutter remembered the dragon snake again and begged for its help. The snake allowed the woodcutter to take one of its eyes with huge pain, which the woodcutter presented to the emperor. The queen’s sight was restored, and the woodcutter was made prime minister.

However, the woodcutter’s greed was insatiable. When the princess fell ill, and the dragon snake’s liver were needed to heal her, the woodcutter asked for the dragon snake once again. The dragon snake, wanting to repay the woodcutter’s kindness, allowed him to cut a small piece of its liver. But the woodcutter, overcome by greed, he went inside dragon snake’s stomach and took a large piece, causing the snake unbearable pain. The snake closed its mouth in agony, and the woodcutter was trapped inside.

This story shows that the woodcutter’s downfall was entirely due to his own actions, driven by his insatiable greed.

The moral is: The wages of avarice is death.

The Woodcutter and Drangon Snake

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/04/28/the-woodcutter-and-dragon-snake/

#Woodcutter #DragonSnake #Buddhisttalesforyoungandold #Buddhiststories #storiesforkids #moralstories #Jatakastories #PansiyaPanasJataka