Tag: Buddhisttalesforyoungandold

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

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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]

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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/

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The Monkey Trap: A Lesson in Letting Go

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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

Ananda and the Untouchable

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A Buddhist Story of Loving Kindness

By Martin Goodson

One day Ananda, the Buddha’s assistant, approached a well to have a drink.  A woman, a member of the untouchable caste, was drawing water and Ananda asked her for some.  The woman was surprised that she had been asked to give anything to a monk as the caste laws stated that anything given by one who is considered unclean would also be unclean.  However, Ananda persisted and eventually she gave in and gave him a drink.

The woman was so moved by this experience which had never happened before that she felt a strong affection for Ananda and made up her mind to serve him.  Thus, she went to the Buddha and asked if she might be Ananda’s assistant. 

  The Buddha asked her why she wanted to do this.  She told him.  The Buddha replied that what she had fallen in love with was not Ananda but his kindness.  Also, that this kindness was present in her own heart and that if she were to cultivate it within  she would be able to serve both kings and queens.

This is a lovely story about the power of goodwill or ‘metta’ to affect the heart. The Buddha taught that the most important element of any act is the motivation behind it.  All of us are capable of ‘doing the right thing’ but this is not really enough; the motivation behind the action determines the outcome.  A common Buddhist practice is the practice of acquiring merit in order to ensure a good future re-birth.  This is akin to the old Christian view of doing good so as to go to heaven after death.  However, if I am doing good solely for the outcome to myself then the act is already flawed.  What is more it shows itself to others in time.  We all know the stereotype of the do-gooder who is so caught up in bringing about some future good that he ignores whether or not the other person requires help in this way.  The problem with trying to do good for others when in fact I am looking for something for myself is that I fail to see what it is that others really do need right now. Both self-concern and regard for others are two very different way of seeing the same situation.  

When the heart has for a moment forgotten ‘I’ and ‘my concerns’, and this does happen more often than realised, then it opens up and reflects the situation.  What is more, not only does it see clearly,  but, because it is a human heart, it responds with the warmth of humanity.  This happens, not because it wants anything, but because it is its nature to do so.  Humans have the capacity to put themselves in the other’s shoes and thus respond without intending something just for myself.  This is also reflected in Jesus Christ’s admonition to ‘Love thy neighbour as thyself’.  In other words, by forgetting myself I forget the separation from others too.  Thus, a true ‘fellow feeling’ is born and this is the root of metta and of compassion .

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2024/04/26/ananda-and-the-untouchable/

Source: https://www.thezengateway.com/practice/ananda-and-the-untouchable

80. FEAR MAKER AND LITTLE ARCHER [SELF-DECEPTION]

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80. FEAR MAKER AND LITTLE ARCHER [SELF-DECEPTION]

Some say that the world comes into being, disappears, and comes into being … over and over, throughout time. In one of these previous worlds, countless years ago, Truth was unknown and the Five Training Steps were practiced by only a few. Even the Enlightenment Being — the Bodhisatta — did not know Truth, and had not yet discovered the Five Training Steps.

Once upon a time in that long ago world, there was a king named Brahmadatta. Like many other kings of that name, he ruled in the place known today as Benares.

The Bodhisatta was born in a rich high class family in a market town, also in northern India. He happened to be a dwarf, bent over and partly hunchbacked. When he became a young man he remained short and stooped. Many people found him unpleasant to look at.

He studied under a very outstanding teacher. He learned all there was to know at that time, about the two great branches of knowledge — religion and science. He also learned how to use a bow and arrow better than anyone else in India. For this reason his teacher called him ‘Little Archer’.

Like most new graduates he was quite clever. He thought, “Many people judge by appearance alone. If I go to a king and ask for a job, he’ll probably ask, ‘Having such a short body, what can you possibly do for me?’ Therefore it would be better if I can team up with a front man — someone who is handsome in appearance, tall and well-grown in body, and strong in personality. I will provide the brains, but remain out of sight behind his shadow. In this way we can earn a good living together.”

One day he was walking in the district where the weavers live and work. He happened to see a big, strong looking man. He greeted him and asked his name. The weaver said, “Because of my appearance, people call me Fear Maker.”

“With such an impressive name.” said Little Archer, “and being so big and strong looking, why do you have such a low paying job?” “Because life is hard,” he replied.

“I have an idea.” Said the dwarf “In all India there is no one as skilled with a bow and arrow as I am. But I don’t look the part! If I asked a king for work he would either laugh or get angry at me. He would not believe that a hunchbacked little dwarf could be the greatest archer in India!

‘But you look perfect. And your name helps too. Therefore, let us go together to the king. You will be the front man and do all the talking. The king will hire you immediately. Meanwhile I will remain as if hidden underneath your shadow. I will be the real archer and we will prosper and be happy. You just have to do whatever I tell you.”

Thinking he had nothing to lose, Fear Maker agreed, saying, “It’s a deal, my friend!”

The two partners went off to Benares to see the king. When they entered the throne room, they bowed respectfully to the king. He asked them, “Why have you come here?”

Fear Maker stood in front and did all the talking. He answered, “I am the great archer known as Fear Maker. There is no one in all India who understands the science of archery as well as I do. I wish to be in your service, your majesty.”

The king was quite impressed. He asked, “What shall I pay you?” “I will serve you for 500 pieces of money per week your majesty,” he replied.

Nodding, the king noticed the silent dwarf stooping behind him, almost out of sight. “Who is this little man?” he asked. “What does he do for you?” “He’s my little assistant,” said Fear Maker. ‘Very well,” said King Brahmadatta, “the job is yours.”

In this way Fear Maker was accepted into the king’s service, but it was Little Archer who did all the work.

Before long, news came to the palace that there was a ferocious tiger living in the jungle next to the king’s highway. He ambushed travellers, and then killed and ate them. Many began to avoid the king’s highway out of fear of the man-eater.

The king summoned Fear Maker and asked, “Can you capture this rampaging tiger, young man?” “Your majesty,” he answered, “I am known as your best archer. Why wouldn’t I be able to capture a tiger?” Hearing this, the king gave him an extra sum of money and sent him out to catch the tiger.

Fear Maker went home and told all this to his partner. “All right,” said Little Archer, “be on your way!” “Aren’t you coming too?” asked the surprised Fear Maker. “No, I won’t go,” he replied, “but I will give you a perfect plan. You must do exactly as I say.” “I will, my little friend. Please tell me,” said the big front man.

The clever little dwarf said to his friend, “Go to the district of the tiger, but don’t rush straight to his home by yourself. Instead, gather together a thousand local villagers and give them all bows and arrows. Take them directly to the tiger’s home. But then you must let them go on ahead while you hide in the underbrush.

‘The local villagers will be very afraid of the tiger. When they see him they will surround him and beat him. Being so terrified, they won’t stop beating him until he’s dead!

“Meanwhile you must cut a piece of vine with your teeth. Then come out of hiding and approach the dead tiger, holding the vine in your hand. When you see the tiger’s body, shout at the people, ‘Hey! Who has killed the tiger? I was going to capture him with this vine and lead him like a bull to the king. That’s why I’ve been searching in the jungle. Now tell me who has killed the tiger before I could get here with my vine.’

“The villagers will be easily frightened by this. They will say, ‘Lord Fear Maker, please don’t tell the king! Then they will give you a big bribe to be quiet. Thinking you have killed the dangerous tiger, King Brahmadatta will also reward you greatly.” This was the tricky plan of the clever Little Archer.

Fear Maker did exactly as he had been instructed. The man-eating tiger was killed, and fear was removed from that part of the king’s highway. Followed by a big crowd he returned to the king and said, “Your majesty, I have killed the tiger and made the jungle safe for people again.” The king was pleased and gave him a huge reward.

Before long there were similar complaints about a buffalo who threatened another royal road. Again the king sent Fear Maker. Following Little Archer’s strategy he did exactly as before. He took credit for killing the buffalo and was greatly rewarded again by the grateful king.

By this time Fear Maker had become a very rich and powerful nobleman. All the wealth and praise, which he didn’t really deserve, soon went to his head. He became intoxicated with his own conceit and began thinking he was a ‘big man’ in his own right. He even looked down on Little Archer and ignored his advice. He said to him, “You think this is all because of you. But I don’t need you. I can do all this without you!” He had come to believe the appearance created by Little Archer’s plan.

Then it happened that an enemy king attacked. He surrounded the city of Benares with his army. He sent a message to King Brahmadatta that he must either surrender his kingdom or wage war. The King of Benares ordered his greatest hero, Fear Maker, to go out and fight the enemy.

Fear Maker was dressed in full military armour. He mounted the mightiest armoured war elephant. Little Archer knew that the ungrateful conceited braggart, called Fear Maker was really scared to death underneath. So he too mounted the elephant and sat behind Fear Maker. The mighty elephant walked through the city gates towards the battlefield, followed by a big crowd.

When Fear Maker heard the huge noise made by the war drums, he began trembling with fear. To keep him from falling off the elephant and being killed, Little Archer tied a rope around him and held him with it.

When Fear Maker saw the field of battle he was overwhelmed by the terrible fear of death. So much so, that he couldn’t help but release his bowels and urinate at the same time — all over the back of the poor brave war elephant!

The Enlightenment Being said, “Before you bragged and spoke roughly like a big man. But now, the only big thing you do is make a filthy mess all over this elephant’s back! Your present actions prove your past appearance was false.”

Fear Maker had embarrassed himself. Little Archer had humbled him by speaking the truth. But he couldn’t help feeling sympathy for him. He said, “Don’t be afraid anymore, my friend. With me to protect you, your life is safe. Climb down from the elephant and go home and take a bath.”

Alone atop the great elephant, the Enlightenment Being thought, “Now is the time to show what is in the heart of this hunchbacked little dwarf!” Shouting mightily as he rode he charged into the field of battle. Without killing any men or animals, he crashed through the enemy’s defences. He broke into the king’s camp, captured him, and took him back as prisoner to the King of Benares.

King Brahmadatta was delighted with Little Archer’s great victory. He rewarded him with wealth and fame. He became known throughout all India as ‘Little Archer the Wise’. He sent his friend Fear Maker back to his home village and supported him with monthly payments.

Little Archer the Wise practiced generosity and other meritorious deeds. When he died he was reborn as he deserved.

The moral is: “Appearances can be deceiving.”

80. Fear Maker and Little Archer [Self-deception]

Link: https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2024/04/16/80-fear-maker-and-little-archer-self-deception/

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THE WISDOM OF QUEEN TENDERHEARTED[LUST]

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66, 251 THE WISDOM OF QUEEN TENDERHEARTED[LUST]

Once upon a time, the Enlightenment Being was born into a rich high-class family in Kasi, in northern India. He grew to young manhood and completed his education. Then he gave up ordinary desires and left the everyday world. He became a holy man and went to live by himself in the Himalayan forests. He meditated for a long time, developed high mental powers, and was filled with inner happiness.

Having run out of salt, one day he came down to the city of Benares. He spent the night in the royal garden. In the morning he washed himself, tied his tangled hair knot on top of his head, and dressed in a black antelope skin. He folded up the robe made of red bark, which he usually wore. Then he went to the city to collect almsfood.

When he arrived at the palace gate, King Brahmadatta was walking back and forth on his terrace. When he saw the humble looking holy man, he thought. There is such a thing as perfect calm, this man must have found it!” He had his servants bring him into the palace.

The holy man was seated on a luxurious couch and was fed the very best foods. He thanked the king. The king said, “You are welcome to live in my royal garden permanently. I will provide the ‘Four Necessities’ — food, clothing, shelter and medicine. In so doing I may gain merit leading to rebirth in a heaven world.”

The holy man accepted this kind offer. He spent the next sixteen years living in the royal garden of Benares. During that time he taught all in the king’s family, and received the Four Necessities from the king.

One day King Brahmadatta decided he must go to a frontier area and put down a revolt. Before leaving he ordered his queen to care for the needs of the holy man. Her name was Queen Tenderhearted.

She prepared food every day for the holy man. Then one day he was late in arriving for his meal. While waiting, Queen Tenderhearted refreshed herself in a perfumed bath, dressed in fine clothes and jewellery, and lay down on the couch.

Meanwhile the Enlightenment Being had been meditating in a particularly joyful mental state. When he realised what time it was, he used the power of his mental purity to fly through the air to the palace.

When Queen Tenderhearted heard the rustling sound made by his bark robe, she rose up suddenly from her couch. In so doing, her blouse accidentally slipped down for a moment — and the holy man glimpsed her from the window as he entered. He was surprised by the unusual sight of the queen’s great beauty.

Desire, which had been subdued but not erased, rose within him. It was just like a cobra rises, spreading his hood, from the basket in which it is kept. His desire lost its purity. He was wounded, like a crow with a broken wing.

The holy man could not eat his food. He took it back to his temple dwelling in the royal garden, and put it under his bed. His mind was enslaved by the sight of the beauty of Queen Tenderhearted. His heart was burning with desire. He remained on his bed, without eating or drinking, for the next seven days.

Finally the king arrived home again. He circled the city and then went directly to see the holy man in the garden temple. Seeing him lying in bed, he thought he was sick. He cleaned out the temple and sat down next to him. He began massaging his feet, and asked, “Reverend sir, what happened to you? Are you sick?”

The holy man replied, “Oh great king, my sickness is that I am caught in the chains of desire.” “What is it you desire?” asked the king. “Queen Tenderhearted, my lord.” “Your reverence,” said the king, “I will give Tenderhearted to you. Come with me.”

When they arrived at the palace, King Brahmadatta had his queen dressed in her finest clothing and jewellery. Then he secretly told her to help the unfortunate holy man regain his purity. She replied. “I know what to do, my lord, I will save him.” Then the king gave her away and she left the palace with the holy man.

After they passed through the main gate she said, “We must have a house to live in. Go back and ask the king for one.” He returned and asked the king for a house. The king gave them a tiny run-down hut that people used as an outhouse.

The holy man took the queen to their new home, but she refused to go inside. He asked her why. She said, “Because it’s filthy! Go back to the king and get a shovel and basket.” He obeyed and when he returned she ordered him to do all the cleaning. He even had to plaster the walls and floor with fresh cow dung!

Then she commanded him to go to the palace and get her a bed. Then a chair. Then a lamp, bed linen, a cooking pot, a water pot. She ordered him to get all these things one at a time, and he obeyed dutifully. She sent him to get water for her bath and many other things. He set out the water for her bath and then made up the bed. Finally they sat down next to each other on the bed. Suddenly she grabbed him by the whiskers, shook him back and forth, pulled him towards her and said, “Don’t you remember that you are a holy man and a priest?”

Only then was he shocked out of his mad infatuation and made to realise who he was. Having regained his self-awareness, he thought, “Oh what a pitiful state I have fallen into. I have been blinded by my desire into becoming a slave. Beginning with only the sight of a woman, this mad craving could lead me into a hell world. My body was burning, as if I’d been shot in the heart with an arrow of desire. But there was no bleeding wound! Not seeing her body as it really was, my own foolishness caused all my suffering!”

Then he spoke out loudly, “On this very day I will return the wise Queen Tenderhearted to the noble King Brahmadatta. Then I will fly back to my forest home!”

After taking her back, he said to the king, “I don’t want your queen anymore. Before I had her, she was my one desire. After I got her, one desire led to another endlessly, leading only to hell.”

The wise Queen Tenderhearted, by using her intelligence and knowledge of life, had given a great gift to the holy man. Rather than taking advantage of his weakness, she had restored his purity.

In perfect calm the Enlightenment Being rose into the air, preached to the king, and then magically flew to the Himalayan forests. He never again returned to the ordinary world. After meditating for years in peace and joy, he died and was reborn in a high heaven world.

The moral is: Desire enslaves, wisdom liberates.

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

Link: https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2023/11/28/66-251-the-wisdom-of-queen-tenderheartedlust/

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The transformative story of Angulimala

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A Tale of Compassion and Transformation

The Angulimala Sutta, a captivating narrative from Buddhist scriptures, recounts the remarkable transformation of a blood-thirsty murderer into a compassionate monk under the profound influence of the Buddha. Angulimala, notorious for his brutal killings and a garland of severed fingers, terrorized the realm of King Pasenadi. The tale unfolds during a time when the Buddha, with unwavering compassion, confronted the darkness that shrouded Angulimala’s soul.

Angulimala’s notoriety as a ruthless killer, leaving villages and towns in a state of fear, paints a grim picture of his violent nature. His garland of fingers serves as a gruesome testament to the lives he had taken, making him a symbol of terror and malevolence.

Undeterred by Angulimala’s fearsome reputation, the Buddha ventured into the region where the murderer roamed freely. Despite warnings from locals about the dangers posed by Angulimala, the Buddha calmly continued his journey, determined to confront the source of darkness.

As the Buddha walked towards Angulimala’s lair, the air thick with tension, he encountered the menacing killer. Rather than responding with fear, the Buddha skillfully engaged Angulimala in a dialogue that would alter the course of his life. The Buddha’s words, laden with wisdom and compassion, began to unravel the tightly woven fabric of Angulimala’s violent identity.

In a pivotal moment, as Angulimala sought to chase down the Buddha with murderous intent, the Buddha employed a feat of psychic power. Despite running at full speed, Angulimala found himself unable to catch up with the Buddha walking at a normal pace. This display of supernatural ability left Angulimala astonished and created a space for the transformative dialogue that followed.

Angulimala urgently called out, “Stop, contemplative! Stop!” The Buddha calmly replied, “I have stopped, Angulimala. You stop.”

Perplexed, Angulimala asked, “While walking, contemplative, you say, ‘I have stopped.’ But when I have stopped, you say I haven’t. I ask you the meaning of this: How have you stopped? How haven’t I?”

The Buddha responded, “I have stopped, Angulimala, once and for all, having cast off violence toward all living beings. You, though, are unrestrained toward beings. That’s how I’ve stopped and you haven’t.”

Baffled by the Buddha’s profound words, Angulimala sought clarity on the apparent contradiction. The Buddha’s response not only clarified the cessation of violence within his own heart but also illuminated the unrestrained nature of Angulimala’s actions. This insightful exchange marked the beginning of a transformative journey within Angulimala, planting the seeds of change in his consciousness.

With a heart now inclined towards virtue, Angulimala, in an impromptu moment, requested ordination from the Buddha. The Buddha, recognizing the sincerity of Angulimala’s transformation, granted his request, welcoming him into the community of monks adorned with saffron robes and shaven heads.

Even as Angulimala embraced the monastic life, local villagers, fearing his past atrocities, sought protection from King Pasenadi. The king, in response, assembled an army and approached the monastery. Despite the villagers’ pleas to “stamp him out,” the Buddha’s wisdom paved the way for an unexpected resolution.

When questioned by the Buddha about how he would treat Angulimala if he had truly renounced violence, King Pasenadi underwent a profound transformation. The Buddha’s teachings on discernment and compassion prompted the king to reconsider his stance. Witnessing Angulimala’s monkhood, the king shifted from disbelief to acceptance, vowing to support him on his path to redemption.

The Angulimala Sutta not only narrates the personal transformation of a notorious murderer but also highlights the transformative power of compassion and wisdom. The Buddha’s fearlessness, compassion, and skillful means shattered the shackles of violence that bound Angulimala. Moreover, the sutta portrays the ripple effect of transformation, as even King Pasenadi undergoes a change of heart. This timeless tale serves as an enduring testament to the potential for redemption, forgiveness, and the profound impact of the Buddha’s teachings on even the most deeply entrenched patterns of suffering.

The transformative story of Angulimala

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/11/15/the-transformative-story-of-angulimala/

#AngulimalaSutta #ShakymuniBuddha #Transformation #Compassion #Wisdom #Monk

Source: https://blogs.icrc.org/religion-humanitarianprinciples/a-humanitarian-re-reading-of-the-angulimala-sutta/#:~:text=Moved%20by%20the%20Buddha’s%20words,saffron%20robes%20and%20shaven%20heads.

The Whatnot Tree [Prudence]

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The Whatnot Tree [Prudence]

Once upon a time there was a caravan leader. He went from country to country selling various goods. His caravans usually had at least 500 bullock carts.

On one of these trips his path led through a very thick forest. Before entering it, he called together all the members of the caravan. He warned them, “My friends, when you go through this forest be careful to avoid the poisonous trees, poisonous fruits, poisonous leaves, poisonous flowers and even poisonous honeycombs.

“Therefore, whatever you have not eaten before — whether a fruit, leaf, flower or anything else — must not be eaten without asking me first.” They all said respectfully, “Yes, sir.”

There was a village in the forest. Just outside the village stood a tree called a ‘whatnot tree’. Its trunk, branches, leaves, flowers and fruits look very similar to a mango tree. Even the colour, shape, smell and taste are almost exactly the same as a mango tree. But unlike a mango, the whatnot fruit is a deadly poison!

Some went ahead of the caravan and came upon the whatnot tree. They were all hungry, and the whatnot fruits looked like delicious ripe mangoes. Some started eating the fruits immediately, without thinking at all. They devoured them before anyone could say a word.

Others remembered the leader’s warning, but they thought this was just a different variety of mango tree. They thought they were lucky to find ripe mangoes right next to a village. So they decided to eat some of the fruits before they were all gone.

There were also some who were wiser than the rest. They decided it would be safer to obey the warning of the caravan leader. Although they didn’t know it, he just happened to be the Enlightenment Being.

When the leader arrived at the tree, the ones who had been careful and not eaten asked, “Sir, what is this tree? Is it safe to eat these fruits?”

After investigating thoughtfully he replied, “No, no. This may look like a mango tree, but it isn’t. It is a poisonous whatnot tree. Don’t even touch it!”

The ones who had already eaten the whatnot fruit were terrified. The caravan leader told them to make themselves vomit as soon as possible. They did this, and then were given four sweet foods to eat – raisins, cane sugar paste, sweet yogurt and bee’s honey. In this way their taste buds were refreshed after throwing up the poisonous whatnot fruit.

Unfortunately, the greediest and most foolish ones could not be saved. They were the ones who had started eating the poisonous fruits immediately, without thinking at all. It was too late for them. The poison had already started doing its work, and it killed them.

In the past, when caravans had come to the whatnot tree, the people had eaten its poisonous fruits and died in their sleep during the night. The next morning the local villagers had come to the campsite. They had grabbed the dead bodies by the legs, dragged them to a secret hiding place, and buried them. Then they had taken for themselves all the merchandise and bullock carts of the caravan.

They expected to do the same thing this time. At dawn the next morning the villagers ran towards the whatnot tree. They said to each other, “The bullocks will be mine!” “I want the carts and wagons!” “I will take the loads of merchandise!”

But when they got to the whatnot tree they saw that most of the people in the caravan were alive and well. In surprise, they asked them, “How did you know this was not a mango tree?” They answered, “We did not know, but our leader had warned us ahead of time, and when he saw it he knew.”

Then the villagers asked the caravan leader, “Oh wise one, how did you know this was not a mango tree?”

He replied, “I knew it for two reasons. First, this tree is easy to climb. And second, it is right next to a village. If the fruits on such a tree remain unpicked, they cannot be safe to eat!”

Everyone was amazed that such lifesaving wisdom was based on such simple common sense. The caravan continued on its way safely.

The moral is: The wise are led by common sense; fools follow only hunger.

The Whatnot Tree [Prudence]

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

Link:https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2023/09/26/the-whatnot-tree-prudence/

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

The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer

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The Most Perfect Continuous Mural in the Dunhuang Mogao Caves

“The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King” is the main theme of the murals in Cave 257 of the Mogao Caves. It unfolds in a long horizontal scroll, narrating many stories from the past life of the founder of Buddhism, Siddhartha Gautama.

Legend has it that long ago, on the banks of the Ganges River in India, there lived a beautiful and kind nine-colored deer king (the previous incarnation of Siddhartha Gautama)…

One day, as the nine-colored deer king was leisurely strolling by the river, he suddenly heard a pitiful cry from the water. Without hesitation, the brave nine-colored deer leaped into the river, risking its own safety, and rescued the drowning person. The saved individual, overwhelmed with gratitude for a second chance at life, repeatedly bowed in thanks to the nine-colored deer.

The nine-colored deer king said, “No need for thanks; just go on your way. My only request is that you do not reveal my whereabouts to anyone.” The drowning person solemnly swore, “Kind benefactor, rest assured. If I ever betray this promise, may my body be covered in sores and my mouth emit a foul odor.” With that, the person departed.

Before long, the queen of that country dreamt of a deer—one with nine colors and silver-like antlers. She told the king about her dream and requested that he order the capture of such a deer. She had a strong desire to use its colorful hide for clothing and its antlers for earrings. Consequently, the king issued a proclamation and offered a substantial reward.

Upon seeing the proclamation, the person who had been saved reported to the king, leading soldiers to the mountain to hunt down the nine-colored deer.

When the nine-colored deer was surrounded by the king’s troops… it spotted the person it had rescued from drowning, tears of sorrow welled up in its eyes…

The nine-colored deer leaped in front of the king and recounted the story of how it had saved the person from drowning and how that person had broken his promise. The king and the soldiers were deeply moved by the deer’s account. The king ordered the soldiers to clear a path, allowing the nine-colored deer to regain its freedom. He also issued a decree: “From now on, people are not allowed to shoot deer.”

As for the person who had broken his promise, in an instant, sores covered his body, and a foul odor emanated from his mouth. From that moment on, he was despised and reviled by the people.

The story of the nine-colored deer is vividly portrayed in Cave 257 of the Dunhuang Grottoes, which is what we now see as “The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King.” While the mural is not particularly large in size, it holds significant importance in Chinese art history.

This artwork takes the form of a horizontal scroll with the story unfolding from both ends and converging in the middle. It consists of multiple scenes depicting various stages of the story, such as its origin, development, climax, and conclusion, all seamlessly connected to create a cohesive narrative.

“The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King” is composed of nine panels, illustrating five key plot points: the person drowning, the nine-colored deer rescuing the drowning person, the drowning person expressing gratitude to the deer, the queen’s desire to capture the deer, the informant revealing the deer’s whereabouts to the king, and the confrontation between the king and the deer.

The story progresses from both ends of the mural towards the center, placing the pivotal conversation between the king and the deer in the middle. This unique composition style captures the essence of continuous horizontal scroll art from the Wei and Jin dynasties, showcasing the distinctive historical aesthetics of the era.

In the artwork, the depiction of mountains, rocks, and rivers occupies a significant portion. The rendering of the landscape primarily serves to fill the space and delineate the composition, providing a brief description of the specific environment, thereby enhancing the visual impact of the artwork and its storytelling function.

“The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King” places the climax of the story—the moment when the nine-colored deer recounts the events—at the center of the composition. At the same time, both nine-colored deer on the left and right sides turn their bodies toward the center, serving as visual guides.

This is precisely the turning point in the storyline of the nine-colored deer, where the drowning person’s affliction receives its retribution. It places the Buddhist concept of rewarding goodness and punishing evil at the visual forefront, narrating the sequence of events step by step to gradually reveal the story’s progression to the viewer.

The entire process is rhythmic, marked by the ebb and flow of the narrative, skillfully aligning the chronological order with the spatial arrangement, showcasing the artist’s unique conceptualization of the composition.

In terms of color usage, “The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King” appears to be very vibrant, but in reality, it uses a limited color palette, consisting of only six colors. The earthy red color dominates the entire painting, which is a prominent color characteristic of the Wei, Jin, Northern and Southern Dynasties period.

Complementing this are touches of stone blue and stone green, along with the harmonious blending of black, white, and gray. This blending softens the strong contrast between earthy red and stone green and blue, achieving a harmonious contrast of warm and cool tones. At the same time, it also accentuates the brightness of contrasting colors.

The introduction of Buddhism had a significant impact on the development of portraiture in China, introducing a set of strict conventions for Buddhist iconography. During the Northern Wei dynasty, the Dunhuang murals began to emphasize body proportions and adopted more attention to three-dimensionality after incorporating color shading techniques.

In “The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King,” most of the figures on the canvas have slender bodies, with their clothing belts fluttering in the wind. Their gestures and movements exude a graceful dance-like elegance, evoking the style of figures that “float like wandering dragons and are delicate as startled swans.”

In the murals of the Northern Wei period in Dunhuang, Jataka stories are an important theme. Jataka stories refer to the countless events and experiences in the past lives of Siddhartha Gautama, who would later become the founder of Buddhism. In history, there are numerous Jataka stories related to Siddhartha Gautama.

Within Buddhist art themes, there are many Jataka story paintings, and “The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King” is just one of them. Story paintings are used to promote the Buddhist concept of karmic retribution and to praise the spirit of self-sacrifice displayed by the Nine-Colored Deer King.

In reality, all Jataka paintings ultimately convey one message: that by performing good deeds, selflessly giving, and enduring hardships, one can achieve positive outcomes, whereas engaging in wrongful actions will lead to self-destruction.

The Story of the Nine-Colored Deer King

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2023/10/02/the-story-of-the-nine-colored-deer/

#SiddharthaGautama #SakymuniBuddha #JatakaStories #BuddhistStories #MoralStory #Mural #Dunhuang #MogaoCaves #Grottoes #Buddhism #ChineseCulture #Art #karmicRetribution #Paintings

Source： https://www.toutiao.com/article/7025418785972847140/?ug_source=seo_juhe， https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/346828893

51. King Goodness the Great [Perseverance]

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51. King Goodness the Great [Perseverance]

Once upon a time, in Benares in northern India, the Enlightenment Being was born into the royal family. When he became king he was called Goodness the Great. He had earned this title by trying to do good all the time, even when the results might not benefit him. For example, he spent much of the royal treasury on the building and running of six houses of charity. In these houses good and aid were given freely to all the poor and needy who came along, even to unknown travellers. Soon King Goodness the Great became famous for his patience, loving-kindness and compassion. It was said that he loved all beings just like a father loves his young children.

Of course King Goodness observed the holy days by not eating. And naturally he practiced the ‘Five Training Steps’, giving up the five unwholesome actions. These are: destroying life, taking what is not given, doing wrong in sexual ways, speaking falsely, and losing one’s mind from alcohol. So his gentle kindness became more and more pure.

Since he wished to harm no one, King Goodness the Great even refused to imprison or injure wrongdoers. Knowing this, one of his highest ministers tried to take advantage of him. He cooked up a scheme to cheat some of the women in the royal harem. Afterwards it became known by all and was reported to the king.

He called the bad minister before him and said, ‘I have investigated and found that you have done a criminal act. Word of it has spread and you have dishonoured yourself here in Benares. So it would be better for you to go and live somewhere else. You may take all your wealth and your family. Go wherever you like and live happily there. Learn from this lesson.’

Then the minister took his family and al his belongings to the city of Kosala. Since he was very clever indeed, he worked his way up and became a minister of the king. In time he became the most trusted adviser to the King of Kosala. One day he said, ‘My lord, I came here from Benares. The city of Benares is like a beehive where the bees have no stingers! The ruling king is very tender and weak. With only a very small army you can easily conquer the city and make it yours.’

The king doubted this, so he said, “You are my minister, but you talk like a spy who is leading me into a trap!’ He replied “No my lord. If you don’t believe me, send your best spies to examine what I say. I am not lying. When robbers are brought to the King of Benares, he gives them money, advises them not to take what is not given, and then lets them go free,”

The king decided to find out if this was true. So he sent some robbers to raid a remote border village belonging to Benares. The villagers caught the looters and brought them to King Goodness the Great. He asked them, “Why do you want to do this type of crime?”

The robbers answered, “Your worship, we are poor people. There is no way to live without money. As your kingdom has plenty of workers, there is no work for us to do. So we had to loot the country in order to survive.” Hearing this, the king gave them gifts of money, advised them to change their ways, and let them go free.

When the King of Kosala was told of this, he sent another gang of bandits to the streets of Benares itself. They too looted the shops and even killed some of the people. When they were captured and brought to king Goodness, he treated them just the same as the first robbers.

Learning of this, the King of Kosala began marching his troops and elephants towards Benares.

In those days the King of Benares had a mighty army which included very brave elephants. There were many ordinary soldiers, and also some that were as big as giants. It was known that they were capable of conquering all India.

The giant soldiers told King Goodness about the small invading army from Kosala. They asked permission to attack and kill them all.

But King Goodness the Great would not send them into battle. He said, “My children, do not fight just so I may remain king. If we destroy the lives of others we also destroy our own peace of mind. Why should we kill others? Let them have the kingdom if they want it so badly. I do not wish to fight.”

The royal ministers said, “Our Lord, we will fight them ourselves. Don’t worry yourself. Only give us the order.” But again he prevented them.

Meanwhile the King of Kosala sent him a warning, telling him to give up the kingdom or fight. King Goodness the Great sent this reply: “I do not want you to fight with me, and you do not want me to fight with you. If you want the country, you can have it. Why should we kill people just to decide the name of the king? What does it matter even the name of the country itself?”

Hearing this, the ministers came forward and pleaded, “Our Lord, let us go out with our mighty army. We will beat them with our weapons and capture them all. We are much stronger than they are. We would not have to kill any of them. And besides, if we surrender the city, the enemy army would surely kill us all!”

But King Goodness would not be moved. He refused to cause harm to anyone. He replied, “Even if you do not wish to kill, by fighting many will be injured. By accident some may die. No one knows the future – whether our attackers will kill us or not. But we do know whether our present actions are right or wrong. Therefore I will not harm, or cause others to harm, any living being!”

Then King Goodness ordered the city gates be opened up for the invaders. He took his ministers to the top floor of the palace and advised them, “Say nothing and try to remain calm.”

The King of Kosala entered the city of Benares and saw that no one was against him. So he and his soldiers entered and went up to the top floor. They capture the innocent King Goodness the Great. The soldiers tied the hands of the defeated king and all of his ministers.

Then they were taken to the cemetery outside the city. They were buried up to their necks, standing straight up, with only their heads above ground. But even while the dirt was being trampled down around his neck, the Great Being remained without anger in his mind and said nothing.

Their discipline and obedience to King Goodness were so great that not a single minister spoke a word against anyone. But the King of Kosala had no mercy. He said roughly, “Come night time, let the jackals do as they please!”

And so it came to pass that, at midnight, a large band of jackals wandered into the cemetery. They could smell a feast of human flesh waiting for them.

Seeing them coming, King Goodness and his ministers shouted all at once and scared the jackals away. Twice more this happened. Then the clever jackals realised, “These men must have been put here for us to kill and eat.” No longer afraid, they ignored the shouts. The jackal king walked right up to the face of King Goodness.

The king offered his throat to the beast. But before he could bite into him, the king grabbed the jackal’s chin with his teeth. No harming him, King Goodness gripped him tightly so the jackal king howled in fear. This frightened his followers and they all ran away.

Meanwhile the jackal king thrashed back and forth, trying madly to free himself from the might jaws of the human king. In so doing, he loosened the dirt packed around the king’s neck and shoulders. Then King Goodness released the screaming jackal. He was able to wiggle himself free from the loosened earth and pull himself up onto the ground. Then he freed all his frightened ministers.

Nearby there was a dead body. It just so happened that it was lying on the border of the territories claimed by two rival demons. They were arguing over the division of the body, insulting each other in ways that only demons can.

Then one demon said to the other, “Why should we continue quarrelling instead of eating? Right over there is King Goodness the Great of Benares. He is famous in all worlds for his righteousness. He will divide the dead body for us.

They dragged the body to the king and asked him to divide it between them fairly. He said, ‘My friends, I would be glad to divide this for you. But I am filthy and dirty, I must clean myself first.”

The two demons used their magic powers to bring scented water, perfume, clothing, ornaments and flowers from the king’s own palace in Benares. He bathed, perfumed himself, dressed, and covered himself with ornaments and flower garlands.

The demons asked King Goodness if there was anything else they could do. He replied that he was hungry. So, again by their magic powers, the demons brought the most delicious flavoured rice in a golden bowl and perfumed drinking water in a golden cup — also from the royal palace in Benders.

When he was satisfied, king Goodness asked them to bring him the sword of state from the pillow of the King of Kosala, who was sleeping in the palace in Benares. With magic that too was easily done. Then the king used the sword to cut the dead boy into two halves, right down the spine. He washed the sword of state and strapped it to his side.

The hungry demons happily gobbled up the fairly divided dead body. Then they gratefully said to King Goodness, “Now that our bellies are full, is there anything else we can do to please you?”

He replied, “By your magic, set me in my own bedroom in the palace next to the King of Kosala. In addition, put all these my ministers back in their homes.” Without a word, the demons did exactly as the king had asked.

At that moment the King of Kosala was fast asleep in the royal bedchamber. King Goodness the Great gently touched the belly of the sleeping king with the sword of state. The king awoke in great surprise. In the dim lamplight he was frightened to see King Goodness leaning over him with sword in hand. He had to rub his eyes to make sure he was not having a nightmare!”

Then he asked the great king, “My lord how did you come here in spite of all my guards? You were buried up to your neck in the cemetery — how is it you are spotlessly clean, sweet smelling, dressed in your own royal robes, and decorated with fine jewellery and the loveliest flowers?”

King Goodness told him the story of his escape from the band of jackals. He told of the two demons that came to him to settle their quarrel. And he told how they gratefully helped him with their magic powers.

On hearing this, the King of Kosala was overcome by his own shame. He bowed his head to King Goodness the Great and cried, “Oh great king, the stupid ferocious demons, who live by eating the flesh and drinking the blood of dead bodies — they recognised your supreme goodness. But I, who was lucky enough to be born as an intelligent and civilised human being — I have been too foolish to see how wonderful your pure goodness is.

“I promise never again to plot against you, my lord —- you who have gained such perfect harmlessness. And I promise to serve you forever as the truest of friends. Please forgive me, great king.” Then, as if he were a servant, the King of Kosala laid King Goodness the Great down on the royal bed, while he himself lay on a small couch.

The next day the King of Kosala called all his soldiers into the palace courtyard. There he publicly praised the king of Benares and asked his forgiveness once again. He gave back the kingdom and promised that he would always protect King Goodness. Then he punished his adviser, the criminal minister, and returned to Kosala with all his troops and elephants.

King Goodness the Great was sitting majestically on his golden throne, with its legs like those of a gazelle. He was shaded from the sun by the pure white royal umbrella. He taught his loyal subjects saying, “People of Benares wholesomeness begins with giving up the five unwholesome actions once and for all. The highest qualities of the good person, whether ruler or subject, are loving-kindness and compassion. Filled with these qualities, one cannot harm another —- no matter what the reason or the cost. No matter how dangerous the threat, one must persevere until the greatness of the good heart wins in the end.”

Throughout the rest of his reign, the people of Benares lived peacefully and happily. King Goodness the Great continued performing wholesome works. Eventually he died and was reborn as he deserved.

The moral is: Refusing to harm others, the good heart wins over all.

51. King Goodness the Great [Perseverance]

Link:https://hhdorjechangbuddhaiiiinfo.com/2023/08/15/king-goodness-the-great-perseverance/

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