Jātaka is a Pali word meaning “birth-story” (jāta—“that which is born” and ka—from katheti—“to relate”). The Jātaka may simply be Indian folklore reworked to suit Buddhist aims, but they are also believed to be the Buddha’s own account of his previous lives. In each of these tales, the Bodhisatta [one committed to awakening] is seen perfecting those qualities that led to his full awakening as the Buddha of our era. Scenes from the Jātaka appear on the carved stone railings at Sanchi and Bharhut … [Read more...]
Margo McLoughlin
The Good Sal Tree: Bhadda-Sala Jataka, No. 465
Long ago, on the banks of the Ganges, in the holy city of Benares, there was a king named Brahmadatta. He was a good king and he ruled his kingdom well. He ruled it so well, in fact, that he had nothing much to do. There were no wars and trade prospered. Generosity and kindness flourished, all from the example of the king. Now there were many other small kingdoms in the land of the Rose Apple (Jambudipe)—the great land we now call India—and most were plagued with problems of one sort or … [Read more...]