Rinpoche shares some of his favourite Jataka tales-Stories from previous lives of the Buddha that are often in animal form.

Contents
by Maggy Jones

Part 1
Jataka stories are tales of the former lives of the Buddha. There are many books but some are just folk tales*

1. The king who killed an innocent Rishi (hermit) in temper. Lesson: The power of a strong dedication
2. The parrot who went to put out the forest fire. Lesson: Don’t say it’s impossible until you have tried.
3. The dead mouse, the sweets and the flowers. Lesson: How “Right Livelihood” can bring wealth and prosperity. (N.B. This is not a Jataka Story)
4. Q & A

Part 2

1. Devadatta and the schism – the lion, the buffalo calf and the jackal. Lesson: Beware of false friends.
2. Folk Tale: The boy who dreamt he was king. Lesson: Be prepared for many trials to achieve your dream.
3. The Four Friends, the elephant, the monkey, the bird, and the rabbit. Lesson: Show respect for your colleagues.
4. Q & A

* Mentioned by Rinpoche as true Jataka, “Tibetan Tales: Stories from the Dsangs Blun the Wise and the Foolish”.   ISBN 13: 9788177695038 Pilgrims Publishing, 2005