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*
The king who killed an innocent Rishi (hermit) in temper. Lesson: The power of a strong dedication
The parrot who went to put out the forest fire. Lesson: Don’t say it’s impossible until you have tried.
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)
Q & A
Part 2
Devadatta and the schism – the lion, the buffalo calf and the jackal. Lesson: Beware of false friends.
Folk Tale: The boy who dreamt he was king. Lesson: Be prepared for many trials to achieve your dream.
The Four Friends, the elephant, the monkey, the bird, and the rabbit. Lesson: Show respect for your colleagues.
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
