Yet More Tales from the Jatakas - English | by Anant Pai/ 3 In 1 Moral Story Book

The jatakas were originally written in Pali, between the 3rd century BC and the 5th century AD. They describe the lives of the Bodhisattvas, the incarnations of the Buddha before he gained enlightenment. The animals in these stories have the same faults and virtues as people. Some of them are foolish and vain, but some of them are brave and loyal friends. All living creatures die to be born again - so the Hindus believe. Siddhartha, who became the Buddha, was no exception. It is believed that several lifetimes as a Bodhisattva go into the making of the Buddha, the Enlightened One. The Bodhisattva has come in many forms - man, monkey, deer, elephant and lion. Whatever his mortal his mortal body, he has spread the message of justice and wisdom, tempered with compassion. This wisdom of right thinking and right living is preserved in the Jataka Tales. We cannot assign a definite date to the Jataka stories. Taking into account archaeological and literary evidence, it appears that they were compiled in the period from the third century B.C. to the fifth century A.D. They give us invaluable information about ancient Indian civilization, culture and philosophy. These stories never fail to point out the ultimate triumph of good over evil. Find out more by reading this engaging compilation by Amar Chitra Katha!