Category Archives: JATAKA TALES
84. The Bodhisatta – As Elephant Trainer
Once upon a time, when Brahmadatta was reigning in Benares, the Bodhisatta was born as an elephant trainer’s son. When he grew up, he was carefully taught all that pertains to the training of elephants. He was in the service of a king who was an enemy to the king of Benares. He trained this king’s royal elephant to perfection.
83. The Bodhisatta – As Dwarf Brahmin
Once upon a time when Brahmadatta was reigning in Benares, the Bodhisatta was born a Brahmin, somewhat of a crooked little dwarf. When he was grown up he studied under a teacher of world wide fame at Takkasila. There he learnt the Three Vedas and the Eighteen Branches of knowledge, and completed his education. And he became known as the sage Little Bowman.
82. The Bodhisatta – As Atthisena
Once upon a time when Brahmadatta was reigning in Benares, the Bodhisatta was born in a brahmin household in a certain village, and they called his name young Atthisena. When he grew up, he learned all the arts at Takkasila, and afterwards seeing the misery of desires he took the religious life, and reaching the higher Faculties and Attainments, he dwelt long in the Himalayas; then coming down among men to get salt and vinegar, he reached Benares, and after staying in a garden he came begging next day to the king’s court.
81. The Bodhisatta – As Asadisa Kumara
Once upon a time, when Brahmadatta was king of Benares, the Bodhisatta was conceived as the son of the Queen. She delivered a male child and was named as Asadisa Kumara, Prince Peerless. About the time he was able to walk, the Queen conceived one who was also to be a wise being. She delivered another son and named him as Brahmadatta Kumara, or Prince Heaven sent.
