301. The Bodhisatta’s Thanksgiving
Once upon a time, when Brahmadatta was king of Benares, the Bodhisatta was born into a brahmin family of Kasi. When he grew up, he was thoroughly educated at Takkasila; after that he renounced the world, and took up the religious life, and with a band of disciples went to live in Himalayas. There he lived for a long time.
Once having need to procure salt and vinegar and to pass on the winter season, he along with his disciples went on pilgrimage through the country side, and in course of it they arrived at Benares. There they settled in the king’s park; and on the following morning he and his company went begging to some village outside the gates. The people gave him alms. Next day he sought alms in the city. The people were all glad to give him their alms. They clubbed together and made a collection; and provided plenty for the band of anchorites. After the presentation their spokesman offered his gift. The Bodhisatta replied, “Friend, where faith is, no gift is small.” And he returned his thanks in these verses following.
300. The Bodhisatta’s Son – As A Parrot
Once upon a time, when kingBrahmadatta reigned over Benares, the Bodhisatta became a Parrot, and dwelt in the Himalaya region. He was king over several thousands of his kind, who lived on the seaward side of the Himalayas; and one of his. When his son grew up to be strong, the father Parrot’s eyes became weak. The truth is, that parrots fly with great swiftness; wherefore when they be old it is the eye that weakens first. His son kept his parents in the nest, and would bring them food to feed them.
299. The Bodhisatta, The Mongoose And The Snake
Once on a time, when Brahmadatta was king of Benares, the Bodhisatta was born in a a brahmin family in a village. When he came of age, he was educated at Takkasila; then, renouncing the world he became a recluse, cultivated the Faculties and the Attainments, and dwelt in the region of Himalayas, living upon wild roots and fruits which was collected while going and coming back.
298. The Bodhisatta, The Lion And The Dove
Once upon a time when Brahmadatta was reigning in Benares, the Bodhisatta was a very wealthy merchant. He had a herdsman who was driving his cows to the forest for grazing, collect milk and take gee from it and give the merchant. He grew corns and rice and after harvest, he gave the produce from time to time to the merchant.
In the forest a lion was living and he was very fond of a dove. The cows afraid of the lion gave little milk and the quantity of gee also has gone down. The merchant asked why the quantity of gee is so little. Then the herdsman told him the reason.
