Buddhist Birth Stories Or J Taka Tales

The Commercial Introduction Entitled Nidana-Katha-The Story Of The Lineage-Translated From Prof. V. Fausboll`S Edition Of The Pali Text By T.W. Rhys Davids.

"Buddhist Birth Stories; or, Jataka Tales" is a remarkable collection of ancient tales translated by Robert Cæsar Childers and T. W. Rhys Davids, with editing by V. Fausbøll. This anthology offers readers a glimpse into the rich narrative tradition of Buddhism through the Jataka stories, which depict the previous lives of the Buddha. Through vivid storytelling and moral lessons, these tales illuminate Buddhist principles, making them accessible to a broader audience. With insightful translations and expert editing, this work serves as a valuable resource for those interested in Buddhist literature and philosophy.

First Published in 2000. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

When my concentrated mind was purified; I directed it to the knowledge of the recollection of past lives’ —The Buddha on the night of his enlightenment Associated with the living traditions of folk tale; drama and epic; the Jatakas recount the development of the Bodhisatta—the being destined to become the present Buddha in his final life—not just through the events of one lifetime but of hundreds. Written in Pali; the language of the Theravada Buddhist canon; the Jatakas comprise one of the largest and oldest collections of stories in the world dating from the fifth century BCE to the third century CE. Generations in South and South-East Asia have grown up with these tales. This volume contains twenty-six stories drawn from various ancient sources; and each story reflects one of the ten perfections—giving; restraint; renunciation; wisdom; strength; acceptance; truthfulness; resolve; loving kindness and equanimity. A detailed introduction elaborates on the ten perfections; explains the forms of enlightenment as well as the structure; and the historical and geographical contexts of the stories. Sarah Shaw brings to life the teachings of Buddhism for the scholar and lay reader alike.