Sweetness And Light
A long time ago in India there was a King named Ashoka. Although King Ashoka had not attained enlightenment, he not only believed in Buddhism but also performed all...
Giving Up Oneself For The Dharma
In ancient times, there was a compassionate prince called Tanmoqian. He had a strong resolve to practice good deeds and learn the Buddha’s teachings, so he sent people to...
The Offerings Of A Miser
Long ago, there lived a rich old man who was a lecher and skinflint by nature. He lusted after pleasure but couldn’t bear to part with his money. One...
The Filial Parrot
Once, when the Buddha was teaching in Rajagaha, he said to the monks, “There are two transgressions that have immediate negative consequences, and surely lead a person into hell....
The Novice Attains Long Life
A long time ago, an arhat received a novice. One day while meditating, the arhat foresaw that the novice had only seven days left to live. In compassion, the...
Extinguishing The Fire
“Fire! Fire!” In the midst of a great feast, the villagers turned their heads in a drunken stupor. Through their hazy vision, they saw rapidly spreading flames, threatening to...
The Danger Of Indolence
As a matter of importance, the Buddha often exhorted the monks to dedicate themselves fully to their discipline. Nothing is permanent; everything is transitory. And if one is able...
The Beginning Of The Buddha’s Compassion
By the end of the three-month summer retreat period, the bhiksus had attained a certain degree of realization in the Dharma, and their bodies and minds were purified and...
Gold In The Water
There once was a fool, who one day walked down to the banks of a large pond. When he looked into the water, he saw what appeared to be...
The Well Under the Tree
One day, the Buddha shared a story with his disciples, with the hope that they could often contemplate on its meaning. A long time ago, there lived a hunter....