Significance of Jataka tale
The Jataka tale refers to a collection of stories that depict the previous lives of the Buddha, emphasizing moral lessons and virtues. These narratives, widely recognized in various Buddhist traditions such as Theravada and Mahayana, illustrate themes of karma, rebirth, and spiritual teachings through the actions and experiences of the Buddha in past incarnations. The tales often feature animals and serve to convey important ethical lessons, enriching both spiritual understanding and cultural expressions within Buddhist literature.
Synonyms: Moral story, Parable, Ancient tale, Folk tale, Buddhist story, Moral parable, Fable, Folklore
In Dutch: Jataka-verhaal; In Finnish: Jataka tarina; In Spanish: Cuento de Jataka; In German: Jataka-Geschichte; In Malay: Kisah jataka; In Swedish: Jataka saga; In French: Conte de Jataka
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Jataka tale'
The Jataka tales in Buddhism encompass 547 stories detailing the previous lives of the Buddha, imparting moral lessons often through animal characters, highlighting karma, virtues, and the spiritual journey of the Bodhisattva.
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) Stories from previous lives that reveal the actions and lessons learned by individuals like Bakabrahma concerning the nature of life and rebirth.[1] (2) The narrative context where the story of the white elephant is rooted.[2] (3) Stories in which the past lives of the Buddha are recounted, often featuring moral lessons through animals.[3] (4) Stories from Buddhist literature that illustrate moral lessons, often featuring animals.[4] (5) Stories that likely contain moral lessons related to events mentioned about king Yeou t鈥檌en.[5]
From: Bodhisattvacharyavatara
(1) Stories of the Buddha's previous lives that illustrate the principles of karma and the qualities of bodhicitta.[6]
From: The gods of northern Buddhism
(1) Stories about the previous lives of Buddha, illustrating his moral teachings and values.[7]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) A narrative that recounts previous births of the Buddha, imparting moral lessons and wisdom.[8]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) Stories noted for their moral lessons; mentioned as part of the decor in the palace.[9]
From: Maha Buddhavamsa鈥擳he Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Stories about the previous lives of the Buddha, illustrating lessons in morality and spirituality.[10]
From: Guide to Tipitaka
(1) An extensive work in verses detailing the previous existences of Gotama Buddha, comprising five hundred and forty-seven stories.[11]
From: The Great Chariot
(1) Stories describing the previous lives of the Buddha, demonstrating moral lessons and virtues.[12]
Hindu concept of 'Jataka tale'
The Jataka tales in Hinduism are narratives of the Buddha's previous lives, emphasizing moral lessons and virtues, exploring themes of karma, and connecting past and present identities within the context of moral teachings and Buddhist philosophy.
From: Bhesajjakkhandhaka (Chapter on Medicine)
(1) Stories of the previous lives of the Buddha that illustrate moral lessons and virtues.[13] (2) Stories recounting the former lives of the Buddha, also present in the Mulasarvastivada version, related to the themes of the Chapter on Medicine.[14]
The concept of Jataka tale in local and regional sources
The Jataka tale encompasses traditional stories featuring moral lessons, often including a peacock, recounting Buddha's past lives and teachings, while also enhancing the comprehension of associated Buddhist artworks through vivid storytelling.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A narrative that recounts the legendary origins of the Buddha, illustrating a past life as a golden peacock.[15] (2) A traditional story featuring moral lessons, in which a peacock plays an important role.[16] (3) Stories from Buddhist texts that inform and enrich the understanding of related artworks.[17]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) A story recounted by Buddha during his lifetime that relates to his past incarnations and moral teachings.[18]