Tuesday, June 1, 2010

From Buddhism: Anabhirati Jataka (1)

Anabhirati Jataka (1) related by the Buddha at Jetavana to a layman who was upset on account of his wife’s misconduct. He used to visit the Jetavana monastery regularly, but later his visits became less frequent, and when the Buddha questioned him, he answered that he was somewhat upset on account of his wife’s misconduct. The Buddha consoled him saying: “Even long ago wise men advised you not to get angry at the naughtiness of women, but to preserve your equanimity; this, however, you have forgotten.” Then at the layman’s request, the Buddha related the following story.

Long ago the bodhisatta was a teacher of world repute at Baranasi. A pupil of his, finding that his wife was unfaithful to him, kept away from the classes for a few days. When the pupil made his appearance the teacher questioned him, and the pupil told his sad story. The teacher said: “My son, women cannot be regarded as private property. They are accommodating to all. Wise men, knowing their frailty, are not excited to anger against them.”

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