| J.151 |
Raajovaada Jaataka |
Two kings, Brahmadatta of Benares (the bodhisatva) and Mallika of Kosala, while journeying
in disguise in order to discover if anyone in their respective kingdoms could tell
them of any faults which they (the kings) possessed, meet in a narrow path and a
dispute arises between the charioteers as to who should give way. It is discovered
that both are of the same age and power. Each driver sings the praises of his own
master, but then they discover that Mallika is good to the good and bad to the bad,
while Brahmadatta is good to both the good and bad. Mallikaís charioteer acknowledges
Brahmadatta as the superior and gives way. The Jataka is related to Pasenadi who
comes to the Buddha after having had to decide a difficult case involving moral turpitude.
He is satisfied that he has done well, and the Buddha agrees with him that to administer
justice impartially is the way to heaven. Mallika is identified with Ananda and his
driver with Moggallana. Brahmadattaís driver was Sariputta. |
57/001 |
Jaataka |
Khuddhaka |
J.ii.001ff. |
justice |