| J.239 |
Haritamaata Jaataka |
The bodhisatva was once born as a green frog. A water-snake, looking for fish, fell
into a wicker cage set by men to catch fish. The fishes, seeing the snake, bit him
until he fled, dripping with blood. Exhausted, he lay on the edge of the water. Seeing
the green frog at the mouth of the cage, the snake asked him if the fish had done
right in attacking him. ‘Why not?’ asked the frog. ‘You eat fish which get into your
place and they eat you when you get in theirs.’ The fish, hearing this, fell upon
the snake and did him to death. The story was related in reference to Ajatasattu’s
war with Pasenadi. When he was victorious, Ajatasattu showed great delight, but when
he lost he was downcast. The snake is identified with Ajatasattu. |
57/464 |
Jaataka |
Khuddhaka |
J.ii.237ff. |
aggression |