| J.409 |
Da.lhadhamma Jaataka |
Once the Bodhisatva was born as minister to Dalhadhamma, king of Benares. The king
possessed a she-elephant who was of great service to him and whom he greatly honoured.
When she grew old, however, all her honours were withdrawn and whe was reduced to
drawing the royal-potterís dung-cart. One day she saw the Bodhisatva and fell at
his feet. He interceded with the king on her behalf and all her honours were restored.
The story was told in reference to Udanaís she-elephant Bhaddavatika. In her old
age the king neglected her, but one day she complained to the Buddha, who admonished
the king on the duty of gratitude to those who had once been of great service. The
elephant was the same in both stories. |
59/362 |
Jaataka |
Khuddhaka |
J.iii.384ff. |
gratitude |