Class Four Buddhist Religious Studies Fourenglish buddhits.pdfChapter Subject Page One Gautam Buddha...

Prescribed by National Curriculum and Textbook Board as a Textbook (Bangla version) for Class Four from 2005, English version of the book from academic year 2007.

Buddhist Religious Studies

Class Four

Written byDr. Sunanda Barua

Nipul Kanti Barua

Nargis begum

Edited byDr. Sumongal Barua

Translated byMahammad Mizanur Rahman

Amit Prasad mutsuddi

NATIONAL CURRICULUM & TEXTBOOK BOARD, DHAKA

Published by National Curriculum and Textbook Board

69-70, Motijheel Commercial Area, Dhaka-1000.

[All rights reserved by the publisher]Is permitted to print and sell 500 (Five hundred)

Copies of the book for the year 2009 Only.Circular No.317 Date: 15/12/08 Allotment Letter No. 717/08/09 Date : 23/02/09

Rahmania Offest Press, Banglabazer, Dhaka- 1100First Print (Bangla version) : September 2005First Print (English Version) : February 2007

2nd Print (English version) : March 2008

Reprint (English Version) : April 2009

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Cover & Illustrations:Domion Neoton Pinaru

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Printing Supervision Md. Murshid Aktar

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Preface

For improving the existing quality of Primary Education in Bangladesh, National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) in collaboration with PEDP-2 initiated an extensive program for development of curriculum and teaching learning materials in 2002. In the light of this program the curriculum, textbooks and other teaching learning materials of Primary levels have been prepared, revised and evaluated.

The textbook entitled, 'Buddhist Religious Studies' has been prepared on the basis of attainable competencies for the students of Class Five. The subject matter of the textbook is derived from the basic issues of the religion familiar to the children through their family practices. This will facilitate our young learners to know how they can make best use of this religious knowledge & values in their day-to-day life.

The contents of the book are analyzed and explained in such a manner with practical examples, illustrations and system of planned activities, that students are inspired to study the subject with a keen interest.

This book is originally published in Bangla. From this year NCTB is publishing the English version of the textbook. English is the language of choice in today's globalized world. To facilitate the verbal and written communication skills of our future citizens and suitably prepare them for international competition, we decided to translate the original Bangla textbooks into English. It's pleasant to note that the number of English medium schools in Bangladesh is increasing very fast. In this context NCTB decided to publish all the textbooks of Primary level in English. This was a big endeavour for us. Despite our all efforts the first edition may not be totally error free. However, in the future editions we shall try to remove all errors and discrepancies.

Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks and gratitude to those who have made their valuable contributions in writing, editing, evaluating and translating this book. I sincerely hope that the book will be useful to those for whom it has been prepared.

Prof. Md. Mostafa Kamaluddin Chairman

National Curriculum and Textbook Board

Dhaka

Chapter Subject Page

One Gautam Buddha 1-9

Two Triratna 10-17

Three Vandana 18-24

Four Worship (Puja) 25-30

Five The Ashtashil 31-40

Six Gatha (The Panegyric) 41-44

Seven The Sutta Pitak 45-49

Eight Religious Rite 50-56

Nine Work and its consequences 57-62

Ten The Chaturarya Satya 63-67

Eleven Holy Places of Pilgrimage 68-78

Twelve Jatak 79-92

Thirteen The disciples and the 93-103 Followers of Gautam Buddha

Contents

Nimitta meanscauses or things happening.

BaishaliAshar

Baishakh

Triratna

Trilokagga

or Shasta.

Trilokagga.

Damyapurushes Sarathi.

They are called Supratipanna

there is

Chapter Four

Worship (Puja)'Worship' means to offer respect or honour. The Buddhists worship the Triratana. Worshipping Buddha means to remember the virtues of Buddha with respect. To worship Dharma and Sangha also means the same. Bhagwan Buddha said, "It is good to worship the honourable persons. Worship is the stairs of development of human life".

The Buddhists offer flowers, light, water, food, etc., to the Triratana. Various kinds of things are required for worshipping. Different materials are used at different worships. They are dishes, glasses, candles, incense, the incense-stand, foods, water, etc. During the worship, you will know about these materials.

Worshipping is an act of piety. It removes greed, envy and illusion from the mind. The mind is purified. A sense of piety develops in the mind. Man is benefited much by it. This worship can be performed at Bihar or at home. In this chapter, we shall learn about the water worship and the food worship.

The Water WorshipWhat is drunk is a drink. We offer water, sherbet, etc., to Buddha. This offering is called the water worship. What are the materials of the water worship? They are clean water, pure water, etc.How do you perform the water worship?

Worship needs cleanliness. You will wash your face and hands well.

Buddhist Religious Studies26

You will wear clean dress. You will put pure water into a clean pot. With the pot of water in your hands you will kneel down before the picture or the image of Buddha. First you will do the Triratana Vandana with perfect attention.

You will always remember Buddha. Then you will sing the panegyric of the water worship. After that, keeping the pot of water before the image of Buddha, you will offer respect with the palms of your hands put together. The panegyric of the water worship in Pali is given below:

Buddhassanen pujemi mochanatthay battato,Dakaggamagga sinchato labhami paramang sukhang.

English TranslationI am worshipping Buddha with this water to free myself from the worldly cycle. Offering this water I as if achieve supreme happiness from one birth to the next.

The Water Worship in Verse

By offering this water brought by us, We are worshipping and worshipping Buddha Bhagwan. Thirst quenching pure drinking water,It's clean, holy and very cold.We remember you, offering you cold water, As if we have happiness in every succeeding birth.

The Food WorshipThe food worship is to be performed before twelve o'clock at noon. Now we shall learn about the materials and rules of this worship.

Buddhist Religious Studies 27

The materials of the food worship are dish, water and foods. Now we shall learn how to perform the worship.

You will wash the dish well. You will put rice, delicious curries, various kinds of fruits, sweet, etc., on the dish very nicely. You will keep the dish in the place before Buddha. You will give a glass of water with it. You will kneel down with the palms of your two hands put together. First you will perform the Triratana Vandana.

If the Bhikkhu is present, you will recite with him. Or you will recite yourself. At the end of worship you will bow to Buddha with the palms of your hands put together.

Devotees performing the food worship


The panegyric of the food worship is given below:

Adhibasetu no bhante bhojanang parikappitang,Anukampang upadaj patiganhatu uttamang.

English Translation

Oh the religious master, good food according to your taste has been prepared. Please, have this food.

The Food Worship in Verse

There are enough good smelled food and curries

And many other things to be eaten, sipped and drunk.

I've offered all the good foods

Accept it and shower kindness to me.

With this Vandana, this worship and with this enlightenment

Let all thirst and all sufferings be overcome.

You will memorize the panegyrics. In festivals and rituals you will recite them in chorus. You will offer worship to Buddha regularly in the Bihar. Worship can also be offered before the image or the picture of Buddha in the houses. Regular worship will gradually develop a sense of charity in the mind. The mind will be purified. You will be kind to the poor, the helpless and the distressed. You will give food to the hungry. You will give away clothes to the needy. You will give shelter to the homeless. As a result of all this charity, your sufferings will be relieved.


Exercise

A. Give tick (�) marks against the right answer:

1. What do you mean by 'worship'?

a. To read the Tripitak b. To recite the panegyric

c. To offer respect or honour d. To read Sutra.

2. Worship is the stairs of ..........of human life.

a. Development b. Demotion

c. Recess d. Recognition

3. When to perform the food worship?

a. In the afternoon b. Before twelve o'clock at noon

c. Before twelve o'clock at night d. In the evening

4. Regularly you will offer to Buddha-

a. Respect b. Honour

c. Flowers d. Worship

5. What develops in the mind if you worship regularly?

a. Absence of malice b. A sense of charity

c. Envy d. Revenge

B. Fill in the blanks:

1. What is drunk is a ...........

2. You will always remember ..............

3. You will give..... to the hungry.


4. You will give away clothes to the ⁄⁄⁄⁄.

5. You will give ⁄⁄..to the homeless.

C. Answer in brief:

1. What are the materials of the water worship?

2. How will you sit when you will offer worship?

3. What materials are required for the food worship? 4. Tell how to offer the food worship? 5. Translate the Pali panegyric of the food worship into Bengali.

D. Answer the following questions:

1. What are the merits of worship?

2. Tell the panegyric of the water worship in Pali from memory.

3. Translate the Pali panegyric of the water worship into Bengali.

4. Recite the panegyric of the food worship in Bengali verse.

5. Tell the panegyric of the food worship in Pali from memory.

Chapter Five

The Ashtashil

Buddha has asked to follow some rules to build up man's

character. These are called Shil. By a sushil boy we mean a

good boy. Those who follow the Shil are called the Shilwan.

Buddha has described the merits of following the Shil. It

reduces mental pains. With the influence of the Shil, pains of

the body-words-the mind are removed. The mind is controlled.

The Shilwan possesses wealth. His fame spreads around. The

smell of the flower blows only in favour of the wind. But the

smell of the Shil blows equally in favour of and against of the

wind. The Shilwan attends all meetings without hesitation. The

person who follows the Shil dies consciously. After death he is

blessed. He is taken to heaven. Nirban can easily be achieved.

The merits of following the Shil are many, which cannot be

described. It is very necessary for everyone to follow the Shil.

There are two kinds of Shils for the home keepers: the

Panchashil and the Ashtashil. You have learnt about the

Panchashil in class three which are keeping away from killing

animals, taking things which are not given, telling lies, doing

illegal sexual activities and taking drugs.


Now we shall learn what 'Uposath' is. The world, 'Upostha'

means 'Fast'. The Uposath Shil has been introduced to make our

life elevated.

The last day of the dark fortnight, the full moon and the eighth

day of either fortnight are called the Uposath days. On these

days the devotees perform the Ashtashil. This Ashtashil is

called the Uposath Shil.

All the Buddha in the past have instructed to follow the Uposath

Shil. The tradition of following the Uposath has continued from

long past. For the well-being of the godly people the great pious

Buddha has also introduced the Uposath Shil.

Now we shall learn how to observe the Ashtashil or the Uposath

Shil. On the fasting days you will rise very early in the

morning. After washing your face and hands and taking bath,

you will wear clean dress. You will go to the Bihar, taking the

materials of worship and offerings with you. While going to the

Bihar, you will remember the virtues of Buddha. You will walk

on the road in a controlled way. Do not walk confusedly. After

having performed the Buddha worship and Vandana, you will

go to the Bhikkhu. You will then kneel down with the palms of

your two hands put together. Then you will perform the

Uposath Shil prayer and accept it.


Devotees along with the boys and girls performing the Ashtashil prayer

The Ashtashil Prayer

Okas ahang bhante, tisranensaha atthanga samannagtangUpostha silang dhammang jachami anuggahang katwa silang deth me bhante.Dutijampi ahang bhante, tisranensaha atthanga samannagtangUpostha silang dhammang jachami anuggahang katwa silang deth me bhante.Tatijampi ahang bhante, tisranensaha atthanga samannagtangUpostha silang dhammang jachami anuggahang katwa silang deth me bhante.


You have performed the Upostha Shil prayer in Pali.

Its Bengali translation is given below:

English Translation

Oh my religious master, give me time. I am performing the Ashtashil prayer with Trisharana. Please give me the Shil.

In the second time also oh my religious master, give me time. I am performing the Ashtashil prayer with Trisharana. Please give me the Shil.

In the third time also oh my religious master, give me time. I am performing the Ashtashil prayer with Trisharana. Please give me the Shil.

The Ashtashil prayer is over.

Now the religious master will say: Jamhang badami tang badeth.

(Say what I am saying.)

You will say: Ahong Bhante.

(Yes, the religious master, we're saying.)

Now the religious master will give the Ashtashil.

He will utter the Shil one by one. You will utter them one after another.


The Ashtashil in Pali

1. Panatipata beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

2. Adinnadana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

3. Abrahmacharija beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

4. Musabada beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

5. Sura-merej majjapamadaththana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

6. Bikalbhojana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

7. Nacchagitabadita bisukdassan malagandha bilepan dharanmandan bibhusanatthana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

8. Ucchasajana-mahasajana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

After taking the Ashtashil in Pali, you will learn its Bengali translation. It is given below:

The English Translation1. I shall keep myself away from killing animals-I accept this lesson.

2. I shall keep myself away from taking things, not given to me-I accept this lesson.

3. I shall keep myself away from non-bramachrya-I accept this lesson.

4. I shall keep myself away from telling lies-I accept this lesson.


5. I shall keep myself away from taking intoxicating & alcoholic drinks -I accept this lesson.

6. I shall keep myself away from eating food in the afternoon-I accept this lesson.

7. I shall keep myself away from watching dance, hearing songs and music, visiting festivals, using perfuneed cosmetics and getting well-dressed- I accept this lesson.

8. I shall keep myself away from lying on a high posh and or a grand and comfortable bed- I accept this lesson.

The religious master has given us the Ashtashil. We have accepted it. The religious master will read the Sutra wishing us our well-being. When the reading of the Sutra will be over, we shall do Vandana to him addressing him three times as Sadhu.

Now we shall learn what the difference between the Panchashil and the Ashtashil is. There are five Shils in the Panchashil. And the Ashtashil has the additional three Shils. Those are as follows:

6. Bikalbhojana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

7. Nacchagitabadita bisukdassan malagandha bilepan dharanmandan bibhusanatthana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

8. Ucchasajana-mahasajana beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.


Those are in English :

6. I shall keep myself away from eating food in the afternoon-I accept this lesson.

7. I accept the lesson of keeping myself away from watching dance, hearing songs and music, visiting festivals, using perfumed cosmetics and getting well- dressed.

8. I accept the lesson of keeping myself away from lying on a high posh and a grant comfortable bed.

The third Shil of the Ashtashil is different from that of the Panchashil. In the Ashtashil it is as follows:

3. Abrahmacharija beramani sikkhapdang samadijami.

In English :

3. I shall keep myself away from Non-brahmacharya.

Those who manage their houses should perform the Panchashil everyday. The devotees perform the Ashtashil on every Uposath day. If it is not possible to go to the Bihar, the Uposath Shil can also be taken in one's own house.

You will also perform the Ashtashil on the Uposath day. It has a lot of good effect on us. A story about its good effects is given below. The story is:

There was a rich man named Sudatta in Shravasti during the time of Bhagwan Buddha. He was kind and generous. He was like parents of the poor and helpless. Everyday he gave away


food to the helpless. So he was known as 'Anathpindic'. He was the first domestic worshipper of Buddha. He was a great Shilwan and pious. He performed the Uposath Shil with great care. It was the tradition of his family that everybody would perform the Uposath.

The Anathpindic had a very faithful servant. On an Uposath day he went to plough the land far away. When he came back in the afternoon, he saw everybody had taken Uposath. He felt sorry. It was then late afternoon. The servant took the Ashtanga Uposath Shil without having anything although it was half- Uposath.

The night was far-advanced. Everybody fell asleep. The servant could not sleep. He was very tired for his whole day's work. Besides, he was fasting. He felt pain into his stomach. The pain was gradually increasing. Anathpindic asked him to take honey. But the pious servant did not take it at all because he would perform the Uposath though half the prayer. At last he died. After his death he was reborn in the Himalayan areas as the god of trees.

He could not perform the Uposath in full. Otherwise the servant could be reborn more upward to the heaven.

Shil is very important in the life of man. It is the basis of all good works. The Shilwan person is praised for his patience and he possesses wealth. He enjoys divine bliss after his death. The virtuous and respectful devotees perform the Ashtashil. You will also perform the Astashil on the Uposath days. As a result, your life will be perfect and virtuous.


Exercise

A. Give tick (√) marks against the right answer:

1. How does a Shilwan person die?

a. Unconsciously b. Consciously c. Painfully d. Sorrowfully

2. What do you mean by the word, 'Uposath'?

a. Fasting b. Asceticism c. Habit d. Good smell

3. Who performs the Uposath Shil?

a. The householder b. The mendicants c. The teachers d. The devotees

4. How many times is 'Sadhu' uttered after the reading of Sutra is over?

a. One time b. Three times

c. Two times d. Four times

5. How was the pious servant reborn?

a. As the god of trees b. As a man

c. As a monkey d. As the god of water


1. By a⁄⁄⁄. we mean a⁄⁄ boy.

2. Those who ⁄⁄⁄. the Shil are called the⁄⁄...

3. The ⁄⁄.of the flower⁄⁄.. only in favour of the ⁄⁄.

4. It is ⁄⁄⁄ necessary for everyone to follow the⁄⁄⁄.


5. All the⁄⁄.in the past has⁄..to follow the Uposath............

6. You will kneel⁄⁄.with the palms of your two hands ⁄⁄⁄.together.

C. Answer in brief:

1. What do you mean by the word, Uposath?

2. How does the person who follows the Shil attend the meeting?

3. How does the person who follows die?

4. Why is the Ashtashil called the Shil?

5. Where was the pious servant produced after his death?


1. What is the Shil?

2. Describe the merits of performing the Shil.

3. What is called the Uposath Shil?

4. Tell the Ashtashil prayer in Pali and Bengali.

5. Write the Ashtashil in Pali. Tell its Bengali translation

6. What are the differences between the Ashtashil and the Panchashil?

7. Write in your own words the story of the pious servant.

Chapter Six

Gatha (The Panegyric)

Gatha is the Shlok or part of the Sutra. The Sutta consists of some Gathas. The language of Gathas is Pali. These are like poems. Bhagwan Buddha has instructed people in Gathas for the welfare of mankind. The Sutra Pitak contains most of the Gathas. You will memorize the Gathas. You will recite them correctly and clearly. It is good to learn the names of some of the Sutra. Those are Karaniya Maitri Sutra, Parabhava Sutra, Ratan Sutra, etc.

Reciting and hearing the Gathas are the acts of piety. It makes one respect one's parents and seniors more. One is inspired to lead a pious life. It makes life beautiful and purified.

Some of the Gathas are given in the Bengali poetic form-

1. Serve the scholar, not the illiterate,

It is a good deed to be sure. ( Mangal Sutra)

You will not serve the ignorant. You will respect and serve the learned person. It is indeed a good work.

2. The pious do the acts of piety time and again,

Virtues on earth bring happiness in heaven. (Lokaniti)

Good people do virtuous works. For, virtues are at the root of all happiness.


3. He who sleeps and gossips all the while, Never thinks of time, Lazy, dispirited and angered, He would never shine in this world. (Parabhav)

You will not waste your time in sleep and gossip. You will never get angry as well. He who has no inspiration for work cannot shine in life. He is, in fact, a defeated person.

4. Giving up bad associations, Be with good people, praising them always; Devote yourself to virtues days and nights, Think of transience in life all the times. (Sujan Kanda)

Give up evil companies. Praise wise men. Earn virtues days and nights. Always think of impermanence of life.

5. Enmity is subdued never with foes, Friendship wins it, Tradition goes. (Yamak Barga)

Enmity is never removed by enmity; it is removed by friendship; and it goes with the ancient religion.

6. Be on the path of religion, leave the evils, The pious are blessed in both the worlds. (Lokaniti)

You will perform the religious rites well, do not do the evils. The pious live a very happy life in this world and the hereafter.

The six Gathas mentioned above contain a lot of instructions. These Gathas have been taken from the books, Sutta Nipat, Dhammapada, Lokaniti and so on.


Tathagata Buddha instructed these Gathas for the welfare of man. These are essentials in our day to day life. These Gathas contain instructions on religion, moral and daily activities. You will read these Gathas with attention. You will understand the instructions into the Gathas. Try to abide by these instructions. As a result, everybody will love and respect you. Great men are respected because they led their lives according to these moral instructions.

Exercise


1. The language of Gatha is-

a. Bengali b. Sanskrit

c. Pali d. English

2. Which Pitaka contains most of the Gathas?

a. Binay b. Sutta

c. AbhiDhamma d. Dhammapada

3. Whom do you serve?

a. The ignorant b. The uneducated

c. The dishonest person d. The learned

4. What will you earn days and nights?

a. Wealth b. Virtues

c. Friendship d. Food


Left Right1. The Sutra consists of 2. You will not serve3. He who has no inspiration for work4. Give up 5. You will perform the religious

a. cannot shine in life.b. rites well.c. the ignorant. d. some Gathas. e. evil companies.

5. What is enmity removed with?

a. Friendship b. Weapons c. Intellect d. Strategy


1. Enmity is subdued⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄with⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄..,

⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄..wins it, ⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄.goes.

C. Match the phrases on the left with the ones on the right:

D. Answer in brief:

1. Tell the names of some of the Sutras.

2. Through which has Bhagwan Buddha instructed?

3. Tell a Gatha from memory, by which man is benefited.

4. Tell the instructions of Karaniya Sutra.

5. What will you remember all the while?

E. Answer the following questions:

1. What is Gatha? What comes up if you recite the Gathas?

2. Tell the Gatha of Parabhava Sutra from memory.

3. Write the Bengali translation of Sujan Kanda.

4. Recite a Gatha from Lokaniti.

Chapter Seven

The Sutta Pitak

You know the Tripitak is the holy religious book for the Buddhists. The Tripitak has three parts:

1. The Binay Pitak

2. The Sutta Pitak

3. The AbhiDhamma Pitak

Now the brief history of compilation of the Tripitak is given below:

Bhagwan Buddha got the Mahaparinirban. It was necessary to compile his religious messages. Three months after Buddha had got the Mahaparinirban, Mahakashyapa Thero, one of his disciples called a religious conference. This religious conference is called the Sangiti in the history of Buddhism. The venue was decided. It was the Saptaparni Cave at Rajgriha. Five hundred wise Theros attended the conference. Dharma-Binay of Buddha was compiled. Upali Thero recited the Binay. Dharma was recited by Ananda Thero. Ajatshatru, the king of Magadha, patronized this Sangiti.

The second Sangiti was organized after one hundred years of the Mahaparinirban of Buddha. Jasha Thero took initiative to call this Sangiti. Seven hundred Theros attended the second Sangiti. The Dharma-Binay was recited again in this Sangiti. Emperor Kalashok was the patron of the second Sangiti.


During the third century BC, Ashok was the great Buddhist Emperor of India. Patliputra was the capital of his large kingdom. The third Sangiti was held with the patronization of Emperor Ashok. One thousand Theros attended it under the leadership of Moggalliputt Tiss. With their efforts, the Dharma-Binay was divided into three parts: Binay, Sutta and AbhiDhamma. In this way, the Tripitak was compiled in the third Sangiti.

You have learnt about the Binay Pitak in class three. Now we shall learn about the Sutta Pitak.

There are five Nikays in the Sutta Pitak. Those are as follows:

1. Digh Nikay 2. Majjhim Nikay

3. Sangjukta Nikay 4. Anguttar Nikay

5. Khuddak Nikay

Brief descriptions of the above Nikays have been given below:

1. Digh Nikay: There are three Baggas in Digh Nikay: Silkkhandha Bagga, Mahabagga and Patig Bagga. The Suttas of these Barga are very long. Nibbana with donation, the Shil and Bhabna (thoughts) has been explained in these Suttas.

2. Majjhim Nikay: This Nikay is also divided into three parts. These are-Mul Pangangas, Majjhim Pangangas and Upari Pangangas. The main objectives of writing these are to teach morals through stories and instructions.


3. Sangjukta Nikay: Sangjukta Nikay consists of five Baggas.

Those are-Sagatha Bagga, Nidan Bagga, Khandhak Bagga,

Salayatan Bagga and Mahabagga. In these books, moral and

religious rites have been discussed.

4. Anguttar Nikay: This Nikay consists of eleven Nipats.

Those Nipats are-Eik Nipat. Duk Nipat,Tik Nipat, Chatukka

Nipat, Panchak Nipat, Chakka Nipat, Sattak Nipat, Atthak

Nipat, Nabak Nipat, Dasak Nipat and Ekadasak Nipat.

Those Nipats contain the messages of Bhagwan Buddha

elaborately.

5. Khuddak Nikay: The word, Khuddak means little. Though

it Kshudra or little by name, it is very large in volume.

Number of books of this Nikay, written in prose and in

verse, is fifteen. Here is a list of the books: 1. Kuddak Path

2. Dhammapad 3. Udan 4. Itibuttak 5. Sutta Nipat 6. Pet

Batthu 7. Biman Batthu 8. Therogatha 9. Therigatha 10.

Niddes 11. Jataka 12. Patisambhida Magga 13. Apadan 14.

Buddhabangsa 15. Chariya Pitaka. The instructions of

Bhagwan Buddha in these books of the Sutta Pitaka.

Everybody should obey these instructions.

When you grow up, you will collect these books. You will also

inspire others to read those.


Exercise


1. Who is the Thero that called the first Sangiti?

a. Upali b. Ananda

c. Mahakashyap d. Jasha

2. How many Theros attended the third Sangiti?

a. 500 b. 1000

c. 1500 d. 2000

3. How many Nikays are there in the Sutta Pitak?

a. Five b. Seven

c. Nine d. Eleven

4. Which Nikay do the two books belong to?

a. Digh Nikay b. Sangjukta Nikay

c. Anguttar Nikay d. Khuddak Nikay

5. How many parts is Majhim Nikay divided into?

a. Two b. Three

c. Four d. Five


1. The patron of the first Sangiti was the king of Magadha⁄⁄⁄⁄..

2. .⁄⁄⁄..was the capital of his large empire.


3. The Sutta Pitaa is divided into ⁄⁄⁄. Nikays.

4. Majhim Nikay is divided into ⁄⁄⁄parts.

5. Number of books in Khuddak Nikay is ⁄⁄⁄⁄

C. Answer in brief:

1. What is called Sangiti?

2. During the reign of which emperor was the second Sangiti held?

3. Who was the emperor Ashok?

4. How many Baggas are there in Digh Nikay? What are they?

5. How many Nipats is Anguttar Nikay divided?

6. Write the names of five books in Khuddak Nikay.


1. Describe the first Sangiti.

2. How was the Tripitak compiled in the third Sangiti?

3. Write the names of five Nikays of the Sutta Pitak.

4. Describe Sangjukta Nikay.

5. Prepare a list of the books in Khuddak Nikay.

Chapter Eight

Religious RitesYou have learnt about the Buddha Purnima, the Asharhi Purnima, the Prabarana Purnima and the Maghi Purnima. The glorious events of Buddha's life took place during these Purnimas. On these Purnimas, the Buddhists remember those events and offer respect to them. In this chapter, we shall learn about some other memorable Purnimas. Those are-1. The Shrabani Purnima 2. The Madhu Purnima or the Bhadra Purnima 3. The Aswini Purnima 4. The Kartiki Purnima 5. The Falguni Purnima. These Purnimas are not less important. Those Purnimas have been discussed below.

The Shrabani PurnimaThe Buddhist religious book is the Tripitak. The conference for compiling the messages of Buddha is called the Sangiti. In the fourth month after the Parinirban the first Sangiti started during the Shrabani Purnima. The venue of this Sangiti was the Saptaparni Cave of the Bevar Mountain near Rajgriha. Mahakashyap Thero presided over the Sangiti. This Sangiti was held with the help of Ajatshatru, the king of Magadha. The Shrabani purnima is noteworthy for the first Sangiti.

The Madhu Purnima

The Madhu Purnima is a remarkable Purnima. As it is observed in the Bengali month of Bhadra, it is also called the Bhadra Purnima. Buddha observed the Barshabas for forty-five years.


The monkey offering honey

Once he observed the Barshabas into a dense forest called Parileya. Wild animals would offer respect to him with the influence of Karuna, his friend.

In this forest, there was a big elephant named Parileya. The elephant, offering him sweet fruits, served and worshipped Buddha.

A monkey saw the elephant worshipping and giving offering to him. The monkey felt an urge to offer something to Buddha. But the elephant had offered him all the sweet fruits. He thought he would offer something new to Buddha.

The monkey saw a beehive in a tree. The bees had left the beehive. But there was still some honey left in the beehive. The monkey thought it was the right thing to offer. 'I would offer honey from different flowers to Buddha. I would worship him.' The monkey offered the beehive with great respect to Buddha.


Buddha took the beehive from the monkey. He drank the honey. The monkey became very happy. He started dancing in joy from tree to trees. He once fell down from a tree and died. After his death, he was reborn in the heaven as a son of god. It was the Bhadra Purnima. It was named the Madhu Purnima in memory of the offering of the monkey.

On the Madhu Purnima, the Buddhists give away honey. On this day, they perform the Uposath Shil. The Purnima, which was glorified with the offering and service made by the ordinary animals, was a memorable day to the Buddhists. They observe the Madhu Purnima with respect.

The Aswini Purnima

It is Autumn in the Bengali month of Aswin. The Aswini Purnima is a beautiful time in Autumn. Bhagwan Buddha once performed the Barshabas in the heaven of Tabatimsa. During the three months of his Barshabas he explained the Darma to the gods. He also during this time explained the Darma to his mother in the heaven.

At the end of his Barshabas, he came down to the Shankasya Nagar. The Nagar was enlightened as Buddha displayed his various attainments.

Buddha used to give religious sermons to his disiplen on this purnima or full-moon night. He directed them to propagate their own religion for the wellbeing of gods, man and all living beings. Gods, Brahma and the mankind listened to the instructions of Buddha at the same time.


The Aswini Purnima is very significant, eventful and diversified in the history of Buddhism. According to the precepts of the Binay, the Aswini Purnima is also known as the Prabarana Purnima. Its religious and social values are unlimited.

The Kartiki Purnima

The Kirtiki Purnima is remarkable for three important events.

1. Bhagwan Buddha explained the Shramanyaphal Sutra to the king of Magadha, Ajatashatru.

2. Listening to the precepts from this Sutra, the great king, Ajatashatru was converted to Buddhism.

3. On this day Sariputra Thero, an Agrashrabak of Buddha, attained Parinirban.

Besides, on this day, the auspicious Kathin Chiba Dan (Yellow Robes Offering Ceremony) ended. On the last day of the next dark fortnight of the Kartiki Purnima, an Agrashrabak, Mahamoudgalyayana Thero attained Parinirban.

The Falguni Purnima

It is spring in the Bengali month of Falgun. It is full of natural beauties. On this Purnima, some events took place in the life of Buddha.

1. Kaludayi is a friend to Siddhartha since his boyhood. He went to Buddha with a message from the king, Shuddhodan. Bhagwan Buddha came to the kingdom of Shakya as Kaludayi could convince him. This day was celebrated in the kingdom of Shakya.


2. On this Purnima, Buddha explained the Dharma. Listening to his precepts, the great king, Shuddhodan attained the Arhatvaphal.

3. The conference of the relatives turned into a great celebration. The Falguni Purnima is observed in memory of this great celebration.

In the poem by Kaludayi in Therogatha, the beauties of the city of Kapilabastu have been described.

The pious Buddhists commemorate the day with joy.

These remarkable Purnimas are very glorious for us. On these

days the Buddhists get together. As a result, these days turn into

the great celebrations. You will remember the different events

in the life of Buddha with due respect.

Exercise


1. On which Purnima did the first Sangiti start?

a. On the Buddha Purnima b. On the Falguni Purnima

c. On the Shrabani Purnima d. On the Madhu Purnima

2. How did the elephant, Parileya serve and worship Buddha?

a. With hands folded b. By offering fruits

c. By offering honey d. By offering water


3. In which city did Buddha come down after the Barshabas?

a. In the city of Shravati b. In Rajgriha

c. In the city of Shankasya d. In Devadaha

4. Who attained Parinirban on the Kartiki Purnima?

a. Sariputra Thero b. Nanda Thero

c. Jashodhara d. Rahul Shramana

5. Who was friend to Siddhartha since his boyhood?

a. Ananda b. Kaludayi

c. Devadatta d. Nanda


1. The history of compilation of the messages of Buddha is

called ⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄⁄..

2. Buddha observed the Barshabas for⁄⁄⁄years in all.

3. The Aswini Purnima is also known as the⁄⁄⁄.

4. An Agrashrabak of Buddha ⁄⁄.on this day attained

⁄⁄

5. ⁄⁄⁄., as ⁄⁄..could convince him, ⁄⁄⁄..to the

kingdom of Shakya.

C. Answer in brief:

1. Name five Purnimas.

2. On which Purnima was the first Great Sangiti held?

3. Whom did Bhagwan Buddha explained the Shramanyaphal Sutra to?


4. Who attained Parinirban on the Kartiki Purnima?

5. Who was Kaludayi?


1. Why and when are the Buddhist religious ceremonies observed?

2. What is the importance of Shrabani Purnima?

3. What is the event of the Madhu Purnima called so?

4. Describe the events of Kartiki Purnima.

5. On which Purnima was the convention of relatives held and why?

Chapter Nine

Work and its ConsequencesAll men are bound to work. The root of Buddhism is work. As one works, so does one reap. If one does good works, one is praised by all. One becomes happy. Life goes well. This is called good deed.

All men on earth are not equal. Bhagwan Buddha said in his precepts-Living beings are termed best and worst by the works they do.

Man becomes free from diseases by his good deeds. He gets a long life. He possesses much wealth and becomes rich. He is born in a high family. He becomes wise.

Now you will learn what Buddha has said about good deeds.

It was the Jetban Bihar in Shravasti. There came to Buddha the son of Todeya Brahmin, Shubha Manav. He told Buddha-Oh Gautam, various people are seen on earth: the rich and the poor, the healthy and the sick, the learned and the ignorant. What's the reason behind it?

Buddha told in reply-'Works on earth control the living beings'.

He who kills animals becomes short-lived.

He who causes troubles to animals gets sick.

He who has jealousy in his mind becomes ugly.

Buddha has also said-Those who do not donate become poor


these are evil deeds.

Now we shall learn what good deeds are.

Those who do not kill animals become long-lived.

Those who donate become rich.

Those who have no jealousy in their mind become good looking.

You will worship the person who deserves it.

Do not be boastful.

Bow to the person who deserves it.

Those who perform these good deeds are born in high families.

The consequences of evil deeds are miserable.

The consequences of good deeds bring happiness.

Now we shall hear two stories about the consequences of works.

There lived a hunter named Nanda in Shravasti. He lived on hunting. Everyday Nanda sold meat. He did not eat rice without meat. One day, when he sat for taking meal, he saw there was no meat. There was a cow in front of his kitchen. The cow was then grazing. Nanda, at once, cut off the tongue of the cow with a knife. He made fire and sizzled the tongue on it. Then he ate it with a great relish.

But the consequence of sin is horrible. Nanda's tongue fell off on his dish. Nanda groaned to death. Nanda committed sin. So he entered the shocking hell.

Now we shall hear a story about good deeds.

During the time of Bhagwan Buddha there lived a poor man in


Purna giving away food to Sariputra

Rajgriha. His name was Purna. Though Purna was poor, he performed the Uposath Shil regularly. Purna was so poor that he could not earn his daily meals.

On an Uposath day, Purna took the Ashtashil. It was a day for performing the Uposath. Purna was about to sit to eat what little food he had. Then Sariputra, a disciple of Buddha, was present at his door for alms. Purna gave away the food prepared for himself to Sariputra with respect. Sariputra Sthabir praised Purna for his donation. He blessed him.


The poor Purna, because of his donation, became very rich soon.

Man is the best of all living beings. He can do good deeds with his body, mind and words. Good deeds bring happiness. So you will always do good deeds. Respect the seniors. Listen to what they say. Help the poor. Do not cause troubles to the birds and animals. Do not do what will hurt your parents.

It is sin if you do evil deeds. Everybody will dislike you. Nobody will love you. Be jealous of none. Always keep yourself away from doing evil deeds. Always go to Buddha, Dharma and the Sangha for refuge.

Exercise


1. What is man bound to?

a. Work b. The mind

c. The Dharma d. Greed

2. What is the name of the son of Todeya Brahmin?

a. Citta Manav b. Shubha Manav

c. Himsraha Manav d. Ashubha Manav


Left Right

1. All men are 2. Those who do not donate3. The consequences of evil

deeds are 4. Because of his donation the

poor Purna 5. Always keep yourself away

a. miserable.b. became very rich soon.c. become poor. d. from evil deeds. e. bound to work.

3. What makes man short-lived?

a. Good deeds b. Honest deeds

c. The killing of animals d. Welfare work

4. How are the consequences of evil deeds?

a. Interesting b. Virtuous

c. Fruitful d. Horrible

5. Whom will you take refuge to?

a. Buddha, Dharma and Sangha b. Buddha, man and god

c. Dharma, Chitta and god d. Sangha, monster and man

B. Match the phrases on the left with the ones on the right:

C. Fill in the blanks:

1. The root of Buddhism is ⁄⁄⁄⁄.

2. If one does good.. ..⁄⁄, one is ⁄⁄⁄. by all.

3. You will⁄⁄⁄ the person who⁄⁄⁄. it.

4. The ⁄⁄⁄ of ⁄⁄⁄. deeds bring happiness.

5. He made⁄⁄⁄. and sizzled the⁄⁄⁄⁄. on it.


D. Answer in brief:

1. What is man bound to?

2. What is good deed?

3. Who came to Bhagwan Buddha?

4. What is the consequence of killing animals?

5. What is the consequence if one has jealousy in him?

6. What does the consequence of good deeds bring?

7. Who is Nanda?

8. Who Purna donate?

E. Answer the following questions:

1. What is the reason of all men being unequal?

2. What are the things that one can have by good deeds?

3. What question did Shubha Manav, the son of Todeya Brahmin, ask Buddha?

4. What did Buddha say in reply?

5. What happened to the hunter Nanda?

6. How did Purna become Shresthi?

7. What are the consequences of good deeds?

Chapter Ten

The Chaturarya Satya(The Four Noble Truths)

The word, Chatu means four and Arya means noble. So the Chaturarya Satya is the Four Noble Truths. It is the best discovery of Bhagwan Buddha. After attainment of Buddhahood, he realized-life and the world are full of sufferings. Happiness is temporary. This temporary happiness brings sufferings in the long run.

The essence of Buddhism lies into the Four Noble Truths. To be born on earth is suffering. The Noble Truth is to acquire proper knowledge about sufferings.

The Noble Truth is of four kinds. Those are as follows:

1. The of Suffering

2. The Cause of Suffering

3. The End of Suffering

4. The Path to the End of Suffering

Now we have a brief explanation about the Four Noble Truths below:

1. The Noble Truth of Suffering: Human life is full of sufferings. Every man is caught under the charms of illusion. We cannot realize the real picture of suffering. We rather consider the causes of suffering as our happiness. This is


called ignorance. It is ignorance which is the main cause of our sufferings.

Sufferings are of many kinds. They are -

The suffering of birth

The suffering of decay

The suffering of disease

The suffering of death

The suffering of dissociation with the pleasant

The suffering of association with the unpleasant

The suffering of not having what is wanted

The suffering of lamentation, frustration, etc.

Everything from birth to death is full of sufferings.

2. The Noble Truth of the Cause of Suffering: There is a reason behind every action. As there is reason, sufferings are originated. Thirst emerges in human mind as there are sufferings. Ignorance is the cause of thirst. Thirst makes man to be attracted by illusion. Because of thirst man is born again and again. In this way, suffering emerges out of thirst. So it is called the Noble Truth of the Cause of Suffering.

3. The Noble Truth of the End of Suffering: Thirst is the cause of rebirth. To prevent rebirth thirst must be restrained. When thirst will be destroyed, rebirth will be prevented. If there is no birth, no death will occur. We shall have no suffering as well. Those who can prevent


rebirth by destroying thirst attain Nirban. Nirban means total destruction of thirst. If there is birth, there is death. And rebirth occurs because of thirst. Restraining birth and death is Nirban. The attainment of Nirban is the main objective of Buddhism.

If suffering is restrained, Nirban will be attained. So it is called the Noble Truth of the End of Suffering.

4. The Noble Truth of the Path to the End of Suffering: To cure a disease we have to take the right medicine. For this reason, we get rid of disease. Likewise there is also a way to get rid of suffering. It is called the middle course. According to Buddha, the middle course is the only way to get rid of suffering. Buddha has instructed eight principles of the middle course. These eight principles are the Noble Eight-fold Path. The Noble Eight-fold Path are:

1. Right Understanding 2. Right Thoughts 3. Right Speech 4. Right Action 5. Right Livelihood 6. Right Effort 7. Right Mindfulness 8. Right Concentration

We have learned about the Four Noble Truths in this chapter. We have to understand the Four Noble Truths well. For this we need meditation and practice. It is possible to get rid of suffering through meditation and practice. Real happiness can be enjoyed. Nirban can be attained. Buddha said-Nibbanag Paramang Sukhang-that is, Nirban is the supreme happiness.

You can learn elaborately about the Noble Eight-fold Path later.


ExerciseA. Give tick (√) marks against the right answer:

1. To be born on earth is-

a. Happiness b. Suffering

c. Pleasure d. Luxury

2. How many Noble Truths are there?

a. Two b. Three

c. Four d. Five

3. What is ignorance the reason of?

a. Sufferings b. Happiness

c. Hope d. Joy

4. What are the reasons of rebith?

a. Death b. Happiness

c. Afflictions d. Thirst

5. What, according to Buddha, is the way of getting rid of sufferings?

a. Good path b. The Noble Eight-fold Path

c. First path d. Last path


Left Right1. Buddha learnt after

attaining Buddhahood 2. Happiness is3. Human life is4. Nirban means 5. Buddha has instructed

eight principles

a. complete destruction of thirst.

b. of middle course.c. life and the world are full of

sufferings.d. temporary. e. full of various kinds of

sufferings.


C. Answer in brief:

1. Why is man born again and again?

2. What are the main objectives of the Buddhists?

3. What is man's life full of?

4. How many principles are there in the Noble Eight-fold Path?

5. What is the Bengali translation of Nibbanang Paramang Sukhang?


1. What is the meaning of the Chaturarya Satya? Discuss the Chaturarya Satya in brief.

2. How many kinds of Chturarya Satya are there? What are they?

3. Why can't we understand what suffering is? Discuss the Noble Truth of Suffering in brief.

4. What is said about Nirban in the Noble Truth of the End of Suffering?

5. Prepare a list of the Noble Eight-fold Path?

Chapter Eleven

Holy Places of Pilgrimage

A place of pilgrimage is a holy place, a place of virtue. The places with which the life of Buddha was associated are called the holy places of Buddhist pilgrimage. These holy places are divided into two classes. One is the great holy places of pilgrimage and the other the common holy places of pilgrimage.

The life of Buddha, the attainment of Buddhahood, the first proclamation of his doctrines (Dharma) and the Great Passing Away (Mahaparinirban)-these four incidents are important. Lumbini, Buddha-Gaya, Sarnatha and Kushinagar are the great holy places of pilgrimage. In addition to that, Buddha visited many other places for proclamation of his doctrines. His disciples and followers have also proclaimed his doctrines with his instructions at different places. All these places are associated with the memory of Buddha Bihars, Chaityas, Sangharams, etc., have been built in these places. These are called the common holy places of pilgrimage. Those holy places of pilgrimage are-Rajgriha, Shravasti, Baishali, kapilabastu, Nalanda, Takshashila, etc.

Visiting holy places of pilgrimage is important. To visit these holy places of pilgrimage is virtuous. It develops interest in the Dharma. People from different places gather in the holy places of pilgrimage. It gives an opportunity to join them. Many people with qualities can be met. It increases knowledge. A friendly relation is developed among all people.


You will visit the holy places of pilgrimage when you will grow up. To visit holy places of pilgrimage is virtuous.

Rajgriha

Rajgriha is situated in the district of Patna in Bihar of India. The present name of Rajgriha is Rajgir. Surrounded by five hills, it looks very charming. Rajgriha was the capital of the kingdom of Magadha. The king of Magadha was Bimbisar. Buddha came to Rajgriha to preach his Dharma. King Bimbisar embraced Buddhism. He made much contribution for preachy of Buddhism.

The king made a gift of the Benuban Udyana for Buddha and his disciples. Later on, he built a Bihar there. It was named Benuban Bihar. Bhagwan Buddha spent seven Barsas at the Benuban Bihar in Rajgriha. During his stay here he gave many instuctions to the Bhikkhus. The first Buddhist Sangiti was held at the cave of Saptaparni in Rajgriha.

The cave of Saptaparni in Rajgriha


Jivak had a mango orchard in Rajgriha. He was a devoted follower of Buddha. He was Buddha's physician. Jivak gave away his mango orchard to Buddha and his disciples. In this mango orchard, Jivakaram Bihar was built. Many incidents and stories of Buddha's life were associated with Rajgriha. For this reason, Rajgriha is a holy place of pilgrimage to the Buddhists.

Shravasti

Shravasti stands on the bank of the Achirabati in the district of Gonda in Uttar Pradesh, India. Its present name is Sahet-Mahet. Shravasti was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Koshal.

Bhagwan Buddha once came to Koshal to preach his Dharma. Then the king of Koshal was Prasenjit. Shravasti was the centre of trades. Many rich people lived there. There was a rich man named Sudatta. He bought the Jetban Udyana with many gold coins from the prince, Jeta. He built the Jetban Bihar for Buddha and his disciples. This Bihar was very beautiful. Sudatta is known as Anathapindik in the history of Buddhism. He was a householder-disciple of Buddha. Buddha converted the robber, Angulimal in the Jetban Bihara. The Jetban Bihar is a very holy place of pilgrimage to the Buddhists. Here Buddha spent nineteen Barshas.

A great devotee, Vishakha built here a Mahabihar called the Purbaram Bihar built here and gave it to Buddha. Buddha spent six Barshas in the Purbarama Bihar. Vishakha was the daughter-in-law of the rich man, Migar.


The king of Koshal, Prasenjit built here a Bihar called Rajkaram here. This beautiful Bihar was built at the request of the queen, Mallika. During his stay in this Bihar, Buddha gave a lot of sermons.

Shravasti is one of the great holy places of Buddhist pilgrimage.

Takshashila

Takshashila stands on the Bitasta river to the north-west of Rawalpindi in Pakistan. Takshashila was once the capital of the west region of the kingdom of Empire Ashok. Here he built many Sangharamas and Bihars. There was a Stup to the north of the city.

Shravasti


Takshashila

Takshashila was the leaning centre of science and knowledge. There was a large university during the time of Buddha. Many students from home and abroad would come to study in this university. Many scholars were the teachers of this university.

The Chinese travelers Fa-hian and Hiuen Tsiang came to Takshashila. It is learnt from their writings that many Buddhists lived here. The Hun attacked this city and destroyed it.

Many Stups and remains of Buddhist Bihar have been found through excavation. Many coins of the ancient period have also been found. The government of Pakistan has taken initiatives to preserve them.


A Chaitya at Chakrashala

Chakrashala

Chakrashal is situated three kilometers east of the Patia railstation in Chittagong. In chokoria chandrajyoti Thero was ordained as Bhikshu by Sarbhu MahaThero. He went to Burma to study theology. There he studied the Binay (humility) for twenty years. He came back home with certain things. These are a Chakrasana, three images of Buddha and some pieces of Buddhasthi.

First he stayed at Agartala in India for five years. After that, he built a Sangharam on the hill of Sitakunda in Chittagong. He started living here with his disciple. After that, he along with his


disciples went to a mango grove of Chakrashala. A rich man named Hydmaja was the owner of this orchard. He was charmed at the extraordinary scholarship of Chandrajyoti Thero. He organized a three day long gathering for discussion of Buddhism. When Chandrajyoti's father came to know about it, he brought back his son to Chakaria. While leaving, Chandrajyoti Thero gave away the Chakrashala to Hydmaja. With the financial assistance of Hydmaja, a Bihar was built there. This is the Chakrashala Bihar. At present there is a temple.

Chandrajyoti and his father performed Vandana and worship there. From then on, a big fair is held there every year during Bishuba Sankranti. This fair may be called a meeting place for the Buddhists. To the Buddhists, it is a holy place. The Buddhists go there and do vandana, worship and various other religious performances.

Mainamati

Mainamati stands near the city of Comilla. Many years ago, the kings from Deva and Chandra dynasties ruled here. The capital of their kingdom was Mainamati. All of them were the followers of Buddhism. Mainamati was then the centre of the study of Buddhism. Many Buddhist institutions were established here. The kings built many Bihars, Stupas and palaces. For various reasons the city was gradually destroyed and went under ground. At present, those ancient remains have been discovered through excavation.


The Shalban Bihar, Mainamati

Of them the Shalban Bihar is remarkable. It is anticipated that during the reign of Bhabadeva, a king of Deva dynasty, the Bihar was built. There are four walls around the Shalban Bihar. There was an entrance into the Bihar. In the Bihar there were 115 rooms. Into those rooms the Bhikkhus performed Dhyansamadhi. They studied there. There were a yard and a verandah in front of the Bihar. Some hillocks have been found. Some of them have also been identified such as the Palace of Ananda, the Palace of the king Bhoj and the Palace of Rupkanya.

Besides, weapons, coins, copper plates, ornaments, terracotta plaques, etc., have been found. There is a museum near the Shalban Bihar. Many remains found at Mainamati have been preserved into this museum. Still there are in the neibouring areas of Mainamati villages where the Buddhists live.


Exercise


1. During the time of Buddha the capital of Magadha was-

a. Takshashila b. Baishaili

c. Rajgriha d. Shravasti

2. The first Buddhist Sangiti was held in-

a. In Baishaili b. In Saptaparni Cave c. In Bangladesh d. In Amaravati

3. The capital of Prasenjit, the king of Koshal was-

a. Shravasti b. Sanchi

c. Rajgriha d. Mainamati

4. Which Bihar did Prasenjit give away to Buddha?

a. Benuban Bihar b. Jetban Bihar

c. Sompura Bihar d. Rajkarama Bihar

5. Which river did Takshashila stand on?

a. The Achiravati b. The Falgu

c. The Vitasta d. The Tista

6. The house of Chandrajyoti Thero was in-

a. Banshkhali b. Chakaria

c. Patia d. Sitakunda

7. How many rooms are there in Shalban Bihar?

a. 115 b. 120

c. 110 d. 117


Left Right

The holy places where events of BuddhaÊs life took place

King Bimbisar was initiated

Jivak was a great

Bishakha was the daughter-in-law

Takshashila was the centre of

With the financial help of Hydmaja

a. to Buddhism.

b. of Shresthi Migar.

c. a Bihar was built.

d. learning knowledge

and science.

e. devotee of Buddha.

f. are called the holy places

of Buddhist pilgrimage.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.


C. Answer in brief:

1. Which are the four great holy places of pilgrimage?

2. What is the usefulness of visiting the holy places pilgrimage?

3. What is the present name of Rajgriha?

4. Name the three Bihars of Shravasti.

5. Who are the travelers that came to Takshashila?

6. Where does Chakrashala stand?

7. Where are the remains found in Mainamati preserved?


1. What are the differences between the holy places of pilgrimage and the great holy places of pilgrimage?

2. What is the objective of visiting the holy places of pilgrimage?

3. Where does Rajgriha stand? Why is it the holy land of pilgrimage?

4. Give an account of Jetban Bihar of Shravasti.

5. Where is Takshashila? What are the things found here by excavation?

6. When does the Fair sit at Chakrashala? Discuss in brief the importance of Chakrashala.

7. Where is Mainamati? Give an account of Shalban Bihar.


Chapter Twelve

JatakYou have learnt about Jatak in the previous class. The Buddha took birth 550 times as Bodhisatva. The stories of his previous births are to be called Jatak. He would tell these stories when he propagated the Dharma.

The stories of Jataks are as nice as interesting. We must study all these stories. The Jataks contain moral instructions. These precepts teach us to show mercy to others. They develop pity in us for others' sufferings. They give the instructions about our duties.

Bodhisatva did many good deeds in his several births in the past. You will also feel interested to do good works after having learnt all these. You can earn much virtue by doing good deeds. The stories of Jataks are helpful in forming moral character. Knowledge will be increased if you read the Jataks. You will be interested in doing good acts. You will learn to love your country. You will be dear to others. You will be endowed with good qualities like morality, patriotism, brotherhood etc. by following the precepts. The Jataks have also its literary value.

Five stories of Jataks are given in this chapter.

Katyanani Jatak

It was many years ago. There was a woman named Katyayni. She had only one son. The son was very dear to her and was the


pupil of her eyes. When his mother grew old, he took care of and nursed her. He lived with his mother. He looked after his old mother very carefully.

Mother would not live any longer. Thinking this, she gave her son in marriage with a beautiful girl. The daughter-in-law grew very envious when she found her husband looking after his mother so carefully. One day she told her husband, 'It's not possible on my part to live with your mother. Tell your mother to leave home. Otherwise I will leave this house.'

To satisfy his wife the son told his mother 'Mother, you pick a quarrel everyday. Go and live anywhere you like.' Mother was shocked very much and left home weeping. She took shelter in a relative's house. She arranged her living by working hard in their families.

He daughter-in-law gave birth to a male child. It was so good looking that everyone was glad to see the baby. Mother became very happy to hear that a grandson was born to her. But she felt very sorry in her mind. She thought, 'I could not see my dear grand son. I'm made homeless now without any fault of mine. I don't know whether there's any religion.'

Mother thought, she would offer worship to religion. She arranged a dish with flowers and candle. Devaraj Indra saw the pitiable condition of the helpless mother from the heaven. He appeared there in the disguise of a Brahmin.

He said 'Old mother, what're you doing?


Mother replied 'I'm worshipping the religion.'Then mother told him everything about her son and daughter-in-law.

Indra said 'Mother, don't be sorry. The mentality of your son and daughter-in-law must be changed. For, they also have had a son. Go back home. I'm Devaraj Indra.'

The grandchild is being given to their mother's arms

Mother bowed to respect Devaraj Indra and went back home. No sooner had she gone half the way than she saw her son and daughter-in-law coming to her with her grandchild. Both of them said, 'Mother, look at your grandson.' They offered the grandchild into their mother's arms. Both of them bowed to their mother's feet and said, 'Mother, please, forgive us.'


Mother blessed them. She took her grandchild on her lap with love and affection and went back home.

Moral: Mother's virtues are not comparable.

Baberu Jatak

It was long ago. The Brahmadatta was the king of Baranasi. During this time Bodhisatva was born as a peacock. There was the Baberu kingdom near Baranasi. There was no bird in Baberu. Some merchants went to Baberu with a crow which could show directions. The inhabitants of Baberu expressed wish to purchase the crow. They bought the crow with one hundred taka.

They put the crow into a case made of gold. Everyday they would give the crow fish, meat, sweet, fruits to eat. Thus the crow was being cared of and looked after. The merchants came to Baberu again. They nicely decorated a boat and made a peacock sit on top of its mast.

When clapped the peacock would dance and sang sweetly. The Baberus were charmed to see the beauty and qualities of the peacock. They bargained with the merchants a lot and bought the peacock with much money.

The Baberus became very happy to have the beautiful peacock. All came to see the peacock in groups. On the other hand, the crow was careless. Nobody came to see it. Even no food was given to it.


Having had no food it began to caw. It flew to the place where waste was thrown and began to live on it.

They are taking care of the peacock. The crow is eating waste.

Before the arrival of Buddha common mendicants were respected. But after Buddha explained his doctrines, they lost what they received from the people. These hermits are compared with the crow. Buddha with all his virtues is respected by all.

Moral: The virtuous are worshipped everywhere.

Kuranga Mriga Jatak

In the ancient time Brahmadatta was the king of Baranasi. At that time Bodhisatva was born as Kuranga Mriga. The deer would eat fruits of the forests and was growing up.


There was a village just near the forest. A hunter lived in that village. He earned his livelihood by selling meat of the deer of the forest. He would lie in wait building a platform on a tree with fruits. The deer came to eat fruits. The hunter killed them by setting a trap.

One day the hunter was waiting on his hunting platform after having his meal earlier. Bodhisatava appeared under the tree leaving his own dwelling house. Bodhisatava in the guise of a deer was very intelligent. Standing a little away from the tree, he wondered if there was any disturbance there.

The hunter and the Kuranga Mriga


The hunter saw, Bodhisatava was standing at a distance. Then he began to throw sweet fruits to Bodhisatava sitting himself on the platform. The fruits fell in front of Bodhisatava one by one. He could understand that there was a killer on the tree. Looking up to the tree he found the hunter. Yet he pretended not to see the hunter. He said to himself, 'Oh the tree, you would drop your fruits underneath before. Have you changed your nature today? You have changed your nature. So I'm also leaving this place. I'll eat fruits from other trees.' He was about to step forward to leave the place.

Finding no other means, the hunter threw a bow from his arrow. He said, 'Now you're going away, but you can't escape my hand.'

Then Bodhisatava said, 'I have rescued myself from you. But you can't escape the consequences of evil deeds (Akusal Karma). You must suffer the consequences of evil deeds in the long run.' Saying this, Bodhisatava in the guise of deer disappeared.

Moral: One must suffer the consequences of one's evil deeds.

Sasak Jatak

In ancient times there was a king named Brahmadatta in Baranasi. Then Bodhisatava was born as a hare. He had three friends. They were a fox, a monkey and an otter. The four friends lived on the bank of the Ganges. Sasak (the hare) was a great scholar. Every evening he explained the Dharma to them.

One day Sasak saw the moon and understood that it would be the full moon in the next day. He said to the friends, 'Take the Uposath. Observe the Shil (precepts). Donate what you can.


Shilavan's donation is fruitful.'

Hearing the advice the friends went out in search of food.

The fox entered a house. He saw there were a vessel of meat, sweetmeat and a pot of curds in the veranda of the house. He cried out three times: 'Whom do these belong to? Whom do these belong to? Whom do these belong to?'

But nobody responded. He then carried all those to their den.

On the other hand, the otter went to the shore and smelt fish. He found out four fish digging the sand. He too cried out three times: 'Whom do these belong to? Whom do these belong to? Whom do these belong to?'

Four friends

Nobody responded. He then took the fish into the hole. The


monkey also plucked a bunch of mangoes from the forest and brought them in.

On the contrary, the hare was thinking, 'What kind of donation he would make. His food is only grass. Others cannot eat it. It was quite impossible for him to collect other foods.' He decided, 'I would donate such a thing as was never made by anybody in the world. I would feed the guests with my self-gift. I would sizzle my own flesh to feed them.'

Devaraj Indra could know about the firm determination of the Sasak. Indra appeared in the disguise of a Brahmin to test the donation. He received everyone's donation one by one. At last he appeared before the hare. The hare became very glad to see him. He said to him, 'Make fire. I will jump into it. You will eat my sizzled flesh. Please accept my donation.'

Then Indra made fire with the bits of dry hay. The hare shook off his body three times so that the insects could go off from his body. He then jumped into the fire without fear. But it was a strange, the fire did not touch even his hair. The hare asked the Brahmin, 'Why is your fire so cold?'

Indra introduced himself to them and said, 'Oh hare, I am Indra. I have come to you in this from only to test you.' The hare said, 'Oh Devaraj, let all the beings of the world test my donation. They will never see me without donation'

Indra said, 'Sasak, may your fame spread all over the world.' Devaraj Indra drew a hare on the moon. For this reason, we see a sign of hare on the moon till now.

Moral: The virtuous are worshipped everywhere.


Seribanij Jatak

There was a city named Andhapur during the reign of Bodhisatva in the past. Two hawkers lived in this city. One of them was named Serivan, and the other was Seriva. When they went out for hawking their goods, they would decide between themselves about which way they would go. One could follow the other's way later. Once there was a wealthy Shresthi family in Andhapur. The family lost their wealth in course of time. Consequently they became poor.

Only two members were left alive in this poor family. One of them was a girl while the other was her old grandmother. They would pass their days in great troubles working at neighbours' houses.

On good days, the head of this family took food on a dish of gold. It still existed. But the dish grew dirty as it was not in use for a long time. It did not look like a dish of gold.

The hawker Seriva was greedy and clever. One day he was passing by the Shresthi's house, shouting, 'Would you buy a jar?' Would you buy a jar?. Hearing it, the girl said, 'Buy me an ornament, Grandma.'

Grandmother said, 'Child, we are poor, where shall we get money?' The girl gave the dish to her grandmother and said, 'Won't you take it in exchange of this? It is of no use to us.'

Grandmother then called the hawker Seriva. She asked him to take a seat and handing him the dish of gold said, 'Give my granddaughter a thing in exchange of this.'


The hawker examined the dish very closely twice. He found that the dish was made of gold. An evil thought came over into his mind. He thought about how to take the plate by deceiving them. He said, 'It won't be possible to give even a quarter in exchange of it'.

Seriva pretended and went away throwing the dish on earth.

A few moments later, the hawker Serivan came. He stood in front of that house shouting, 'Would you buy a pitcher, would you buy a pitcher'. The girl rushed to her grandmother and told her of the hawker.

Then the grandmother said, 'Didn't you hear it was valueless'.

The girl said, 'Grandma, that hawker was not a good man. This man seems to be a good hawker. He won't object to buy the dish.'

The grandmother called Serivan and gave the dish to him. As soon as Serivan found the dish, he understood that it was made of gold. Serivan said, 'Mother, this plate costs a lot. I don't have so much money with me.'

The grandmother said, 'A few moments ago, another hawker came. He told 'it doesn't cost more than a quarter.' You are a good man. I shall give you the dish. Give me what you can in exchange of it'. Serivan had five hundred taka and some goods with him. He kept only taka eight and the scales with him. He gave rest of the money and goods to Grandma.

Then he arrived on the bank of the river. There was a boat in the river. He said to the boatman-'Ferry me across the river soon'.


Serivan and Grandmother with her granddaughter

After a while, the greedy hawker came back again. He told the old woman-'I thought I should give you some money. Bring me the dish'.

Grandmother said-'What're you saying, my son? You told it doesn't cost even a farthing. Just a few minutes ago, another hawker came and gave me much money and some goods. I have given him the dish of gold for an exchange. He was a very good man. He was perhaps your master'.

As soon as the greedy Seriva heard it, he was at a loss. He ran to and fro like a mad man. He threw about all the money and goods he had with him.


Left Right

1. There are nice instructions 2. Mother thought3. The inhabitants of Baberu 4. The Bodhisatva in the

guise5. The Donation of a

Shilavan6. The hawker Seriva was

a. was very intelligent.b. greedy and clever.c. in Jataka. d. ex pressed their wish to buy

the crow. e. she would offer worship to the

Dharma. f. is much fruitful.

He rushed to the bank of the river. The honest man Serivan was then ferried on the other side of the river. The wicked hawker kept looking blankly at him. He was so repented that he fainted and died there on the spot. Selling the dish of gold, Serivan performed many charitable deeds.

Moral: Avarice leads to vice and vice leads to death.

Exercise

A. Match the phrases on the left with the ones on the right:


1. The stories of the Jataks are as⁄⁄.as⁄⁄⁄⁄

2. I am⁄⁄⁄today without any offence.

3. All came to see the⁄⁄⁄ in groups.

4. ⁄⁄⁄the Karmaphal.

5. He saw a⁄⁄⁄.of meat,⁄⁄⁄.and a pot of ⁄⁄⁄.

6. Avarice leads to⁄⁄⁄and vice leads to⁄⁄⁄


C. Answer in brief:

1. What is the usefulness of reading the Jataks?

2. How many times was Buddha born as Bodhisatva?

3. Who was the king of Baranasi?

4. Why was the daughter-in-law envious?

5. What was the price of the peacock?

6. What did the Bodhisatva in the guise of a deer say?

7. Who came to accept the gift of the hare?

8. What kind of man was the hawker Seriva?


1. Why will you read the Jataks?

2. What did the son tell his mother to satisfy his wife?

3. What is the teaching of the Baberu Jatak?

4. What did Kuranga Mirga say to the hunter?

5. How did the hare go to offer the gift to the guest?

6. How much price did the hawker Serivan buy the dish of gold with?

Chapter Thirteen

The Disciples and the Followers of Gautam Buddha

Bhagwan Buddha at first ordained five disciples to his Dharma. They are called Pancavaggiya Sisya. Next to them, many people became his disciples leaving their domestic life. Of them, Mahakasyap, Ananda, Upali, Sariputra, Maudgalyayana are famous. Those who were initiated to Buddha Dharma later were the followers. Of the Bhikkhunis, there were Patacara, Sumana, Anopama, Kshema and many others. Mahaprajapati Gautami made a pioneering role in establishing a Bhikkhuni Sangha. Again many were initiated to the Buddhist religion without leaving their domestic life. They are, for example, King Bimbisar, Ashok, Prasengit, Anathapindik, Vishakha. They are the householder-disciples of Buddha.

The disciples and the followers of Buddha made endless contributions to spread Buddhism. Every one of them was good-natured, virtuous and generous. They taught people kindness, restraint, discipline and generosity. Reading their biographies, one can be a man of good character. The path of truth can be followed. If one follows the ideals of great persons, one's life becomes nice and successful.

Brief accounts about some of the disciples and the followers of Buddha are given below-


Thero Anuruddha

During the time of Padumuttar Buddha, Thero Anuruddha was born in a rich family. He performed many charitable deeds. Padumuttar Buddha blessed him for fulfillment of his desires.

Later he was born in Baranasi during the time of Kasyapa Buddha. At the time of Great Departure (Parinibbana) of Kasyapa Buddha, he took the pot of ghee on his head. He went round the Chaitya (monument) the whole night. For this great virtue he was born in the Devaloka.

Later he deviated from the Devaloka and was born in a poor family of Baranasi. Then he was named Annabhar. He served in the house of Sumana Shresthi. One day he gave away all his food to a Pachchek Buddha. Pachchek Buddha blessed him. Shresthi Sumana requested Annabhara to give him a share of his virtue. Annabhara offered him his virtue. Shresthi was pleased and rewarded him with much money.

One day Shresthi Suman went to see the king. He took Annabhara with him. The king gave the virtuous person Annabhara one thousand taka. He donated him land to build a house. While digging the land Annabhar got much money from inside the ground. The king gave him the title of DhanaShresthi. He did charitable works with this money.

During the time of Gautam Buddha, he was born in the Shakya dynasty in the city of Kapilabastu. His father's name was


Amitodan. He was named Anuruddha. He was passing his days in great happiness. Amitodan built for his son three palaces in accordance with seasons. Anuruddha did not like this temporary happiness in life. He got himself in doctrinated. He started practising meditation for Nirban to Sariputra. Later he heard the explanation of Dharma by Buddha and attained Arahattahood.

Anuruddha did many good deeds during his life through many rebirths. Charity is virtuous. Virtue brings happiness in this world and the hereafter. It is good to do virtuous works. We also can take a lesson from the life of Anuruddha.

Vangis Thero

During the time of Padumuttar Buddha Vangis Thero was born in the city of Hansabati. He belonged to a rich family. He built many Bihars and donated them to Buddha.

He was born in a Brahmin family in Shravasti during the time of Gautam Buddha. He was good at Trived. He learnt the Macca Shira spell from a teacher. Having learnt this verse, the Brahmin travelled to many places at home and abroad. Vangis could tell the life history of a person who died three years ago by examining the head of the dead person. He was attracted by the virtues of Buddha and wanted to go to him. His father said, 'If you go there, Sraman Gautam will bind you with his illusion. So you must not go there.' He did not obey his father and went to Buddha. Buddha said, 'Vangis, do you know any


art?' Vangis replied, 'I know the MaccaShira verse.' Then Buddha brought three heads of dead men to test him.

Buddha gave Vangis three dead heads to test him

He gave accurate information about the two human-born ordinary dead heads. But he could say nothing about the third head which attained Nirban. Buddha said, 'Vangis, you cannot tell anything about the third head. Vangis wanted to learn the verse of the third head. Buddha said, 'Get initiated. I shall teach you verses'. Vangis thought, 'I will earn fame in the world by learning all the spells'. Vangis prayed to Buddha for Prabrajya. Negrodha Kappa initiated him by the order of Buddha. He attained Arahattahood very soon.


Vangis recited many verses. Those verses are full of morals. He

said- friendly words are good words. Never be repentant by

saying unpleasant words to anybody. Don't cause troubles to

others. Always speak nice words. True speech and pleasant

words are sweet words.

Mahaprajapati Gautami

Mahaprajapati Gautami was born in a royal family in the city of

Devadaha. She was the younger sister of Mahamaya, the mother

of Siddhartha. King Suddhodana married both the sisters.

Mahamaya died seven days after Siddhartha was born.

Mahaprajapati took over the responsibility of bringing up

Siddhartha on her own.

She was Nanda's mother. She gave her own son to a midwife to

look after. When Buddha was staying in Bashali, the king

Suddhadon died. After the death of King Suddhodan,

Mahaprajapati Gautami took a vow to leave domestic life. She

was waiting for permission of Buddha.

At that time, there was a quarrel between the Sakyas and the

Koliyas over the water of the Rohini River. Buddha came to

Kapilabastu for a settlement of the dispute. Mahapajapati Gautami

went to Buddha with five hundred Sakya women. She sought

permission of the Tathagata Buddha to the Bhikkhuni-vow.

Buddha did not give them permission and left for Bashali.


Mahaprajapati Gautami was not disheartened. She went to

Baishali with her five hundred followers. She again requested

him for the Bhikshuni-vow. Buddha refused her request again.

Later, with the request of his principal disciple, Buddha

approved their prayer. Thus the first Vikkhuni Sangha was

established.

Gautami always advised women to be self-dependent. She

herself prepared thread, wove it into clothes and gave it away to

the Bhikkhu-Sangha. Throughout her life, she tried hard for the

welfare of womankind. She composed many verses in memory

Buddha's virtues. Gautami attained Arahattahood (the fruition

of holiness) in a short time. Buddha ordained her as the leader

of the Theris. The lives of 73 Bhikkhunis have been described

in the Therigatha of the Tripitak. Of them, the position of

Mahaprajapati Gautami is on the top. She lived 120 years.

Krisa Gautami

Krisa Gautami was born in a poor family. In Shravasti, forty four crore gold coins of a Shresthi was burnt into ashes. When Krisa Gautami touched the ashes, it again turned into gold. Shresthi was pleased and took the poor girl as her daughter-in-law.

After some days, Krisa Gautami gave birth to a male child. It

died in its childhood. Bhagwan Buddha was then staying at

Shravasti. Krisa Gautami thought that Buddha has much power.

She went to Buddha with her dead son in her arms.


Krisa Gautami with her dead son in her arms to Buddha

She requested to bring her dead son back to life. Buddha said, 'Bring a handful of mustard-seeds from a house where none died'.

Krisa Gautami went from door to door for mustard-seeds. But she could not find any family where none had died. She realized that the number of dead is more than the living. At this, her sorrows were relieved much. After she had performed the funeral ceremony of her dead son in the forest, she came back to Buddha.

Buddha asked, 'Have you got mustard-seeds for your dead son?' In reply Krisa Gautami said, 'Bhante, I didn't have mustard-


seeds.' Buddha said, 'Man is mortal. Once born, one must die.' Tathagata Buddha advised her with an example-'Death takes all away like a violent flood washing away a sleeping village.'

After hearing the advice of Bhagwan Buddha, Krisa Gautami attained Sotapatti Phal. Then she was known as Theri after she had received initiation (Upasampada).

Emperor Ashok

Ashok was the prince of Vindusar, a king of the Mourya dynasty. He was very cruel in his early life. Once King Vindusar sent him to conquer Kalinga. He won the battle. More than one lakh people were killed in this battle. Many people were wounded. This heart-rending scene of the battle shocked him. Suddenly a change came over in his mind.

He was then attracted to Buddhism by its benevolence and amity. He was initiated to Buddhism by Nagrodha Shramana. From then on, he never fought for conquering any country. He determined to conquer the enemy with love.

He sacrificed the rest of his life to establish peace in the world. He appointed Dharmamahapatra to propagate the Dharma among the common people. They propagated the Dharma from

Emperor Ashok


country to country. He spread the precepts of Buddha in his country to build up the character of the subjects. He inscribed the precepts of Buddha on the hill-side and on the pillars of the mountains. During the reign of Ashok, a Buddha convention was held in Pataliputra. He made all sorts of assistance to it. It is known as the third Bouddha Sangiti.

He made his son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra to be initiated to Buddhism. He sent them very far to Singhal. Emperor Ashok himself visited many holy places. Wherever he went, he built monuments. Those are known as the Ashok Pillars.

He was generous to all religions. He donated to all generously. People belonging to all religions lived happily in his kingdom.

Exercise


1. Whom did Anuruddha give his all food? a. Each Buddha b. Pachchek Buddha

c. Samenara d. The Bhikkhu

2. What was Vangis expert in? a. In the Mahabharat b. In the Bengali literature c. In Trived d. In folk-literature


3. Where was Mahaprajapati born? a. In Devadaha Nagar b. In Sangkasya Nagar

c. In Pataliputra Nagar d. In Rajgriha Nagar

4. With how many Sakya-women did Mahapajapati Gautami appear before Buddha? a. Five hundred b. Six hundred

c. Four hundred d. Eight hundred

5. With the touch of whose hand did the ashes turn into gold?

a. Shresthi b. Buddha's

c. Mayadevi's d. Krisa Gautami's

6. Whom did Ashok appoint to propagate Buddha Dhamma?

a. Dharmadut b. Dhammarakshak

c. Dharmamahapatra d. Dhammasasaka


Left Right1. Buddha explained his Dharma 2. Anuruddha did not like the 3. Gautami always advised the

women 4. Emperor Ashok was initiated 5. Krisa Gautami attained Srotapatti

Phal 6. During the time of Padumuttar

Buddha Vangis Thero

a. to be self-dependent.b. by hearing the advice of

Bhagwan Buddha.c. was born in Hangsabati

Nagar.d. first to his five disciples. e. happiness of this

temporary life. f. to Buddhism by

Nagrodha Samenara


C. Answer in brief:

1. Name some disciples of Buddha.

2. What lesson do we learn from the life of Anuruddha?

3. Who was Vangis?

4. What did Mahaprajapati Gautami give away to the Bhikkhu Sangha?

5. What did Buddha advise Krisa Gautami?

6. Why did a change come over Emperor Ashok?


1. Why will you read the lives of the disciples and the followers of Buddha?

2. Discuss the previous life of Thero Anuruddha.

3. Tell about the life of Vangis in brief.

4. Describe how Mahaprajapati Gautami took the Bhikkhuni- vow.

5. Why did Krisa Gautami go to Buddha? What did Buddha tell her?

6. Mention the contributions of Emperor Ashok to the spreading Buddhism.

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