Download Buddhist Religious Studies

Prescribed by National Curriculum and Textbook Board as a Textbook (Bangla version) for
Class Five from 2006, English version of the book from academic year 2007.
Buddhist Religious Studies
Class Five
Written by
Dr. Sunanda Barua
Nipul Kanti Barua
Nargis Begum
Edited by
Dr. Sumangal Barua
Translated by
Nipul Kanti Barua
Shafiqur Rahman Chowdhury
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]
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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- 1100
First Print (Bangla version) : September 2005
First Print (English Version) : February 2007
2nd Print (English version) : March 2008
Reprint (English Version) : April 2009
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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
Contents
Chapter
Subject
Page
Chapter One
The Most Compassionate Buddha
1
Chapter Two
Tribute to the Triple-gems
11
Chapter Three
Worship and Offering
18
Chapter Four
Ten Precepts
28
Chapter Five
The Religious Verses
36
Chapter Six
Abhidhamma Pitak
45
Chapter Seven
Buddhist Religious Ceremonies
51
Chapter Eight
Action and its Consequences
61
Chapter Nine
Noble Eight-fold Path
68
Chapter Ten
Historical Places
73
Chapter Eleven
Jatak
86
Chapter Twelve
Buddha and Bodhisatta
102
Chapter Thirteen
Disciples and Followers of
Chapter Fourteen
Goutam Buddha
108
Pali Alphabet
122
Chapter One
The Most Compassionate Buddha
More than two and a half thousand years ago, there was a Kingdom
called Kapilavastu at the foot of the Himalayas. The Kings of the
Shakya clan ruled over this kingdom. That was why Kapilavastu was
known as the Shakya kingdom. Suddhodan was the king of that
Shakya kingdom and Mahamaya was the queen. Prince Siddhartha
was the son of them. Mahamaya passed away just seven days after
the birth of Siddhartha.
From his very childhood, Prince Siddhartha was thoughtful. He used
to meditate sitting in a solitary place. He used to think about many
things. His father Suddhodan remained always much worried
because of this.
Siddhartha gradually grew up. He was sixteen years old. He was
now a young man. By the suggestions of the counsellors King
Suddhodan arranged his son's marriage. He was married to
Yashodhara, the princess of Devadaha.
Happy days passed by after the marriage. All of a sudden, he wanted
to go around his Kingdom. His father Suddhodan made
arrangements for his travel. He went on the journey to the kingdom
for four consecutive days on a chariot which was driven by
chhandok. In course of his travel he came across an old man, a very
sick man, a dead body and an ascetic mendicant. These scenes were
the four significances. These awakened a number of questions in his
mind. Asceticism or ascetic emotion arose in him. On his return to the
02
The Most Compassionate Buddha
palace he heard the news of his son Rahul's birth. He thought he was
going to be confined in the illusion of earthly bondage. In that very night
he made a vow to renunciate the comfortable life in the palace and leave.
It was the full moon of night of Ashar. Silence prevailed all around.
Yashodhara was asleep with her new-born child. Siddhartha took
Chhandak, the charioteer, with him. Then riding on the back of the
horse Kanthak he left the palace. He hurridly reached the bank of
the river Anoma. He left Chhandak, the charioteer. Kanthak, the
horse, could not bear separation from Siddhartha and died on the
spot. After a long journey on foot. Siddhartha arrived at Vaisali He
stayed a few days at the hermitage of Ara kalam. But he could
hardly find out the quest of the cessation of sufferings. He left the
hermitage. He met Ramputra Rudrak, another hermit at Rajgriha. He
passed a few days at his hermitage too. But he also could not show
the path of cessation of sufferings.
At last Siddhartha came to a place Urubilva by name near Gaya.The
environment of the place was calm and quiet. The river Niranjana
flew by its side. There were high hills in front. He liked this
beautiful place, surrounded by the rivers and hills. He started his
deep meditation here.
Many days passed by. From lack of food and water his body became
pale and weak. He realised that for arduous practice and meditation
the body should remain strong and healthy too. It was impossible to
get rid of man's sufferings with a body almost dead. So he decided
to adopt the middle path.
The village of Senani was just beside Urubilva. He went out to
procure alms. He could not advance more with his weak body.
Buddhist Religious Studies
03
He sat down under a Nigrodha tree to rest for a while. Meanwhile
Sujata, a daughter of the family of Senani, offered a bowl of
sweetened rice to him. Siddhartha ate it with his heart's content.
Again he sat down for meditation underneath the tree. He promised,
'Let my whole skin-body (sinew) be dried up, I shall never leave the
seat without attaining Buddhahood'. While he was absorbed in deep
meditation, at that very moment, Mar (evil) attacked him. In
different ways through cunning and deception Mar tried to break
Siddhartha's meditation. But nothing could break Siddhartha's
meditation. At last, Mar feld away obeing defeated. The long six
years of meditation of Siddhartha came to be fulfilled. He became
the Buddha. Buddha means wise. The tree under which He attained
Buddhahood, is known as Bodhi tree and the place came to be
known as Bodhgaya.
After attaining Buddhahood, He resolved to proclaim (propagate)
His doctrines. But where and to whom would He proclaim His
doctrines? Who would recognize His doctrines attained by deep
meditation ? He remembered the hermits both Arar Kalam and
Ramputra Rudrak . But by His divine vision He realized that both of
them were dead. He recalled five of His mates from first life who
meditated deeply with Him. He came to Saranath and ordained those
five sons of Brahmin to His new doctrines. They were the five
disciples of the Buddha. Their names were Kondinya, Bappa,
Bhadriya, Mahanama and Ashwajit respectively.
The Buddha admonished the Dharmachakra Pravartan Sutra to the
aforesaid five disciples. He explained Four Noble-truths and Noble
Eight-fold path in this Sutra. He advised the Bhikkhus to adopt the
Middle path because the Middle path is the way and means to attain
"Nirban'' (the ultimate goal or extinction).
04
The Most Compassionate Buddha
The Buddha's admonition of Dhamma to His five disciples
Then Yasa, the son of a rich man embraced the doctorine of the
Buddha. His other fifty four mates along with Vimala, Subahu,
Purna and Gavampati accompanied him. Now the number of newly
ordained Bhikkhus (monks) became fifty nine. The Buddha now
formed the first Bhikkhusangha with those fifty nine Bhikkhus. He
spent a barshabas at Saranath with those monks (Bhikkhusangha).
The rainy days came to an end. The roads and highways became suitable
for movement. The Buddha asked them to preach His newly discovered
doctrines. He said 'Go Ye, oh Bhikkhus, get scattered in all directions.
Propagate the Dharma (the doctrines) for the benifits and happiness of all.
Buddhist Religious Studies
05
The Dharma brings welfare in the first, in the middle and even at the
end.'
They began to preach the immortal messages of the Buddha in town
and locality surrounding it. Entrance to the Buddha's doctrines
became open to all. The Brahmins and the Kshatriyas, the Kings and
the subjects (general people) began to embrace Buddha's doctrines.
Buddha offered the rank of Agrasravak to Sariputra and
Moggallayana. Ananda was appointed as the main attendant. Upali,
Anuruddha, Sivali, Mahakachchayan, all these Bhikkhus were
highly illuminated for their own competencies. Apart from this the
Buddha permitted the Bhikkhuni Sangha to be formed. In the
formation of Bhikkhuni Sangha, the performance of Mahaprajapati
Goutami is memorable.Both Khema and Utpalvarna were the
Agrasravikas. The Bhikkhusangha formed with the Bhikkus and
Bhikkhunis (Monks and nuns) took a bigger shape. Mahakashap,
one of the chief disciples of the Buddha became the pioneer of the
Bhikkhusangha.
At that time many kings and richmen patronized to words
propagating the doctrines of the Buddha. Among them King
Bimbisar and Prasenajit were worth mentioning. Bimbisar
established the Venuban Vihar and donated it to the Buddha and His
disciples.
Shresthi Anathapindik became immortal offering the Jetban Vihar to
the Buddha and His disciples. Jivak was the permanent physician of
the Buddha and Bhikkhusangha. He offered the Jivakaram Vihar.
Visakha, the daughter of a rich man donated the Purbaram Vihar. In
this way numerous men and women became the followers of the
Buddha's doctrines. In fact the doctrines of the Buddha widely
spread all over India during His lifetime. The doctrines that
expounded by the Buddha is Buddhism.
06
The Most Compassionate Buddha
The Buddha proclaimed His doctrines for a long forty five years.
Now He was eighty years old. He came to the final stage of His life.
At that time He was staying at Baishali. One day He asked the
Bhikkhusangha and said 'Oh Bhikkhus, do perform your life of
monkhood diligently. Be self-reliant. Lead a holy life. Don't worry
in my absence. My doctrines shall be your guide'. These sayings of
the Buddha were the final messages or advice to the Bhikkhus
(disciples).
Lord Buddha at the stage of Mahaparinirban
He started His journey to Kushinagar from Vaishali along with His
disciples. Ananda was also with Him. In the meantime, He felt
Buddhist Religious Studies
07
seriously ill. At this state of illness He arrived at the Salgrove of the
Malla kings at Kushinagar. He directed Ananda to make a bed-stead
for Him there. The bed-stead was made ready underneath a pair of
Shal trees. The Buddha lay down on the bed-stead. Gradually He
breathed His last. He attained the Mahaparinirban (Great passing
away). This was the full-moon day of the Baishakh.
On this particular lunar day, the Buddha was born, attained
Buddhahood and breathed His last (Great passing away). It is rare to
have three such great incidents happen in the life of a individual in
one life, on one particular day. For this reason the full-moon day of
Baishakh is a sacred day for the Buddhists. The Buddhists observe
this holy day as Buddha Purnima.
The news of the Buddha's Mahaparinirban (Great passing away)
soon spread all over. Numerous followers arrived at Kushinagar.
Mahakasyapa Sthabir came from paba to Kushinagar with five
hundred Bhikkhus (monks). In his presence the funeral of the
Buddha was held.
Now came the period for the collection of the holy relics of the
Buddha. The kings and the followers from different kingdoms
assembled at Kushinagar. On consultation with everybody a wellversed Brahmin, Drona by name, divided the holy relics of the
Buddha into eight portions. Those who received the holy relics were1. Bidehiputta Ajatasatru, the king of Magadha.
2. The Lichchabi kings of Vaishali
3. The Shakya kings of Kapilavastu.
4. The Bulaya kings of Abppakappa.
5. The Koliya kings of Ramagram.
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The Most Compassionate Buddha
6. The Brahmin kings of Bethadvipa .
7. The Malla kings of Pabanagar.
8. The Malla kings of Kushinagar.
The Buddha's messages of amity inspired everybody. Crores of
followers of the modern world take refuge to Him with great
reverance. The Buddha is an incarnated symbol of love and amity,
the man of compassion. So He is the most Compassionate one.
Exercise
A.
Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. Within how many days did Mahamaya pass away after the
birth of prince Siddhartha ?
a. five
b. Seven
c. Nine
d. Eleven
2. Who were Arar Kalam and Ramputra Rudrak ?
a. Two hermits
b. Two mendicants
c. Two brothers
d. Two deitics
3. With how many Bhikkhus did the Buddha form the
Bhikkhusangha?
a. Thirty nine
b. Forty nine
c. Fifty nine
d. Sixty nine
Buddhist Religious Studies
09
4. Which of the two disciples of the Buddha were in the rank of
Agrasravak?
a. Ananda and Sivali
b. Upali and Mahakasyapa
c. Anuruddha and Mahakachchayana d. Sariputra and Moggallayana
5. On which full moon day Siddharha was born, attained
Buddhahood and Mahaparinirban (Great passing way)?
a. Full moon day of Baishakh.
b. Full moon day of Ashara.
c. Full moon day of Bhadra
d. Full moon day of Ashwin
(Full moon day of offering honey)
B. Fill in the blanks:
1. On returning.............He received the news of Rahul's.................
2. The............, sitting underneath of which He attained Buddha
hood, became known as.....................
3. Appearing at..................the Buddha ordained those five Brahmin
sons in the order of His........................
4. The Shreshthi (Richman)................. donating...................Bihar
(Monastery)
to the Buddha and His disciples is still immortal.
5. .....................came from Paba to the......................of the Malla kings.
10
The Most Compassionate Buddha
C. Answer in brief:
1.
2.
What are the four significances?
Who offered sweetened rice to Siddhartha?
3.
Write the names of the five disciples (Panchavargiya Bhikkhus).
4.
5.
Who was Jivak? Which monastery did he donate?
Where did the Buddha attain Parinirban?
D. Answer the following questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
When and how Siddhartha renunciated from palace?
Which hermits Siddhartha came in contact with? Why did he
leave them?
Describe the event of Buddhahood attained by Siddhartha.
Which were the final messages or last advice of the Buddha to
the Bhikkhusangha?
Who received the eight portions of the Buddha's holy relics?
Chapter Two
Tribute to the Triple-gems
Do you know what Triratna is? Triratna means three gems. Ratna
denotes gem, Jewel etc. In Buddhhism more precisely three gems are
Buddha, Dharma and Sangha. Moreover Vandana means worship,
admiration, reverance etc. Hence, tribute to the Buddha, Dhamma
and Sangha is known as Triratana Vandana. The Buddha means wise.
Not merely that He is the wisest of the wise. We do admire His
profound wisdom. To recollect the qualities of the Buddha of
profound wisdom is called Buddha Vandana.
Dharma means to hold. Basically to hold or to acquire the honest
virtues is Dharma . The doctrines that Goutam Buddha proclaimed
on attainment of Buddhahood are known as Dharma. Four Nobletruths are the doctrines of the Buddha which include Noble Eightfold path . Admiration to the doctrines of the Buddha is called
Dharma Vandana.
Sangha denotes community. The assembly of the renunciated
Bhikkus (monks) is called Bhikkhusangha. The Bhikkhusangha bear
incomparable qualities. They are the most deserving persons to be
admired. To show due respect to the monks is known as the Sangha
Vandana
Vandana (Tribute) is a noble deed. It brings welfare for us. The
human mind becomes purified. All sorts of mental unrest is removed.
12
Tribute to the Triple-gems
There remains no malice, greed, hatred and delusion (fascination) in
one's mind. It always keeps us from doing wrong. One can engage
oneself in virtuous deeds. Tribute is our daily duty to earn happiness,
prosperity and virtues.
It is also your duty to pay tribute two times a day, in the morning
and in the evening. How and where will you pay your tribute? For
paying tribute you have to keep yourself clean by bath or washing
hands, face and feet. Then you should go to the nearest Vihara
(monastery) with a cheerful mind. You have to sit before the Buddha
image by kneeling down with folding hands. Then recite the prayers
of the tribute to the Triple-gems one by one. Bow down your head to
show respect every time. Tribute may be paid alone or unitedly. It is
wise to pay tribute along with relatives, friends and neighbours. This
type of Vandana is called tribute in association. Unity grows through
tribute in association. Friendly relation is achieved. It inspires to
show amity towards all. The qualities of others reflect in one's life.
The Buddha praised the tribute in association and said 'Co-operative
union causes happiness'. Tribute helps towards gaining longer life
and better complexion. It further increases happiness and keeps body
healthy.
Buddha, Dharma and Sangha possess different qualities. Now we
shall pay our tribute to Triratana by remembering all those qualities.
Tribute to the Buddha is the first one. The Buddha possesses nine
qualities.
Buddhist Religious Studies
13
Men ,women and children paying tribute to the Triple-gems
Tribute to the nine qualities of the Buddha in Pali
Itipi so Bhagava, Araham, Sammasambuddha, Vijjacarana
sampanno, Sugato, Lokavidu, Anuttaro, Purisodamma sarathi, Sattha
Devamanussanam, Buddho, Bhagava'ti.
English Version
Such indeed, is the Blessed One, perfected, fully awakened,
endowed with knowledge and virtue having walked the right path,
the knower of the world, incomparable guide of willing persons,
teacher of gods and humans, awakened and blessed.
14
Tribute to the Triple-gems
Word notes
Itipi- Such indeed,
Bhagava - The Blessed one, Araham Perfeeted, (conquerer of evil), Sammasambuddha - fully awakened,
Vijjacaranasampanno - Endowed with knowledge and virtue,
Sugato - Walked to the right path, Lokavidu - knower of the world,
Anuttaro - Incomparable, Purisadmmasarahi - He who rules over,
Satthadeva manussanam - Teacher of gods and humans.
The second one is the tribute to the Dharma. The Dharma consists of
six qualities.
Tribute to the Dharma in Pali
Svakkhato Bhagavata dhammo, sanditthiko , akaliko, ehipassiko,
opanayiko, paccattam veditabbo vinnuhi'ti .
English version
Well taught is the teaching of the Blessed one, of immediate
advantage, timeless, inviting to experience, leading onward, to be
known individually by the wise.
Word notes
Svakkhato- Well taught, Sanditthiko- of immediate advantage ,
Akaliko- Timeless , Ehipassiko- Inviting to experience, PaccattamLeading onward, Veditabbo- known by, Vinnuhi'ti-The wise.
Tribute to the Sangha is the last one. The Sangha possess nine
qualities.
Tribute to the Sangha in Pali
Supatipanna bhagavato savakasangho, ujupatipanno bhagavato
savakasangho, nayapatipanno bhagavato savakasangha, samici
patipanno bhagavato savakasangho, yadidam cattari purisayugani ,
Buddhist Religious Studies
15
atthapurisapuggala esa bhagavato savakasangho, ahuneyo,
pahuneyo, dakkhineyo, anjali karaniyo, anuttaram punnakkhettam
lokassa'ti .
English version
Wholesome in conduct is the community of the disciples of the
Blessed one, honest in conduct is the community of the disciples of
the Blessed one, wise in conduct is the community of the disciples
of the Blessed one, proper in conduct is the community of the
disciples of the Blessed one. These four pairs of persons, eight
individuals is the community of the disciples of the Blessed one,
worthy of offerings and hospitality, gifts and homage is an
incomparable field of merit for the world.
Word notes
Supatipanno- Wholesome in conduct, Ujupatipanno-Honest in
conduct , Nayapatipanno- Wise in conduct, Samicipatipanno- Proper
in conduct, Cattari purisayugani-Four pair of persons , AhuneyoInvocable, Pahuneyo-Respectful , Dakkhineyo- Worthy of offerings ,
Anjali karaniyo - Worthy of Respect with folded hands, Anuttaram
punnakkhetta-Incomparable field of merit, Lokassa'ti- Of the world.
There are more Vandanas besides Triratana Vandana. Such as- Bodhi
Vandana (Tribute to the Bodhitree), Tribute to the Tooth-relic,
Tribute to the seven holy places etc. You will learn these Tributes
step by step. By dint of the Vandana your life will be more graceful.
16
Tribute to the Triple-gems
Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. What are the Triple-gems?
a. Buddha, Deity, Religion
c. Dharma, Laity, Sangha
2. What does the Buddha mean?
a. Wise
c. Donour
b. Buddha. Dharma,
Sangha
d. Buddha, Mendicant,
Sangha
b. Meditative
d. Respectful
3. 'Svakkhato'- what is the meaning of this Pali word?
a. Good
b. Well- delighted
c. Well-taught
d. Well- Thought
4. 'Co-operative unity brings happiness'- Who told this?
a. Deity
b. Hermit
c. Brahma
d. Buddha
5. Who are the incomparable field of merit?
a. Deities
b. Humans
c. Bhikkhusangha (Community of monks) d. Pragatisangha
(Association)
Buddhist Religious Studies
17
B. Match the group of words from both sides:
1. Tribute to the Buddha,
Dharma, and Sangha
2. Through tribute in
association
3. The Buddha
4. Excepting the Triratna
Vandana
5. The attribute of the
Dharma is
1. consists of nine qualities.
2. there are more Vandanas.
3. is called the Triratna
Vandana.
4. Well- taught.
5. unity grows.
C. Answer in brief:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What qualities do the Buddha's doctrines possess?
What should we do to earn happiness, prosperity and virtue?
Where should we go for paying Vandana (Tribute)?
What did the Buddha say praising the Tribute in association?
How many qualities do the Sangha possess?
D. Answer the following questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Describe in brief the benefit of Vandana (Tribute).
Which are the nine qualities of the Buddha?
Write in Pali the six qualities of the Dhamma.
Write in English the nine qualities of the Sangha.
Mention some of more Tributes excepting the Tribute to
the Triple-gems.
Chapter Three
Worship and Offering
Worship is very important for the Buddhists. For this reason every
Buddhist should offer worship. By worship one can earn unlimited
virtues. It creates amity in mind. It uplifts the consciousness of
offering and develops interest in doing virtuous deeds.
The Buddhists offer worship to the Buddha everyday. These
worships are- Worship with flower, Worship with food, Worship with
drinks etc.
Worship with candle
Why is worship with candle performed? We perform this to the
Buddha. The light of candle removes darkness. The Buddha removed
the ignorance of the three worlds (Heaven, world and hell) by
igniting the light of wisdom, As the light of the candle is transitory,
so is the life of a human being. Everything on earth is impermanent.
This meditation of impermanence removes greed, hatred and
delusion (fascination). To get rid of all sorts of cravings the virtues
of the Buddha are remembered.
This worship with candle may be performed in the monastery or in
one's own house. It requires cleanliness of body and concentration of
mind. There are some rules to offer worship. Having been neat and
clean, you are to stand before the portrait or the image of the
Buddha. Now take your seat kneeling down with a candle in
Worship and Offering
19
your hand. Pay your tribute to the Triple-gems first. Then recite the
verse of worship. The verse is as followsGhanasarappadittena dipena tamadhvamsina,
Tilokadipam Sambuddham pujayami tamonudam.
English version
The candle with thick oil removes the darkness. With that candle I
do worship the omniscient Buddha, the destroyer of ignorance of the
three worlds.
Poetic version of the worship with candle
I do worship the Buddha,
With this candle that removes darkness.
As the light of the candle destroys the darkness,
So the light of wisdom destroys the delusion (fascination).
As soon as the fiber with oil be exhausted,
The light of the candle shall be extinguished.
In this way, if the oil of craving be exhausted,
The flame of sufferings also be extinguished.
By virtue of this tribute and worship,
May all sufferings and cravings be destroyed.
After reciting the verse, pay homage to the Buddha with due respect.
Then stand up and put the candle on the altar before the image of the
Buddha. Putting the candle on the altar pay tribute to the Buddha
20
Buddhist Religious Studies
once again by kneeling down and then lying down flat with all your
eight limbs.
Worship with incense
Why do we perform worship with incense? This worship is
performed with perfumed incense. The sweet smell of incense
spreads all around and makes scented. Let the result of our virtuous
deeds reach everywhere like the essence of incense. In worshipping
with incense, prayer is performed remembering the virtues of the
Buddha.
The evening is the right time to worship with incense. Keep the
incense in the container or ignite the stick of incense before the altar
of the image of the Buddha. Then pay tribute (Vandana) to the triplegems. Thereafter recite the verse of worship with incense.
The verse is given here with
Gandhasambharayuttena dhupenaham sugandhina,
Pujaye pujaneyantam puja-bhajanamuttamam,
English version
I do worship that Worthy person Buddha with this incense full of
sweet smell.
Poetic version
With this incense full of sweet smell,
I do worship Lord Buddha,
As the sweet smell of incense perfumes all around,
So the earned virtues do the same.
We do remember you with this incense full of perfume,
To earn virtues in the present and preceding lives.
Worship and Offering
21
After reciting the verse, pay tribute to the Buddha. You should
always perform the worship in the monastery or at your residence.
Make the habit to recite the verses with a sweet tone.
Offering
Offering means sacrifice. To sacrifice something with no interest is
offering. The significance of offering is boundless. Human mind
becomes purified and delusion is removed by offering. The feelings
of offering make a man sympathetic to the helpless and destitute. It
helps to earn peace and happiness in present and preceding lives. In
the Pali verse there are ten kinds of best offerings. Such as food, soft
drinks, cloth, perfume, bed-stead, dwelling-house etc. Before
offering, the charitable person (the donor) should be conscious of
three concerns:
1. It is better to offer the money or materials earned by honest
means with cheerful mind.
2. The best offering relates with no greed, hatred and delusion.
3. The offering is the best when it is offered to the deserving
persons. The man of virtues is the best among the human
beings.
So best returns may be earned by offering to the man of virtues.
There are several kinds of offering. The Buddhists offer by
observing different functions. Among them Sanghadan (Offering to
the monks), Offering of eight kinds of materials, Offering of Yellow
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Buddhist Religious Studies
robes etc. are worth mentioning. Offering to the monks (Sanghadan)
is one of the best forms of offering.
Sanghadan (Offering to the monks)
Offering to the monks is known as Sanghadan. The Buddhists
perform Sanghadan desiring welfare of their kith and kins.
Sanghadan is performed for the welfare of the close relatives. It
brings virtues for the performer too.
This function of offering may be observed in the monastery or in
one's own house. At least five monks are required to observe
Sanghadan. The laities observe Sanghadana inviting five monks at
their own residence. The Buddhists who live family life are the
laities.
The laities keep their offering materials before the monks as soon as
they arrive at the house of the laity. All kinds of food are placed in
the utensils. All the family members along with kith and kins sit in
front of the monks with folded hands. They pay tribute to the
Triratana and then accept five precepts. Then the verse of
Sanghadana is recited for three times. The verse is as followsImam bhikkham saparikkharam Bhikkhusanghassa dema.
Dutiyampi, imam bhikkham saparikkharam Bhikkhusanghassa dema.
Tatiyampi, imam bhikkham Saparikkharam Bhikkhusanghassa dema.
English version
We offer these offerings to the monks with necessary materials.
Worship and Offering
23
A second time, we offer these offerings to the monks with necessary
materials.
A third time, we offer these offerings to the monks with necessary
materials.
The Function of Sanghadan
The invited monks recite the Sutras (verses from Tripitak) for the
welfare of the kith and kins both alive and deceased. They deliver
religious speech. Thereafter everybody present in the function gives
thanks to the monks. In this way the function of offering
(Sanghadan) comes to an end.
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Buddhist Religious Studies
Whenever you go to the monastery, you should offer to the monks as
much as you can. Besides this you should come forward to help the
poor neighbours. There may be a poor mate in your class. He can
seldom buy note-book or pen for writing in time. You can help him
with these. You should offer food to the hungry animals. In this way
the habit of doing charity will grow in you. By dint of this virtuous
charity your life will be graceful with happiness.
Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. What grows in mind by worship?
a. Enmity
b. Amity
c. Non violence
d. Revenge
2. Ignorance of what did the Buddha remove?
a. Three worlds
b. Heaven
c. Present life
d. Preceding life.
Worship and Offering
25
3. At the end of worship, whom will you pay tribute to?
a. The Deity
b. The Bodhisatta (future Buddha)
c. The Buddha
d. The Brahma
4. How many kinds of offering materials are there in Pali verse?
a. Seven
b. Eight
c. Nine
d. Ten
5. Who is the best among human beings?
a. Wealthy man
b. Wiseman
c. Man of character
d. Man of beauty
B. Fill in the gaps:
1. Meditation on impermanence removes.......... .... and delusion.
2. As the......of candle removes.....so the light of........removes......
3. Gaudhasambharayuttena......Pujaye.....Pujabhajanamuttamam.
4. The Buddhists perform..........................by different.................
5. The laities accept.............paying ............to the Triple gems.
6. Do we offer these necessary............. to the...............
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Buddhist Religious Studies
C. Match the group of words from both sides.
1.
The Buddhists
1. perform Sanghadan for the
welfare of kith and kins.
2.
The candle with thick oil
2. make habit to recite.
3.
The verses with sweet tone 3. offer worship to the Buddha
everyday.
4.
To perform sanghadan at
4. removes darkness.
5.
least
The Buddhists
5. five monks are required.
D. Answer in brief:
1. Which worships do the Buddhists perform?
2. Write the Pali verse of the Worship with candle.
3. Translate the Pali verse of Worship with incense in English.
4. What is the meaning of offering? What is an offering?
5. Mention different kinds of offering.
6. Recite the Pali verse of Sanghadan.
7. How will you help the poor and the destitute?
Worship and Offering
E. Answer the following questions:
1. Why should you perform the worship with candle?
2. What happens if the Worship with incense be performed?
3. Recite the Worship with candle in poetical verse.
4. Write from your memory the verse of the worship with
incense in Pali.
5. Recite the Worship with incense in poetical verse in English.
6. Which concerns the donor should be conscious on?
7. Describe the systems of Sanghandan.
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Chapter four
Ten-Precepts
In this chapter we shall know about the Ten-precepts. Before that we
should have a clear concept about Shil or precept. Shil or precept
means-rule, principle, discipline etc. The Buddha admonished many
instructions to His disciples to adopt honest means in daily life. These
instructions are known as precepts. Human character is controlled by
observing precepts. Human life becomes graceful by observing these.
By a gentle boy we mean a boy of honesty or character. Those men
and women who duly observe precepts proclaimed by the Buddha are
the virtuous. The virtuous men and women are admired by all. By
observing these precepts the good qualities of self-control,
truthfulness, politeness, love to living beings, avoidance of luxury etc.
are attained. One can keep away oneself from stealing, drug addiction
and indiscipline. The characteristic of good conduct is revealed.
Hence, the good qualities of human character are precepts. We perform
our deeds in three ways. The three door-ways are the body, speech and
mind. The three door-ways should be kept in control so that good
deeds can be performed. Lack of restraint in any of these hampers the
performance of good deeds. The man involved in evil deeds becomes
corrupted or characterless. The characterless people are same as the
beasts. They are hated by all. Association with this type of man is
never peaceful. So everybody should keep himself away from the
company with them.
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29
Those who became memorable and honourable on earth were
famous for their moral excellence. Everybody respects them. They
are favourite to all. Observance of precepts is the main reason for
earning their moral virtues. So everybody should be conscious
enough to observe the precepts for acquiring those moralities. One
can get rid of all sorts of sufferings by observing precepts.
According to the Buddha, salvation from sufferings is Nirban
(Extinction). Nirban is the ultimate goal of the Buddhist aspiration.
Simultaneously, the precepts are the stairs for attainment of Nirbab.
So you have to observe the precepts properly.
Lord Buddha's disciples are of two kinds-the lay devotees and the
renunciated ones. Who are the lay devotees? Those who live in the
family with their parents, wives and children, brothers and sisters
and near and dear ones are the lay devotees (laities). The observance
of Five-precepts is the daily duty of the lay-devotees. They also
observe the Eight-precepts on the day of new-moon, the eighth day
of every lunar fortnight and the day of full-moon. The Eight-precepts
are known as Uposath shil. Uposath means fasting. The laydevotees observe the practice of fasting on those lunar days. The laydevotees of both men and women who observe Uposath-shil are
known as Uposathiks. The lay-devotees observe both the Fiveprecepts and the Eight-precepts. So they are called the precepts
observed by the laities.
Those who take initiation as a novice in the order of Dharma
(doctrines) renouncing from domestic-life are the renunciated
disciples. The initiated novices are called Sarmans. Observance of
Ten- precepts is compulsory for them. The Sarmanarass pray for
Ten-precepts from their Preceptor (Guiding monk) two times a day
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Ten-Precepts
in the morning and evening. During the prayer the novice
(Sramanera) should sit in front of the Monk kneeling down with
folding hands. At the outset the novice has to pay Tribute to the
Triple- gems and the Bhikkhu (monk). After the prayer the Preceptor
(Guiding monk) offer Ten- precepts. The Sramanera (Novice) has to
utter Ten- precepts with correct pronunciation in Pali following the
Bhante (Preceptor). Thereafter the Preceptor gives advice to the
novice to observe the Ten- precepts properly.
The Sramaneras (novices) accepting the Ten-precepts
Now we shall come to know how to pray for Ten-precepts with
refuge to the Triple-gems.
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Prayer for Ten-precepts in Pali
Okasa aham bhante, tisaranenasaha pabbajja samanera dasasilam
dhammam yacami, anuggaham katva silam detha me bhante.
Dutiyampi aham bhante, tisaranenasaha pabbajja samanera
dasasilam dhammam yacami, anuggaham katva silam detha me
bhante.
Tatiyampi aham bhante, tisaranenasaha pabbajja samanera dasasilam
dhammam yacami, anuggaham katva silam detha me bhante.
English version
Venerable oh Bhante (Monk), pay attention please, I pray for
virtuous Ten-precepts of initiating novice along with refuge to the
Triple-gems. Please, offer me the precepts.
A second time, oh Bhante, pay attention please, I pray for virtuous
Ten- precepts of initiating novice along with refuge to the Triplegems. Please, offer me the precepts.
A third time, oh Bhante, pay attention please, I pray for virtuous
Ten-precepts of initiating novice along with refuge to the Triplegems. Please, offer me the precepts .
The prayer is concluded. The Preceptor now will start to offer Tenprecepts. The initiating novice has to utter Ten-precepts with him
serially.
Ten-precepts in Pali
1. Panatipata veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
2. Adinnadana veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
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Ten-Precepts
3. Abrahmachariya veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
4. Musavada veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
5. Suramereya-majjapamadatthana veramani sikkhapadam
samadiyami.
6. Vikala bhojana veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
7. Nachcha-gita-vadita-visukadassana veramani sikkhapadam
samadiyami.
8. Mala-gandha-vilepana dharanamandana vibhusanatthana
veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
9. Uchchasayana-mahasayana veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
10. Jatarupa rajata patiggahana veramani sikkhapadam samadiyami.
English version
1. I undertake the Precept to abstain from killing.
2. I undertake the Precept to abstain from stealing.
3. I undertake the Precept to abstain from sexual misconduct.
4. I undertake the Precept to abstain from telling lies.
5. I undertake the Precept to abstain from taking intoxicants.
6. I undertake the Precept to abstain from having meals in the
afternoon.
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33
7. I undertake the Precept to abstain from enjoying dance, song,
music etc. for amusement.
8. I undertake the Precept to abstain from holding garlands, using
perfumes, applying cosmetics, putting on ornaments etc.
9. I undertake the Precept to abstain from lying on valuable high seat.
10. I undertake the Precept to abstain from accepting gold and silver .
Every male child of the lay-devotees must have to be initiated as
novice at least once in life though he leads a family life. Family life
is full of sufferings. But the ascetic life is as vast and generous as the
open sky. The initiated novices and the monks meditate for salvation
from sufferings leaving the worldly life. It is their arduous practice
for the welfare of self and the others. So they are worthy of honour.
The Buddha admonished, 'Honouring the persons that worthy of
houour is the great happiness'.
Good effects of the Precepts
Once Lord Buddha appeared at the village of Patali near Nalanda
with His disciples. He admonished the five good effects of observing
the Precepts. Those five noble effects are as follows1. The virtuous men and women possess vast wealth.
2. The glory of the virtuous men and women is praised everywhere.
3. The virtuous men and women live a fearless life with no hesitation.
4. The virtuous men and women die with full consciousness.
5. The virtuous men and women ascend to heaven as soon as they die.
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Ten-Precepts
Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. What does a gentle boy mean?
a. Naughty boy
c. Boy of good character
b. Cruel boy
d. Boy of bad character
2. What are the virtuous men and women worthy of?
a. Bad conduct
c. Evil conduct
b. Appreciation
d. Ill reputation
3. In how many door-ways do we perform our deeds?
a. Three
c. Five
b. Four
d. Six
4. What authorities do the memorable and honourable persons
possess?
a. Bad character
c. Corrupted character
b. Evil character
d. Good character
5. Who observe the Ten-precepts?
a. The brahmins
c. The initiated novices
b. The Khatriyas
d. The lay-devotees
Buddhist Religious Studies
B.
35
Match the group of words from both sides:
1. If the Precepts are
observed
2. Invalved in evil deeds
3. The initiated Noviees
4. Observance of Tenprecepts are
5. Vikalabhojana veramani
1. are kknow as shraman
Sramanera (initiated novice).
2. Sikkhapadam Somadigami
3. compulsory for the
Sramaneras (novices).
4. human character becomes
excellent.
5. man becomes corrupted or
characterless.
C. Answer in brief:
1. Which good qualities can be earned by observing Precepts?
2. Which Precepts are known as the Precepts of the laities?
3. Whom do the initiated novices (Sramaneras) pray for Tenprecepts?
4. What is the English meaning of-'Abrahmachariya veramani
sikkhapadam samadiyami'?
5. Who has to be initiated as novice at least once in life?
D. Answer the following questions:
1. What do you mean by lay-devotees and renounced disciples?
2. Write the Prayer of Ten-precepts both in Pali and English.
3. Write English version of Ten-precepts serially.
4. Describe the qualities of ascetic life.
5. Describe the five good effects of the observance of the
Precepts.
Chapter Five
The Religious Verses
Recitation of verses had been introduced from ancient times. The
morals were propagated by verses in an easy way. Verses may be
called the small poems. In those days the verses were modulated as
the tune of songs. The feelings of human mind were rightly
expressed.
The Buddha often used these verses during admonition of His
doctrines. These verses were delivered by the Buddha in Pali. In each
of His verses there remained religious sermons. We come across the
Buddhist philosophy, life-style and moral duties in those verses. He
recited those attractive verses while the disciples (Bhikkhusangha)
and the lay-devotees came to listen to His moral advices. The verses
were the directives of the philosophy of His doctrines. They were the
ways and means of resolving the problems of human life.
In those verses it is found to show respect and worship to the worthy
persons. Due practice of religious rites living an honest life and
performing welfare for all are also stored in them. Recite the verses
everyday in the morning and evening. Follow the morals of the
verses properly. Good returns will be achieved by this practice.
Some Pali verses are given in this chapter with English version. Try
to understand the inner significance of the verses. Then recite them
in a sweet voice with correct pronunciation.
The Religious Verses
37
Verse-1
Natthi ragasama aggi, natthi dosasama gaho,
Natthi mohasamam jalam, natthi tanhasamo nadi.
(Mala vaggo- Dhammapada)
English version
There is no fire like anger and no crime like hatred. There is no ill
like lust and no flood stronger then desire.
Poetic version
There is no fire like anger,
No bondage like hatred;
There is no ill like lust,
And no flood stronger than the desire.
Verse-2
Mata yatha niyam puttam ayusa ekaputtamanurakkhe,
Evampi sabbabhutesu manasam bhavaye aparimanam.
(Metta Suttam-Khuddaka Patho)
English version
As the mother risks her life for the protection of her only child, such
loving-kindness should be shown to all living-beings.
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Buddhist Religious Studies
Poetic version
As the child of a mother,
Is the greatest wealth of affection;
Show such love and affection,
Towards all living-beings.
Verse-3
Na jacca vasalo hoti, na jacca hoti Brahmano,
Kammuna vasalo hoti, kammuna hoti Brahano.
(Vasala suttam- Sutta Nipata)
None be a hateful, nor be a Brahmin (holy man) by birth. Both the
hateful and Brahmin are by virtue of their deeds.
Poetic version
None is hateful by birth,
Nor birth causes to be holy;
The deeds are the causes of holiness,
Thus the deeds make one hateful.
Verse-4
Papamitte vivajjetva bhajeyutama puggale,
Ovade cassa tittheya patthento acalam sukham.
(Vimala Thera- Theragatha)
The Religious Verses
39
English version
Pay homage to the man worthy of honour by keeping no association
with evil friend. Do perform your duties to attain the eternal
happiness of Nirban by His directives.
Poetic version
Keep no association with evil friend,
Pay tribute to the man worthy of honour;
He who shows the path to attain Nirban,
Should everybody pay homage to Him.
Verse -5
Yavajjivampi ce balo, panditam pahirupasati,
Na so dhammam vijanati dabbi supasam yatha.
English version
As the spoon bears no taste of juice, such is the case of a foolish one
who can hardly earn virtues even living with the virtuous.
Poetic version
Though the spoon remaining in the juice,
Can hardly bear its taste;
Such is the case of the foolish one,
Who can never glorify himself even living with the virtuous.
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Buddhist Religious Studies
Verse-6
Potthakesu yam sippam parahatthesu yam dhanam,
Yathakicce samupanne na tam sippam na tam dhanam.
(Lokaniti- Pandita kanda)
English version
If you don't learn from books the wisdom that lies there is as wealth that
belongs to someone else. Those type of learning and wealth are seldom
helpful in times of need.
Poetic version
Knowledge of learning confined in books,
And wealth that belongs to others,
Never help any one,
In the time of need.
Verse-7
Arogya parama labha, santutthi paramam dhanam,
Vissasa parama nati Nibbanam paramam sukham.
(Sukhavaggo-Dhammapada)
The Religious Verses
41
English version
Health is the precious gain and contentment the greatest wealth. A
trustworthy person is the best kinsman and Nirban is the highest
bliss.
Poetic version
Health is the precious gain,
Contententment, the greatest wealth;
A Trustworthy person is the best kinsman,
And Nirban, the highest bliss.
Verse-8
Natthi vijjasamam mittam, na ca byadhisamam ripu.
Na ca attasamam pemam, na ca kamma samam balam.
English version
There is no friend as knowledge, even no foe as disease. Nothing is
dearer than one's self and nothing more powerful than action..
Poetic version
Best friend is the knowledge,
Disease, the worst foe,
Self is the best object of love,
And action, the best power.
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Buddhist Religious Studies
In our everyday life the morals of the verses are much important for
us. We require them in our daily life. Find out their inner meanings.
Try to regulate your life accordingly. These will bring prosperity in
your life.
Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. In which language did the Buddha deliver the verses?
a. Sanskrit
b. Hindi
c. Bangla
d. Pali
2. What is not same as anger ?
a. Fire
b. Money
c. Water
d. Knowledge
3. Whom do you pay homage to?
a. Worthy person
b. Friend
c. People
d. Brahmin (Holy man)
4. What is the highest bliss?
a. Health
b. Trust
c. Food
d. Nirban (Extinction)
The Religious Verses
43
B. Fill in the gaps:
1. Only......................... of a mother.......................,
......................,
Show loving-kindness................................, .................................
C. Match the group of words from both the sides:
1. Introduction of verses
1. there is religious sermon.
continued
2. In each verse delivered
2. from ancient times.
by Him
3. Some associated verses 3. hateful.
4. Birth does not make
anybody
5. Trustworthy is the best
4. Nirban is the highest
bliss.
5. are known as Sutras.
kinsman,
D. Answer in brief:
1. When were the verses first introduced?
2. What will you know from the morals of the verses?
3. How will you show loving-kindness to all living-beings?
4. What is the teaching of Vasala Sutram?
5. What is attained by following the morals of the verses?
6. Recite the verse of Lokaniti of Panditakanda in Pali.
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Buddhist Religious Studies
E. Answer the following questions:
1. When did the Buddha deliver the verse?
2. Recite the verse of Metta sutta from your memory.
3. Write English version of a verse from Dhammapada.
4. Write poetical version of a Pali verse from Lokaniti.
5. Write the moral of the verse from Mala vagga in your own
words.
Chapter Six
The Abhidhamma Pitak
There are so many religious faiths in this world. The followers of
each religion have a Holy-book of their own. These Holy-books
have been composed or compiled with the religious sermons of their
Preceptors. The religion proclaimed by the Buddha is Buddhism.
The Buddhists are the followers of His religion. The Buddha
preached His religion for long forty five years. During this period
He admonished the religious rules and regulations, advices and
messages to His disciples and the followers. The books in which
these perceptibles were included is Tripitak. So the Tripitak is the
Holy-book of the Buddhists. Tripitak is divided into three parts.
They are1. Vinay pitak
2. Sutta pitak
3. Abhidhamma pitak.
Earlier you came across the Vinay pitak and the Sutta pitak. The
Abhidhamma is the third part of the Tripitak. Now we shall be
acquainted with the contents of the Books lying within the
Abhidhamma pitak.
The short history of the compilation of the Tripitak was included in
the text-book of class four. You are already acquainted with that
history. It is found there that the First-Council took place three
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The Abhidhamma Pitaka
months after the Mahaparinirban (Extinction) of Lord Buddha. The
Dhamma-Vinay (Doctrines and Rules) proclaimed by the Buddha
were compiled in that Council. One hundred years later, the
Dhamma-Vinay were collected without any change in the SecondCouncil. The Third-Council was held three hundred years after the
Mahaparinirban of the Buddha during the reign of Emperor Ashok.
In this Council philosophical and spiritual topics were divided into
two parts, namely Sutta and Abhiddamma respectively. In this way
the full Tripitak came into being including the Vinay, the Sutta and
the Abhidhamma. Thus the Abhidhamma took the full-shape.
Which one is the Abhidhamma pitak? What have been considered
here? In fact, there is no difference between Dhamma and
Abhidhamma. To give more preference to the psychological
commentaries the Bangla prefix 'Abhi' is added to it. There are
philosophical interpretations on four topics, particularly on mental
state, conciousness, corporeality and Nirbana (Extinction) in the
Abhidhamma pitak.
(Chitta) Mental state means human mind. The couduct that human
mind holds is consciousness (chaitasik). Both mental state and
consciousness are interrelated. Again (Rupa) corporeality is the
shape of physical matter. This is visible and changeable. But Nirban
is peaceful, quiet and full of happiness. The intellectual analysis of
themes of the Abhidhamma was not easily understable to the
common people. For that reason, Lord Buddha ascended unto the
Tavatingsa heaven along with Agrasravak Sariputra. There He
delivered Abhidhamma (Philosophical doctrines) to the dwelling
deities of the Tavatingsa heaven for long three months.
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To earn fundamental knowledge on Buddhism it is important to
know Abhidhamma. So we should have some ideas about the names
and their contents contained in the Abhidhamma pitak. There are
seven religious books in the Abhidhamma pitak. These Seven Books
are collectively known as 'Sapta Prakaran' (Seven contexts).
The short description of each Book of Seven contexts is mentioned
herewith.
1. Dhamma sangani: In this Book there is a narration of mental
state of both right and wrong. Right means good. At the same time,
wrong means bad. Right mental state is full of happiness. On the
other hand, wrong mental state is extremely sorrowful.
2. Vibhanga: The Book possesses the analysis of Panchaskandha
(Five groups of existence) in both corporeality and mental state
(body and mind). The five groups of existence are-Rupa
(Corporeality), Vedana (Feeling), Sangya (Perception), Sanskar
(Formation) and Biggyan (Consciousness).
3. Dhatukatha: The Book accomodates some thorough analysis of
Buddhist philosophy. So, it is one of the Books on philisophy of
Buddhism.
4. Puggalapannatti: 'Puggala' means Person, Individual, Human
being etc. Pannatti is denoted as prescribed or introduced. The
characteristic of this Book is the accurate introductions of various
types of human beings.
5. Kathavatthu: This Book is the logical arguments of Buddhist
Philosophy. Sthabir Moggaliputta Tissa composed it as soon as the
Third Council was over. The real intention of composing this Book
was to resolve the wrong views by logical arguments.
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The Abhidhamma Pitaka
6. Yamaka: Yamaka denotes couple or pair. The Book consists of
easy solution of the pair of questions both aside and opposite.
7. Patthana: 'Patthana' refers to real or actual cause. The contents
of this Book relate to the Cause and Effect. Its significance is to
discuss on both mind and body.
The Books of the Abhidhamma described above help us earn real
concept and knowledge. We should go through all these Books to
acquire knowledge on Buddhist philosophy and psychology. Collect
these books and read them when you grow a little older. Encourage
others to study them too.
Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. Which religion did the Buddha proclaim ?
a. Hinduism
b. Buddhism
c. Christianity
d. Jainism
2. Whose Holy Book is the Tripitak?
a. The Jainas
b. The Hindus
c. The Buddhists
d. The Christians
3. In which Council was the fully developed Tripitak compiled?
a. First Council
b. Third Council
c. Second Council
d. Fourth council
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4. To whom did the Buddha admonish the Abhidhamma
for three months?
a. Deities of the Tavatingsa
b. General people
c. Lower creatures
d. Creatures of hell.
5. How many Books are There in the Abhidhamma pitak?
a. Two
b. Four
c. Five
d. Seven
B. Fill in the gaps:
1. .............. pitak is the.................. part of the Tripitak.
2. With........,Sutta and Abbhidhamma the full Tripitak was...........
3. The.......... Books of the Abhidhamma are collectively known
as.....................
4. ....................mental state is extremely......................................
5. Soon after the...............Moggaliputta Tissa
Sthabir.............the...............
C. Answer in brief:
1. How many parts of Tripitak are there and what are they?
2. What are the five groups of existence ( Panchaskandha)?
3. What are the four significant topics of the Abhidhamma?
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The Abhidhamma Pitaka
4. Write the names of the Books of Seven contexts
(Sapta prakaran).
5. What are the meanings of Right and Wrong?
D. Answer the following questions:
1. When and how was the full Tripitak compiled?
2. What was the cause of delivering the Abhidhamma
to the deities of the Heaven of Tavatingsa by the Buddha?
3. What is the meaning of Puggaala? What is the significance
of Puggala Pannatti?
4. Who composed the Kathavattu? Describe the intention of
composing the Book?
5. What does Patthana mean? Describe the fundamental
principles of the Patthana.
Chapter Seven
Buddhist Religious Ceremonies
The Buddhist monks and the lay devotees, both men and women, observe
some important ceremonies. These are Buddha Purnima, Ashari Purnima,
Probarona, Kathin Chibar Dan, Prabrajya, Upasampada etc. These
ceremonies are observed according to religious principle. These are called
religious ceremonies.
Mind becomes pure by the observance of religious ceremonies. It also
helps in earning virtue. Most of the ceremonies are observed during the
three particular lunar days. The days are Purnima (Day of the full moon),
Ashtami (Eighth day of the lunar fortnight) and Amabasya (Day of the no
moon). These ceremonies have also special significance. The monk and
the laities meet together in a place on these occasions. As a result of this
meeting, mutual good relation, brotherhood and fraternity develop. Unity
also develops. You will learn about Pravarana, Kathin Chibar Dan,
Prabrajya and Upasampada in this chapter.
The word Pravarana means fulfilment of hopes, wishes and an end of
course of meditation. Beccause, on this day three months of solilary living
of Barshabas are completed. The day of completion of Varshabrata is the
day of Ashari Purnima. Ashari Purnima is known as Probarona Purnima.
If the monks live together in a place, they may quarrel among themselves.
During Probarona they acknowledge (confess) their mistakes. As a result
misunderstanding is gone. The impurity of the mind (mental state) is
removed. The mutual meeting of Bhikhusangha or monks inreases
prosperity. If the ceremonies of Barshabas and Probarona are not observed
in time, the Kathin Chibar Dan cannot be held. The lay devotees both men
and women observe the Probarona with joy and festivity. The Vihars
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Buddhist Religious Ceremonies
are decorated beautifully. Flags of different colours are hoisted.
Children wearing beautiful dresses come to the Vihars with their
parents. The laities of both men and women come to the Vihars
carrying various items of offering. These items of offering are
decorated and offered to the Buddha for worship. The devotees
worship the Buddha. They accept the Shils (Precepts) together. The
lay devotees sit in a particular room and meditate. Religious
discussion is held in the evening. The sky lamp is lit in the evening.
The devotees enjoy the occasion by flying colourful baloons. The
whole Buddhist community celebrate this day with full merriment.
These ceremonies are also observed by the Buddhist community
throughout the world.
Devotees on the way to Vihar with items of offering.
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53
Kathin Chibar Dan (Yellow robes offering ceremony)
Kathin Chibar Dan is one of the religious ceremonies. It starts on the
day after the Ashwini Purnima and continues till Kartiki Purnima. It
can not be observed on any other day of the year.
There are difference between Kathin Chibar Dan and other
ceremonial offerings. There can not be any Kathin Chibar Dan in a
Vihar where no monk observes vassavasa.
Kathin Chibar Dan ceremony is observed only once a year in a
Vihar. Three parts of dress of the monks are offered. These are:
1. Sanghati or Doajik
2. Uttarasangha or External wear
3. Internal wear or Wearing cloth.
Any one of the three dresses may be offered.
Kathin Chibar is made by following some strict rules. The making of
the thread and weaving of the cloth should be completed within
twenty four hours. After the weaving of the cloth, it is coloured. The
coloured cloth can be offered even after sewing. Trisharan or refuge
to Triple gems and Panchashil (Five precepts) have to be accepted
before Kathin Chibar Dan.
At least five monks should be present on the Kathin Chibar Dan
ceremony. The following sacrificial mantra has to be recited:
'Iman Kathinacivaram Bhikkusanghassa dema, Kathinam atthritum.'
This sacrificial mantra has to be recited three times. The English
version of the mantra is as follows:
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Buddhist Religious Ceremonies
We are offering this Kathin Chibar to the Bikkhusangha for
approval.
The lay devotees of both men and women holding Chibars in hands.
The monks humbly take the Chibar to 'Simaghar'(Specific religious
place). The Chibar is offered to the monk who has already observed
Vsrdhabas in the Vihar. The Chivar is approved by the monks present
there.
Lord Buddha introduced Kathin Chibar dan for the thirty monks. The
Buddha said in His speech that by offering Kathin Chibar one can
earn unlimited virtues. It is the duty of a man to offer Kathin Chibar
at least once in life.
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55
Friend and relatives meet together on the occasion of Kathin Chibar Dan
Chiddren wear new dresses. Mela (Fair) is organized around Buddhist
monastery or Vihar. The Vihar is decorated with candles. Coloured balloons
are flown in the evening. The significance of this ceremony is endless.
Prabrajya or initiation as a novice
The initiation as a novice in the order of Dharma is a saered religious
ceremony. The initiation as a novice is called Prabrajya. The Prince
Siddhratha Goutam renounced from the palace and got himself initiated as a
novice in search of salvation. In this way salvation loving men and women
took Prabrajya for ages. Lord Buddha said, 'It is not so easy to get initiation'.
When a man or woman takes Prabrajya in the order of Dharma he or she
becomes free from all bondage. If anyone is initiated he can easily do right
actions (deeds). Every Buddhist should take initiation at least once in his
life. The devotee has to offer his/ her son and daughter to the Sangha for
becoming an heir of the Buddha's doctrines. The Emperor Ashok offered his
son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra to the Buddha's doctrines.
The permission of the parents is required for taking Prabrajya. A boy under
the age of seven can not take Prabrajya. One who has been initiated in
Prabrajya is called Sramanera. The following eight items are needed for
becoming a Sramanera . These are:
1. Sanghati
2. Uttarasangha
3. Under dress
4. Alms pot
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Buddhist Religious Ceremonies
5. Razor
6. Needle-Thread
7. Waist-belt
8. Water-sieve
The man or woman seeking initiation shall go to the monastery with all
these items. The man seeking Prabrajya has to shave off his hair. After
being shaved off he or she shall seek Prabrajya from a learned monk.
The Sramanera seeking Prabrajya from the Bhikkhusangha and the laities
The monk who observes Barshabas for ten times can offer Prabrajya
(initiation). Everybody on this occasion shall take Five precepts. The
person taking Prabrajya shall sit kneeling down and pay tribute to the
Bhikkhu. The monk shall recite the hymn. After hymn he shall pray
for Prabrajya. The prayer for Prabrajya is as follows:
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57
Okasa aham bhante, Pabbajja yacami,
Dutiyampi aham bhante, Pabbajja yacami,
Tatiyampi aham bhante, Pabbajja yacami.
English version
Venerable oh Bhante (Monk), pay attention please, I pray for
Prabrajya,
A second time,oh Bhante (Monk), pay attention please, I pray for
Prabrajya,
A third time, oh Bhante (Monk) pay attention please, I pray for
Prabrajya.
After the prayer, the seeker of Prabrajya, shall wear Chibar. He will
again sit kneeling down and pray for the Ten-precepts with refuge to
the Triple-gems (Trisarana). The monk who will offer Prabrajya,
shall be the Preceptor of the Samanera. The Preceptor shall make
the Sramanera recite the Trisarana correctly. After this the monk
shall offer Ten precepts of initiation. You have read about Tenprecepts in Chapter Four.
After offering Prabrajya, the Gurubhante (Preceptor) shall give a
religious name to the Sramanera. The Sramanera shall have to learn
humility, politeness from that very day of initiation. His everyday
prayer, activities, movements shall be guided by the rules of
humility. The Gurubhante (Preceptor) shall teach the Sramanera all
these. The Gurubhante shall teach the Sramanera the systems of
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Buddhist Religious Ceremonies
wearing a Chibar, eating, sleeping, sitting, walking etc. The
teachings are - not to laugh loudly, not to walk by swinging one's
body, not to walk around the village by moving hands, or sit in a
house, not to eat by making sound, not to go or sit by keeping hands
on the waist, not to look at other's bowls while eating. The
Sramanera has to eat slowly with small lump.
The Sramanera must not sit or defecate here and there. There are
Seventy five rules of learning. He must follow these rules in day to
day life. These are called Sramanera Sekhiyas. The word Sekhiya
means rules of learning.
The Sramanera shall always obey the advice of the Guru (Preceptor).
He shall not go out of the Vihar without his permission. He shall
clean the premise of the Vihar, Bodhi mandap , Chaitya (Cetiya) and
Simaghar (a confined place for religious rituals ) after waking in the
morning. He will bring water from the pond or well. He will learn
the rules of 75 religious learning. He will practise the meditation of
loving kindness while sleeping at night.
Uposampada (Initiation to Monkhood)
The rules of becoming a Monk from Sramanera is called
Upasampada. After attaining the age of twenty the Sramanera can
undergo initiation in Upasampada. The initiation from the Samanera
system of faith is called Pabrajya. The Sramanera has to observe
some rituals as an apprentice. Upasampada can be taken if the
period of apprenticeship is over. Upasampada is not given to any
unqualified Sramanera. Upasampada is given after learning
necessary rules.
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59
Exercise
A . Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. What is called the initiation [as Sramanera] in the order of
Dharma?
a. Nirban
b. Upasampada
c. Prabrajya
d. Uposath
2. How many kinds of wearing dresses are offered to the
monks?
a. Three
b. One
c. Two
d. Five
3. For how many monks the Lord Buddha introduced Kathin
Chibar Dan?
B.
a. Thirty
b. Five
c. Nine
d. Four
Match the group of words from both sides:
1. By observing religious
ceremonies
2. When the Varsabrata is
fulfilled
3. Among the religious
ceremonies
4. He who offer initiation as
Prabrajya
1. that day is the day of
Ashwin purnima
2. permission of parents is
required.
3. he will be the Preceptor of
the Sramanera.
4. Kathin Cibar Dan is one of
them.
5. For Prabrajya
5. mind becomes pure.
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Buddhist Religious Ceremonies
C. Answer in brief:
1. Write the names of some religious ceremonies.
2. What is Prabarana purnima?
3. Why Kathin Chibar Dan is observed?
4. What are the Prabrajya Seekers called?
5. How many items are needed for becoming a Sramanera?
6. What is Upasampada?
D. Answer the following questions:
1. Write the names of different religious ceremonies.
2. Give a description of Prabarana.
3. Write the Sacrificial mantra Prabrajya in Pali and English.
4. What do you mean by Prabrajya?
5. How is the Prabrajya of the Sramanera taken?
6. What is the difference between Prabrajya and Upasampada?
Chapter Eight
Action and its Consequences
There is a saying 'As you sow, so you reap'. It means- as a person acts
so he gets results. Buddha said in His sermon- Refrain from all vices.
Keep your mind pure. Do always right action. These are called the
sermons of the Buddha.
If any person does right action he should do it again and again. Right
actions bring happiness. The pious get happiness by doing right action.
Everybody praises them. The aim of doing right action is for the welfare
of others. It also brings welfare to the person who does right actions.
One should do right actions always to be happy.
On the other hand wrong actions are always harmful. Everybody
condemns the person who does wrong action. If you do harm to others it
will also bring harm to you. It also causes many miseries. Lord Buddha
advised how to do right actions. He also advised how to abstain from
wrong actions. There are three ways of actions-mind, body and speech.
Keep your mind happy and controlled. Do not allow any hatred, greed
and envy to enter your mind. Happy mind helps in doing right actions.
As a result, no vice will be created in the mind. Happy mind keeps the
body hale and sound too.
Don't do any wrong action by your body. Speak gently, so that others
are not hurt.
The ways to keep body, mind and speech happy and controlled are
doing right actions again and again. Thinking over right actions create
good sense. Respect the elders. Help in time of need. Remember
everybody is responsible for his own actions. Nobody is to be blamed.
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Action and its Consequences
Parents get praise and appreciation if the children do right actions. So,
always do right actions. If you behave well with others you will also
get love and affection from others.
Help others. Encourage others to help. Those who do right actions
shall go to heaven after death. Deities live in the heaven. There are
happiness in the heaven.
On the other hand, those who do wrong actions shall go to hell. They
suffer from untold miseries. Every creature is bound by actions. Man is
responsible for his own actions. Actions are responsible for sorrows
and happiness. Actions create divisions between high and low, good
and bad creatures.
Men are the best of all creations. Men have the power to understand
good and bad things. Other creatures have not this power. The wise
always do right actions. They think over good things. They also think
about the welfare of others. They become enlightened due to right
actions. Now you will learn about two stories related to right and
wrong actions.
Sthabir Moggallayana, the Agrasrvak of the Buddha, once while
walking saw an ugly she-devil. A beautiful man sitting on a white
elephant, was going before the she-devil. Another well dressed man
sitting on the horse carriage was going behind. A beautiful girl sitting
in a beautifully decorated palanquin was going behind the horse
carriage.
The terrible ugly faced she-devil was going crying behind the three.
She was cutting her body into pieces with knife. She was weeping and
running. The Sthabir asked the she-devil "Who are they"?
The she-devil said- "Lord, The first man sitting on the white elephant
is my eldest son. The man sitting on horse-carriage in the middle is my
second son. The beautiful girl sitting in the palanquin
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63
is my younger daughter. They used to do right actions. But I was
always greedy and was a miser.
When the Bikkhu Sramanera came to my house, I would behave
roughly with them. I would abuse and rebuke them. They were hurt
very much by my ill behaviour. For these wrong actions I became a
devil and was born as devil after my death too. I ate food snatching
from others. I killed other creatures and ate them. But my hunger
was not satisfied. I have been suffering from the pangs or pains of
insatiable hunger for a long time. Now I am eating the flesh and
blood of myself".
The she-devil was suffering from sorrows and miseries due to the
vices done during the previous birth. The Thera became kind. He
advised the she- devil. The she-devil got rid of sorrows and miseries
by listening to the advice.
Sthabir Mahamoggallayan giving advice to the she-devil
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Action and its Consequences
See the disastrous consequences of wrong actions
Help the poor and the needy. Follow the rules of discipline and honesty. The
results of the observance of the rules of discipline and honesty are endless.
Now you will learn another story about right actions.
It was the time of Lord Buddha. He was staying in the Venuvan Vihar. A
poor boy lived in Rajgriha. He used to look after the fields of malt of a
farmer. He used to take food in the house of his master in the morning and
night. One day he went to the field carrying some cake with him. He
decided to eat the cakes in the field. After completing his works he sat under
a tree. At that time a monk was passing by that way. The monk came to the
boy and stood under the tree.
The boy asked the monk- Oh, monk, have you eaten food? The monk did
not reply. The boy could understand that the monk was hungry. The boy
said, Oh, monk, please take these cakes.
The boy is offering cakes to the Bikkhu
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65
The boy gave all the cakes to the monk. The monk ate all the cakes
sitting in front of the boy. He explained the results of help to the
boy. The boy thought in his mind, "I have given food to this great
saint. Though the food was not enough, still I have given it to a great
man"
By thinking over this matter, respect grew in the mind of the boy. As
a result of this help the boy lived a happy life. He became a deity
after his death. See the results of good actions. The poor boy
enjoyed eternal bliss as the son of deity due to his right actions. You
will also help others. You will observe the rules of honesty and
discipline. You will be happy in life. You will get rid of sorrows and
miseries. Everybody will love you.
Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. What should a person always to become happy?
a. Right actions
b. Praise
c. Journey
d. Sleep
2. What are the ways of actions?
a. Three
b. Ten
c. One
d. Four
3. Who is responsible for the results of actions?
a. Other
b. Own-self
c. Brahmin
d. Monk
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Action And Its Consequences
4. Where does one go doing wrong actions after death?
a. Heaven
b. Hell
c. Abroad
d. Homeland
5. What was the she-devil in the previous birth?
a. Miser and greedy
b. Fat
c. Tall
d. Sick
6. Whom did the boy help?
a. Arahant Bhikkhu
b. Beggar
c. Orphan
d. Farmer
B.
Match the group of words from both sides:
1. As a person acts
2. Good actions
3. Doing good to others
4. There are three ways of actions
5. The wise always
C.
1. are called right actions
2. do right actions
3. so he gets results
4. is the aim of right actions
5. body, speech and mind
Fill in the gaps:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Buddha said in His..................... to abstain from all...............
...............actions
..................wrong actions ............................
Thinking over ........................ create.................................
A beautiful..............sitting in a beautifully decorated............
The monk...........to the boy and stood....................................
Buddhist Religious Studies
D.
Answer in brief:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
E.
67
What is right action?
What is the aim of right action?
What are the ways of action?
How did the she-devil look?
What did she do when the Bhikkhu Sramanera came?
What was the result of wrong actions?
Whom did the boy help?
Answer the following questions:
1. What are the sermons of Buddha?
2. What are the ways to keep body, mind and speech pure?
3. What does the wise think? What do they get?
4. Why did the Children of she-devil become happy and beautiful?
5. What was the reason for the sorrows of she-devil?
6. Write in short the story about right action.
7. How did the boy do right action?
Chapter Nine
The Noble Eight-fold Path
Siddhartha Goutam attained Buddhahood by an arduous practice of
meditation for six years. He became the Buddha. The universal truth
that He perceived were the Four Noble-Truths.
The Four Noble-Truths are: There is suffering
The cause of suffering,
The cessation of suffering,
And The ways to stop of suffering.
The basic principle of the Four Noble-truths is that the earth is full
of sufferings. Ignorance originate sufferings. Due to craving a
human being is born again and again and embraces death. Both birth
and death again and again are sorrowful. Entire salvation from birth
and death is Nirban. Attainment of Nirban is the ultimate goal
(desire) of the Buddhists. It requires arduous practice of meditation
to attain salvation. The Buddha indicated a real path to meditate
Nirban. This is the Noble Eight-fold path. The Noble Eight- fold
path is the path of eight components. The Buddha expounded it as
'Majjhima patipada' or the Middle path. Both extreme practice of
meditation and excessive earthly enjoyment, are not the way to
salvation. Rather it is a hindrance. For that reason, the Buddha
advised to follow the Middle path avoiding those two extremities. It
is easy to attain Nirban by practising the Middle path.
The 'Middle-path' or 'the Noble Eight-fold path' as indicated by the
Buddha possesses three sections. These are -
The Noble Eight-fold Path
Wisdom:
Morality:
Concentration:
69
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Right view
Right thoughts
Right speech
Right action
Right livelihood
Right effort
Right mindfulness
Right concentration
A brief account of the Noble Eight-fold path is as follows-
1.
Right view: Samyak means right or accurate. So Right
view is perfect or accurate vision. Real perception of the Four
Noble-truth is called the Right view.
2.
Right thoughts: It refers to honest or excellent thought.
Greed, hatred, delusion (fascination) etc. unwholesome intentions
should be avoided. To engage oneself for the welfare of others is the
Right thought.
3.
Right speech: Honest or gentle behaviour is defined as
Right speech. Telling lies, speaking truth, speech that creates
disunity and meaningless words-all these are unwholesome (bad)
speech. On the other hand, truthful, moderate and meaningful words
are Right speech. Right speech makes a man favourite to everybody.
4.
Right action:
Honest or virtuous deed denotes the Right
action. All types of unwholesome (bad) actions should be avoided.
Killing, stealing, committing adultery, drinking alcohols etc, are evil
deeds (unwholesome actions). Submissive and beneficial actions for
own self and others are Right speeches. Performance of good deeds
is the Right action.
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Buddhist Religious Studies
5.
Right livelihood: Living an honest or vituous life by honest
means is the Right livelihood. In Buddhism five kinds of business
are prohibited. These are-trading in armoury, poison, living being
(slave) and meat. It is good to earn livelihood by agriculture,
business and service. Actually, to earn by honest means is the Right
livelihood.
6.
Right effort: It means positive determination or enthusiasm.
Self-control, crimelessnss (destruction of crime), creation and
development of wholesome (proficiency) are the Right efforts.
7.
Right mindfulness: To recollect right deeds again and
again indicates the Right mindfulness. Memorisation of wrong deed
previously done is not right mindfulness. Wrong or unsholesome
memory leads human being to commit sin (crime). Hence we should
have recollect the memory of right deeds at all times.
8. Right concentration: Samadhi (Meditation) relates to
concentration of mind or mental state. Human mind never remains
fixed (still). It is always restless. Restless mind hampers to perform
virtuous deeds. Basically, control over restless mental state (mind) is
the Right concentration.
The Noble Eight-fold path is an unprecedented discovery of Lord
Buddha. The Eight-fold path leads us to attain Nirban. Its goodeffects are limitless.
Try to realize the Noble Eight-fold path. Practice of the Noble eightfold path is very much important for the happiness in the present and
preceding lives.
The Noble Eight-fold Path
71
Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. What is the basic principle of the Four Noble-Truths?
a. The earth is full of happiness. b. The earth is full of suffering
c. The earth is full of greed
d. The earth is full of delusion.
2. Which path did the Buddha indicate the 'Noble Eight-fold path?
a. Middle path
c. First path
b. Best path
d. Latest path
3. How many Sections does the Noble Eight-fold path possess?
a. Two
c. Four
b. Three
d. Five
4. How many Margas (Path) are there in the 'Noble Eight-fold path?
a. Two
c. Six
b. Four
d. Eight
5. Which indicates the 'Noble Eight-fold path' ?
a. Evil path
c. Path of Nirban
b. Wrong path
d. Air route
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Buddhist Religious Studies
B. Fill in the gaps:
1. ..................from................... is Nibbana.
2. Extreme practice of ............. and excessive earthly.........are
not the way to salvation.
3. Real.................... of the................... is called the right view.
4. Right speech makes a................... favourite to...................
5. Basically controlling over restless..................is the Right.......
C. Answer in brief:
1. What is the main cause of origination of suffering?
2. Whic path did the Buddha indicate ' The Noble Eight-fold
path' ?
3. Which are the unwholesome (bad) speeches ?
4. Which types of trading are prohibited in Buddhism?
5. What do you mean by Right mindfullness?
D. Answer the following questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Write the Names of 'The Noble Eight -fold Path' Serially?
What do you mean by Right effort? Give its description.
Discuss about Right livlihood.
Write about Right effort.
Give an account of Right concentration.
Chapter Ten
Historical Places
You have already learnt about holy places. In this Chapter you will learn about
historical places. Lumbini, Buddhagaya, Sarnath and Kushinagar are associated
with the sacred life of the Buddha. According to Buddhist tradition these places
are known as holy places
Buddha and his disciples propagated Buddhism both at home and abroad. The
Buddhist kings, emperors built may Vihars, Stups, Cheityas, and Pillars. Many
reminiscences of Lord Buddha are associated with these places. These places are
well known as the holy places of the Buddhists.
The Bhikkhusangha of the Buddha propagated the message of the Buddha in the
towns and localities. Emperor Ashok and Kanishka propagated Buddhism in India
and outside India. The austerity of Buddha and his propagation of doctnines
created a great civilization in this country. Many things became extinct over the
period of history.
Ruins of old buildings and objects related to Buddhism have been discovered due
to present excavations. These ruins truly explain the facts of history. These are
famous places relating to Buddhist history and civilization.
The historical places are Taxila, Rajgriha, Baishali, Srabashti, Nalanda, Ajanta
etc. There are also famous historical places in Bangladesh. These are Paharpur,
Moinamoti and Mahasthangar. Besides, Chakrasala, Moinamati etc are also.
important. The vision of mind is widened by visiting these historical places. The
knowledge about history is also enriched. The importance of the excavated places
is very much important. Much information about Buddhist history and
civilizations have been proved wrong by the discovery of new objects, documents
and information. These historical places are the reminiscent of our glorious past.
A short description of some of the historical places are given below :
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Historical Places
Baishali
Baishali is situated in the Muzzaffarpur district in Bihar. At present
Baishali is known as Besan. Baishali was the capital of Lichhavid
Gano Rajya (Republic).
Baishali was a rich city in those days. The city bears many
memories of Lord Buddha. There were many palaces, gardens and
ponds in this city. Lord Buddha visited this place several times. He
spent his last Barshabas in Baishali.
Lord Buddha and his disciples accepted the invitation of famous
dancer Amrapali. Later Buddha got her initiated in Trisarana.
Amrapali achieved her Arahanthood by dint of religious austerity.
Lord Buddha declared His day of Mahaparinirban while staying at
Chapal Chetiya in Baishali.
After the great passing away of the Buddha the Lichchavis
preserved the relics in a Stup. The original Mahaparinirban stup has
been discovered later on due to excavations.
According to the archaeologists the place known as Rajavishalaka
Gar is the area of old ruins. Many ruins have been discovered here
due to excavations. The great traveller Hiuen-tsang and Fa-hien
visited this city. They saw here many old remains or specimens of
arts and crafts. It is known from their description that Baishali was a
popular city. There is a huge pillar of the statue of lion on the north
of Rajavishalaka Gar. On the pillar there is the inscription of the
Emperor Ashok.
This memorable place is a holy place of the Buddhists.
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Nalanda
Nalanda is situated in Patna, the capital of Bihar. Its earlier name
was Baragaon. It is 10 kilometers away from Rajagriha. Nalanda is
situated 90 kilometers to the south from Patna. Nalanda was a
developed village in the vicinity of Rajagriha city. Many rich people
lived here. Lord Buddha gave sermons to his disciples in the Pabarik
mangogrove. Some pious and rich men purchased the land and
offered it to the Buddha.
According to the opinion of the Tibetan historian Taranath Emperor
Ashok set up the Nalanda Mahavihar. The Nalanda University has
been built up centering this Vihar. The fame and reputation of this
University spread worldwide during the time of king Dharmapal.
The ruins of Nalanda University
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Historical Places
Many kings, emperors and rich people donated land and money for
the development of this Vihar and Education Centre. The kings of
Gupta dynasty and king Harshabhardhan were the patronizers of
this. According to the description of Tibetan travellers the University
had eight auditoriums and 300 rooms. It was a pride to become the
student of Nalanda Unliversity. No tuition fee was collected from
the students. Food, clothes etc. were given free of cost.
Many renowned scholars were the students of this University.
Students from home and abroad used to come to this University for
study. The Chinese traveller Hiuen-tsang visited Nalanda during 6th
century A.D. He was a resident student of this University for five
years. There were fifteen hundred teachers and ten thousand
students. The illustrious son of Bangladesh and great scholar
Shilabhadra was the principal of Nalanda at one time. Shilarati and
Atish Dipankar were also the principals of this University. The
Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang stayed in the Nalanda University for
about ten years. Buddhism was propagated to different places of the
world from this University.
The fame of Nalanda University was spread during the rule of Pal
kings of Bengal. They donated land for carrying out the expenses of
the Vihar. They also built big Vihars and libraries. Now the fame of
Nalanda University is gone. The University is now a ruin of the past.
The ruins have been preserved. The Government of Bihar has
established a new Nalanda college for the study and research of
Buddhism. It has been built in imitation of the original university.
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Sanchi
Sanchi is situated 32 kilometers away from Bhupal, the capital of
Madhya Pradesh. Villsa is the nearest railway station of Sanchi.
Prince Ashok was the ruler of this area during the reign of Emperor
Bindusar. He married the daughter of a rich Sreshthi (Rich
merchant) of this area. His son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra
were born in the womb of daughter of the Sreshthi. Ashok had a
particular attraction to this place. So this place became one of the
centers of Buddhism.
Emperor Ashok built the main stup over the relics of Lord Buddha.
This is known as Sanchi Stup. There is also a small stup on the side
of the main stup.
The Sanchi Stup.
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Historical Places
This Sanchi Stup is an excellent specimen of Buddhist architecture.
The height of this stup is 13 meter having a diameter of 40 meters.
There is a two meters wide moving way above the land. The relics of
Lord Buddha are preserved in a four cornered box kept on the top of
the Stup. There is a reling of iron round the Stup. There are four
beautiful gates around the Stup. The stories of birth of the Buddha,
attainment of enlightenment and propagation of religious doctrines
have been painted on the Stup. Besides, there are also the pictures of
the Jatak.
There is a pillar of Ashok near the stup. The relics of Sariputra and
Moggallayana have been discovered from the nearby Stup. There are
many ruins of Sangharams. Sanchi is famous for various historical
events.
Purushpur
Purushpur is situated in the North West Frontier province of
Pakistan. Purushpur was the capital of Gandhar kingdom during
ancient time. The Buddhist Emperor Kanishka ruled here. He built a
huge Vihar and Chaitya in Purushpur. The Bihar and Chaitya are
known respectively as Kanishka Vihar and Kanishka Chaitya.The
Buddhist monks studied in Kanishka Vihar. Kanishka built a Stupa
here. The Chinese traveller Fa-hien and Hiuen-tsang visited this stup.
They were impressed to see the five storied stup. Hiuen-tsang saw
the ruins of the Vihar. Still he could go to one top from another top
of the Vihar by using stairs.
A grand Mahasangiti was organised here under the patronage of
Emperor Kanishka. This was known as Kanishka Sangiti. According
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to the scholars this was the fourth Sangiti. About five hundred monkscholars including Basumitra, Ashwaghosh participated in this
august conference. Tripitak was written in Sanskrit language. This
time Emperor Kanishka got the whole Tripitak engraved in Copper
plates.
Purushpur was once the nerve centre of education in central Asia.
The ruins of one thousand Sangharams have been discovered here.
Mahastangar
Mahastangar is situated on the Karotoa river twelve kilometers to the
north of Bogra city. Its ancient name was Pundrabardhan. The place
is full of natural beauty.
Pundrabardhan was once the centre of administration of North
Bengal. Mahastangar was the religious centre of the Buddhists
during the rule of the Mouryas, the Guptas and the Pals. Many
Vihars, Chaityas and Buddhist educational institutions were built
here.
Many ruins of various ages have been discovered here due to
excavations. Specimens of the Buddhist times are still found here.
The famous traveller Hiuen-tsang visited this place. He saw many
Buddhist institutions. He also saw a stup on the outskirt of the city
where the relics of Lord Buddha were preserved. Emperor Ashok
built this stup. We get correct informations about Pundrabardhan
from the inscriptions discovered in 1931. The department of
archaeology has discovered the Vasuvihar in 1973-74.
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Mahastangar
According to the description of Hiuen-tsang more than seven
hundred monks lived here. The great scholars from the East used to
come here for study. Forty Buddhist statues made of bronze have
been discovered from the ruins of the Vihar. Among them the statue
of Lord Buddha in meditation, Bodhisatta Abolokiteshwar etc. are
important. The sketches of women devotees are found round the
Dharmachkra. Besides ancient coins have also been discovered.
The excavation work of Mahastangar began many years ago. It is not
yet completed. The remains of old buildings and objects are still
buried under the ground. If scientific and comprehensive
archaeological research is carried out, it will give us more facts and
informations about our history and tradition.
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Paharpur
Paharpur is situated about four kilometers away from Jamalganj
railway station of Naogaon district. The kings of Pal dynasty ruled
Bengal from 9th century A.D. to 12th century AD. The kings of Pal
dynasty were Buddhists. King Dharmapal built a huge Vihar here.
This Vihar is the historically famous Sompur Vihar. The Vihar was
built on 27 acres of land. There was not such a big Vihar in the
Southern Himalayan areas. King Dharmapal also built another 50
Buddhist educational institutions centering this Vihar.
The ruins of Paharpur have been identified due to archaeological
excavations. This institution was surrounded by high and heavy
walls made of bricks. Inside there was a huge Vihar having 177
rooms and a big temple. Thre was the water reservoir adjacent to the
Vihar. There was good arrangement for draining water through 22
drains. These facilities were provided to the Buddhist monks and
students. The archaeological designs of the foundation of Sompur
temple were superb and excellent. The paintings in terracotta
plaques are attractive.
Inscriptions and stone statues of the time of king Mahendrapal have
been discovered on excavations. The coins of the time of Caliph
Harun-ur-Rashid have also been discovered. It seems that there was
commercial and trade relationship between the kings of Pal dynasty
and Arabs.
The great scholar Bodhibhadra and Atish Dipankar stayed in the
Vihar. Later Atish Dipankar went to Tibet and translated many books
in Tibetan language. The importance and grandeur of the Vihar
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Paharpur
began to diminish after the fall of the Pal dynasty. With the passage
of time the Vihar was buried under the ground due to natural causes.
At present the Government of Bangladesh has taken necessary steps
to recover and preserve the past glory of the monastery.
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Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. When did the Buddha declare His Mahaparinibbana?
a. Pabarik magogrove
c. Jetban
b. Chapal Chatiya
d. Basu Vihar
2. Which king of Nalanda established MahaVihar?
a. Kanishka
c. Bimbisar
b. Prosenjit
d. Ashok.
3. The height of the Sanchi Stup was
a. Thirteen meters
c. Thirty three meters
b. Thirty meters
d. Forty three meters
4. What is the present name of Purushpur?
a. Lahore
c. Afganistan
b. Peshawar
d. Multan.
5. In which district Mahastangar is situated?
a. Rajshahi
c. Rangpur
b. Dinajpur
d. Bogra.
6. The name of the Vihar situated in paharpur was
a. Rajkaram
c. Sompur
b. Benuban
d. Shalbon
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B.
Historical Places
Match the group of words from both sides.
1. The Bikkhusangha of
the Buddha
2.The Lichchavi Gano Rajjaya
3. In the vicinity of Rajgriha city
4. The Vilsa of Sanchi
5. In the Kanishka Vihar
6. Once Pundrabardan
7. The kings of the Pal Dynasty
C.
1. Buddhists monks studied.
2. was the nearest railway
station
3. administrative centre of
north bengal
4. propagated the message
of the Buddha in towns
and localities
5. were all Buddhists.
6. was the capital of Baishali
7. Nalanda was a developed
village.
Answer in brief:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Write the names of five famous historical places.
Which travellers visited Baishali?
Where was Nalanda situated? What was the old name of it?
Why did Emperor Ashok love Sanchi?
Where is Purushpur? Which Buddhist emperor ruled here?
What was the old name of Mahastangar? How was the place?
Which scholars stayed at Sompur Vihar ?
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D.
85
Answer the following questions:
1. Why shall you visit these historical places?
2. How Baishali was associated with the life of Buddha?
3. Give a description of Nalanda Uninersity.
4. Describe the archaeological design of the Sanchi Stup.
5. Give the description of Purushpur as a historical place.
6. Give a description of the excavation works of Basu Vihar?
7. Give a short description of the historically famous Sompur
Vihar.
Chapter Eleven
Jatak
You know that Jatak ia a story of Previous births of Goutam
Buddha. He told these stories while giving sermons to His disciples.
He did many right actions as a Bodhisatta or Buddhankur. He
attained enlightenment in His last birth. In order to attain
enlightenment or Buddhahood many right actions had to be done.
He narrated about liberality, precept, wisdom etc. while giving
sermons. He used to say the Jataks at that time. The disciples could
solve many problems with the help of these. Jataks gave them
directives to follow the right path.
After Parinirban these Jataks were collected. These Jataks acted as
guiding principles to human life from the time of Lord Buddha.
These Jatak stories create curiosity in the minds of people about the
previous births of Lord Buddha. People got proper directives from
these Jataks to conduct their life. They can easily understand the
right and wrong acts of themselves. Honesty and religious
knowledge are created in the minds of the Children by reading
Jataks. The children become conscious about the respect and
devotion to the elders and parents. They are inspired in building an
ideal life. The Jataks may also be taken as a simple entertainment.
The reading of Jataks helps in achieving religious knowledge.
In this chapter you will learn about a few Jataks.
Jatak
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Shuk Jatak
Long time ago, Brahmadatta was the king of Baranasi. At that time
Bodhisatta was born as a bird Shuk by name, in the province of
Himabanta. Bodhisatta was very strong and powerful. So he became
the leader of three thousand Shuk-birds. The leader Shuk and his
wife had a son. They brought up their son with love and affection.
As they grew old their eyesight became weak. They could not fly as
before.
The son used to go out in search of food leaving the parents at home.
One day while flying he saw a green island surrounded by the sea.
There was a mango-grove in the island. There were ripe juicy
mangoes. The mangoes looked like gold. He ate the juice of the
mangoes. The juice was as sweet as honey. While returning home he
took some ripe mangoes back for his parents.
After eating the mangoes the Bodhisatta could know that the
mangoes were from distant island. He asked his son, 'Are the
mangoes from a distant island'? The son said 'Yes father'. Bodhisatta
said, 'Look my son, it is very difficult to go to such long distant
places. The Shuk who go to that island, do not live long. You are our
only son. In this old age we have none other than you to look after
us. Never go to that island'.
But the son of the Shuk did not listen to his parents. He often used to
go to that island for eating mango juice. He became greedy.
One day he ate huge quantity of mango juice. So he became tired
and sick. The long fly to the distant island made him tired and he felt
sleepy. He was carrying a ripe mango in his beak for his old parents.
While flying over the sea the mango fell into the sea.
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Fish in the sea, mango in the beak of the bird.
The bird lost his way due to exhaustion and sleep. He tried to fly low
touching the water. Being tired and exhausted the son of Shuk fell
into the deep sea. A big fish swallowed the bird. Bodhisatta saw the
sun was setting. At last the sun set. Slowly the night came. But their
son did not return home. He could realize that his son died by falling
into the sea. The parents began to express their grief and sorrow.
There was nobody to look after them in this world. At last the old
parents died in hunger and thirst.
Moral: Moderate eating and spending bring eternal happiness.
Jatak
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Crow- Jatak
Brahmadatta was the king of Baranasi in ancient times. Bodhisatta was seagod at that time. One day a pair of crows came to the shore of the sea in
search of food. At that time some people were performing Nagpuja (worship
to the serpents) on the sea shore with sweets, milk, sweetened rice, fish and
wine. They went away after the puja. The crows ate the left over scattered
foods. They also drank wine with happiness. The sun was about to set. They
were having their bath in the sea water. A big wave came all of a sudden. The
wave washed away the crow in the deep of the sea. A gigantic fish came and
swallowed the she-crow. The crow began to cry loudly after losing the shecrow.
Crows in groups began to gather after hearing the loud cry of the crow. They
decided to punish the sea. They wanted to make the sea empty of water by
draining. They thought that they were more powerful than the sea. The crows
began to drain out water of the sea with their beaks. When their throats were
irritated after taking saline water of the sea they took rest for a while. Thus
their mouths were sore because of taking saline water with the beak
constantly. Their eyes became red. They began to see darkness. There was
unbearable pain in their throats. They saw with their utter surprise and
frustration that the sea remained as it was before.
The frustrated crows began to say with each other, 'Look, we are draining out
water. But the sea remained the same. We are draining out on one side, and
the waves come on other side and fill the sea. We can never drain out water of
the sea. Our mouths have been burnt with saline water. We have sore in our
throats. But the fathomless sea remained as it was'.
The crows began to cry, describing the beauty of the dead crow. Some of them
said, 'Oh, her tail was so beautiful'. Some of them praised her
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attractive eyes, body and sweet voice. But the bad sea kidnapped
her.
The crows were draining out water.
The crows began to lament. They cursed the sea and began to abuse
the sea. Then the sea-god took her firy appearance. She appeared
before the crows like a violent storm. The crows flew away in fear.
Thus their lives were saved. Otherwise they would have been
washed away by the waves of the sea. All would die in the deep sea.
Moral: The consequence of foolishness is disastrous.
Jatak
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Star- Jatak
Brahmadatta was the king of Baranasi in ancient times. The incidence
of this Jatak happened during his rule. The people of Baranasi city
arranged the marriage of a girl with a young the man of their city. The
city dwellers had a Kulaguru named Ajivak. They went to him and said,
'Oh Lord, we have a good occasion today. The marriage of a village girl
has been fixed with a kulaputra. Are the stars favourable for the
marriage'? Ajivak became dissatisfied. He thought that they came to him
to know about the stars after fixing the date of the marriage. They did
not feel the necessity of consulting him earlier. So in order to disrupt the
marriage ceremony he declared that the stars were not favourable that
day for marriage. He also said that if the marriage was held that day it
would bring misfortune in the future. The city dwellers believed his
words and did not go to bring the girl that day.
The villagers waited the whole day. Night came. The bridegroom party
did not come. Having no other alternative they gave the daughter in
marriage to another bridegroom.
The bridegroom party came to the village the next day and demanded
the bride. The villagers became very angry and said, 'You city dwellers
are shameless. You did not come to the village on the fixed date to take
the bride. So we have given the bride in marriage to another
bridegroom. Now it is impossible to bring back the married bride. You
go back'.
The bridegroom party said, 'We knew from our kulaguru Ajivak that the
stars were not favourable on the day the marriage was fixed . If the
marriage is held it will bring misfortune for the bride and bridegroom in
future. So we did not come. Now we will not go back without the bride'.
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Bodhisatta is in debate with the bride and bridegroom party
Thus the debate continued. The Bodhisatta was listening to the
debate. He said, 'There are no lucky or unlucky stars. Stars do not
matter in human life. Only the foolish believe in the influence of
stars on human life and sit idle. Doing work in time and achieving
success bring luck and fortune to human life. The influence of stars
has nothing to do with right action. Believing in the influence of
stars does not do any good, as the bridegroom party'.
Both the parties were convinced to listen to the sermon of
Bodhisatta. The bridegroom party went back to the city without
bride. They were sad.
Moral: Right action has no time.
Jatak
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Bannupatha Jatak
Bodhisatta was the king of Baranasi in ancient times. Bodhisatta was
born in the house of a merchant. When Bodhisatta grew up he visited
different places for trade. He had five hundred carriages.
Once Bodhisatta entered into a desert with his merchandise. The desert
was vast. There were only sands all around. The scorching heat of the
sun made the desert much hotter. It was almost impossible to walk on the
hot sands. It was very difficult to walk on the sands during the day.
Everybody used to walk at night. They used to sleep at day times. After
the rising of the sun they made the bullocks free from their carriage.
They kept the carriage round in a place. In the middle a Samiana or tent
was fixed. They used to take rest under the Samiana. They would start
their journey during night when the sand became cold. They had a guide
with them. He guided them during the night by seeing the stars. After
walking few days Bodhisatta realized that the destination was not far
away. He said to his companions, 'We shall cross the desert to-night.
Throw out the additional water, wood and unnecessary items in order to
lessen the load'.
The guide could not sleep several nights. He thought that the destination
was near and wanted to sleep. He went to deep sleep. The carriage lost
the way. The bullocks walked the wrong way. They lost their way.
Everybody found that they reached the same place from where they
started in the night. There was no water and no food. Everybody began to
weep in fear and frustration. They slept under the carriage in fear.
The leader thought to himself, 'The life of everybody has to be saved. I
should not sit idle and in silence. In the morning I should move out and
see around. I should find water'.
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Moving here and there he found some grass in a place. He realized
that there must be water under the grass. Because grass can not grow
in the desert without water. Everybody began to dig in the sand.
They dig up to sixty yards. But they could not find water. Everybody
became frustrated. But Bodhisatta was not frustrated. As the people
were digging the sands and cutting the stone with spades Bodhisatta
listened to a sound coming out from beneath the stone. He listened
to the sound of the flow of water beneath the ground. He had a
servant. He said to his servant, 'My son, the sound of the flow of
water is coming from deep. Do not be afraid. Go inside with a big
hammer and hit the stone. Find out water'.
The boy servant breaking the stone with a hammer in hand.
Jatak
95
The servant was sincere and brave. Though other people lost
courage, but he did not. He was a man of initiative. He obeyed the
order of his Lord. As he hit the stone with the hammer the stone
were broken into pieces. The flow of water burst out suddenly and
spread all around. Everybody drank the cold water. Everybody had
their bath in the cold water. They became energized. Others cooked
food. They all ate food. They also fed their bullocks.
They hoisted a flag mark in the place. The flag would help the
travellers in the desert to get water here. At last the sun set. Night
fell. The merchant returned home with huge profit. He made profit
by using his merit and intelligence. The merchant Bodhisatta began
to live in happiness.
Moral: The success of a man of initiative is inevitable.
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Kalaimushti Jatak
Brahmmadatta was the king of Baranasi in ancient times. Bodhisatta was very
intelligent. He had a very good friendship with the king. He used to advise the
king in solving various problems of the kingdom. The subjects lived in peace
and happiness. But once there was a rebellion in the remote province of the
frontier of kingdom. The soldiers of the king informed him about the rebellion.
It was rainy season at that time. Hearing the news about rebellion the king left
the palace. There was a vast garden outside king's palace. He built fortress
inside the garden and took preparation for war. Arms and ammunition and
horses and elephants were ready to fight. The king began to stay there with his
soldiers and supplies.
The king was looking round the fortress to see for himself the overall
preparation for war. His adviser Bodhisatta was with him. The horsemen were
preserving the boiled pulse in the basket for their horses. There were many
monkeys in the garden.
A monkey came out of a tree and began to eat boiled pulse from the basket. He
also took pulse in his hands as much as he could. Then the monkey climbed the
tree by jumping. He began to eat pulses sitting on the tree. A pulse fell on the
ground.
Then the monkey threw all the pulses kept in his mouth and hands. The monkey
came to the ground and began to search the pulses which he threw to the
ground. But he could not find any pulse. The monkey became sad and climbed
up the tree again.
The king was observing the acts of the monkey. The king called Bodhisatta and
asked, 'My friend, what do you think of the monkey'? Bodhisatta replied, 'My
dear king, those who are foolish and devoid of sense do such acts. The monkey
is foolish. He had no intelligence.
Jatak
97
He is searching only one grain of pulse out of a fist of pulse'.
The monkey is throwing pulses
Boddhisatta again said to the king politely, 'The monkey is without
any sense. He is also greedy. He has sacrificed many things for a
small thing. He threw one fist of pulse for searching only one grain
of pulse. We are also foolish like the monkey. We have prepared for
war in this terrible rainy season. It is not possible to fight during
rainy season. Roads are bad. Supplies may wet due to rains'.
The king realized his mistakes. He started for the capital. The
rebellious soldiers heard that the king was coming to punish them.
They fled from the remote province.
Moral: The intelligent win and the foolish loose.
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Bherivad (drummer )Jatak
Brahmadatta was the king of Baranasi in ancient times. Bodhisatta
was born in the family of a drummer. He used to live in a village
with his family. One day he came to know that there would be a
great festival in the city of Baranasi. Bodhisatta called his son and
said, 'My son, if we play drum in the festival we will get enough
money. Let us go there'.
Bodhisatta and his son earned a lot of money by playing the drum.
They started for home after the festival was over. There was a jungle
on the way to their house. A group of dacoits lived in the jungle.
They used to snatch away money and everything from the passersby
if they got a chance. The son of Bodhisatta was playing drum
repeatedly. Bodhisatta said to his son, 'My son, do not play drum
repeatedly. When Sreshthi, kings and emperors walk on this way the
drum is played with a pause. You should play the drum like that'. But
the son did not listen to the advice of his father.
The drummer and his son on the way to the jungle.
Jatak
99
He thought that if he played the drum loudly the dacoits would flee by
hearing the sound of the drum. The dacoits were fleeing away as they heard
the sound louder and louder. They thought that somebody stronger than them
was passing by the way. They also thought that there were many people.
But they realized their mistake when they heard the continuous sound of the
drum. They looked back and found that only two men were passing by. The
dacoits beat Bodhisatta and his son and snatched away all the money.
Bodhisatta expressed his anger and sorrow and said to his son, 'We have
earned a lot of money by doing hard labour. The dacoits snatched away
everything from us. You did not listen to my advice. You have played the
drum without any pause. It is not good to do anything unnecessary. Excess of
anything is bad. You met the ill fate by not listening to my advice. We have
lost everything'.
Moral: Listen to the advice of the superiors.
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Exercise
A. Match the group of words from both sides:
1. As a Bodhisatta or Buddhankur
2. The leader of Shuk and his wife
3. They decided
4. Hearing the advice of
Bodhisatta
5. After touching the stone with
spade
6. Hearing the news of rebellion
7. With sorrows Bodhisatta
1. to punish the sea.
2. both the parties were happy.
3. he did many right actions.
4. had a son.
5. the king left the palace.
6. expressed anger and
frustration
7. made hard sound.
B. Fill in the gaps:
1. ..................and................are created in the minds of children.
2. He realized that his son.......................................
3. They were...................... then.......................
4. The bridal party went back to the city................................
5. It was difficult to walk..........................
6. Began to eat.................. sitting on the tree.
7. ..............snatched away..............from.........the passers by
........if they got a chance.
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C. Answer in brief:
1. What is the object or aim of reading Jatak?
2. What is the benefit of reading Jatak?
3. What did Bodhisatta say to his son after eating mango?
4. How the crows decided to punish the sea?
5. What did Ajivak think?
6. What did the guide think?
7. What did the monkey do when the pulse fell on the ground?
8. How did the son play the drum?
D. Answer the following questions:
1. Why did the Buddha tell the Jatak stories?
2. How did the son of Shuk collect mangoes?
3. How did the sea-god save the crows?
4. What was the moral of star Jatak?
5. How did the boy servant get water?
6. What was the moral of Kalaimushti Jatak?
7. What was the moral of Drum- Jatak?
8. Write in your own words the story of Bannupatha Jatak.
Chapter Twelve
Buddha and Bodhisatta
The Buddha and Bodhisatta are two familiar words to the Buddhists.
Buddha and Bodhisatta are two sacred words. The two words are interrelated. But fundamentally the two words are not the same. So we shall
learn the inner meanings of the two words.
Buddha: The word Buddha means wise. But this knowledge is
general or temporal. This knowledge is profound wisdom. The Buddha
possesses unlimited wisdom. The realm of His knowledge is eternal.
But all the wise men of the world are not Buddha.
Rebirth is recognised in Buddhism. Human being can not attain
salvation only by doing right actions in one birth. The eternal salvation
can be attained by doing right actions in successive rebirths. By
successive rebirths in different Jatak are only can fulfil Das Parami.
Parami means fulfilment or perfection. Ten absolute perfections are liberality, morality, renunciation, wisdom, energy, patience,
truthfulness, resolution, loving-kindness and equanimity. There are
thirty kinds of perfections subject to perfection, sub-perfection and
spiritual perfection. Craving is the cause of rebirth. One who attained
Enlightenment will not be born again. The Buddha is the Enlightened
one. Siddhartha Goutam was the son of the king Suddhodan. He was an
omnipotent. Before attaining Enlightenment He was resurrected
several times and fulfilled thirty kinds of perfections by doing right
actions. Lastly He was born as a human-being and attained
Enlightenment after completing six years of rigorous meditation. After
attaining Enlightenment He propagated His doctrines for forty five
years. The Buddhists are the followers of Goutam Buddha.
Buddha and Bodhisatta
103
There are three kinds of Buddha:
1. Sammayak Sambuddha (Perfectly Enlightened)
2. Pachchek Buddha (Independently Enlightend)
3. Sravak Buddha (Enlightened as disciple)
Sammayak Sambuddha: Sammayak Sambuddha is superior
among the Buddhas. Sammayak Sambuddha fulfilled thirty Paramis
in successive rebirth by dint of rigorous ascetic practice. In His last
birth He attained Buddhahood and became enlightened. He propagated
the ways and means of salvation for the happiness of all living-beings.
Pachchek Buddha: One becomes Pachchek Buddha by dint of
one's own austerity. They have no role in rendering welfare to the world
of creation. Their ascetic knowledge is limited within themselves.
Sravak Buddha: Sravak Buddhas are those who listened to the
speeches of the Sammayak Sambuddha in their previous births and
followed His sermons. They led honest lives. Achieving unlimited
virtues they became Arahant and attained Nirban. They are called
Sravak Buddhas. Sravak Buddhas help others in attaining Nirban.
Bodhisatta: The word 'Bodhi' means wisdom. The word 'Satta'
means living-being. Bodhisatta means in whom Boddhi or the seed of
wisdom has sprouted. Bodhisatta is not Buddha. He is a future
Buddha. He had to pursue rigorous ascetic practices for fulfilling
Parami. He had to observe hard ways of ascetic life for attaining
Buddhahood. The characteristics of the life of Bodhisatta are the
fulfilment of ten perfections by doing right actions.
Siddhartha Goutam was born in various races before attaining
Buddhahood. He was known as Bodhisatta during this time. There
was a story about how Gautam Buddha started His Bodhisatta life.
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Long long ago, there was a city named Amaravati. A wise man lived in this
city. His name was Sumedh Tapas. Dipankar Buddha appeared in this world
at that time. The inhabitants of Amaravati once invited Dipankar Buddha to
their city. He accepted their invitation. Dipankar Buddha started for
Amaravati with His many disciples.
It was rainy season. The road was bad. People were engaged in repairing the
road. Sumedh Tapas also participated in this work. The repair work was not
complete. Only several yards were left to be repaired.
Dipankar Buddha arrived by this time. Everybody was in a fix as to what to
do. Sumedh Tapas was beside them. He lay down on the muddy road
without any hesitation.
Sumedha Tapas lying on the muddy road in front of Dipankar Buddha
Buddha and Bodhisatta
105
He requested Dipankar Buddha and His disciples to walk over his
body. Dipankar Buddha decided to comply with his request. He put
his leg on the body of Tapas to cross the road .Sumedha Tapas
prayed in his mind so that he could become Sammayak Sambuddha
in future.
Dipankar Buddha observed all the qualities in Sumedha Tapas of the
future Buddha. He blessed for the fullfilment of the prayer of
Sumedh Tapas. The Bodhisatta life of Goutam Buddha began in the
next birth by dint of the blessings of Dipankar Buddha. This Sumedh
Tapas was born as a prince Siddharta in his last birth and became
enlightened.
See the difference between Buddha and BodhisattaBuddha
Bodhisatta
1.Those who fulfil dash parami in
their previous life are Buddhas. The
Buddhas attain Mahaparinirban by
destroying sorrows
1. He is Bodhisatta in whom the seed of
wisdom has sprouted. Attainment of
Nirban is not possible during the life of
Boddhisatta. One has to be born again
and again for fulfilling perfections.
2. The Buddhas are the seers of
three ages. They are conscious and
aware of the present, past and future.
2. The Bodhisattas are busy with their
present life. They do not bother about
the past and future.
3. The Buddhas are all knowing. They 3. The knowledge of Bodhisattas is
are aware of the life of all living-beings limited. They are not aware of the life of
here and hereafter.
the living-beings here and hereafter.
4. The Buddhas possess firm mental
state. They are free from sensuality,
greed, delusion, blame, appreciation
and criticisim.
4. The mental states of the Boddhisattas
are not entightened as the Buddhas are.
Their ultimate aim is to become Buddha
in future.
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Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. The meaning of prefection isa. Purity
b. Honesty
c. Holiness
d. Fulfilment.
2. How many kinds of Buddhas are there?
a. Two
b. Four
c. Three
d. Eight
3. What kind of Buddha is Bodhisatta?
a. Past
b. Future
c. Present
d. Coming
4. Which city dwellers invited Dipankar Buddha?
a. Amaravati
b. Baishali
c. Kapilavastu
d. Magadha
5. What is the fundamental characteristics of the life to fulfil
perfections?
a. The life of Buddha
b. Life of Bodhisatta
c. Life of human-being
d. Life of ascetic
B. Fill in the gaps:
1. The sacred two words are ......................... and...........................
2. There are ............... of perfection Subject to perfection, Subperfection and spiritual perfection.
3. .................are supirior among the Buddhas.
4. One who becomes Buddha by one's own self is called............
5. The Sravak Buddha help other to become ..............
Buddha and Bodhisatta
107
C. Match the group of words from both sides:
1. By the destruction of
sorrows
2. The Buddhas are
3. During the life of
Bodhisatta
4. The knowledge of the
Bodhisatta
5. To become Buddha is
1. is limited.
2. their ultimate goal.
3. the Buddhas attain enlightenment
4. Enlightened.
5. it is not possible to attain Nirban.
D. Answer in brief:
1. Why all wise men of the world are not Buddha?
2. How many kinds of Buddhas are there?
3. What are Ten perfections?
4. Write the characteristic of Budhisatta?
5. What kind of mental state do the Buddhas possess?
E. Answer the following questions:
1. What are the ways to attain Buddhahood?
2. What did Goutam Buddha do in His previous life?
3. Give short description of different kinds of Buddha.
4. Write the story about the beginning of Buddhisatta life of
Goutam Buddha.
5. Differentiate between Buddha and Bodhisatta.
Chapter Thirteen
Disciples of Goutam Buddha
Goutam Buddha had many disciples. He proclaimed His doctrines to His five
disciples. Later on many were initiated being inspired by the Buddha's
religion.
Many devotees were initiated into monks and nuns renunciating family life.
They were the Sravak disciples of the Buddha. They are called 'Thera' and
'Theri' in Pali literature. Thera is a Pali word. The male disciples are called
'Thera'. The female disciples are known as 'Theri'
According to Buddha's philosophy one can not become real 'Thera' or 'Theri'
only by living the life of a monk. One should possess the qualities of
truthfulness, righteousness, self control etc. to become 'Thera' or 'Theri'. We
can build our moral life and follow true path by reading the verses composed
by them. The sermons of the Thera- Theris are very much important. They
made a significant contribution in propagating and spreading Buddhism.,
Mahakasyapa, Upali, Ananda, Sariputra, Moggallayana etc. are important
among them. Maharprajapati Goutami, Khema, Anopama, Punnika,
Patachara etc. are well known as Theri.
Many devotees expresed their respect to the Buddha, Dharma and Sangaha
even not renunciating from their family life. They followed the true path.
They were called the lay devotees.
Many kings and Shresthis were patrons of Buddhism. They helped in the
propagation and spread of Buddhism. They were all kind and philanthropist.
They propagated the main principles of Buddhism like kindness, self-control,
discipline among their subjects. They were known as unique Buddhists in the
history of Buddhism. King Bimbisar, Emperor Ashok, Anathpindik etc.
Disciples of Goutama Buddha
109
are important among them. Besides, Biskakha, Sujata, Mallika are also
memorable.
We shall now learn in short the biographies of some Thera-Theri and
lay devotees.
Yasha Thera
There was a rich Merchant in Baranasi during the time of Goutam
Buddha. The name of his son was Yasha. Yasha was polite and gentle
from his boyhood. He was very kind hearted. So everybody loved him.
The merchant had three palaces suitable for living during summer, the
rainy season and autumn. Yasha used to live in these palaces according
to seasons. The merchant made all arrangements for the comfort of his
son. There was always dance and music in the palace for the
entertainment of Yasha. But Yasha did not like these and had no curiosity
about these amusements. One night Yasha slept after the dance and
music. His sleep was broken at dead of night. He came to the dancehall. The dancers were sleeping at that time. Liquid saliva was coming
out of the mouth of some dancers. Some of them were murmuring in
their sleep. The palace looked to him as a graveyard. He became
annoyed. At one time Yasha said loudly, this is a chaos, this is digusting.
It was dawn. Yasa came out of the palace wearing golden shoes. He
started towards Mrigadava of Baranasi. The Buddha was walking in an
open place at that time. He saw from a distance Yasha to come. The
Buddha got himself seated in His own seat. Yasha became calm to see
the Buddha, the symbol of grace. Buddha said to Yasha, "Come Yasha,
this place is calm and quiet. This place is free from chaos. I shall give
you sermons". Yasha became very happy. The Buddha taught him
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about the Four Noble truth. Yasha realized that the life and world are
full of sorrows and miseries. Happiness is transient or temporary.
One can get salvation by following and exercising the rules of
asceticism. The Buddha got him initiated into the life of monkhood.
Yasha realized the truth by dint of rigorous asceticism. Yasha Thera
was one of the eighty Mahasravakas of the Buddha. In spite of being
a rich man, he became an example of the ideal of renunciation. He
contributed greatly to the development of Buddha's philosophy. He
will be remembered as a respectable Aryasravaka to the Buddhists.
Sivali Thera
Mahali Kumar was the prince of Lichchabi during the time of Lord
Buddha. He married Suprabasa, the most beautiful daughter of the
king of Kolio. Both Mahali Kumar and Suprabasa were pious. Sivali
was born in the house of the pious parents. Their wealth increased
when Suprabasa conceived Sivali in her womb. So they thought that
a great saint would be born in their family.
Suprabasa suffered antinantal complications for seven years because
of her actions in previous labour. She had to suffer labour pains for
seven days. Al last she gave birth to a healthy boy with the blessings
of the Buddha. Suprabasa offered donations for seven days after the
birth of the child. The boy was named Sivali Kumar. Sivali took
Prabrajya or got initiation to novice to Sariputra Mahathera at his
early age. He remembered the birth pains at the time of cutting hair
before taking Prabrajya or taking initiation to novice. As a result he
attained Arahanthood in no time
Disciples of Goutam Buddha
111
Sivali Thera
Sivali did many right actions during his earlier births. He was
awarded the title of Loavi Sreshtha (The Greatest Gainer) by dint of
his virtues in successive births. It means that he was the best among
the Gainers. His sacrificial works were great. He used to get what he
wished.
The Buddhists also perform Sivali puja along with the Buddha puja.
So the Buddhists also worship Sivali puja in every house. It is the
duty of every Buddhist to recite Sivali sutra.
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Khema
Khema was born in the city of Hongshabati during the time of
Padumuttara Buddha. Khema offered three sweet cakes to monk
Sujata. She prayed to become a disciple of the Buddha in future. By
dint of her many virtues she was born as a human being and deities
in successive births. She prayed and meditated for ages to become
'Arahant' and to meet the Buddha.
In her last birth as human being Khema was born in the Magadha
dynasty during the time of Goutam Buddha. She was the first wife
of king Bimbisar of Magadha. The colour of her skin was as bright
as gold. She was proud of her beauty.
One day the Buddha was staying at Venuban of Rajgriha. Khema
went to the monastery. The Buddha created a mysterious situation to
bring a change in the attitude of Khema. Khema was very much
impressed to see a lady more beautiful than her to serve the Buddha.
The pride of her beauty had gone within seconds. The Buddha
realized that Khema had a change of mind. The Buddha showed her
the consequences of life for giving her knowledge. To her utter
surprise she saw that the beauty of the lady was fading gradually.
The lady became adult. She became sick. Then the skin of her body
became loose. Her hairs became grey. At last being unable to stand,
she fell on the ground. Khema began to think over the
consequences of her life. She became very anxious.
Buddha realized the changes in her mind. He called her to listen to
His admonition, Khema achieved Arahanthood by listening to the
admomition of the Buddha. A sense of austerity developed in her
mind. The Buddha explained to her the cause of sorrows and
miseries in the world.
Disciples of Goutam Buddha
113
Khema accepted the initiation of nun with the permission of the king
Bimbisar. Khema acquired vast knowledge on philosophy and ascetic
rules. She proved her ability in the association of monks. The Lord
Buddha conferred her with the little of Agrasravik. Agrasravik occupied
an important place in the association of nuns. She passed her entire life
for the welfare of the Sangha.
Patachara
Patachara was born many times in the world. She attained many virtues
by doing right actions in every successive birth. She built a monastery
for the monks and nuns to reside. Patachara was born in the family of
imperial treasurer in the city of Srabasti during the time of Goutam
Buddha. Her beauty and grace grew day by day. She married a poor man
without the permission of her father. She began to live with her husband
in a village after marriage.
A few months later Patachara became pregnant. She became worried
about her future. Her husband was poor. A new child was coming to the
family. She began to think over the maintenance of the child and became
worried. Repentance grew in her mind for what she had done. She
understood her mistakes. She told her husband to take her to her father's
house. But her husband did not do it. So she started alone for her father's
house. The husband returned home and found that Patachara was not in
the house. He was sorry. He went out of the house without delay in
search of Patachara. He found his wife in the middle of the way.
Patachara gave birth to a child on the way. Patachara came back to the
house with her husband. Again Patachara became pregnant.
This time she started for her father's house with her husband and
children. A terrible storm started on the way. After some time there
began hailstorm. Her husband went to collect wood and died of
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snakebite. Patachara gave birth to a child on that stormy night. She
found her husband dead in the morning and began to weep.
At last she started for her father's house with her two children. There
was a river on the way. The water of the river rose up because of
heavy rains overnight. It was impossible to cross the river with two
children. At first she crossed the river with her little child. She made
the little child sleep. Then she started to cross the river to bring her
elder child from the other bank of the river. When she reached the
middle of the river she found that a large bird was carrying her little
child and flying away. Patachara began to cry loudly in distress. She
began to clap her hands. By that time the bird flew a long way with
the child.
A large bird (Shyen) flying away with the child.
Disciples of Goutam Buddha
115
The elder Child listened to the screaming of his mother. He thought
that his mother was calling him. He jumped into the river. He
drowned into the river within seconds. Patachara came to the house
of her father weeping. She found here that her father, mother and
brother had died. She could not bear the mourning. She was
distraught like a lunatic.
Moving here and there like a lunatic Patachara reached in front of
the Jetban garden. At that time the Buddha was giving sermons. The
Buddha called Patachara to Him. He said, "My dear sister, let your
past memory come back". Patachara got her memory at once. The
Buddha said, "Oh Lord, help me". Patachara told the Buddha
everything openly. The Buddha gave her consolation and said, "Do
not spoil your life any more by mourning. You have also wept in
your past life." Patachara was happy to listen to the words of
consolation of the Buddha. She attained Srotapatti while listening to
the sermons of the Buddha. The Buddha initiated her to the
association of the nuns.
At last she achieved Arahanthood by dint of her pursuit of
knowledge. After achieving the Arahanthood, she composed verses
about her life. She kept herself engaged in rendering services to the
Buddha and the association of monks throughout her life.
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Bimbisar
Bimbiasr was the king of Magadha. Magadha was a rich kingdom during
the time of Goutam Buddha. Rajgriha was the capital of Magadha. King
Bimbisara married the daughter of Mahakosal. Mahakosal rewarded
Bimbisar Kashigram as dowry of the marriage. Siddharta Goutam first
went to Magadha after renunciation from family life. He met king
Bimbisar. He gave words to the king that after attaining Buddhahood, He
would come to Magadha again. So the Buddha met the king Bimbisar in
Rajgriha on returning from Saranath.
King Bimbisar prayed to the Buddha to listen to the new message of the
Buddha's religion and philosophy. The Buddha gave the king the
knowledge of liberality (Dan), Precept (Shil) and Mental development
(Bhavana). Later the Buddha gave the sermons about 'Four Noble-truth'
and 'Noble Eight-fold path'.
King Bimbisar taking initiation from the Buddha.
Disciples of Goutam Buddha
117
King Bimbisar took initiation from the Buddha. He dedicated his life
to the service of the Buddha's religion and the association of monks.
He offered a huge garden for the Buddha and His disciples at
Rajgriha. The name of the garden was Benuban garden. Monastery
and Sangharam were built for the first time at Benuban for the
monks. The Buddha spent a few Barshabas (Rainy seasons) in
Benuban monastery along with His disciples.
Bimbisar had a son. His name was Ajatasatru. Ajatasatru imprisoned
the king after ascending the throne. He tried to kill king Bimbisar
with the bad advice of Devadatta. The king was tortured in various
ways in the prison. Only the queen could meet the king in the prison.
The queen used to take food for the king secretly. Ajatasatru knew
this and prohibited the queen from visiting the prison. As a result the
king died of hunger.
King Bimbisar had a great respect and devotion to the Buddha. He
was a pious king. The king played an important role in the first life
of religious propagation of the Buddha. The name of king Bimbisar
will be remembered always in the propagation and spread of
Buddhism.
Bishakha
There lived a Shreshthi named Mendaka in the city of Bhadriya during
the time of the Buddha. Bishakha was the daughter of Dhananjoy. The
name of her mother was Sumana devi. Once the Buddha came to the city
of Bhaddiya. Bishakha attained Srotapatti on listening to the Sermons of
the Buddha. Then she was only seven years old. Bishakha was unparallel
in her beauty and good qualities. She was very much enthusiastic about
donation and religion from her childhood.
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There lived another Shreshthi named Migar at the same time. Bishakha
was married to Punyabardhan, the son of Shreshthi. Her father gave her
ten pieces of advice while going to father-in-law's house. The advice
were as follows:
1. Do not take the fire of the house out of the house. It means that if
you find faults in others do not disclose it outside.
2. Do not bring the fire from outside into the house. It means that if
any neighbour speaks ill of your father-in-law's house, do not
disclose it to anyone of your father-in-law's house.
3. Give to the man who returns back in time. It means that you should
give to the man who gives the thing back to you in time.
4. Do not give the man who does not give the thing back to you in time.
5. Give to the man who gives back or not. It means that if your
relatives are poor and if they are unable to give back, help them.
6. Sit in happiness. It means that sit in such a quiet place from where
you need not to be hasty in showing respect to your superiors.
7. Eat in happiness. It means that you should take your food after the
superiors have taken.
8. Sleep in happiness. It means that you should sleep after completing
all your works.
9. Take care of the fire. It means that you should take care of your
father-in-law, mother-in-law and superiors.
Disciples of Goutam Buddha
119
10. Show respect and devotion to the deities. It means that you
should respect the monk and novices (Bhikkhu-Samaneras).
Everybody was happy and satisfied with the behaviour, beauty and
qualities of Bishakha. Bishakha was devoted to the Buddha. Her
father-in-law was the worshipper of naked medicants. He did not
give alms to the monks. Bishakha din not like the attitude of her
father-in-law regarding this matter. Bishakha proved right in her
action. Bishakha was ready to go to her father's house. Shreshthi
Migar realized his mistakes. He called Bishakha his mother. From
that time Bishakha became known as 'Migarmata'.
Bishakha used to go to the Vihar three times a day with food. She
built Rajakaram Vihar in Srabasti by spending nine crore golden
coins. She offered the Vihar to the Buddha and His disciples.
Bishakha shall always be remembered to the Buddhists for her
virtuous deeds.
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Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. Where did Yasha Thera go out of the palace?
a. Jetvan
b. Mrigadava
c. Benuvan
d. Pleasure garden
2. What was the name of the mother of Sivali Thera?
a. Sumana
b. Sujata
c. Suprabasa
d. Sulekha
3. Name the king whose wife Khema was.
a. Ashok
b. Prasenjit
c. Dhammapal
d. Bimbisar
4. Name the bird who flew away with the son of Patachara.
a. Eagle (Shyen)
b. Ostrich
c. Varai bird
d. Moyna bird
5. With whose advice Ajatsatru tried to kill his father Bimbisar?
a. Joydatta
b. Devadatta
c. Chandradev
d. Basumitra
6. How may advices did Bishakha's father give her?
a. Five
b. Seven
c. Eight
d. Ten
Disciples of Goutama Buddha
121
B. Fill in the gaps:
1 ........................................ Thera- Theri........................................
2. Yasha realized that .....................and................ are full of sorrows.
3. Sivali......................... to Mahasthabir..........................................
4. Khema offerred.................................three.....................cakes.
5. Patachara reached in front of..................................... garden.
6. .......rewarded..........to Bimbisar.........as a dowry of the marrige.
7. ...............was married to.........................................
C. Answer in brief:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Write the names of some Thera-Theris.
Mention the names of some of the lay devotees of the Buddha.
What did Yasha Thera see at dead of night? What did he say?
Why did the Buddhists recite Sivali Parittam?
Write about the past birth of Khema.
What did the Buddha advise to Patachara?
How king Bimbisar died in the prison?
Why Bishakha was called Migarmata?
D. Answer the following questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Describe the difference between Initiated and lay devotees.
Write about the initiation of Yasha Thera to the Monkhood.
Describe in short the life history of Sivali Thera.
Describe in short the initiation of Khema to the order of nun.
How did Patachara lose her two sons?
Describe the contribution of king Bimbisar to the
propagation of Buddhism.
7. Write five of the advice from those that given by the father of
Bishakha.
Chapter Fourteen
Pali Alphabet
Here you will know about the origin of Pali and its alphabet. Pali is
an ancient language. Pali was the Aryan language of Central India.
Goutam Buddha proclaimed His doctrines in Pali. The holy Tipitak
of the Buddhists was composed in Pali. In ancient India Pali was the
language of the common people. The places where the Buddha
traveled, Pali had an influence over them.
Like other countries Pali is taught in school, colleges and
Universities in Bangladesh.
Now we shall learn about Pali alphabet.
The smallest part of the word is called letter. As for example,
Nara=N+a+r+a,The world Nara is formed with four letters or
alphabet.If the letter is not put in the right place then the word bears
no real meaning. So Pali should be learnt, written and spoken with
correct and clear pronunciation.
1. There are Forty one letters in Pali. Eight of them are vowels and
thirty three are consonants.
2. The vowel is of two kinds: Short and long vowels. Among eight
vowels A, I, U are pronunciated in one unit or attempt. Again A,
I, U, E, and O are pronunciated in two units. So they are called
the long vowels.
3. The Sanskrit or Bangla letters Ri, (F) Ai, (H) Ou (J)etc. are
absent in Pali. Apart from these k (Sha), l (Sha), ¶ (Ksha), t
(Visarga) , © (Ref), u (Chanddrabindu), r (Half of T) are also not
used.
Pali Alphabet
123
4. o (Dra), p (Dhra)- these two letters are used as ?a.
Notice the following examples:
Bangla
Rishi
Oushadha
Mouna
Yaksha
Trishna
Dukha
Dharma
Pali
Isi
Osadha
Mona
Yakkha
Tanha
Dukkha
Dhamma
In the above examples there is © (Ref) on the top of letters of Bangla
word. That letter with © (Ref) has been doubled in Pali. So, Br, Mr,
ie, any letter with © (Ref) is pronunciated with double letters of the
same. Besides, the Bangla word formed with ¶ (Ksha) and t
(Visarga) is also used as double of the same letter. You should follow
this method.
1. The Pali alphabet are given below in English:
The eight number of vowels:
A(a), A(a), I(i), I ( ), U(u), U(u), E(e), O(o)
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Exercise
A. Put tick (√) mark against the right answer:
1. In which language did the Buddha proclaim His doctrines?
a. Sanskrit
c. Bangla
b. Pali
d. Udiya
2. How many vowels are there in Pali?
a. Five
c. Seven
b. Six
d. Eight
3. How many consonants are there in Pali?
a. Thirty three
c. Thirty seven
b. Thirty six
d. Thirty eight
4. What is called the smallest part of letter of the word?
a. Alphabet
c. Language
b. Word
d. Sound
5. What is Pali version of Bangla word Rishi?
a. Kasi
c. Isi
b. Isi
d. Masi
Pali Alphabet
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B. Fill in the gaps:
1. ...................was in the Aryan................ of Central India.
2. If the letter is not .....................in the right place then
the word.................. no meaning.
3. For that reason............on Pali alphabet is thoroughly necessary.
4. Bangla is...............................with....................
5. Cariyapada is also...................as Cariyagiti and.....................
C. Answer in brief:
1. Which Aryan language is Pali included in ?
2. Who used Pali language in ancient India ?
3. How many alphabet are there in the Pali language ?
Write the vowels.
4. How z (Dra), | (Dhra) alphabet are used in Pali ?
5. What is the earliest specimen of the Bangla language ?
D. Answer the following questions:
1. Give an account of the source of Pali.
2. Write what the short and long vowels are with examples.
3. How many consonants are there in Pali? write five groups of
the letters.
4. Write some linking letters of Pali alphabet.
5. Describe in brief the necessity of Pali language.