The Parrot that Fed His Parents - A parrot (Buddha) is seen by a Brahman eating rice like the others in the flock, then taking more and flying off with it in his beak. The Brahman decided to trap the parrot and question it about its greed. When he tells the Brahman that he takes some back to his ancient parents who can no longer travel and some for the weaker birds that can't make the trip, the Brahman gives him a portion of his land to come and eat. The parrot goes back and gets his parents, relocating them to their new food source.
The King Who Saw the Truth - A King decides to give both of his eyes to a blind Brahmin. Other officials tried to talk him out of it, but he insisted that he gives him his eyes for the joy of giving. Eventually the king's sight was returned, but not the sight he had before. Eyes that could see the "perfect and absolute Truth."
Notes: Joker as the king.
The Elephant that Was Honored in Old Age - an elephant that was previously honored by the King after doing great deeds for him has her honors stripped and is tied to a cart like the oxen. She is insulted, and Buddha defends her to the king. The king returns her honor.
I'm not sure if I will use any stories from this part of the reading. These three interested me, but I think I will find more in Part B.
Jataka Tales from
Eastern Stories and Legends by Shedlock.
Web Source.
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