Stories of the Buddha: Volume 1 (1版)

Wisdom That Transforms Lives 　　Twenty-five centuries ago, a man who had once lived in royal luxury walked barefoot across the dusty plains of India, sharing insights that would forever change human history. The Buddha—“the Awakened One”—dedicated forty-nine years of his life to illuminating the path beyond suffering for all who would listen. 　　This first volume presents 36 stories from the Buddha’s life and the lives of his disciples, each revealing the Buddha’s remarkable ability to meet people where they were and guide them toward realization. Readers will discover the Buddha’s insights on the importance of kindness, right speech, right actions, and community living that remain profoundly relevant to our lives today. 　　Each story concludes with “Words of Wisdom” that connect ancient guidance to contemporary challenges. Throughout the collection, we see how the Buddha’s gentle yet powerful approach led others to profound insights, inspiring many to become his disciples and continue their spiritual journey. 　　Whether you are new to Buddhist teachings or seeking deeper understanding, these timeless stories offer inspiration and guidance for living with greater awareness, compassion, and purpose in today’s complex world.

About Venerable Master Hsing Yun................................viii Preface: The Great Buddha ...............................................x Editor’s Notes ...............................................................xviii 1. The Offering of the Four Heavenly Kings ......................2 2. Offerings of the Four Animals .......................................8 3. The Transformation.....................................................14 4. Four Kinds of Horses and People ................................20 5. Origin of the Ullambana Festival.................................26 6. Parrots Welcoming the Buddha ...................................34 7. The Unacceptable Gift.................................................40 8. Stingy...........................................................................46 9. The Exemplary King ....................................................54 10. Nothing Comes Easy..................................................62 11. Hurtful Speech...........................................................68 12. The Fragrant and the Foul .........................................76 13. The Impermanence of Human Life ...........................82 14. The Parrot King .........................................................88 15. Feeding the Eagle.......................................................94 16. Not Yours .................................................................100 17. A Couple’s Aspiration...............................................106 18. Filthy Without, Purity Within..................................112 19. Birthday Gifts for the Buddha.................................118 20. Not Expounding the Teachings for Offerings ..........124 21. The Buddha Saves His Country...............................132 22. Buddha Calling on the Sick .....................................138 23. The Auspicious Kusha Grass....................................144 24. Scaring the Buddha .................................................150 25. Remaining Unmoved...............................................156 26. Rules and Order.......................................................162 27. The Buddha Carried His Father’s Coffin .................168 28. The Rarest Encounter..............................................174 29. Taming the Elephant ...............................................180 30. Past Affinity.............................................................186 31. Lost Camels .............................................................192 32. Paving Jetavana with Gold.......................................198 33. Actions Speak Louder Than Words..........................206 34. Two Arrows ..............................................................212 35. Fight Over Rotten Meat...........................................220 36. Caring for a Junior...................................................228