Question

Visit a library:

Read stories about Gautama Buddha. Relate one story in the class.

Answer 1

The Buddha and the Hungry Swan Once, when Gautama Buddha was a young prince, he was playing in the royal gardens. Suddenly, a swan fell from the sky, pierced by an arrow. It had been shot by his cousin, Prince Devadatta. Gautama rushed to the swan, gently removed the arrow, and comforted the injured bird. Devadatta soon arrived and demanded the swan, claiming it was his because he shot it. However, Gautama refused to give the swan back, saying, “The swan needs care and protection, not harm.” The two princes argued and decided to take the matter to the court. The wise judge listened carefully and declared, “The one who saves a life has a greater right to it than the one who tries to take it.” Thus, Gautama was allowed to keep the swan and nurse it back to health.

Moral of the Story:

This story teaches us the value of compassion, kindness, and protecting all living beings. Gautama Buddha believed in helping others, and this moment showed his love for life from an early age.