The Jataka, Volume II by W. H. D. Rouse

Description

The Jataka Volume II is a book by W. H. D. Rouse, first published in 1895. It is part of a comprehensive six-volume English translation of the Jātaka tales, which are ancient Buddhist stories recounting the previous lives of the Buddha in both human and animal forms. These narratives, originating in Pali and dating back to at least 380 BCE, serve as moral fables that illustrate virtues such as compassion, wisdom, and self-sacrifice. Rouse's translation is noted for its scholarly approach, aiming to preserve the original texts' integrity while making them accessible to a Western audience. This volume continues the work initiated in the first volume, presenting a selection of Jātaka tales that delve into the Buddha's past incarnations. Each story is crafted to impart ethical lessons, often highlighting the importance of selflessness and the pursuit of enlightenment. The tales have had a significant influence on Buddhist literature and have been adapted into various cultural contexts, reflecting the universal appeal of their moral teachings.

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