วิชาภาษาไทย | เรื่องย่อมหาเวสสันดรชาดก 13 กัณฑ์

Summary

The script discusses the story of Mahachat, also known as the Vessantara Jataka, a significant tale in Buddhism. It narrates the life of Prince Vessantara, the final incarnation of the Bodhisattva before becoming the Buddha. The story emphasizes the prince's generosity and his acts of great merit, which ultimately lead to his enlightenment. Spanning 13 sections, the tale illustrates key virtues like charity and selflessness, as chronicled in the Buddhist scriptures. Each chapter highlights important moral lessons and the fulfillment of the 'Ten Perfections' required to become a Buddha.

Takeaways

• 🙏 The Mahachat (Great Life) or Vessantara Jataka is a tale linked to Buddhist beliefs, depicting the final life of the Bodhisattva before becoming Gautama Buddha.
• 👑 Vessantara, the central figure of the tale, is known for performing ten significant acts of merit called 'Ten Perfections' or 'Dasabarnis'.
• 📜 The story is told across 13 chapters (Khandhas), each representing different aspects of Vessantara's life and acts of generosity.
• ☁️ After Buddha performed the miracle of Yamaka Patihara, rain known as 'Bokkhara' fell, leading to the Buddha recounting the Vessantara Jataka story.
• 🌸 The first chapter, 'Thosaphon Khandha', describes the ten blessings granted to Princess Phusadee before her rebirth as Vessantara's mother.
• 🦅 Vessantara, born with a generous nature, gives away a divine elephant that brings rain to a drought-stricken kingdom, which angers his people.
• 🌿 Vessantara is exiled with his wife, Maddi, and their children, who willingly accompany him on his journey into the forest.
• 👴 The story also features Chuchok, a poor old Brahmin who receives Vessantara's children as a gift after deceiving others during his journey.
• 💔 Maddi is heartbroken when she discovers her children were given away, but she eventually accepts and rejoices in Vessantara’s act of charity.
• 🌧️ The tale concludes with Vessantara’s family being reunited, and the gods showering the kingdom with blessings, including precious gems raining down from the sky.

Q & A

What is the Mahachat or Mahavessandara Jataka about?

The Mahachat, or Mahavessandara Jataka, is a story connected to Buddhist beliefs, depicting the final life of the Bodhisattva before becoming the Buddha. It portrays his incarnation as Prince Vessandara, who performed great acts of generosity, leading to his enlightenment as Gautama Buddha.

How many chapters or sections (khandas) are in the Mahavessandara Jataka?

The Mahavessandara Jataka consists of 13 chapters (khandas), each highlighting different aspects of Prince Vessandara's journey and the virtues he practiced, which culminated in his becoming the Buddha.

What is the significance of the 10 virtues or 'paramis' in the Mahachat story?

The 10 virtues, known as 'paramis,' represent essential qualities such as generosity, patience, and determination that Prince Vessandara practiced throughout his life. These virtues are central to the story and showcase the moral teachings that lead to his enlightenment.

What is described in the first chapter (Khanda) called 'Tossaporn'?

In the 'Tossaporn' chapter, the story describes the blessings given to Queen Phusadee, mother of Vessandara, by the god Indra. These blessings include a graceful appearance, a son destined for greatness, and the power to release prisoners from capital punishment.

What role does the elephant Paccaya play in the story?

The elephant Paccaya, owned by Prince Vessandara, is significant because it could make rain fall at the right time, ensuring the prosperity of the kingdom. Vessandara donated this elephant to the drought-stricken Kalinga kingdom, an act of generosity that angered his own people, leading to his exile.

Who are the main family members of Prince Vessandara?

Prince Vessandara's immediate family includes his wife, Princess Maddi, his son, Prince Jali, and his daughter, Princess Kanha. All of them accompanied Vessandara into exile, sharing in his sacrifices.

Who is Chuchok and what is his role in the story?

Chuchok is an old Brahmin who appears in the story to request Vessandara's children, Jali and Kanha, as servants for his wife. This request tests Vessandara’s commitment to his virtue of generosity, and despite the emotional toll, he grants Chuchok’s wish.

How does the character of Indra feature in the Mahachat story?

Indra, the king of gods, plays a protective role in the story. He disguises himself as a Brahmin to test Vessandara’s generosity and prevent others from taking advantage of Vessandara’s willingness to give away everything, including his family.

What is the significance of the rain in the Mahavessandara Jataka?

The rain, known as the 'Bokkorapat,' symbolizes blessings and divine intervention. It occurs after the Buddha recounts the Mahavessandara Jataka, and it previously fell when Vessandara performed his acts of great merit, symbolizing purity and reward for virtue.

What moral lessons does the Mahachat Jataka aim to convey?

The Mahachat Jataka conveys moral lessons centered on the virtues of generosity, compassion, and self-sacrifice. It teaches that such qualities lead to spiritual growth and ultimate enlightenment, reflecting Buddhist ideals of selflessness and moral conduct.