Bodhi Path

Prominence of Jataka Tales in Indian History

Dr. Sanghmitra Baudh — 2025-07-31

The word Jataka means “related to birth.” According to the theory of evolution, it takes thousands of years for a bud to develop into a flower. Can any wise person suddenly, in one lifetime, become enlightened or a Buddha? To reach that state, one must undergo countless births. Even the Buddha had to go through numerous rebirths. Before becoming the Buddha, he lived through many previous lives and had intense resolve in his final birth.

The term resolve refers to a determined aspiration, while virtue means ethical action. Therefore, a being who aspires for Buddhahood engages in determined virtuous acts—this stage is referred to as resolve. The Jataka tales describe the lives of fifty previous births (Bodhisattva incarnations) of the Buddha during which he cultivated the virtues that eventually led to enlightenment.

Just as the Buddha inspired people through his teachings and gentle approach, similarly these stories too convey profound lessons through simple and accessible means. The Bodhisattva in these tales often takes the form of animals, birds, or sometimes remains human to address and resolve complex societal problems with wisdom and compassion. These tales portray Bodhisattvas in various forms—trees, elephants, lions, monkeys, birds, sages, kings, etc.—to illustrate moral and ethical teachings.

Through the medium of storytelling, Jataka tales simplify complex religious and ethical ideas. These are a part of oral literature. The tales include both animal fables and human stories. Scholar Foucher classified the Jataka tales into seven categories:

Practical Policy-Related Tales
Animal Stories
Stories with Complete Context in Philosophy and Morality
Tales of Yogic Accomplishment and Asceticism
Moral Discourses
Parables and Metaphors
Religious Narratives

These tales display a wide range of expression—sometimes narrative, sometimes poetic, sometimes philosophical, and sometimes even dramatic or lyrical. Their linguistic form varies based on content and purpose.

In Indian history, Jataka tales hold special importance. They represent the social, religious, political, economic, and moral life of ancient India. In fact, they are not just crucial to Indian history but also have a prominent place in the world’s literary and cultural heritage. Their documentation is unmatched.

Jataka tales are a valuable resource for understanding the structure and dynamics of ancient Indian society. For example, the Vessantara Jataka provides insights into the political life of the time. From them, we learn about ancient India's education system, curriculum, subjects, and practical and theoretical knowledge—covering aspects such as residence, food habits, and trade.

These stories vividly describe the roads and urban planning of famous cities like Vaishali, Rajgriha, Mithila, Mathura, Kapilavastu, and Kausambi, and depict the local markets and waterways. Illustrations from Jataka tales also reveal ancient scripts and linguistic forms.

The Brahmins of the time held a high status in society. In fact, Brahmins and Kshatriyas were considered the most respected classes. Slavery was prevalent. From these tales, we gather that people could be bought and sold like commodities, and even a prince could be traded.

The Buddha’s disciples were from diverse social backgrounds. The teachings in these tales often revolve around moral values. From them, we learn that during those times, people were deeply religious. Worship of kings, trees, snakes, and rivers was common.

Jataka tales had a significant influence on ancient Indian philosophy, literature, and subsequent narrative traditions. They are a bridge between early oral traditions and the later classical literary culture of India.

The Role of Women in Ancient Indian History: A Re-Evaluation

Shalini Singhal — 2025-07-31

This paper re‑evaluates women’s roles in ancient India, tracing their trajectory from the relative autonomy of the early Vedic period to the patriarchal constraints codified in later texts like the Manusmriti. Drawing on literary, epigraphic and artistic evidence, it highlights female scholars, ritual partners and royal diplomats; analyses the impact of Buddhist and Jain monastic orders in offering alternative spaces for agency; and reads epic heroines and goddess iconography as cultural barometers of gender ideals. Despite increasing marginalisation, women continually negotiated power within domestic, religious and political spheres. Understanding this complexity enriches broader debates on gender and historiography.

Re-vitalizing Law of Causation in the context of Contemporary World Economy

Rohit Singh — 2025-07-31

Buddhism or Buddhist philosophy incorporates the teachings of Gautam Buddha, which mainly involves the system of logic and dialectic to find out the reality of all worldly phenomena and human life. The Buddha analysed and questioned the contradictions of existing social and spiritual thoughts of his time that gave birth to new idea or path leading to proper Salvation. The Buddha identified Aniccā/Anitya (Impermanence), Dukkhā/Duḥkha (suffering) and Anattā/Anātman (No – soul), the Trilakshan as three characteristics of existence. Anitya means impermanent nature of all the matters and phenomena (life, object, idea etc). Dukkha means suffering, the world which is full of suffering i.e. from birth to death, whatever lies within is suffering, which is also impermanent in nature. Anātman means No-soul, soul is a Vedic construct that guides and controls the nature of the life of a being, which can neither be manipulated, nor can be destroyed. However, the Buddha rejected this concept of soul as it is the karmic actions that colour the human consciousness which is responsible for all the activities that we perform and reap result accordingly. If a being is guided with right knowledge, it leads to perform good karmic activities and vice-versa. If there is something which controls our life and can be manipulated, then every being should be perfect and equal in size? However, it is clearly not so. Hence, karma and right knowledge are the driving force behind every fate of humans or all kind of living creature in nature.

Thus, in order to understand the theory behind these regulations of different karmic forces, it seems appropriate to revitalize the understanding of the Buddhist theory of Law of causation or the Doctrine of Dependent origination or Paṭiccasamuppāda (in Pali) .Therefore, this Paper is yet an attempt to elaborate the doctrine of dependent origination in detailed manner and underline its relevance as an essential for contemporary world economy in order to achieve the Buddhist ideal of peace and prosperity in contemporary time by keeping in view the Primary text like Mahâvagga and several other secondary sources.

The Impact of Buddhist Philosophy on Global Peace-building Efforts

Dr. Vivek Sharma — 2025-07-31

Buddhist philosophy, which emphasizes compassion, non-violence, and interdependence, has significantly impacted global peace-building efforts. Rooted in the teachings of the Buddha, key principles such as mindfulness (sati), loving-kindness (metta), and ethical conduct (sīla) offer a framework for resolving conflicts, fostering dialogue, and promoting harmony among diverse communities. This study examines the application of Buddhist teachings in contemporary peace-building practices, highlighting their influence on grassroots movements and international initiatives.

Buddhist leaders and practitioners have historically emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of conflict, such as greed, hatred, and ignorance. They believe that pursuing inner peace is essential for achieving societal peace. Modern examples of Buddhist-inspired peace-building include the contributions of figures like Thich Nhat Hanh, the Dalai Lama, and Sulak Sivaraksa. Their efforts in non-violent resistance, interfaith dialogue, and environmental advocacy have made a significant global impact.

Buddhist-inspired mindfulness and meditation practices have become increasingly popular in conflict resolution workshops and trauma healing programs around the world. These practices offer tools to help foster empathy and understanding among conflicting parties. Additionally, international organizations like the United Nations have incorporated Buddhist principles into their peace-building frameworks, acknowledging their universal relevance.

This paper discusses the challenges and opportunities of applying Buddhist philosophy to global peace efforts, especially in culturally and religiously diverse contexts. It emphasizes the transformative potential of Buddhism in fostering not only the absence of violence but also a comprehensive vision of peace based on mutual respect, compassion, and sustainable development. Ultimately, the research aims to demonstrate how the ancient wisdom of Buddhism continues to play a meaningful role in modern strategies for achieving global peace.

The Flag of Tibet

SMITHA M — 2025-07-31

This paper undertakes a vexillological reading of the Tibetan national flag, examining its historical evolution, symbolic imagery, and significance in articulating Tibetan identity and resistance. While much scholarly attention has been devoted to Tibetan Buddhist prayer flags, the national flag—popularly known as the Snow Lion Flag—remains under-explored within vexillological discourse. Drawing on semiotics, cultural history, and political theory, the paper analyses the flag’s imagery, including the snow lion, mountain, sun, and the debated yin-yang motif, to uncover its embedded narratives of sovereignty, spirituality, and collective memory. It traces the flag’s transformation from a military standard under the Thirteenth Dalai Lama to its role as a banned yet potent symbol of resistance in contemporary Tibet and exile communities. Ultimately, the paper argues that the Tibetan flag functions not merely as a political emblem, but as a dynamic, transhistorical artefact embodying national aspiration, cultural continuity, and decolonial identity in the face of occupation.

प्राचीन भारतीय कला और वास्तुकला का विकास

Shalini Singhal — 2025-07-31

This research paper explores the evolution and significance of ancient Indian art and architecture, examining its major forms—stupa architecture, temple construction, sculpture, painting, and handicrafts—as integral to the spiritual, cultural, and social fabric of Indian civilization. It highlights how these artistic expressions developed over time, influenced by religious movements such as Buddhism and Hinduism, and how they served as mediums of devotion, symbolism, and societal reflection.

The paper begins by analyzing the development of stupas, initially simple mounds built to enshrine the relics of the Buddha, which gradually evolved into complex architectural structures adorned with carvings depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life. It then delves into temple architecture, noting its formal elements—sanctum (garbhagriha), pavilion (mandapa), spire (shikhara), and enclosure (prakar)—and traces its stylistic evolution, particularly during the Gupta period.

The study further explores sculpture, both Buddhist and Hindu, highlighting its religious and social narratives and its role in shaping cultural identity. Painting, from early religious murals in Ajanta and Ellora to courtly Mughal miniatures, is shown to be a vibrant reflection of both divine and worldly themes. Lastly, the paper examines craft traditions such as metalwork, woodwork, and stone carving, showcasing their aesthetic and functional contributions to Indian art heritage.

In conclusion, the paper emphasizes that ancient Indian art and architecture not only fulfilled religious functions but also mirrored the collective psyche and way of life of Indian society. Their legacy continues to define India's rich cultural identity and global artistic influence.

The Cognitive Chain of Craving: Analysis of the Nine Stages of Mind Contamination and the Interceptive Role of Sati and Vipassanā

Narotam Singh — 2025-07-31

This paper examines the Theravāda Buddhist framework of the "nine stages of mind contamination" as detailed in the Abhidhamma text, the Patisambhidāmagga in the Khuddaka Nikāya. It outlines the progression from initial sensory contact (citta) to an entirely defiled consciousness-aggregate (viññāṇakkhandha). The main emphasis is on the practical application of mindfulness (sati) and insight (vipassanā) as interceptive mechanisms at each stage. By analyzing how specific mindfulness practices (satipaṭṭhāna) counter the development of craving (taṇhā) and karmic formation, the paper elucidates the framework for purifying the mind and preventing suffering. This analysis examines the cognitive progression that leads to defilement and the specific contemplative skills required to interrupt it.

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The Theoretical Framework: Mind Consciousness and the Prefrontal Cortex

Narotam Singh — 2025-07-31

Recent dialogues between Buddhist psychology and cognitive neuroscience reveal striking convergences that invite deeper inquiry. This paper extends that dialogue by examining how the Buddhist construct of mano-viññāņa (mind consciousness, the Sixth Consciousness) aligns with contemporary models of prefrontal function. In Buddhist teachings, Mind Consciousness is viewed as an executive hub, crucial for perception, emotion, and thought. It is likened in classical exegesis to a "stage manager" that selects, amplifies, or suppresses mental objects to shape experience and guide intentional action. These capacities map closely onto the functions of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which serves as a neural "conductor" for top-down attention, working-memory manipulation, affective appraisal, and metacognitive monitoring. This paper explores the parallels between the integrative, evaluative, and self-regulatory features of mano-viññāņa and the operations of the distributed neural architecture, including thalamo-cortical relays, limbic memory circuits, and prefrontal control networks, that underpins executive oversight. By anchoring ancient introspective maps within modern neurobiology, this integrative framework yields a more comprehensive account of human cognition and affect than either tradition can provide alone.

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बुद्ध-धम्म के उत्थान में बिहार की महान् भिक्खुनियों एवं उपासिकाओं का योगदान

Dhiraj Kr Nirbhay — 2025-07-31

This research paper delves into the influential role played by the women of Bihar—specifically bhikkhunis (ordained nuns) and upasikas (lay female followers)—in the development and propagation of Buddhism during and after the time of the Buddha. It provides a socio-historical analysis of how these women overcame deep-rooted patriarchal norms to become pivotal figures in religious reform and spiritual leadership.

The study foregrounds the active involvement of notable female figures such as Mahapajapati Gotami, Khema, Patacara, Dhammadinna, Bhadda Kundalakesa, and Visakha, among others. Drawing on canonical sources like the Therigatha and Jataka Tales, the paper chronicles their personal transformations—from royal consorts, aristocrats, and courtesans to enlightened bhikkhunis—revealing how each woman’s spiritual journey became a testimony to inner resilience and dharmic conviction.

Through these biographies, the paper highlights themes of gender equality, renunciation, spiritual discipline, and the struggle against societal injustices. It also underscores Bihar’s historical significance as a cradle of early Buddhist education, monastic culture, and women's emancipation within the Buddhist sangha.

A significant part of the study is devoted to Sanghamitta's mission to Sri Lanka, where she established a bhikkhuni sangha, emphasizing the transnational impact of Bihar’s Buddhist women. The author argues that this legacy of inclusion and spiritual contribution laid the foundation for a more egalitarian vision of society.

Buddhicization of Chinese Culture: A Historical Overview

Dr Anant — 2025-07-31

The complicated tapestry of cultural exchange between India and China has been twisted over millennia, characterized by a dynamic interplay of ideas, practices, and artistic expressions. This spectacle, often referred to as the "Buddhicization of Chinese Culture," summarized the profound influence that Indian philosophical thought, religious practices, and artistic traditions have exerted on Chinese society. The historical overview of this cultural exchange is not merely a version of one of the impacts of the civilizations over another one. It is a complex novelette of mutual adaptation, negotiation, and transformation that has shaped both cultures in remarkable ways. This is an ability to understand this Buddhicization process which requires a multifaceted approach that considers historical contexts, socio-political dynamics, and the transnational flow of ideas.
The basic foundations of Indian Buddhist cultural influence in China can be traced back to the early centuries of the Common Era i.e. 206 BCE to 220 CE (China), particularly with the spread of Buddhism. As one of the most significant cultural exports from India, Buddhism served as a conduit for various Indian Buddhist philosophies, artistic styles, and even linguistic elements to permeate Chinese society. A trade route better known as Silk Route, is a network connecting the East and West not only for the exchange of goods furthermore for the transmission of cultural and religious ideas too. Consequently, it has interconnected the permission to Indian Buddhist monks, scholars, and traders to travel to China. These lead to bringing with them their beliefs, texts, and artistic traditions. This tradition has had an impact in China which leads to the translation of the Buddhist scriptures into Chinese language particularly from the period of Han dynasty (206BCE-220CE). Therefore, the era of the Han dynasty marked a climactic moment in this cultural exchange, laying the groundwork for the eventual integration of Indian Buddhist thought into Chinese intellectual and spiritual life.