In the ancient kingdom of Mithila, the Bodhisatta served as a wise judge known for his deep insight. One day, two women came before him, both claiming to be the mother of the same young boy. One was the true mother, while the other was a Yakkhini in human disguise who had stolen the child. To settle the matter, the judge drew a line on the ground and told the women: 'She who can pull the child across this line shall be declared his mother.' As the tug-of-war began, the child cried out in pain from the rough handling. The real mother immediately let go of his hand, her heart breaking at the sight of his suffering. The thief, however, pulled the child across the line with a cold, triumphant smile. The wise judge then declared the woman who let go as the true mother, explaining that a mother's heart is moved by her child's pain, while a stranger seeks only to win.
True love is selfless and prioritizes the well-being of others over personal gain; compassion is the ultimate mark of truth.
Questions about this story
What is the moral of The Wise Judge?
The story teaches that genuine love is selfless and protective. A true mother would rather lose her child to another than see him suffer harm, proving that compassion is the ultimate test of truth.
Who is the judge in this Jataka tale?
The judge is the Bodhisatta, the Buddha in a previous life. In this specific context, he is often identified as Mahosadha, who was renowned for his extraordinary wisdom and ability to solve complex disputes.
How does the judge identify the false mother?
The judge observes the emotional reaction of both women during a physical struggle over the child. The false mother shows no empathy for the child's pain, while the real mother immediately sacrifices her claim to stop his suffering.
What is the significance of the Yakkhini in this story?
The Yakkhini represents greed and the lack of empathy. Her role serves as a foil to the mother's compassion, highlighting the difference between selfish desire and selfless love in human nature.
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Good night.
