Stories for children of all ages
translated by GB Talovich
Edited by Silent Voices
Tzu Chan was a statesman who lived during the Spring and Autumn period, some 2,500 years ago. Confucius praised his wisdom highly. Tzu Chan was so smart and so kind that Chinese people still honor him even today. He helped the poor and rescued those in danger. He enjoyed doing good, and in particular, he never liked to kill anything.
One day a friend sent him a present, several live fish. They were fat and looked delicious. They would certainly make a wonderful meal! When Tzu Chan received this gift, he was very grateful that his friend was so thoughtful. He accepted the gift happily. Then he called his servant.
"Take these fish and put them in the fishpond In the yard."
His servant said, "Master, this kind of fish is a very rare delicacy. If you put them in the fishpond, the water is not as clear as a mountain stream's, so their flesh will not be as soft, and they will not taste as good. You should eat them right away."
Tzu Chan smiled. "I am the boss here. Go do as you are told. How could l murder these poor, innocent fish just for the sake of their taste? I couldn't bear to do that."
The servant had to obey orders. As she poured the fish into the pond, she told them, "Boy, you sure are lucky fish! If you had been given to anybody but my master, you would already be cooking for dinner by now!"
related post: 《The Love of Life》- The Deer That Saved Its Rescuer
Source Of Information:
《Wisdom of the Buddhas》, by Venerable Wu Ling, based on the Talks of Venerable Master Chin Kung, translated by Silent Voices, published in August, 2012, distributed by Amitabha Buddhist Society Malaysia (92, Jalan Pahang, 53300 Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
*** The information provided above does not contain personal opinion of this blog.
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