Life is invaluable

There were two neighbouring countries in central India which were prepared to go to war over the right of ownership of a dam. When the Buddha learned about this, he went to meet the kings of both countries to expedite the matter further. After understanding the situation, the Buddha said:" I know that only a portion of the people will benefit from the usage of this dam. Is it of any other value to the rest of the people?"

" There is no other value to them." The two kings gave the same answer.

The Buddha said:" Then, is it true that there will be a lot of bloodshed when you go to war with one another, with even the possibility of risking your own lives?"

" Yes! There are bound to be heavy casualties among the civilians, and we ourselves will be in danger." They answered concurrently.

The Buddha said:" Is human life less valuable than the dam of the river?"

" No! The lives of both kings and civilians are just as invaluable."

" Do you think you should unnecessarily sacrafice such valuable lives in exchange for a dam that is of no real value?"

After hearing these words of the Buddha, the two kings were shakened out of their delusion. The resentment in them subsided, and they found a peaceful solution.

[ The wisdom of the Buddha had not only prevented a war,but stimulated the kings' awareness of right thinking.]

Back to Contents Page