The Drummer and the Thieves: Bherivada Jataka

In a past life, the Bodhisatta was once a village drummer who traveled with his son to play at a festival in the city. During their performance, they earned a significant amount of money. On their return home, they had to pass through a forest infested with thieves.To ensure their safety, the Bodhisatta advised his son not to play the drum continuously. Instead, he suggested playing it only occasionally, so that any thieves hearing the drum would assume a large group, possibly with an important lord, was passing by. This strategy was intended to deter the thieves from attacking them.However, the son did not listen to his father’s advice and played the drum nonstop. When the thieves heard the continuous drumming, they realized it was not a grand procession but just two people walking. The thieves then went to investigate and, finding only the two of them, robbed them of all their money.

In the Lifetime of the Buddha

This tale has a significant connection to the Buddha’s later life. The Bodhisatta’s son in the story was an earlier birth of an obstinate disciple of the Buddha. When the Buddha learned that this disciple was not following his advice, he told him this story to illustrate that his refusal to follow guidance had previously led to misfortune.By sharing this story, the Buddha aimed to teach the disciple the importance of listening to wise counsel and the potential consequences of ignoring good advice. This narrative highlighted the recurring pattern of the disciple’s behavior and the need for obedience and wisdom in avoiding harm.

Moral

The Bherivada Jataka teaches us about the importance of listening to advice and the dangers of excess or foolish behavior. The story emphasizes that ignoring wise counsel can lead to misfortune, while following good advice can ensure safety and success. The Bodhisatta’s strategy serves as a model for how to handle potentially dangerous situations with prudence and caution. This tale underscores the Buddhist principle of the value of wisdom, obedience, and careful planning in navigating life’s challenges.