The Dubbaca Jataka: The Danger of Ignoring Wise Advice

In a past life, the Bodhisatta was an acrobat who traveled from town to town, performing feats with his master. His master was renowned for his skill in the four-javelin dance, a dangerous and impressive act. However, one day, after drinking too much, the master decided to attempt a more complicated and riskier version: the five-javelin dance. He had never practiced it, and the Bodhisatta, concerned for his master’s safety, warned him not to try it, predicting that he would end up seriously hurt or even killed.

Despite the warning, the master was determined to perform the dance. As he flung the javelins, he made a fatal mistake, impaling himself on the fifth one, just as the Bodhisatta had foretold. As the master lay dying from his injuries, the Bodhisatta solemnly remarked, “This is what you get for ignoring the advice of wise people.”

The Buddha’s Teaching

In the time of the Buddha, there was a disciple who was known for his disobedient and impatient nature. He often ignored the teachings of his fellow disciples and the Buddha’s instructions, believing he knew better. One day, the Buddha told him this story of his past life as an acrobat to help him understand the consequences of disregarding wise counsel.

The master acrobat, who had failed to heed the advice of the Bodhisatta, was revealed to be an earlier incarnation of this same disciple. The Buddha used the story to show the disciple that his current behavior—ignoring wise advice—had once led to his own death, and could cause harm again if he didn’t change his ways.

Moral of the Story

The Dubbaca Jataka teaches the importance of heeding the wisdom of others, especially those with experience. The story warns that acting impulsively, out of pride or stubbornness, can lead to disastrous consequences. Just as the acrobat’s disregard for caution led to his death, ignoring the guidance of wise people can bring about harm in both physical and spiritual realms.

Through this Jataka, the Buddha reminded his disciples that humility, patience, and respect for the wisdom of others are essential for progress on the path to enlightenment. It is always better to listen and learn from the advice of those who have more experience, rather than acting recklessly or out of arrogance.