The Woodpecker and the Lion: A Tale of Ingratitude

In a past life, the Bodhisatta was a woodpecker. One day, he noticed a lion in great distress and asked what was troubling it. The lion explained that a bone was stuck in its throat, causing intense pain and preventing it from eating. The Bodhisatta, seeing an opportunity to help, agreed to assist the lion on one condition: the lion must promise not to eat him.

Although the lion gave his word, the Bodhisatta, wary of the lion’s nature, took precautions. He wedged a stick in the lion’s mouth to keep it open and prevent any sudden attacks. Then, he carefully poked his head into the lion’s mouth to dislodge the bone. After freeing the bone, the Bodhisatta quickly kicked the stick out of the lion’s mouth, flew into a nearby tree, and left without a word of thanks from the lion.

Sometime later, the Bodhisatta saw the lion happily devouring a wild buffalo. The woodpecker, hoping for some recognition for his earlier act of kindness, flew down and asked if he could receive anything for saving the lion’s life. The lion, without any sense of gratitude, curtly replied that sparing the woodpecker’s life when he had the chance was sufficient reward.

In the Lifetime of the Buddha

In a later birth, the lion was reborn as Devadatta, one of the Buddha’s disciples who became his adversary. When Devadatta turned against the Buddha and his teachings, the Buddha used this story to illustrate Devadatta’s ingratitude. He reminded his disciples that Devadatta had been similarly ungrateful in a past life, failing to show appreciation for the help he had received, just as he had done in the past with the woodpecker.

Moral: Ingratitude can be a deep flaw, even for those who have received great help. The Bodhisatta’s generosity, despite the lion’s lack of thanks, serves as a reminder that virtuous deeds should not depend on the expectation of rewards or gratitude. True goodness lies in helping others selflessly, regardless of the recognition received in return.