Violence and anger lead to self-destruction.

The Lion and the Rabbit

Once, a fierce lion lived in a forest, killing many animals daily just for sport. The animals pleaded with him to stop, promising to send one animal each day for his meal. The lion agreed.

One day, it was a small rabbit’s turn. The rabbit, wise and calm, decided to teach the lion a lesson. He deliberately arrived late. The angry lion roared, "Why are you late? I’ll kill you and all the animals!"

The rabbit bowed and said, "Forgive me, Your Majesty! Another lion attacked me on the way. He claims to be the true king of this forest."

Enraged, the lion demanded to see this rival. The rabbit led him to a deep well. When the lion looked in, he saw his own reflection and, thinking it was another lion, jumped in—only to drown.

Moral: Violence and anger lead to self-destruction. Wisdom and patience can overcome even the strongest foes.

Meditation Guide Based on "The Lion and the Rabbit"

This meditation focuses on non-violence (Ahimsa), wisdom, and overcoming anger—key themes from the story.

1. Preparation (5 mins)

• Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and take deep breaths.

• Let go of distractions, bringing awareness to the present moment.

• Set an intention: "May I cultivate peace and wisdom, like the rabbit, and release anger, like the lion."

2. Visualizing the Story (5 mins)

• Imagine the forest: tall trees, soft earth, birds singing.

• Picture the lion, full of pride and rage, pacing restlessly.

• See the rabbit, small but calm, approaching with quiet confidence.

• Reflect: How does anger cloud judgment? How does wisdom bring freedom?

3. Key Reflections (5 mins)

• On Anger (Lion’s Lesson):

  • Think of a time anger controlled you. How did it feel?

  • Visualize releasing that anger like the lion’s roar fading into silence.

• On Wisdom (Rabbit’s Lesson):

  • Recall a time patience solved a problem. How did calmness help?

  • Affirm: "Like the rabbit, I respond with clarity, not fear."

4. Loving-Kindness (Metta) Meditation (5 mins)

• Send compassion to the lion (symbolizing inner anger):"May you be free from suffering. May you find peace."

• Send gratitude to the rabbit (symbolizing wisdom):"May I nurture your courage and calm."

• Extend this to all beings:"May all creatures live without fear. May the world be free from harm."

5. Closing (2 mins)

• Take three deep breaths.

• Whisper: "Ahimsa (non-violence) begins in my mind."

• Gently open your eyes, carrying this awareness into your day.

Why This Works:

• Jainism teaches that meditation on stories (Dharma Dhyana) helps internalize virtues.

• The lion represents unchecked ego; the rabbit, mindful action.

• Metta (loving-kindness) extends the story’s moral beyond the self.