🕯️ Occult Philosophy −21%

Twenty Jataka Tales (Original)

✍️ Khan, Noor Inayat
Reader Score
4.5
(1 review)
$14.95 $19.00 Save $4.05 (21%)
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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A illustrated collection of Buddha legends and essays on sacred ceremonies, magic, and love.

This collection gathers twenty simplified legends centered on the Buddha's previous lives, highlighting sacrifice, non-violence, and compassion through dramatic encounters between people and animals. Alongside these narrative tales, the text explores sexual magic, sacred evocations, and divine gender roles across distinct chapter sections. Illustrated by H. Willebeek Le Mair, the volume blends moral folklore with analytical studies of profane love, initiation, and transcendent ceremonies.

Key Themes
Former lives of Buddha Sex in initiations and magic Sacred ceremonies and evocations
Literary Context

Rooted in ancient Far Eastern traditions, these legends stem from Buddhist lore regarding previous incarnations. The accompanying texts reference early twentieth-century spiritual traditions, drawing specifically on the Sufi Order established in 1910 by Hazrat Inayat Khan.

Difficulty
● Easy
Recommended For Fans Of
Pema Chödrön · The Brothers Grimm · Thich Nhat Hanh · Aesop
🕯️
Occult Philosophy

Praise for this book

“Noor Inayat Khan remains, in the minds and hearts of many, an exemplary figure whose life has been their inspiration.”
— Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, Head of Sufi Order founded in 1910 by Hazrat Inayat Khan
🏛 Inner Traditions International 📅 1985 📖 152 pages 📔 Paperback ISBN: 9780892813230
Fun Fact
Khan's rendition of the Jataka Tales masterfully distills profound Buddhist wisdom into accessible, enchanting narratives. It excels at engaging readers of all ages with vibrant storytelling and ethical depth. While not a dense theological text, it's an exceptional entry point for spiritual seekers and anyone who cherishes moral fables. This edition stands as a delightful bridge between ancient Eastern philosophy and contemporary readers.

📝 Description: Twenty Jataka Tales (Original)

Khan presents twenty tales drawn from famous legends about the former lives of the Buddha. These simplified Far Eastern narratives focus on individuals and animals who perform acts of sacrifice inspired by noble examples around them. Dramatic adventures unfold as characters face challenging circumstances using non-violent means, courage, and love to overcome impossible odds. The text includes illustrations by H. Willebeek Le Mair, giving physical form to lessons that subtly convey morals akin to the style of Aesop. Alongside these stories, the volume contains foundational sections detailing the metaphysics of sex, sacred ceremonies, and sexual love. It begins with an introduction and opens into specific discussions on Eros and sexual love, followed by the metaphysics of sex and phenomena of transcending in profane love. Subsequent chapters examine gods and goddesses, men and women, alongside sacred ceremonies and evocations. The final chapter covers sex in the realm of initiations and magic before concluding with notes and an index. This volume suits readers, parents, and adults seeking ethical stories to read aloud or those studying Eastern legend, magic, and sacred rites. It does not suit readers looking for modern academic history or non-narrative secular philosophy. Head of the Sufi Order Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan notes that author Noor Inayat Khan remains an exemplary figure whose life serves as an inspiration.

📑 What's inside

  1. Eros and the Mysteries of Love
  2. "The Metaphysics of Sex"
  3. Introduction
  4. 1. Eros and Sexual Love
  5. 2. The Metaphysics of Sex
  6. 3. Phenomena of Transcending in Profane Love
  7. 4. Gods and Goddesses, Men and Women
  8. 5. Sacred Ceremonies and Evocations
  9. 6. Sex in the Realm of Initiations and Magic
  10. Conclusion
  11. Notes
  12. Index

💎 Expert review

“
💎
Esoterica Books editorial team
Occult literature desk
This collection offers a lovely introduction to Jataka tales, preserving their mystical allure while remaining highly accessible. The narratives effectively illustrate moral principles through compelling empathy rather than complex doctrine. However, readers seeking rigorous scholarly analysis or original Sanskrit texts will find this work too simplified. Those preferring dense metaphysical treatises over narrative fables may also feel unfulfilled by the straightforward allegorical style. It is best suited for general audiences interested in spiritual growth through story. The book succeeds in its goal of making ancient wisdom approachable, though it lacks the depth expected by serious academics. It remains a charming resource for those valuing emotional resonance over intellectual challenge.
✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Readers seeking gentle spiritual guidance will find immense comfort in these twenty captivating tales. Khan’s accessible format makes profound concepts of compassion and non-violence approachable for both young minds and mature souls. Those drawn to the mystical allure of Eastern legends without dense academic theory will appreciate the clear, inspiring narratives. It is ideal for individuals looking to explore moral principles through empathy and self-sacrifice, offering a warm entry point into Buddhist philosophy. The stories provide timeless wisdom on virtue, making them perfect for bedtime reading or quiet reflection. Anyone wishing to understand the power of courageous acts in resolving conflict will gain valuable insight from these beautifully crafted fables.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —
⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.5/5
★★★★★
If you appreciate timeless fables that convey deep ethical lessons with grace, or if you seek gentle introductions to Buddhist philosophy for yourself or younger minds, this collection is for you. It's perfect for anyone drawn to narratives of courage, compassion, and the power of non-violent…

Reader rating

4.5
Based on 1 reviews
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Esoterica Books editorial team

This collection offers a lovely introduction to Jataka tales, preserving their mystical allure while remaining highly accessible. The narratives effectively illustrate moral principles through compelling empathy rather than complex doctrine. However, readers seeking rigorous scholarly analysis or original Sanskrit texts will find this work too simplified. Those preferring dense metaphysical treatises over narrative fables may also feel unfulfilled by the straightforward allegorical style. It is best suited for general audiences interested in spiritual growth through story. The book succeeds in its goal of making ancient wisdom approachable, though it lacks the depth expected by serious academics. It remains a charming resource for those valuing emotional resonance over intellectual challenge.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Absolutely. Though rich in spiritual depth, Khan's simplified narratives are designed to be accessible and engaging for young readers, while still captivating adults with their timeless wisdom and adventurous spirit.
Not at all. These tales stand on their own as universal moral fables. While they originate from Buddhist tradition, their themes of kindness, courage, and self-sacrifice transcend specific religious doctrine.

📖 Who should read this

If you appreciate timeless fables that convey deep ethical lessons with grace, or if you seek gentle introductions to Buddhist philosophy for yourself or younger minds, this collection is for you. It's perfect for anyone drawn to narratives of courage, compassion, and the power of non-violent wisdom.

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Compassionate Action

The tales repeatedly showcase characters, both human and animal, embodying profound empathy. They highlight how selfless acts, driven by a deep understanding of others' suffering, can lead to transformative outcomes and resolve even the most challenging situations without resorting to aggression or harm.

Virtue and Sacrifice

Central to these narratives is the concept of giving for the greater good. Readers encounter protagonists who willingly make significant personal sacrifices, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to ethical principles and the well-being of their community, thereby setting an inspiring standard for moral conduct.

Overcoming Adversity Peacefully

These stories frequently present characters facing formidable challenges and seemingly insurmountable obstacles. However, instead of confrontation or violence, solutions emerge through ingenuity, inner strength, and the unwavering application of compassionate principles, proving that peaceful means can triumph over conflict.

📜 Historical context

The Jataka tales represent a foundational pillar of Buddhist literature, recounting the past lives of Siddhartha Gautama before his enlightenment. Originating centuries ago, these ancient parables serve not only as moral instruction but also as allegorical narratives illustrating the path of a bodhisattva, deeply embedded in the spiritual traditions of the Far East.

📚 Glossary

Jataka Tales
Bodhisattva
Non-violent Resolution

📔 Questions to reflect on

  1. Reflect on a time when a seemingly small act of kindness had a profound impact. How did it change the situation or your perspective?
  2. The tales often feature characters making significant sacrifices. What values or beliefs would you be willing to sacrifice for, and why?
  3. Consider a challenge you're facing. How might applying principles of non-violence or deep empathy shift your approach to finding a resolution?

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