Symbiotic Bonding between Human and Non-human Worlds in Jātaka Tales

Abstract

This paper is an effort to analyse the interdependence between human and non-human worlds as represented in Jātaka Tales by using ecocritical perspective as theoretical framework. It explores and examines the representation of each and every being and thing of the ecosphere has its own intrinsic values that are necessarily required to keep bio-diversity in order to maintain the self-regulatory and self-renewable systems of the mother Earth in the selected stories from the age-old book under Khuddaka Nikaya. The paper argues that human beings should have a reverence for the existence of all forms of beings internalizing human as a part of ecosystem rather than apart from other beings and things. The researcher holds the opinion that Jātaka Tales impart lessons that animals, like humans do have the sense of compassion, generosity, morality, patience, diligence, concentration and wisdom. The paper concludes that the Jātaka Tales not only highlight the importance of compassion and empathy towards animals but also reflect a deep-seated recognition of their intrinsic rights, thereby promoting a harmonious and sustainable environment. The findings of this paper will inspire the potential researchers to envision the idea of One in All and All in One so as to interpret the concepts of biospherical egalitarianism as fertile area for further research.