#(Buddha) 34 Compassion For Animals

Buddha saw one day, A shepherd on the way, Chasing goats and sheep, All in one pack to keep. A little lamb trailed behind, With a severe wound When it was struck, By the shepherd’s stick. As if he was wounded, Buddha’s heart melted. He took it in his hand, And slowly went behind. “Caring innocent being Is better than sitting In caves, with eyes closed, As if not concerned.” He asked the shepherd, “Oh my friend Where do you take This huge flock? ” The shepherd replied, “In sacrifice, to be offered, The King had ordered. And I obey his command.” When the flock passed Thro’ streets, people talked, “See, he’s a holy hermit. The flock, he has brought.” Near the altar Buddha stood. The King then understood, The ceremony to lead The hermit came as head. The high priest was about To cut with knife a goat, Buddha cried, “Oh King, This, why are you allowing.” “Every creature loves to live, As a human being likes to live. It’s an act of cruelty to kill, For sacrifice, innocent animals.” The priest threw the knife And spared the goat’s life. The King ordered, “No more Sacrifices in his land, in future.”