Nemiraja Jataka
The Ten Birth Stories of the Buddha
Nemiraja Jataka
Perfection of Resolution
Translated by:
Mr. Jean-Francois Leduc
Phramaha Jerm Boonthong
Phramaha Prassert Ammart-Ek
Nemiraja was a son of King Mahatheva, ruler of the Kingdom of Mithila. After he ascended the throne, he would make merit and teach Dhamma to his subjects so that whenever one of them died he would go to Heaven. His reputation spread across the three worlds. When his reputation reached the gods, they were keen to meet him. Sakka ordered Matali, his attendant, to take his carriage to pick him up and invited him to come to see Hell.
When Nemiraja came to Sakka's palace, Sakka invited him to live at his palace, but he refused. Then he returned to he world of men. He made donations (Dana) and undertook to follow the 8 Precepts. He taught his subjects that, whoever wished to go to Heaven, must give alms (Dana), and follow the Precepts. He ruled his subjects according to the Ten ways of the King (Todsapitrajadham). And when his hair turned gray, he became a monk. He practiced the Four Principles of Virtuous existence until he reached perfection and then passed away. He was reborn in the Thereafter (Devaloka).
