Four Harmonious Animals Part 2

They gave accounts of the depicted tree, referring to the age of their tree when they encountered it in their youth. The bird was had excreted the seed for where it grew, while the others had all observed it grow from different stages. In light of this, the animals would live in harmony to enjoy the fruits that were available to them. The hierarchical respect to age is a story with deep meaning in Buddhist teachings and it was revealed later that the bird, a partridge, was in fact Buddha.

I really appreciated being told this tale, a warming story containing themes of communal respect. The harmonious relationship displayed by the animals is something that goes beyond size and strength. Regardless of stature, the animals respected each other and gave each other support. Ideas around respecting the elderly are something I hold strongly in my won way of life as the experience of our seniors is to be respected. The folktale has many messages that are interpreted in many teachings and countries. Despite this tale being short and perhaps simple to some, it carried a powerful message and gave me much context and understanding when seeing related pieces of art and sculptures. Tibet holds this story in high regard and it is worth reading into before visiting as there is a high chance that one will come across it in one form or another.