Buddhist Scripture and the environment

extracted from this essay - Buddhist contribution to environmental protection – Judge Weeramantry

(links by amaranatho)

Kutadanta Sutta Buddhism points out that it is the responsibility of the government to protect trees and other organic life. It is described in the Sutta on Buddhist polity named, ‘The Ten Duties of the King.’ (Dasarajadhamma). The Kutadanta Sutta points out that the government should take active measures to provide protection to flora and fauna.

Pupphavagga in Dhammapada, points out that one should live in the environment without causing any harm to it. It states: ‘As a bee that gathers honey from a flower and departs from it without injuring the flower or its colours or its fragrance, the sage dwells in his village.’ The flower moreover ensures the continuity of the species and the bee in taking pollen does not interfere with nature’s design.

Suttanipata - This contains a further expression of goodwill towards all forms of life

“Whatever breathing creatures there may be

No matter whether they are frail or firm,

With none excepted be they long or big

Or middle-sized, or be they short or small

Or whether they are dwelling far or near

Existing or yet seeking to exist

May beings all be of a blissful heart.”

Mahasukha Jataka contains a poetic description of the close interrelationship between the plant and animal kingdom.

Sakka: Whenever fruitful trees abound

A flock of hungry birds is found:

But should the trees all withered be.

Away at once the birds will flee.