Sunday, January 30, 2011

Affinity And Gratitude?

Are animals capable of feeling an affinity with and gratitude towards people? The Jatakas and even some stories from the Tipitaka suggest they do (see http://www.buddhisma2z/content.php?id=481). But of course, they’re just ‘legends.’ However, the evidence ‘on the ground’ suggests they can. Have a look at this rather moving and charming video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvrcdQWzH-8
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3 comments:

  1. Jeffrey KotykJanuary 30, 2011 at 5:30 AM

    Hello Venerable. I recently started watching your blog. It is very interesting.

    I think anyone who has had a pet dog or cat, or even a bird, would know that animals can show affinity and gratitude. Cats and dogs that are rescued from abusive situations show great kindness towards those who liberate them.

    I think in Hindu traditions as well as Buddhist ones the idea of animal magnetism is quite common. The idea that an advanced yogi will attract animals is not at all unusual.

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  2. TerasiJanuary 31, 2011 at 2:18 AM

    Are animals capable of feeling an affinity with and gratitude towards people?

    Yes, for sure. There are countless stories about animals who showed unmistakably love, care, and gratitude towards human or other animals. Even dogs and cats at your house probably feel the same as those animals featured in the newspapers, they just don't have the chance to express their love so dramatically. Dogs licking you, or cats snuggling against you are their way of expressing how they feel.

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  3. Buddhavacana.orgFebruary 1, 2011 at 6:41 PM

    Hi Bhante,

    You might enjoy this clip of a lion reuniting with its former owners after a year in the wild

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDZaWgf_bk0

    Mike N.

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