[1] Kokkā, a word applied to several species of large waders. The name of the Black Stork is Mānā, but probably this is the bird referred to, as in the Sinhalese variant. [↑]
No. 37
The Lion and the Turtle
In a jungle there is a Lion King. While he was there, one day there was no prey for the Lion King when he was walking about seeking it. He obtained nothing as prey that day. As the Lion through fatigue was staying below a great big tree, avoiding the heat, he went to sleep.
While he was sleeping, a Turtle came out [of the bushes], having set off to go away from there. As he was going along, a “sara, sara” sound was heard, having been made by the dry leaves. The Lion King having opened his eyes[1] at the sound of this Turtle’s going, after he had looked saw the Turtle, and having become angry sprang at once near the Turtle. Having said, “Bola! What art thou going on a rapid journey in this manner for? Didst thou not see that I am [here]?” the Lion King pushed against the Turtle.
Then the Turtle says, “O Lord who will become a thousand Buddhas [in future existences], I didn’t come to cause you alarm, Sir; I am walking to procure my food,” the Turtle said to the Lion King.
“What art thou going to seek and eat in this forest?” the Lion asked.
Then the Turtle says, “O Lord, I am walking to obtain and eat any sort of things that I can eat,” the Turtle said.