An Analysis of the Essences, Motifs and Reflections in the Dhammapada

Abstract

The objective of this research is to analyze the Essences, Motifs and Reflections manifested in the stories in the Dhammapada. The study employed documentary research methodology, drawing upon eight volumes of the Dhammapada Commentary comprising a total of 302 stories. The collected data were subjected to content analysis and subsequently presented as a narrative analysis research report. The findings of the research are as follows: The study reveals that the narratives in the Dhammapada Commentary function as religious, explanatory, and didactic Stories, conveying essential meanings through themes, plots, verses, characters, and moral lessons. Three distinctive Motifs were identified: (1) characters-humans, non-humans, and animals used as pedagogical devices; (2) objects symbolizing the power of the Dhamma, faith, past merits, and the grandeur of Buddhism; and (3) events involving the Buddha, monastics, deities, humans, animals, and natural or social phenomena, reflecting spiritual perfections, social beliefs, and realities of life. These elements highlight the continuity between past and present, particularly in merit-making practices such as constructing religious monuments, making vows, and dedicating merit to deceased relatives.