Teacher of the Devas

Based on the Pāli Canon, this 80-page (Pariyatti Edition) booklet explores in detail the Buddha's role as "teacher of the devas" ("a vast multitude of gods who are transient beings caught within the cycle of repeated birth and death"). It examines the many instances in which the devas approached the Buddha for spiritual instruction and help.

     The author treats these texts as living transmissions of truth which can help human beings on earth practice the Dhamma under the trying conditions of modern life. 

     "Let us human beings apply ourselves wholeheartedly and take up the unique opportunity given by our present birth. In the round of samsara it is extremely rare to rise above the realms of woe, where the way out of suffering cannot be allowed, and a human birth is even more favorable to awakening than birth in the realm of the gods. Devas envy us our place, ostensibly so low on the cosmic scale, and wish to be reborn as humans. The Buddha Sasana still thrives, the Dhamma is available in full, there are excellent teachers who are true disciples of the Master, and we are on the best plane for striving." (from the "Conclusion").