Hitopadesa by Narayana (Penguin Classics)

Description

The “Hitopadesa” is a collection of fables and moral stories in the form of Sanskrit prose and poetry. It is attributed to Narayana, but the authorship is often attributed to the legendary ancient Indian scholar and philosopher, Vishnusharman. The “Hitopadesa” is a well-known work of Indian literature and is often used as a source of wisdom and moral guidance.

The stories in the “Hitopadesa” are written in the form of animal fables and are designed to impart important life lessons and moral values. The book is divided into four sections, each containing a series of tales and lessons. The fables are known for their simplicity and accessibility, making them suitable for readers of all ages.

The primary purpose of the “Hitopadesa” is to provide guidance on how to live a righteous and virtuous life. It has been widely read and appreciated for its wisdom and has been translated into numerous languages. The stories in the “Hitopadesa” often revolve around themes of friendship, leadership, ethics, and the consequences of one’s actions.