The Hunter and the Ascetic in the Mountain Cave

**Summary:** This story recounts how the wealthy merchant Chita, through an act of kindness in offering food to an ascetic during a rainstorm, received the blessings of wealth, respect from all, and ultimately attained sainthood.

The forest rain that afternoon poured down like a waterfall. Waves of bone-chilling wind slipped through the ancient trees, carrying the scent of damp earth and mist. Amid the torrential downpour, a young hunter shivered beneath a large rock, his clothes soaked through, his limbs trembling from the cold. He had been hunting in the forest when the rain began and was unable to return to the village in time. He was forced to seek temporary shelter in a nearby cave.

The cave was dark, with only a faint light filtering in from outside. The hunter stepped inside, his eyes scanning the space until they suddenly stopped. In a corner of the cave sat an ascetic, perfectly still. He wore a faded golden robe, his hands resting neatly upon his lap, his eyes closed as if in deep meditative concentration. The air within the cave fell into an extraordinary silence, broken only by the rhythmic patter of raindrops on the stone walls.

Looking at the ascetic, a wave of indescribable concern arose in the hunter’s heart. The weather was so cold and rainy; the ascetic must have been sitting here for a very long time. He looked around the cave but saw no sign of any food. His own stomach churned with hunger, but thinking of the ascetic’s potential suffering, he could not contain his sorrow.

"This venerable one must be terribly hungry. The rain is so heavy and the forest so remote—how could he find anything to eat?" he thought to himself, his mind troubled.

Without hesitation, the hunter decided to brave the rain and return to the village. He rushed out of the cave, heedless of the pouring rain and howling wind. The path back was long and slippery, but he gave no thought to his own exhaustion. His mind was fixed on the ascetic sitting in the cold cave, who might be hungry and in need of help.

Upon reaching the village, he gathered everything he could: some cold rice, a few sweet potatoes, and a pot of water. He carefully packed these items and then hurried back into the forest through the rain. The journey was even more difficult now, with muddy and treacherous paths, but he pressed on quickly, hoping the ascetic would not have to endure hunger for much longer.

When he returned to the cave, dusk was already falling. The hunter was panting, his clothes muddied and stained, but his eyes shone with joy when he saw the ascetic was still there. He approached quietly, placed the package of food before the ascetic, and respectfully joined his palms.

"Venerable Sir, I saw you sitting here in the cold rain. You must be very hungry. I have a little food. I humbly ask you to accept it."

The ascetic slowly opened his eyes and gazed upon the hunter with a gentle look. He smiled faintly, received the food, and spoke:

"Well done! You have a kind heart. You forgot your own hardship for the sake of another. The blessings from your merit shall never be depleted."

Hearing these words, the hunter felt an unusual warmth fill his heart. He sat down beside the ascetic and watched him eat peacefully, experiencing a profound sense of tranquility he had never known before. From that day on, the hunter often sought out those dedicated to spiritual practice, caring for them, worrying about them, always fearing they might be hungry, in pain, or uncomfortable.

Many years passed, and the hunter accumulated immeasurable merit. Whenever he saw someone in difficulty, he found a way to help, never shying away from hardship. He lived a virtuous life, always putting others before himself and forgetting his own needs. After he passed away, he was reborn in a heavenly realm, enjoying the blessings of happiness and comfort.

Later, when the Buddha appeared in the world, he was reborn again as a human, becoming a wealthy merchant named Chita in the city of Masi Casanda. Chita was renowned throughout the region for his wealth and generosity. Wherever he went, he was beloved, respected, and warmly welcomed. One time, he organized a large caravan filled with offerings to present to the Buddha at the Jeta Grove monastery. Along the way, many people joined in, forming a joyful and bustling procession.

When they arrived at Jeta Grove, Chita was deeply moved and paid homage to the Buddha. In that moment, he saw a five-colored aura radiate from the Buddha’s body, illuminating the entire space. He prostrated himself, tears of joy streaming down his face, his heart overflowing with bliss. He stayed for a full month, offering gifts to the Buddha and the Sangha daily. During that time, people from all around heard the news and brought their own offerings to contribute, turning the place into a month-long celebration.

When it was time for him to leave, the people once again gathered to see him off, loading his carriages with gifts and tokens of appreciation. He had arrived with many carriages, and he departed with just as many filled with gifts—nothing was lacking. Everyone marveled and spoke of the magnitude of his blessings.

The Buddha then explained:

"One who upholds virtuous conduct, possesses a pure mind, and is endowed with a good reputation and wealth—such a person is honored wherever they go. In a past life, this Chita was a hunter, but because he once braved the rain to make offerings to an ascetic in a mountain cave, and always harbored a heart of kindness towards others, he now receives such blessings."

Hearing this, Chita’s resolve grew even stronger. Thanks to his accumulated merit and favorable conditions, he attained the second stage of sainthood, becoming a holy person living in the world—both wealthy and respected, and liberated from the cycle of rebirth in samsara.

**The Meaning of the Story**

This story teaches us that every virtuous action, no matter how small, generates blessings from merit. A person who consistently thinks of others, worries for others, and does not shy away from hardship will accumulate a profound store of merit. When the blessings are sufficient, one will be loved and respected by all, and will encounter the true Dharma to practice and attain liberation. Conversely, if one lives selfishly, concerned only with oneself, one will inevitably invite suffering. Let us always try to place ourselves in others' shoes and live for the well-being of all. In doing so, our lives will become beautiful and meaningful.

Compiled from a dharma talk by Venerable Thích Chân Quang