The Tale of the Selfless Rabbit
According to legend, God Sakra — the leader of all heavenly beings — once descended to Earth disguised as a poor, starving traveler. Seeking charity, he approached a kind-hearted rabbit.
The rabbit, having no food to offer, heroically leapt into a fire to sacrifice himself as a meal. Deeply moved by the rabbit's selflessness, Sakra saved him and immortalized his image on the moon.
To this day, the silhouette of the rabbit is said to grace the lunar surface, a reminder of boundless compassion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Moon Rabbit story part of Buddhist tradition?
Yes — this tale appears in Buddhist Jataka stories, symbolizing generosity and selflessness.
Can the rabbit image actually be seen on the moon?
Many claim to discern a rabbit-like figure in the patterns of lunar craters and shadows when viewed on full-moon nights.
Is this story unique to Sri Lanka?
No — while it's celebrated in Sri Lanka, versions of the Moon Rabbit tale also appear in East Asian folklore with regional variations.