Fossil the Boy & the Young Novice of Earth Wisdom: The Hidden Voice Beneath the Soil
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This introductory piece, part of the Deep Insight Series for Children and Novices, presents a narrative that integrates basic paleontological knowledge with core Buddhist concepts, particularly saṃsāra (the cycle of rebirth). Through the encounter between a young boy named Fossil and a young novice, the discovery of a dinosaur bone becomes a starting point for questioning life, death and continuity beyond individual existence. Rather than providing direct doctrinal explanation, the story emphasizes experiential understanding, allowing ideas such as impermanence and interconnected existence to emerge through curiosity and reflection. Guided by a monastic teacher, the narrative situates scientific observation within a broader contemplative framework. This work suggests that children and novices can engage with profound existential questions when these are presented through simple, symbolic narratives, integrating natural history with early contemplative awareness.
Author: NIMMAHNRATANAKUL, LUNCHANAWAT
Language: English
Topic: Indian and Buddhist Studies
Subfield: Religious studies
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6949818383
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