Rebirth and Karma

The book illustrates the Buddhist concepts of samsara and karma, showing how characters' actions and intentions determine their rebirth in different realms, from earthly life to paradises and star-gods.

Kamanita speculates that he and Vasitthi were married in a former existence, and Vasitthi describes the coral tree's perfume that recalls past lives.

Vasitthi describes rebirth from a lotus bud in the Paradise of Infinite Light, where pure thoughts and deeds nurture the bud while evil causes it to wither.

Kamanita reflects on how his unworthy deeds have gnawed at the life-bud formed with Vasitthi, and he seeks to destroy rebirth through renunciation.

Kamanita's death and subsequent rebirth in Sukhavati illustrate the karmic consequences of his faith and attachment to heavenly bliss.