Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Few among men are they who cross to the further shore. The others merely run up and down the bank on this side.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the rarity of those who pursue deeper understanding or enlightenment, contrasting them with those who remain content with superficial actions.
In this quote, Gautama Buddha emphasizes that only a select few people venture beyond the ordinary and explore deeper truths and spiritual fulfillment. Most individuals merely engage in the mundane aspects of life, marked by repetitive behaviors, never daring to cross over into the more profound experiences that lie beyond their comfort zones. This serves as an invitation for self-reflection on oneβs own pursuits and the courage needed to seek meaningful existence.
Themes
WisdomUnderstandingEnlightenmentCourageLifePursuit
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about pursuing one's dreams.
More from Gautama Buddha
All quotes βA kind man who makes good use of wealth is rightly said to possess a great treasure; but the miser who hoards up his riches will have no profit.
Gautama BuddhaRead
There are having flowers in Spring, breezes in Summer, moon in Autumn, snows in Winter. If there is nothing worrying over you, it will be the best seasons at all times.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Make an island of yourself, make yourself your refuge; there is no other refuge. Make truth your island, make truth your refuge; there is no other refuge.
Gautama BuddhaRead
When a wise man is advised of his errors, he will reflect on and improve his conduct. When his misconduct is pointed out, a foolish man will not only disregard the advice but rather repeat the same error.
Gautama BuddhaRead
The tongue like a sharp knife ... Kills without drawing blood.
Gautama BuddhaRead
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Alphonsus LiguoriRead
Be watchful - the grace of God appears suddenly. It comes without warning to an open heart.
RumiRead