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Few among men are they who cross to the further shore. The others merely run up and down the bank on this side.
Gautama Buddha
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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 one’s 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

Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
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A 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.
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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.
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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.
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The tongue like a sharp knife ... Kills without drawing blood.
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