Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
This existence of ours is as transient as autumn clouds To watch the birth and death of beings is like looking at the movements of a dance. A lifetime is like a flash of lightning in the sky, Rushing by, like a torrent down a steep mountain.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life is fleeting and ever-changing, akin to the fleeting beauty of clouds and the dynamic movement of a dance.
In this quote, Gautama Buddha reflects on the ephemeral nature of existence, emphasizing that life is impermanent and constantly shifting. He draws vivid comparisons to autumn clouds, dances, and lightning, illustrating how quickly moments come and go, reminding us to appreciate the beauty of the present while it lasts.
Themes
TransienceLifeImpermanenceChangeNature
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used during a meditation retreat to emphasize mindfulness.
More from Gautama Buddha
All quotes →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.
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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