Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Both formerly and now, it is only suffering that I describe, and the cessation of suffering.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of understanding suffering and the path to its cessation.
Gautama Buddha's quote highlights the fundamental nature of human experience, where suffering is a central theme. It suggests that wisdom comes from recognizing suffering in both past and present contexts and understanding that the ultimate goal is to find ways to end that suffering. This reflects a deep insight into the human condition and the pursuit of enlightenment and freedom from pain.
Themes
SufferingCessationMindfulnessEnlightenmentBuddhism
In practice
Example use cases
In a meditation class, I shared this quote to illustrate the core teachings of Buddhism.
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.
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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.
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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.
Gautama BuddhaRead
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