Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
The recollected go forth to lives of renunciation. They take no pleasure in a fixed abode. Like wild swans abandoning a pool, they leave one resting place after another.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the transient nature of life and the wisdom in embracing change rather than clinging to comfort.
Gautama Buddha reflects on the idea that those who seek deeper understanding and enlightenment often detach themselves from worldly attachments and stable comforts. By comparing such individuals to wild swans, the quote illustrates the beauty and freedom found in moving from one experience to another, suggesting that true fulfillment lies in renunciation and the acceptance of impermanence.
Themes
RenunciationImpermanenceDetachmentTransienceWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a meditation retreat to inspire participants to embrace change.
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.
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