Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
The world is afflicted by death and decay. But the wise do not grieve, having realized the nature of the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that understanding the inevitability of death and decay can lead to a state of peace and acceptance.
In this quote, Gautama Buddha conveys the idea that the transient nature of life, characterized by death and decay, is a fundamental truth of existence. The wise individuals, who comprehend this reality, do not succumb to grief but instead accept the impermanence of life, finding solace in their understanding and thus achieving a deeper sense of peace.
Themes
DeathDecayWisdomAcceptanceImpermanenceLife
In practice
Example use cases
During a meditation retreat, this quote can be shared to encourage attendees to reflect on acceptance.
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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