Month: September 2024

Walking

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Walking

“Monks, there are five great benefits to the practice of walking back and forth. What are these five?

First, one becomes fit for long journeys. A monk who diligently practices walking develops strength and endurance. Whether traveling by foot to distant villages to spread the teachings or journeying across forests and mountains, one’s body remains strong and capable of enduring the hardships of travel.

Second, one becomes fit for striving. Walking meditation fosters a sense of determination. Just as one continues to place foot after foot on the ground, so too does one build the resilience and mental fortitude required for deeper meditation and the pursuit of higher states of mind. This continuous movement sharpens the mind, preparing it for the tasks of concentration, insight, and liberation.

Third, one has little disease. The body that is active remains free from illness. The walking monk, by engaging in this practice, allows the body’s natural processes to flow smoothly. Circulation improves, energy is balanced, and the ailments that often arise from a sedentary life are kept at bay. A healthy body is an essential foundation for the healthy mind needed for meditation and awakening.

Fourth, that which is eaten, drunk, chewed, and tasted goes through proper digestion. By walking after meals, the body aids in the digestion of food. The nutrients are absorbed more effectively, and the discomfort that sometimes follows eating is avoided. A body that digests well provides clarity and energy, making the mind more alert and focused.

Finally, the composure attained through walking back and forth is long-lasting. The practice of walking is not merely physical. It fosters a calmness of mind that remains with the practitioner long after the feet have ceased to move. The mindfulness cultivated in this simple act strengthens one’s ability to maintain composure and equanimity, not just while walking, but in all aspects of life.

These, monks, are the five benefits of walking back and forth.”

The Buddha then turned to the assembly of monks and said, “Consider these benefits not just as words, but as a practice. For in this walking, you engage both body and mind in a manner that leads to health, strength, and wisdom. Walk with awareness, step with mindfulness, and may the fruits of this simple practice lead you toward the cessation of suffering.”

The monks listened attentively, understanding that even in such a seemingly simple act as walking, there was profound value to be realized. And from that day onward, many among the Sangha took to walking meditation with renewed energy and determination. They walked not only to move their bodies but to still their minds, and in that stillness, they found a path toward inner peace and enlightenment.

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/09/19/walking/

Treasure

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Treasure

“Monks, let me share with you the seven true treasures of life. These are not the kind of treasures you can store in vaults or spend like gold and jewels. These treasures are far more valuable, as they guide you toward inner peace, fulfillment, and wisdom. What are these seven treasures? They are the treasure of faith, the treasure of integrity, the treasure of self-respect, the treasure of responsibility, the treasure of learning, the treasure of generosity, and the treasure of wisdom.

“So, what is the treasure of faith? This treasure lies in the deep trust and confidence a disciple places in the Tathāgata’s awakening. It’s the unwavering belief that the Blessed One, the Buddha, is truly awakened and fully enlightened. A disciple with this treasure understands: ‘Indeed, the Blessed One is worthy and enlightened, clear in his knowledge and perfect in his conduct. He has followed the right path, mastered the nature of the universe, and has become an unrivaled teacher, helping those ready to learn. He teaches not only humans but also gods, having awakened to the ultimate truth.’ This faith is a foundation, a compass that keeps the disciple on the path to liberation. This is called the treasure of faith.

“And what is the treasure of integrity? This treasure comes from living a life aligned with one’s highest principles. A disciple with integrity abstains from actions that harm others or themselves. They refrain from taking life, stealing, engaging in sexual misconduct, lying, or indulging in intoxicants that cloud the mind and lead to carelessness. To possess integrity is to walk a path of honesty, respect, and compassion toward all living beings. It’s not just about following rules but embodying the qualities of a noble, trustworthy person. This, monks, is called the treasure of integrity.

“And what is the treasure of self-respect? It’s a treasure that lives in the heart, where a disciple has a deep sense of honor and dignity. With this treasure, they would feel shame at the very thought of engaging in misconduct—whether through harmful actions, hurtful words, or negative thoughts. They respect themselves enough not to fall into behaviors that degrade their character or lead to suffering. They feel shame at the prospect of acting against their values or slipping into unskillful and harmful actions. This is called the treasure of self-respect.

“And what is the treasure of responsibility? This treasure comes from an inner understanding that one’s actions matter, and that every choice carries consequences. A disciple who holds this treasure feels a sense of accountability for their deeds. They understand that engaging in wrongful behavior—whether physical, verbal, or mental—can lead to suffering not only for themselves but for others. With responsibility comes a deep concern for the effects of their actions and a commitment to avoid harmful behaviors. They avoid evil not out of fear, but out of genuine care for the well-being of themselves and others. This is the treasure of responsibility.

“And what is the treasure of learning? This treasure belongs to the disciple who is eager to listen, to study, and to reflect on the teachings. Such a disciple has heard much and remembered it, taking in the teachings that are profound at the beginning, in the middle, and at the end. These teachings are not just words, but pathways to understanding life’s purpose and the nature of existence. The disciple reflects on these teachings, discusses them with others, and examines them deeply with their own mind. Through learning, their understanding grows, and they become wise in seeing the truth of things. This treasure of learning helps them to develop insight and wisdom. This is called the treasure of learning.

“And what is the treasure of generosity? This treasure resides in the open-hearted nature of a disciple who loves to give. They live with a heart free from greed, untouched by the stain of stinginess. At home and in the world, they are generous and willing to share what they have. They take joy in giving freely, whether it’s wealth, time, or effort. Such a person delights in being helpful and responsive to the needs of others. For them, giving is not a burden but a source of happiness. They take pleasure in the act of giving and are always ready to support those in need, whether through material gifts or through kindness and service. This is called the treasure of generosity.

“And finally, what is the treasure of wisdom? This treasure is the crown jewel of all the others. It is found in the disciple who sees things as they truly are. With wisdom, they understand the nature of life—how everything rises and passes away. They see that all things are impermanent, subject to change, and that clinging to them only leads to suffering. Their insight is deep and penetrating, showing them the path toward freedom from stress and pain. Through wisdom, they are guided toward peace, toward the ultimate release from suffering. Wisdom helps them make decisions that lead to lasting happiness, not just fleeting pleasures. This is called the treasure of wisdom.

“These, monks, are the seven treasures.”

Faith,
Integrity,
Self-respect,
Responsibility,
Learning,
Generosity,
And wisdom as the seventh treasure.

Whoever possesses these treasures—whether man or woman—is truly wealthy, regardless of material possessions. They are rich in the things that truly matter, and their life has not been lived in vain.

So, cultivate faith and integrity,
Grow in generosity and wisdom,
And walk the path with responsibility and learning,
Always remembering the teachings of the Buddhas,
Which guide you toward peace, fulfillment, and true wealth.”

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/09/13/treasure/

A Friend

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A Friend

Once, in a quiet monastery nestled in the hills, the Buddha sat before his disciples. The evening sun painted the sky in hues of gold and crimson, and the air was filled with a profound stillness, broken only by the occasional rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. The monks, eager for wisdom, sat in reverence as the Buddha began to speak.

“Monks,” the Buddha said, “in this world, there are many who come and go in our lives. Some pass by like the wind, leaving no trace, while others remain, their presence felt deeply in our hearts. Among those who remain, there is a rare kind of person, a true friend, who is like a shelter from life’s storms, a beacon of light in the darkest of times. Such a friend is endowed with seven precious qualities, and these qualities are worth cultivating, for a friend like this is rare indeed.”

The monks listened attentively as the Buddha continued, “Which seven qualities are these? First, a true friend gives what is hard to give. He does not withhold generosity, even when it is difficult. Whether it be his time, his effort, or his possessions, he offers them freely, without hesitation. This kind of giving is rare, for many are willing to give when it is convenient, but few give when it costs them something.”

The Buddha paused, letting his words sink in, then added, “Second, he does what is hard to do. A true friend will go beyond his comfort zone for the sake of his companion. He will stand by you when others shy away, face challenges with you, and make sacrifices when needed, not for his own gain, but for the sake of friendship.”

The monks reflected on this as the Buddha continued, “Third, he endures what is hard to endure. Life is not always easy. There are times of joy, but also times of suffering and hardship. A true friend remains steadfast during the difficult times. He does not flee when the winds of adversity blow; instead, he endures alongside you, bearing the weight of the struggle as if it were his own.”

Then, the Buddha smiled softly and said, “Fourth, he reveals his secrets to you. Trust is the foundation of true friendship. A true friend does not hide behind a mask or shield himself with falsehoods. He shares his heart with you, revealing his vulnerabilities, knowing that in doing so, the bond of trust between you will grow ever stronger.”

“Fifth,” the Buddha continued, “he keeps your secrets. Just as he trusts you with his, so too does he honor your trust. He safeguards what you confide in him, never betraying your confidence, never allowing the winds of gossip to carry away what you have entrusted to him.”

The Buddha’s voice softened as he spoke of the sixth quality. “When misfortunes strike, he doesn’t abandon you. Life is unpredictable, and at times, suffering may come upon you like a sudden storm. A true friend does not turn his back on you in these moments. He stands beside you, offering support, comfort, and strength. He is like a tree with deep roots, unshaken by the winds of fate.”

Finally, the Buddha said, “The seventh quality is this: When you’re down and out, he doesn’t look down on you. In times of failure or disgrace, when the world seems to turn its back on you, a true friend remains by your side, never judging, never scorning. He sees you not for your misfortune, but for who you truly are. His respect for you does not waver, even when you are at your lowest.”

The monks, inspired by these words, bowed their heads in gratitude as the Buddha’s voice grew gentle. “Such a friend, endowed with these seven qualities, is a rare and precious gift. He gives what is beautiful yet hard to give, does what is hard to do, and endures the bitter words that life may bring. His heart is open to you, and he protects your heart in turn. In the darkest of times, he will not leave you, and even when you falter, his love for you does not falter.”

The Buddha paused for a moment, letting the weight of his words fill the air before continuing, “To cultivate such a friendship is a blessing for both parties. A friend like this is not just a companion but a guide, a mirror that reflects your virtues and helps you grow. Such a bond nurtures the spirit and brings peace to the heart. Therefore, monks, seek to be such a friend. Cultivate these seven qualities within yourself, and you will draw others of similar virtue to your side.”

The monks looked at one another with renewed purpose, understanding now that friendship was not a simple matter of convenience or shared interests but a profound practice of giving, endurance, and trust. The Buddha’s words had opened their hearts to the deeper meaning of companionship, and they resolved to embody the qualities of a true friend in their own lives.

And so, as the evening deepened and the stars began to appear in the sky, the monks rose, filled with a sense of peace. They knew that in cultivating these seven qualities, they would not only find true friends but would become true friends themselves—vessels of compassion and wisdom in a world often marked by fleeting connections.

The Buddha smiled as he watched them depart, knowing that the seeds of his teaching had taken root in their hearts, and that in time, they would bear the fruits of deep and enduring friendships, blessed with the seven qualities of a true friend.

Link: https://wisdomtea.org/2024/09/05/a-friend/