The essence of your mind is not born, so it will never…
““The essence of your mind is not born, so it will never die. It is not an existence, which is perishable. It is not an emptiness, which is a mere void. It has neither colour nor form. It enjoys no pleasures and suffers no pains. I know you are very ill. Like a good Zen student, you are facing that sickness squarely. You may not know exactly who is suffering, but question yourself: What is the essence of this mind? Think only of this. You will need no more. Covet nothing. Your end which is endless is as a snowflake dissolving in pure air.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The mind’s true nature is beyond birth and death, form and feeling; recognizing this leads to peace and non‑attachment.
In simple terms: The mind is beyond form and feeling, leading to peace.
Realize the mind’s forless nature for freedom.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- meditation
- illness coping
- philosophical study
- daily mindfulness
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect your handling of pain?
- What does “nothing to covet” mean for you?
Understanding may be abstract for practical daily use.