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It is told that Buddha, going out to look on life, was…

“It is told that Buddha, going out to look on life, was greatly daunted by death. "They all eat one another!" he cried, and called it evil. This process I examined, changed the verb and said, "They all feed one another," and called it good.” quote by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
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“It is told that Buddha, going out to look on life, was greatly daunted by death. "They all eat one another!" he cried, and called it evil. This process I examined, changed the verb and said, "They all feed one another," and called it good.”

Charlotte Perkins Gilman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Buddha’s fear of death turned to compassion when he saw interdependence as nourishment rather than predation.

In simple terms: Seeing life as mutual support transforms fear into goodness.

Key Takeaway

Recognize interconnection to overcome fear.

Themes

compassion interdependence philosophy

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal grief
  • environmental ethics
  • community building

Key Concepts

Buddhist thought ethical reframing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does seeing others as supportive change your view of death?
  • What actions foster mutual nourishment?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook power dynamics that cause suffering.

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