So in this case, Kalamas, don't go by reports, by legends…
“So in this case, Kalamas, don't go by reports, by legends, by traditions, by scripture, by logical conjecture, by inference, by analogies, by agreement through pondering views, by probability, or by the thought, 'This contemplative is our teacher.' When you know for yourselves that, 'These qualities are unskillful; these qualities are blameworthy; these qualities are criticized by the wise; these qualities, when adopted & carried out, lead to harm & to suffering' - then you should abandon them.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Abandon teachings that are unskillful, blameworthy, or harmful, even if they are traditional or logical.
In simple terms: Reject harmful ideas despite tradition.
Key Takeaway
Question and discard unskillful beliefs.
Themes
wisdom
ethics
mindfulness
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- ethical decision making
- spiritual practice
- teaching analysis
Key Concepts
unskillful qualities
blameworthy
suffering
critical inquiry
Questions to Reflect On
- What beliefs do you hold that cause suffering?
- How can you test teachings against personal experience?
A Different Perspective
Traditional authority may not guarantee truth.