Without approval and without scorn, but carefully studying…
“Without approval and without scorn, but carefully studying the sentences word by word, one should trace them in the Discourses and verify them by the Discipline. If they are neither traceable in the Discourses nor verifiable by the Discipline, one must conclude thus: 'Certainly, this is not the Blessed One's utterance; this has been misunderstood by that bhikkhu - or by that community, or by those elders, or by that elder.' In that way, bhikkhus, you should reject it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Discern authentic teachings by cross‑checking scriptures and discipline; reject untraceable statements.
In simple terms: Check scriptures, reject false teachings.
Key Takeaway
Verify sources.
Themes
religion
scripture
critical thinking
authenticity
discernment
Mood
inquisitive
analytical
Type
religious
philosophical
When to use this quote
- monastic study
- academic research
- personal practice
Key Concepts
Buddhist doctrine
philology
scholarly method
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance tradition and inquiry?
- When is doubt constructive?
A Different Perspective
Strict verification may stifle intuition.