Skip to content

Activity Quote by Huangbo Xiyun

“As soon as the mouth is opened, evils spring forth. People either neglect the root and speak of the branches, or neglect the reality of the 'illusory' world and speak only of Enlightenment. Or else they chatter of cosmic activities leading to transformations, while neglecting the Substance from…” quote by Huangbo Xiyun
Download Open image
“As soon as the mouth is opened, evils spring forth. People either neglect the root and speak of the branches, or neglect the reality of the 'illusory' world and speak only of Enlightenment. Or else they chatter of cosmic activities leading to transformations, while neglecting the Substance from which they spring--indeed, there is NEVER any profit in discussion.”

Huangbo Xiyun

About This Quote

Source Buddhist Text: Chuan Fa Jing, 9th century

A warning that speaking without understanding leads to empty discourse and neglect of true substance.

In simple terms: Talk without depth ignores reality.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper understanding before speaking.

Themes

spirituality philosophy mindfulness

Mood

contemplative serene

Type

proverbial philosophical

When to use this quote

  • meditation
  • teaching sessions
  • philosophical debates

Key Concepts

emptiness enlightenment substance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is the root cause of empty talk?
  • How can we balance speech and silence?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on silence may hinder necessary dialogue.

4.9 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Huangbo Xiyun

Explore all 20 Huangbo Xiyun quotes

More Activity quotes

Browse all 3,263 Activity quotes