Buddhism Quote by Joseph Campbell
““When the Buddha declares there is escape from sorrow, the escape is Nirvana, which is not a place, like heaven, but a psychological state of mind in which you are are released from desire and fear. And your life becomes harmonious, centered and affirmative. Even with suffering. The Buddhists speak of the bodhisattva - the one who knows immortality, yet voluntarily enters into the field of the fragmentation of time and participates willingly and joyfully in the sorrows of the world.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Mythology and Spirituality, Joseph Campbell, 1972
Buddhism teaches that true escape from sorrow is a mental state of release from desire and fear, not a physical place, and that enlightened beings willingly share in worldly suffering.
In simple terms: Nirvana is a mind state free from desire and fear, not a heaven.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate inner freedom from craving and fear.
Themes
spirituality
compassion
enlightenment
Mood
contemplative
inspirational
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- personal meditation
- helping others
- overcoming suffering
Key Concepts
Nirvana
bodhisattva
psychology of desire
Questions to Reflect On
- Can one achieve Nirvana while remaining engaged in the world?
- How does compassion coexist with personal peace?
A Different Perspective
The ideal of selfless suffering may be unrealistic for many.
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