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Buddhism Quote by Majjhimanikaya

“You tell me to stand still, but I am not walking," he shouted, "whereas you who are walking say you are still. How is it that you are standing still but I am not?" The Buddha turned round. "My legs move but my mind is still," he said. "Your legs are still but your mind moves all the time in a fire…” quote by Majjhimanikaya
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““You tell me to stand still, but I am not walking," he shouted, "whereas you who are walking say you are still. How is it that you are standing still but I am not?" The Buddha turned round. "My legs move but my mind is still," he said. "Your legs are still but your mind moves all the time in a fire of anger, hatred, and feverish desire. Therefore, I am still but you are not.””

Majjhimanikaya

About This Quote

Source Buddhist scripture: Majjhimanikaya

Movement of mind and body differ; mental stillness can coexist with physical motion.

In simple terms: Mind can stay still while body moves, and vice versa.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the distinction between mental and physical activity.

Themes

mindfulness Buddhism psychology anger desire self-awareness

Mood

calm introspective

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • meditation practice
  • conflict resolution
  • self-reflection

Key Concepts

impermanence mental stillness bodily motion inner fire

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you experience mental stillness?
  • What triggers your inner fire?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex emotional states.

2.3 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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