Buddhism Quote by Sean Chercover
““There’s a story about a couple of Zen Buddhist monks. One day they leave the monastery and walk into town to buy vegetables. Along the way, there’s a stream they have to wade through, about thigh-deep. At the edge of the water, they come across a beautiful young woman wearing a lovely silk dress. One of the monks offers to carry her across, and she accepts. On the other side, they part ways with the girl and walk on in silence. About five miles down the road, the other monk says, ‘I don’t think it was right, what you did back there. You know we’re not supposed to have contact with women.’ The monk who helped the girl replies, ‘I put the girl down once we crossed the river—why are you still carrying her?””
About This Quote
A monk reminds his companion that the ethical breach ended when the act was completed, highlighting the futility of lingering guilt over past deeds.
In simple terms: Guilt ends when the action ends.
Key Takeaway
Release lingering guilt after the act is done.
Themes
ethics
mindfulness
accountability
Mood
reflective
calm
Type
aphilosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- conflict resolution
- moral decision making
Key Concepts
Buddhist teachings
psychology of guilt
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you cling to past mistakes?
- How can you let go of lingering guilt?
A Different Perspective
Holding onto past actions can cause unnecessary suffering.
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