Brothers and sisters Quote by Siddhārtha Gautama
““Subhuti, someone might fill innumerable worlds with the seven treasures and give all away in gifts of alms, but if any good man or any good woman awakens the thought of Enlightenment and takes even only four lines from this Discourse, reciting, using, receiving, retaining and spreading them abroad and explaining them for the benefit of others, it will be far more meritorious. Now in what manner may he explain them to others? By detachment from appearances-abiding in Real Truth. -So I tell you- Thus shall you think of all this fleeting world: A star at dawn, a bubble in a stream; A flash of lightening in a summer cloud, A flickering lamp, a phantom, and a dream. When Buddha finished this Discourse the venerable Subhuti, together with the bhikshus, bhikshunis, lay-brothers and sisters, and the whole realms of Gods, Men and Titans, were filled with joy by His teaching, and, taking it sincerely to heart they went their ways.””
About This Quote
The passage emphasizes that sharing even a few lines of enlightened teaching, with sincere intention, outweighs material generosity; true merit lies in transmitting insight.
In simple terms: Spreading insight is more meritorious than gifting wealth.
Key Takeaway
Share wisdom, not just wealth.
Themes
Enlightenment
Compassion
Detachment
Transmission
Impermanence
Joy
Mood
reverent
inspired
hopeful
Type
scriptural
didactic
When to use this quote
- Teaching a student
- Writing a commentary
- Giving a public lecture
- Mentoring a junior colleague
- Sharing in a community forum
Key Concepts
Bodhisattva ideal
Four Noble Truths
Skillful means
Samsara
Practical Applications
- Spiritual instruction
- Ethical leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- How can a small act of teaching transform a community?
- What does detachment from appearances enable in communication?
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