当前位置:首页 > Pali Canon Explanation > 正文内容

6. Samyutta Nikaya 3.6: The Few Sutta

This is the origin in Savatthi. King Pasenadi of Kosala sat to one side and said to the Blessed One: "Venerable sir, when I was alone in seclusion, this thought arose in my mind: 'Few are the beings in this world who, having obtained noble wealth, are not proud, not heedless, not addicted to sensual pleasures, and do not mistreat others. On the contrary, those who, having obtained noble wealth, become proud, heedless, addicted to sensual pleasures, and mistreat others are the majority.'"


"It is so, great king, it is so! Great king, in this world, few indeed are the beings who, having obtained noble wealth, are not proud, not heedless, not addicted to sensual pleasures, and do not mistreat others. On the contrary, those who, having obtained noble wealth, become proud, heedless, addicted to sensual pleasures, and mistreat others are indeed the majority." Thus spoke the Blessed One... (middle part omitted)...


"Indulging in sensual pleasures,

Greedily infatuated with desires,

They do not realize they have crossed the line,

Like deer fallen into a hunter's trap.

The consequence will be painful,

Evil deeds must bear evil fruits."


This passage is from a Buddhist sutra, describing a conversation between King Pasenadi and the Buddha. Let's analyze the wisdom within:


1. Background:

   The story takes place in Savatthi, where King Pasenadi of Kosala seeks guidance from the Buddha. This shows that even high-ranking rulers humbly seek wisdom from sages, reflecting the Buddha's elevated status and wisdom.


2. Core Concept:

   The text reveals a harsh reality - most people who obtain wealth and power often become proud, indulgent, and even harmful to others. Those who remain humble, self-controlled, and kind despite their wealth and status are few.


3. Buddha's Affirmation:

   The Buddha agrees with the king's observation, demonstrating not only the Buddha's insight but also reflecting that this phenomenon was common in society then and continues to this day.


4. Verse Meaning:

   The final verse profoundly illustrates the dangers of indulging in desires. It compares people to deer trapped in a snare, suggesting that excessive pursuit of sensual pleasures can make one lose rationality and ultimately suffer the consequences.


5. Concept of Karma:

   "Evil deeds must bear evil fruits" embodies the Buddhist concept of karma, warning that actions will inevitably lead to corresponding results.


This passage prompts us to ponder:


1. The relationship between power and virtue:

   Why does possessing wealth and power often lead to moral decay? How can we maintain our initial integrity while achieving success?


2. The nature of desire:

   Why are humans so easily deluded by desire? How should we balance enjoying life and restraining desires?


3. The influence of social structures:

   Is this phenomenon related to social systems? How can we build a society that encourages progress while preventing abuse of power?


4. The importance of self-cultivation:

   How can we cultivate self-control in the face of temptation? How can we maintain spiritual nobility in an environment of material abundance?


5. The essence of happiness:

   Does true happiness come from material enjoyment? How should we define and pursue true happiness?


This wisdom reminds us that living in a materially rich modern society, we should pay more attention to spiritual cultivation, maintaining humility and empathy. It encourages us to reflect on our behavior, be vigilant about the negative impacts of power and wealth, and pursue true inner peace and social harmony. In the pursuit of success, we must always be alert not to become slaves to desire, but to become masters of our own destiny. Only in this way can we find balance between material and spiritual aspects, achieving personal and social progress together.


“6. Samyutta Nikaya 3.6: The Few Sutta” 的相关文章

1. Corresponding Part 3, Corresponding Sutra 1: The Young Sutra

Thus have I heard. At one time, the World-Honored One was staying in Jetavana, Anathapindika's Park in Shravasti.At that time, King Pasenadi of Ko...

2. The Third Section of the Second Book, the Second Discourse in the Numerical Discourses of Human

This incident took place in Sāvatthī. At that time, King Pasenadi of Kosala approached the Blessed One. Upon arrival, he paid homage to the Blessed On...

3. The Third Sutra of the Corresponding Section: The Sutra on Aging and Death

The event took place in Sravasti. King Pasenadi of Kosala sat to one side and said to the Blessed One, "Venerable sir, for those who are born, is...

4. The Corresponding Part 3, Corresponding 4 Sutra: The Sutra of Lovability

The story takes place in Sravasti. King Pasenadi of Kosala, sitting to one side, addressed the Blessed One: "Venerable sir, when I was alone in q...

5.Samyutta Nikaya 3, Sutta 5: The Self-Protection Sutta

This was spoken in Sravasti. King Pasenadi of Kosala sat to one side and said to the Blessed One, "Venerable sir, when I was alone in seclusion,...