40.Samyutta Nikaya 7.15: The Discourse on Arrogance and Obstinacy
This incident occurred in Sravasti. At that time, there was a Brahmin named Arrogance and Obstinacy living in Sravasti. He did not pay respects to his mother, nor to his father, nor to his teacher, nor to his elder brother. At that time, the World-Honored One was surrounded by a large crowd, teaching the Dharma.
The Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy thought to himself: "This ascetic Gautama is surrounded by a large crowd, teaching the Dharma. Why don't I go see the ascetic Gautama? If the ascetic Gautama speaks to me, I will speak to him. If the ascetic Gautama doesn't speak to me, I won't speak to him either."
So, the Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy went to where the World-Honored One was. Upon arrival, he stood silently to one side. At this time, the World-Honored One did not speak to him.
The Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy thought: "This ascetic Gautama knows nothing." He was about to turn and leave.
At this moment, the World-Honored One, knowing the thoughts in the mind of the Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy, spoke to him in verse:
"Brahmin, arrogance is not good,
Here, Brahmin, you should seek benefit;
The purpose of your coming here,
You should pursue that."
At this time, the Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy [thought]: "The ascetic Gautama knows my thoughts." He immediately prostrated himself at the feet of the World-Honored One, kissing the World-Honored One's feet with his mouth, caressing them with his hands, and announcing his name: "Respected Gautama, I am Arrogance and Obstinacy. Respected Gautama, I am Arrogance and Obstinacy."
At this time, the crowd was amazed, [thinking]: "How wonderful! How rare! This Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy who doesn't pay respects to his mother, nor to his father, nor to his teacher, nor to his elder brother, is now showing such extreme reverence to the ascetic Gautama!"
Then, the World-Honored One said to the Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy: "Enough, Brahmin, please rise and sit in your own seat. For you have developed faith in me."
Then, the Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy sat in his own seat and spoke to the World-Honored One in verse:
"Towards whom should one not be arrogant? Whom should one respect?
Whom should one revere? Whom should one serve well?"
The World-Honored One replied:
"Towards mother and father, and elder brother,
The fourth is the teacher, towards them one should not be arrogant.
One should respect them, one should revere them,
One should serve them well.
"Towards the Arahants, who are peaceful, who have completed their tasks, who are free from afflictions,
Putting down arrogance, not being obstinate, one should pay homage to these unsurpassed ones."
After hearing this, the Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy said to the World-Honored One: "Wonderful, respected Gautama... Please accept me as a lay disciple, from this day forward, taking refuge for life."
This discourse profoundly illustrates the harm of arrogance and the importance of humility, while also demonstrating the Buddha's wisdom and ability to teach. Let us analyze this story in depth:
1. The Brahmin Arrogance and Obstinacy:
His name itself suggests his character. His disrespect for parents, teachers, and elder brother reflects his extreme self-centeredness and disregard for traditional values. Such behavior was highly inappropriate in the society of that time, showing the extent of his arrogance.
2. The Brahmin's Mental Activity:
His thoughts when deciding to see the Buddha reflect his conceit and sense of equality. He considered himself on par with the Buddha, thinking he could treat the Buddha the same way. This mindset stems from his arrogance, preventing him from correctly recognizing himself and others.
3. The Buddha's Wisdom:
The Buddha did not immediately speak to the Brahmin but waited for the right moment. When the Brahmin was about to leave, the Buddha used verses to expose his arrogance. This demonstrates the Buddha's insight and educational wisdom, knowing how to provide appropriate teachings at the right time.
4. The Brahmin's Transformation:
When the Brahmin realized that the Buddha could read his mind, he immediately dropped his arrogance and showed extreme reverence. This sudden change demonstrates the power of truth and the profound change that can occur when one realizes their limitations.
5. The Buddha's Teaching:
The Buddha taught the Brahmin to respect parents, elder brothers, and teachers, which not only aligns with traditional values but is also the foundation for building harmonious social relationships. Additionally, the Buddha emphasized respect for Arahants, reflecting Buddhism's emphasis on spiritual achievement.
6. Profound Insights:
This story provides us with several profound insights:
1) Arrogance is a major obstacle to personal growth and social harmony.
2) True wisdom includes recognizing one's limitations and respecting others.
3) Transformation is possible, even for the most arrogant individuals.
4) Timely teaching and words of wisdom can have far-reaching effects.
5) Respecting traditional values and spiritual achievements is important for both individuals and society.
This story inspires us to reflect: Are we also showing arrogance in some aspects? Do we truly respect those who deserve respect? Are we willing to put aside our prejudices and open our minds to accept the truth?
Through this simple yet profound story, the Buddha shows us the importance of humility, respect, and an open mind. In modern society, these qualities are becoming increasingly precious. Each of us should be constantly vigilant against the dangers of arrogance and strive to cultivate the virtues of humility and respect. This not only benefits personal growth but also helps create a more harmonious and inclusive society.