This incident took place in Savatthi.

At that time, a Brahmin named Bhikkhaka (meaning "beggar") came to where the Buddha was. Upon arrival, he exchanged greetings with the Buddha. After the polite conversation, he sat down to one side.

Once seated, Bhikkhaka the Brahmin said to the Buddha:

"Respected Gotama, I am a beggar, and you are also a beggar. So, what's the difference between us?"

The Buddha answered in verse:

"Not merely by begging from others,

Does one become a true beggar;

Nor by following worldly rules alone,

Can one be called a true bhikkhu.

Who in this world has abandoned both good and evil,

Lives a pure life of celibacy,

And dwells in the world with wisdom,

He alone can be called a true bhikkhu."

After hearing this, Bhikkhaka the Brahmin said to the Buddha:

"Wonderful, Master Gotama! Wonderful! It's as if someone has set upright what was overturned, revealed what was hidden, shown the way to one who was lost, or held up a lamp in the dark for those with eyes to see. In the same way, Master Gotama has explained the Dhamma in various ways. I go for refuge to Master Gotama, to the Dhamma, and to the Sangha of bhikkhus. May Master Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge from this day forward, for life."

This sutta concisely explains the essence of a true bhikkhu (or beggar). The Buddha points out that being a true bhikkhu is not just about the external act of begging, but about inner practice and wisdom. In the end, the Brahmin is moved by the Buddha's teaching and decides to take refuge in the Three Jewels.

This "Begging Alms Sutta" contains profound wisdom. Let's explore its mysteries in depth:

1. The difference between appearance and essence:

Bhikkhaka the Brahmin's question reveals people's tendency to be deceived by appearances. He thought there was no difference between himself and the Buddha because they were both beggars. This way of thinking reflects a common misconception in our daily lives: focusing too much on the surface of things while neglecting their inner essence.

2. Transcending duality:

In his answer, the Buddha mentions "abandoning both good and evil," a concept that challenges our usual binary thinking. It suggests that true wisdom and liberation are not about simply choosing between good and evil, but about transcending this opposition to reach a higher state.

3. The importance of inner practice:

The Buddha emphasizes that a true bhikkhu is not defined merely by external actions (like begging), but more importantly by inner practice. This teaching remains significant in modern society, reminding us not to focus only on external achievements and appearances while neglecting inner growth and cultivation.

4. The art of living with wisdom:

The phrase "dwells in the world with wisdom" reveals a core goal of Buddhist practice: not to escape the world, but to learn to live wisely within it. This inspires us to consider: how can we apply wisdom in our daily lives to handle various relationships and challenges?

5. True purity:

"Lives a pure life of celibacy" refers not only to following precepts but, more profoundly, to maintaining inner purity. This concept tells us that true purity comes from within, not just from external rules.

6. The power of awakening:

After hearing the Buddha's teaching, the Brahmin uses a series of vivid metaphors to describe his awakening experience. These metaphors vividly demonstrate the illuminating effect of wisdom on one's life, like a lamp in the darkness that can light up our life path.

7. The meaning of taking refuge:

The Brahmin's final decision to take refuge in the Three Jewels symbolizes a turning point in one's life. It suggests that when we encounter truth, we should have the courage to change and embark on a new life journey.

Although brief, this sutta contains rich life wisdom. It not only explains what true practice is but also deeply explores the essence and meaning of life. In modern society, these teachings still have important practical significance:

- They remind us not to be deceived by appearances and to strive to explore the essence of things.

- They encourage us to practice in daily life, integrating wisdom into every aspect of our lives.

- They inspire us to reflect on our own lifestyles and whether we have truly achieved inner purity and wisdom.

- They encourage us to maintain an open and humble attitude, willing to accept new ideas and continuously improve ourselves.

By deeply understanding and practicing this wisdom, we can find deeper meaning and peace in modern life. Let's use this sutta as a mirror to reflect on our own lives and strive to become truly wise and pure individuals, not only changing ourselves but also bringing positive influence to the world.

In this materialistic age, the teachings of the "Begging Alms Sutta" are particularly precious. They remind us that true value lies not in external wealth or status, but in inner cultivation and wisdom. Let's work together to explore this profound wisdom, practice these teachings in our lives, and jointly create a more awakened and harmonious world.