The Buddha resided in the city of Shravasti... (abridged) "Monks, regarding the graspable phenomena, if one dwells on their flavor with attachment, craving increases. Due to craving, there is grasping; due to grasping, there is existence... thus, the entire aggregate of suffering arises.

Monks, just like a great tree. Its roots grow downward and spread sideways, all these roots deliver nourishment upwards. Therefore, this great tree, relying on such nourishment and sustenance, can stand for a long time. Similarly, monks, regarding the graspable phenomena, if one dwells on their flavor with attachment, craving increases. Due to craving, there is grasping... thus, the entire aggregate of suffering arises.

Monks, regarding the graspable phenomena, if one dwells on their faults, craving ceases. The cessation of craving leads to the cessation of grasping; the cessation of grasping leads to the cessation of existence... thus, the entire aggregate of suffering ceases.

Monks, just like a great tree. At this time, a person comes with a hoe and a basket. He cuts the tree's roots, digs around, and pulls out all the roots, down to the smallest rootlets. He cuts the tree into sections, splits it into pieces, and slices it thinly, then dries it in the wind and sunlight. He burns it with fire until it turns to ash, and then scatters the ash into a strong wind or throws it into a swift river. Monks, thus this great tree is uprooted, like a severed palm trunk, becoming non-existent, never to arise again in the future. Similarly, monks, regarding the graspable phenomena, if one dwells on their faults, craving ceases. The cessation of craving leads to the cessation of grasping; the cessation of grasping leads to the cessation of existence... thus, the entire aggregate of suffering ceases."

End of the Fifth Sutra.

Key Teachings of the Sutra

This sutra uses the metaphor of a great tree to illustrate:

1. Just as a tree relies on its roots to absorb nutrients and survive, people's attachment to graspable phenomena leads to increased craving, resulting in continued samsara (the cycle of birth and death).

2. Conversely, if one can clearly see the faults of these graspable phenomena, it is like completely uprooting a tree, which can lead to the cessation of craving, thereby cutting off grasping, ultimately achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

This is a vivid metaphor that emphasizes the necessity of thoroughly and deeply eliminating afflictions in one's practice, just as one must completely uproot a tree without leaving any hidden dangers.

In-Depth Analysis of the Great Tree Sutra

1. Core Theme of the Text: Craving and Liberation

- The Buddha uses the tree as a metaphor to explain the fundamental cause of beings' samsara: attachment and craving for worldly phenomena.

- He also points out the method for liberation: thoroughly observing the faults of phenomena to cut off craving.

2. Symbolic Meaning of the Tree

- Tree roots: represent the deeply ingrained cravings and attachments in the heart.

- Nutrient absorption: symbolizes our continuous pursuit of sensory pleasures, fame, and other desires.

- Tree growth: metaphor for the incessant growth of afflictions and suffering.

3. The Process of Uprooting the Tree

- Cutting the roots: fundamentally recognizing the harm of attachment.

- Digging out the fine roots: thoroughly eliminating subtle habits and attachments.

- Burning to ash: completely eradicating all afflictions.

- Ash scattered by the wind: leaving no trace or hidden dangers.

Wisdom Insights

1. The Truth of Life

This classic reveals a profound truth about life: our suffering often stems from our attachment and craving for things. Just as a tree needs to continuously absorb nutrients to survive, we also constantly pursue external satisfaction, which is precisely the root of our suffering.

2. Wisdom of Liberation

- Recognizing the harm of "flavor": worldly happiness is often temporary, and excessive pursuit leads to greater suffering.

- The importance of observing "faults": seeing beyond surface pleasures to recognize the bondage and afflictions brought by attachment.

- The thoroughness of cutting off: leaving no seeds of attachment, or else they will regrow.

3. Insights for Practice

- Continuous effort is needed: just as uprooting a tree requires step-by-step action, eliminating afflictions also requires long-term persistence.

- Attention to detail: do not overlook the smallest attachments, as they can become seeds for future suffering.

- Complete letting go: true liberation requires a total release without leaving any traces of attachment.

Profound Reflections

1. The Meaning of Life

- Are we often troubled by external pursuits?

- Do the things that bring us joy also cause us suffering?

- What is true freedom?

2. Direction of Practice

- How can we observe our attachments in daily life?

- How can we truly let go, rather than superficially abandoning?

- How can we maintain mindfulness without being trapped by desire?

3. Wisdom for Living

- Learn to remain detached while possessing.

- Enjoy life without being controlled by desires.

- Understand that true happiness comes from inner ease.

This classic teaches us: true liberation is not about escaping life but about seeing the truth of existence with wisdom, cutting off inner attachments, and attaining genuine freedom. Just as uprooting a tree requires thoroughness, our pursuit of liberation also demands continuous effort and complete awakening.

This wisdom can guide our practice and help us live more wisely and freely in our daily lives. Everyone can draw inspiration from it and find a path to inner peace.