Residing in Savatthi... (omitted part) ... "Bhikkhus, imagine a great tree. Its roots grow downward and sideways, and all these roots transport nutrients upward. Bhikkhus, in this way, nourished and sustained, this great tree can exist for a long time.

Similarly, bhikkhus, regarding things that are easily clung to, if one dwells seeing their attractive aspects, craving increases. Conditioned by craving, there is clinging... (middle part omitted) ... Thus, this entire mass of suffering arises.

Bhikkhus, imagine a great tree. Now a man comes along with a spade. He cuts the roots, after cutting he digs, after digging he pulls out the roots... (middle part omitted) ... or throws them into a swift-flowing river. Bhikkhus, in this way, this great tree would be cut off at its root, made like a palm stump, obliterated, and not destined to arise again in the future.

Similarly, bhikkhus, regarding things that are easily clung to, if one dwells seeing their disadvantages, craving ceases. With the cessation of craving, clinging ceases... (middle part omitted) ... Thus, this entire mass of suffering ceases."

End of the sixth sutta.

[Explanation]

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

1. The first metaphor explains: Just as a great tree exists for a long time by absorbing nutrients through its root system, similarly, if people only see the pleasant aspects of things, it increases their craving for them, leading to clinging and the arising of suffering.

2. The second metaphor explains: Just as a great tree won't grow again after being uprooted, similarly, if one can see the disadvantages (flaws, harms) of things, it will cease the craving for them, thereby ending clinging and ultimately leading to the cessation of suffering.

This is an important teaching where the Buddha uses vivid metaphors to instruct his disciples on how to eliminate afflictions and liberate themselves from suffering.

Let me provide a deeper analysis of this sutta that contains profound wisdom.

I. Core Metaphorical Analysis of the Sutta

1. Symbolism of the Great Tree

- The tree represents our life and consciousness

- The root system symbolizes our deep-seated attachments and desires

- Downward-growing roots symbolize deep subconscious desires

- Sideways-growing roots symbolize surface emotional attachments

- Nutrients symbolize various satisfactions we seek in real life

2. Deep Observation of Human Nature

Using the tree as a metaphor, the Buddha reveals the most fundamental truth about human nature:

- We are often attracted by the superficial beauty of things

- This attraction leads to the growth of craving

- Craving brings about clinging

- Clinging ultimately leads to suffering

3. Revelation of the Path to Liberation

The latter part of the sutta shows the method to transcend suffering:

- It requires courage to face the truth

- Using wisdom to see the true nature of things

- Recognizing the harm of clinging

- Actively letting go to gain true freedom

II. Profound Life Insights

1. Understanding the Nature of Desire

- Desires are like tree roots, seemingly providing us with nutrients

- In reality, they make us sink deeper into the mire of attachment

- Satisfying one desire leads to the growth of new ones

- This is an endless cycle

2. Awakening of Wisdom

The key is to cultivate the following abilities:

- Awareness: ability to notice one's own attachments

- Discernment: ability to identify the true face of things

- Decisiveness: courage to let go of harmful attachments

- Concentration: maintaining inner clarity

III. Reflection on Modern Life

1. The Trap of Materialism

- Modern society is full of temptations

- Consumerism creates endless desires

- Social media stimulates comparison psychology

- We often lose ourselves in the pursuit

2. Path to Freedom

- Cultivate mindfulness and awareness

- Maintain inner independence

- Establish healthy values

- Pursue genuine spiritual growth

IV. Practical Guidance

1. Daily Practice

- Set aside time for quiet reflection each day

- Be aware of your thoughts and emotions

- Examine the sources of your desires

- Cultivate contentment and gratitude

2. Life Attitude

- Keep it simple

- Cherish the present moment

- Focus on inner growth

- Pursue authentic happiness

This sutta tells us that suffering does not come from the external world, but from our inner attachments. True liberation is not about escaping reality, but about seeing the truth clearly with wisdom, actively letting go of attachments, and gaining true inner freedom. This wisdom is not only a truth from over two thousand years ago but continues to shine with eternal brilliance today.

I hope everyone can gain inspiration from this sutta, cultivate awareness and wisdom in life, and gradually move towards true liberation and freedom.

Let us remember: Every present moment is an opportunity to let go of attachments and gain freedom. True happiness is not about what we possess, but about being able to live freely in each moment of the present.