Death carries off a man busy picking flowers with an besotted mind, like a great flood does a sleeping village.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Men who are addicted to the passions are like the torch-carrier running against the wind; his hands are sure to be burned.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Being consumed by desires can lead to pain and suffering.
This quote by Gautama Buddha highlights the dangers of being overly attached to our passions and desires. Just as a torch-carrier running against the wind is likely to get burned, individuals who chase after their desires without moderation or understanding can end up hurting themselves, emphasizing the importance of balance and mindfulness in our pursuits.
Themes
DesireAttachmentSufferingWisdomBalance
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a meditation class to emphasize the importance of letting go of desires.
More from Gautama Buddha
All quotes βA kind man who makes good use of wealth is rightly said to possess a great treasure; but the miser who hoards up his riches will have no profit.
Gautama BuddhaRead
There are having flowers in Spring, breezes in Summer, moon in Autumn, snows in Winter. If there is nothing worrying over you, it will be the best seasons at all times.
Gautama BuddhaRead
Make an island of yourself, make yourself your refuge; there is no other refuge. Make truth your island, make truth your refuge; there is no other refuge.
Gautama BuddhaRead
When a wise man is advised of his errors, he will reflect on and improve his conduct. When his misconduct is pointed out, a foolish man will not only disregard the advice but rather repeat the same error.
Gautama BuddhaRead
The tongue like a sharp knife ... Kills without drawing blood.
Gautama BuddhaRead
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