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Sentient beings, self and others, enemies and dear ones-all are made by thoughts. It is like seeing a rope and mistaking it for a snake. When we think that the rope is a snake, we are scared, but once we see that we are looking at a rope, our fear dissipates. We have been deluded by our thoughts. Likewise, mentally fabricating self and others, we generate attachment and aversion.
Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Our perceptions and emotions are shaped by our thoughts, which can lead to misunderstandings and attachments.

This quote by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche illustrates how our thoughts can create illusions that lead to fear and attachment. Just as mistaking a rope for a snake leads to unnecessary fear, our misconceptions about ourselves and others can cause emotional turmoil. By recognizing these delusions, we can free ourselves from the grip of attachment and aversion, leading to a clearer and more compassionate understanding of reality.

Themes

ThoughtsPerceptionAttachmentAversionDelusion

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about mindfulness and awareness, this quote can emphasize the importance of understanding our own perceptions.

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Life is fragile, like the dew hanging delicately on the grass, crystal drops that will be carried away on the first morning breeze.
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If you vanquish ego-clinging today, tonight you will be enlightened.
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