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These teachings are like a raft, to be abandoned once you have crossed the flood. Since you should abandon even good states of mind generated by these teachings, How much more so should you abandon bad states of mind!
Gautama Buddha
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Teachings serve as temporary tools for enlightenment and should be let go after achieving understanding.

In this quote, Gautama Buddha emphasizes the importance of teachings and practices in guiding one towards enlightenment, much like a raft helps one traverse a river. However, once the journey is completed and the goal is achieved, it is crucial to let go of even the beneficial teachings and mental states, as they can become attachments that hinder further growth and understanding.

Themes

TeachingsEnlightenmentLetting GoMindfulnessAttachment

In practice

Example use cases

During a meditation retreat, this quote could be used to encourage participants to focus on the practice and to let go of preconceptions.

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