Deep Commentary

This story concerns Kāla, the son of Anathapindika, who was notoriously stubborn and disbelieving. Anathapindika, wishing to lead his son to the Dhamma, used a clever pedagogical strategy: he offered monetary rewards for attending the Buddha's discourses and memorizing verses. Initially motivated only by greed, Kāla attended the sessions. Under the Buddha’s compassionate influence, his focus sharpened, leading him to attain Stream Entrance. The story highlights the concept of 'skillful means' (upaya), showing that worldly desires can sometimes be transformed into spiritual practice when guided by wisdom and love. Even the highest worldly or celestial power cannot compare to the spiritual clarity of a Stream Enterer, as worldly status remains within the cycle of rebirth, while the realization of the Dhamma leads to true liberation.