On hearing the Teachings, the wise be come perfectly purified, like a lake deep, clear and still.
On hearing the Teachings, the wise become perfectly purified, like a lake deep, clear and still.
Deep Commentary
The Buddha compares the minds of the wise after hearing the Dhamma to a deep, clear, and tranquil lake. Why do their minds become so peaceful? It is because the wise listen with profound inner contemplation rather than merely grasping at external sounds. They use the teachings as a mirror to reflect upon their own true nature. When we listen with a restless and outwardly focused mind, we cannot grasp the essence of the Dhamma. The wise, however, listen in a state of wakefulness and mindfulness. Their awareness is like an undisturbed body of water, free from the ripples of mental defilements and external distractions. We should learn to listen to the Dhamma like the wise, turning our awareness inward, for the true teaching resonates within our own clear mind.
This verse from the Dhammapada beautifully illustrates how the wise, upon hearing the Dhamma, achieve profound inner purity. Their minds become like a deep, clear, and still lake, undisturbed by defilements or external distractions.
The key lies in how they listen: not just with their ears, but with deep inner contemplation and mindfulness. They use the teachings as a mirror to reflect on their true nature, allowing the Dhamma to resonate within their own clear minds. This inward focus purifies their awareness, leading to a state of perfect tranquility.
How does your own listening practice compare to this image of a still lake?
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