Deep Commentary

The Buddha spoke this verse regarding Venerable Maha Kassapa. When some monks gossiped that Kassapa was too attached to his supporters in the city to leave with the Buddha, the Buddha clarified that Kassapa remained behind only on His orders. Kassapa, a fully enlightened Arhat, had no attachment to any place, benefactor, or offering. He was like a swan that leaves a lake without a single backward glance or feeling of regret. The Buddha used this occasion to highlight the power of steadfast mindfulness. While ordinary people suffer because they lack mindfulness and are easily swayed by jealousy or the Eight Worldly Winds (such as praise and blame), an enlightened being remains utterly unmoved. We must cultivate this strong mindfulness and endurance, ensuring that we do not lose our high spiritual ideals for the sake of temporary, worldly comforts. We should strive to be like the swan, leaving behind attachments without hesitation.