Deep Commentary

Remorse is one of the indeterminate mental factors in Buddhist psychology. It has two aspects: wholesome and unwholesome. What is unwholesome remorse? For example, seeing a beautiful object, you plan to steal it, but due to being distracted, you forget. Later, you remember and regret not taking it. That is unwholesome remorse. Furthermore, if someone kills another in a fit of uncontrollable anger, and later feels deep remorse, even though there is a glimmer of conscience, the karmic cause has been planted and retribution will follow. The deed is done. Although it is in the past, the agonizing guilt in one's conscience cannot be escaped. The court of conscience will not leave them in peace; it is a persistent and fitting punishment. Because this remorse is a great obstacle on the path of practice, the Buddha advised against committing evil deeds. Once an evil deed is committed, we cannot escape the consequences anywhere in this life, leaving our minds constantly disturbed. To achieve peace of mind, it is best not to create evil causes. Some people live their whole lives in anxiety, never at peace, because of a single cruel act they committed. Though invisible, the evil deed haunts them until they close their eyes. To avoid this disastrous consequence, we must always be mindful in all actions, considering the consequences before acting. A person with such careful intention will enjoy peace and benefit every moment. In verse 16, the Buddha clearly shows this image of peace. If we constantly create wholesome karma, like saving lives or helping others, we will feel happy and peaceful anywhere, at any time. Before sleeping, we smile gently, and our sleep will bring beautiful dreams. This reflects a relaxed and serene soul. Experiencing such peace in this life, we need not worry about the next. If we apply the Buddha's teaching, we will see that life is truly happy. It is a precious happiness we create ourselves, one that money cannot buy. Please try to practice this, and you will see the beautiful, profound effects of a mindful life.