Deep Commentary

This Dhammapada verse was taught by the Buddha at Jetavana Monastery, concerning a Brahmin with matted hair. "The story goes that a certain Brahmin thought: 'I am of pure Brahmin lineage. The ascetic Gotama often calls his disciples holy men (brahmins). I too deserve to be called that.' Thinking thus, he went to the Buddha and raised the matter. The Buddha said: 'O Brahmin, I do not call anyone a holy man simply because of matted hair, nor because of lineage or bloodline. I call a holy man only one who has penetrated the truth.' (Excerpted from Dhammapada Stories, Vol. III, p. 338). To practice spirituality while still overly attached to forms, rituals, lineage, status, position, etc., cannot yet be called a genuine practitioner. Forms and rituals, though important for inspiring others, are ultimately just skillful means. Relying on means to achieve the ultimate goal—that is truly wise practice. Conversely, if we cling and sink into the means themselves, no matter how beautiful or excellent, we are merely drowning in the river of means. We should remember that Buddhism upholds the perfect integration of 'phenomena and principle.' The story above clearly demonstrates this. For those who rely on the Buddha's teachings to investigate and penetrate deeply into truth, living a life of true peace and happiness, such a person—regardless of social class—is called a genuine practitioner. In the words of the verse above, the Buddha calls that person a holy man. Thus, a holy man in essence is one who has realized the truth. The four wondrous truths that can lead people from the level of ordinary beings to noble attainment are the Four Noble Truths. These four truths are realities present in our lives. In the verse above, the Buddha awakens and reminds us not to be deluded by external forms while forgetting the actual content of awakening and liberation."