Deep Commentary

The Buddha delivered this teaching at the Jetavana monastery regarding a group of children. Seeing them hitting a snake with sticks because they feared being bitten, He taught that seeking one's own happiness by inflicting pain on others who also desire happiness will only result in future suffering. Human nature often leans toward selfishness, leading people to harm others to protect themselves. However, true happiness cannot be built on the suffering of others. When we act out of anger or ignorance to harm someone, we destroy our own peace. True happiness is found in mindfulness, compassion, and letting go of hostility.