Snakes and Rafts

This Book begins with the story of Ghatikara whose selfless generous acts earned him the complete trust of the Buddha. Next, by the use of parables the Buddha explains that simply learning the teaching without understanding its meaning leads to suffering rather than to happiness. For instance, by grasping a snake in the wrong way, one can die or suffer from its bite; therefore, one must learn proper control of mind and body with everything one undertakes.

The parable of the raft is about a man who builds a raft to cross a river but continues to carry it wherever he goes because it had been so useful in crossing the river. Buddha explains that like this man, people become attached to doctrine and teachings without properly understanding the nature of impermanence and changing conditions in life. One must throw away things that are no longer essential in order to avoid anxiety or suffering. The parable of the raft underscores the non-absolute nature of the doctrine.

The Buddha explains to Ananda that he must focus on the pure original mind, the basis of enlightenment, and not be moved by views that distract one from thinking of the true nature of things. The true mind is not affected by changing conditions and leads one to enlightenment. By not identifying this original mind with the phenomenal self, one is able to reach dharmadhatu, the imageless spiritual world that is not identical to the phenomenal world of finite particulars that we see and experience; yet, at the same time, there is mutual interpenetration between the two worlds. Of course, a question arises, as expressed by Purna (Chapter 1, Section 4:7), as to how this world of differences can arise from the pure mind. It is explained that the creations of the deluded mind do not truly exist but are manifested according to given conditions. The original pure mind, called Tathagata-garbha, is neither empty nor consists of materials or psychological elements; yet, it can manifest itself freely without obstruction. However, differentiated manifestations are like bubbles floating over the ocean; they have no substantial existence.

The Buddhist Bible (Book 3)

I really enjoy parables, stories, metaphors, and any creative style of dharma teachings. I'll post some of my favorite Jataka tales sometime soon.