“When peacocks roam through the jungle of virulent poison,
though the gardens of medicinal plants may be attractive,
the peacock flocks will not indulge in them;
for peacocks thrive on the essence of virulent poison”
“Likewise, when the heroic bodhisattvas enter the jungle of cyclic existence,
~ The Wheel of Sharp Weapons verses #1 and #2 by Dharmaraksita ~ taken from Essential Mind Training, Translated & Introduced by Thupten Jinpa (Tibetan Classics)
though the gardens of happiness and prosperity may seem beautiful,
the heroes will not become attached to them;
for heroes thrive in the forest of suffering.”
First alternative translation –
“When the peacocks roam the jungle of virulent poison,
The flocks take no delight in gardens of medicinal plants,
no matter how beautiful they may be,
for peacocks thrive on the essence of virulent poison.”
“Similarly, when the heroes roam the jungle of cyclic existence,
They do not become attached to the garden of happiness and prosperity,
No matter how beautiful it may be, for heroes thrive in the jungle of suffering.”
http://www.tenzinzopa.com/Ebooks/mirror%20to%20your%20life.pdf
Second alternative translation –
“In jungles of poisonous plants strut the peacocks,
though medicine gardens of beauty lie near.
The masses of peacocks don’t find gardens pleasant,
but thrive on the essence of poisonous plants.”
“In similar fashion, the brave bodhisattvas remain in the jungle of worldly concern.
No matter how joyful this world’s pleasure gardens,
these brave ones are never attracted to pleasures,
but thrive in the jungle of suffering and pain.”
This is Monday’s topic for contemplation, reflection and sharing at the online virtual ‘Sit-and-Share’ meditation meeting via Skype from 7:45 pm ready for a prompt start at 8 pm (UK time).
All welcome.
This week’s topic was chosen by Eileen, who will be our ‘Sit-and-Share’ host on Monday.
Please read ‘How to attend a Virtual Sit-and-Share meeting’ –
Closing dedication of Merit:
We dedicate the merits of this practice to all suffering beings.
May everyone be free of suffering, and the causes of suffering.
May everyone enjoy happiness, and the causes of happiness.
Keep sitting; and keep smiling.