We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track. If this problem persists help us by reporting it so we can investigate it.
Watch this talk
Login or create a free account to watch this talk and discover other teachings from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.
Log in or create an account
Talk on early Buddhist Conversions
Sudatta, a wealthy merchant from Sravasti, travels to Rajagriha and is deeply moved upon hearing the title “Buddha” from his brother-in-law. Unable to sleep, he visits the Bamboo Grove before dawn, where the Buddha calms his fears and accepts him as a disciple. Seeking to establish a dwelling for the Buddha in Sravasti, Sudatta attempts to purchase a park from Prince Jeta, who jestingly demands the land be covered in gold. Sudatta fulfills this condition, and together they establish the Jetavana monastery under the supervision of the Venerable Sariputra.
King Prasenajit, initially skeptical of the Buddha due to the influence of other religious leaders, challenges the teaching that love implies worry, anxiety, and despair. Upon realizing his own vulnerability regarding his daughter, Princess Vajiri, the King visits the Jetavana Grove. He questions the Buddha’s maturity, prompting the Buddha to list four things one should not look down upon simply because they are small or young:
- A sparkle of fire
- A small snake
- A baby prince
- A young monk
The Buddha instructs the King on the true nature of love, defined as Maitri (loving kindness) and Karuna (compassion). True love offers joy and removes suffering without conditions, possessiveness, or frontiers, and requires a deep understanding of the other person’s aspirations and pain. To ensure love is not destructive, one must have the courage to ask loved ones, “Do I love you properly?” or “Does my love make you suffer?” In their final meeting at age eighty, the King expresses his profound faith in the Sangha, noting their composed mindfulness and lifelong dedication, shortly before falling victim to a coup d’état.