Sakka In Name Only

At one time the Buddha was staying near Rājagaha, on the Vulture’s Peak Mountain.

Then a spirit who was Sakka in name only went up to the Buddha, and addressed him in verse: ^[1]

“You’ve given up all ties,

and are fully freed.

It’s not a good idea for you, ascetic,

to be instructing others.”

“No matter how you explain why

people gather together, Sakka, ^[2]

it’s unworthy for a wise person

not to think of the other with sympathy. ^[3]

If you instruct others

with a mind clear and confident,

your compassion and empathy

don’t create attachments.”