Chapter 19

Conditioned Coproduction and the Simile of the Lamp

113. A flame burning the wick of an oil lamp has many instances and the destruction (end of) the wick does not come by the first instance (lighting) of the flame. It happened in many parts. Likewise, by the first thought of enlightenment ones does not experience enlightenment; however, without the first thought, or any instance, one is unable to experience it; nor can the last thought arrive at Nirvana.

The Simile of the Seed and the Fruit

114. From a seed trees, fruits, and flowers come; when it is obstructed, or absent, then no tree can come from it. Just so, the first thought is the foundation of enlightenment; but when it is obstructed or absent, then no enlightenment can come from it. From a seed grows barley, rice, fruits and vegetables, yet none of these things are inside the seed. As so, the enlightenment of the Jinas comes forth from its seed, which in its own-being is without existence.

The Simile of the Water Drops

115. Water drops fill a jar drop by drop, gradually, from the first instance to the last. Just so, the first thought is the initial cause of the supreme enlightenment; gradually are the qualities of a Buddha fulfilled.

The Meaning of Emptiness

116. They walk the path of the dharmas as empty, signless and wishless; but do not experience the Blessed Rest, as a skillful ferryman goes from shore to shore, but does not stand on either of them, nor do they stand in the great waters. They do not think, “I am predestined by the Buddhas, to achieve my enlightenment!” Nor do they tremble after seeing that enlightenment is not anything. This is the path of one who courses in the perfect wisdom.

The Attitude to Places Which Might Inspire Fear

117. When they see the world as it is, a wilderness, full of famine and disease, they have no fear, and go on putting on the armor. For the wise’s limit is always a bit further on, and fatigue does not produce in their minds.