Apr 9, 2021

Be the Light of Dhamma

  

From the Closing Address of the Principal Teacher of Vipassana Sayagyi U Goenka, Dhamma Service annual meeting, Dhamma Giri, 21 January 1994.

Whatever Dhamma work we have accomplished so far is like a few drops in a vast ocean. A healthy beginning made, but much work remains.

So much suffering in the world... People want to come out of suffering, but don't know how. If Vipassana is offered to them, they will accept it.

The path of Dhamma - sīla, samādhi and paññā - is complete, pure. Nothing should be added to it. Nothing should be taken out. The totality and purity of Vipassana should be maintained, and passed on.

Give - without expecting anything in return. It is a one-way traffic. Keep giving, for the good of many, with a mind full of compassion.

There may be worldly happiness, but it is not the aim of Vipassana. The whole aim is the ultimate happiness: liberation from all suffering.  nibbānaṃ paramaṃ sukhaṃ. Then the entire exercise will become purposeful, meaningful. 

You are messengers of Dhamma.

Global Vipassana Pagoda, Mumbai, India. 
Photo courtesy: Vipassana Newsletter, International Edition

Throw light on the pure way of life - not merely as words, but by living the Dhamma. Live that very life.

Let all see: they who talk of Dhamma also live the Dhamma life.

Only when they see living examples of Vipassana will they be attracted to Vipassana.

Throw light on yourself. Your behavior throws light not only on you, but also on Vipassana. 

Let people see the life you are living.

Everything must be open, nothing to be hidden.

This is the way to share Vipassana - not to increase a following, but for more people to benefit.

Theory inspires, encourages and guides, but the actual benefits are from practicing Vipassana daily.

Live the Dhamma life not only for your benefit, but also to benefit others. 

Live a happy life. 

Help more people live a happy life.

Bhavatu sabba maṅgalaṃ. 

May all be happy, peaceful, liberated.”

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