The world of Tzu Chi April 2021 (Vol.133)

TZU CHI 133 53 * This article is extracted from the book “The Master Tells Stories”. From this story, we can see there is human tendency to believe rumours, and so rumours spread quickly. However, Buddha felt that if his actions, words and thoughts were correct and if he stayed calm and continued to teach patiently, any rumour about him would simply disappear in a matter of time. His actions show how “wise people stop rumours”. Modern society is full of suspicion and conflict. As Buddhists, we should learn Buddha’s spirit and act, speak and think correctly. We should also learn that whenever we hear a rumour, we must ignore it and stop it right there. Then our lives will be happy, and we will not get caught in disagreements. disappear very quickly, in no more than seven days.” When the monks heard Buddha say this, they felt better and continued to go out and ask for food. Seven days passed. During these days, the people of the city saw Buddha’s dignified appearance and heard his sermons. Buddha spoke of the four types of disciples (monks, nuns, male and female lay followers) and the regulations of monks and laity. The people were then aware that Buddhists did not have to become monks. Lay followers did not have to abide by the 250 precepts of the monks, because the laity had only their own five precepts to follow. They could live a Buddhist family life. There were ways for lay followers to develop spiritually. The people of the city were satisfied. The rumour disappeared, and the locals admired and respected Buddha even more. Once again, they happily gave food to the monks.