Learning from Devadatta

The Buddha had a cousin named Devadatta. He was jealous of the Buddha’s fame, and he desired to take over the Buddha’s community. He tried to assassinate the Buddha many times, but always failed. In the end, he died by falling into a valley. Afterwards, the Buddha thought back on his cousin’s behavior and said, “He always caused me trouble, but if he had not, I would not have attained enlightenment by now. He was my teacher. He will be reborn as a Buddha in the future.” Learning is enlightening. Please keep a modest attitude in order to learn, and to become an Enlightened One.

Spring Writings