Below the highest sphere four Regents sit Who rule our world, and under them are zones Nearer, but high, where saintliest spirits dead Wait thrice ten thousand years, then live again; And on Lord Buddha, waiting in that sky, Came for our sakes the five sure signs of birth So that the Devas knew the signs, and said 'Buddha will go again to help the World.' 'Yea!' spake He, 'now I go to help the World. This last of many times; for birth and death End hence for me and those who learn my Law. I will go down among the Sakyas, Under the southward snows of Himalay, Where pious people live and a just King.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker describes a cosmic hierarchy where Buddha descends repeatedly to help humanity, emphasizing cyclical rebirth and divine signs.
- In plain terms
- Buddha repeatedly returns to aid the world, guided by cosmic signs.
- What can you take from it?
- Spiritual cycles involve divine intervention for humanity’s benefit.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does belief in recurring divine help shape ethical behavior?
Another view
The narrative blends mythic elements that may not be historically factual.
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