Who Owns the Insults?

Akkosaka Bhāradvāja--

The brahmin--found the Buddha one day

And railed against him, throwing harsh words

And abusive insults the Teacher's way.

 

The Buddha calmly said, "Dear brahmin,

Answer, please, my question to you:

You are a guest and your hosts offer food;

If you don't want it, what do you do?"

 

"I don't accept it," the brahmin answered.

"In that case to whom does the food belong?

To the hosts, no?" asked the Buddha.

"Tell me: am I right or wrong?"

 

"The offered food belongs to the hosts,

Of course," responded the brahmin surveying

With curiosity each word that

The great Master was wisely saying.

 

The Buddha said, "Likewise, if you do not

Accept the insults of those who blast you,

Their unwanted "gifts" stay with them,

While you are unscathed; you put it all past you."
 

The brahmin, moved by the Buddha's words,

Reflected on the meaning and sought

Deeper understanding and wisdom

From all the lessons the Teacher taught.

 

If others try to hurt you with words,

Give their nasty comments short shrift.

By staying unruffled, unperturbed--

By resolutely refusing their "gift."

 

(5-5-15)