“Where would I find enough leatherTo cover the entire surface of the earth?But with leather soles beneath my feet,It’s as if the whole world has been covered.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis of the Quote by Shantideva
In this quote by Shantideva, the speaker explores the idea of finding contentment and peace within oneself, rather than seeking it externally. By suggesting that even with leather soles beneath their feet, it feels as though the whole world has been covered, they convey the message that true satisfaction comes from within, rather than from material possessions or external circumstances. This quote serves as a reminder to look inward for fulfillment and to cultivate a sense of inner peace and gratitude.
The Power of Perspective
In this quote attributed to the Buddhist monk Shantideva, we are reminded of the power of perspective and gratitude. The metaphor of using leather to cover the earth highlights the vastness and impossibility of such a task. However, by simply having leather soles beneath our feet, we can feel as though we are walking on the entirety of the world. This notion holds a deeper meaning that can be applied to our modern lives and serve as a reminder to appreciate the simple things we have.
Reflection on the Importance of Shoes
The quote by Shantideva emphasizes the significance of a simple pair of leather shoes in protecting us from the vast world beneath our feet. It highlights how a small item like leather soles can make a substantial difference in our perspective and experience of the world around us.
Reflection Questions
In this reflection, we contemplate the profound words of Shantideva and consider our own perspectives on material possessions and gratitude.
- What does this verse suggest about our perception of wealth and abundance?
- How does the imagery of leather covering the earth challenge our understanding of material possessions?
- How does the concept of wearing leather soles change our perspective on the world around us?
- In what ways can we cultivate a mindset of gratitude and contentment with what we have, rather than constantly seeking more?
- How can we apply the lesson of this verse to our daily lives and interactions with others?
Similar quotes
“Unruly beings are as unlimited as spaceThey cannot possibly all be overcome,But if I overcome thoughts of anger aloneThis will be equivalent to vanquishing all foes.Where would I possibly find enough leatherWith which to cover the surface of the earth?But (wearing) leather just on the soles of my shoesIs equivalent to covering the earth with it.Likewise it is not possible for meTo restrain the external course of things;But should I restrain this mind of mineWhat would be the need to restrain all else?”
“We hate suffering, but love it’s causes.”
“May the blind see the forms,May the deaf hear sounds.May the naked find clothing,The hungry find food;May the thirsty find waterAnd delicious drinks.May the poor find wealth,Those weak with sorrow find joy;May the forlorn find new hope,Constant happiness and prosperity.May the frightened cease to be afraidAnd those bound be freed;May the powerless find power,And may the people think of benefiting one another”
“What need is there to say more?The childish work for their own benefit,The Buddhas work for the benefit of others.Just look at the difference between them.If I do not exchange my happiness, for the suffering of others, I shall not attain the state of Buddhahood.And even in Samsara I shall have no real joy. The source of all misery in the world lies in thinking of oneself;The source of all happiness lies in thinking of others.”
“For as long as space endures And for as long as living beings remain, Until then may I too abide To dispel the misery of the world.”
“All the suffering there is in this world arises from wishing our self to be happy. All the happiness there is in this world arises from wishing others to be happy.”