The Way to the Beyond

15: Mogharāja’s Questions

“Twice I asked the Sakyan, but the Visionary did not reply, if asked up to a third time the Divine Seer will answer, so I have heard.Mogharāja had tried to ask his question earlier on two occasions, but understanding that he was not ready, the Buddha accepted other questions first, giving him a chance to mature. This world, the other world, the Brahmā world with its Gods: One does not know what view of this the reputable Gotama has. So, to the One with Excellent Sight, I have come in need with a question: looking on the world in what way does the king of Death not see one?” [141-143]

“Look on the world as empty,This is one of the earliest references to suññatā, which was to play such an important role in the Mahāyāna teachings. Mogharāja, being always mindful. Having removed wrong view of self, in this way one will cross beyond Death. When looking on the world in this way the king of Death does not see one.” [144]

last updated: May 2007