been the foundation of my conscious existence. I am continuously
extending the spirit of loving kindness and dedicating the fruits
of my merit to all living beings without exception. I do not want
to see any animal lose the life it cherishes so dearly. I could never
countenance having my own death become a source of enmity
between myself and the world’s animals.
“I want you to take me to Sakon Nakhon so I can die there.
That town has a large marketplace, so my death should not affect
the lives of so many animals. I have yet to die, but monks and lay
people are already arriving here in a steady stream, their numbers
increasing each day – clear evidence of the scale of the problem.
Now think of how many people will come when I finally do die.
Many people will mourn my death, but that is not my concern. I
am ready for death – whenever and wherever it happens. I have
no regrets about parting with my body. Having already investi-
gated it thoroughly, I know that it is merely a combination of ele-
ments that have joined together temporarily, only to break apart
again and revert back to their original elemental nature. What
is there to be attached to? What I am concerned about is safe-
guarding the local farm animals so they won’t have to perish as
well. I don’t want to see animal carcasses laid out for sale all up
and down the roadsides here. That would be extremely regret-
table. Fortunately, it’s not too late to remedy the situation. I am
asking that you arrange for my departure as soon as possible for
the sake of all those animals that would otherwise die as a result
of my death. It is my express wish that their lives be protected.
Does anyone have anything to say? If so, speak up now.”
Not a single person in the group spoke up. An atmosphere
of quiet despair pervaded the assembly. As the Buddha said:
jacob rumans
(Jacob Rumans)
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