The Hardest Part of Buddhism Isn’t Hearing — It’s Staying Awake (Dhammapada 85-86) Reflections by Bhante Dr. Chandima

1. Most people remain on the “near shore,” caught in mere comfort and routine.

The Buddha points out that the majority of people move through life without questioning deeper meaning, carried by habit, busyness, and worldly attachment/craving/clinging. They only chase comfort, entertainment, or validation, rather than cultivating wisdom. Recognizing this prevents us from drifting unconsciously with the crowd and reminds us to live deliberately — choosing inner peace over reaction, mindfulness over distraction, and values over social pressure.

2. Only a few choose the path toward liberation (inner transformation).

Crossing to the “further shore” represents the courage to prioritize spiritual and psychological growth over superficial rewards. It requires discipline, honesty, and a willingness to face discomfort. When we remember this, we stop measuring progress by external validation and begin nurturing what cannot be taken away — clarity of mind, calmness, and integrity. Even if few understand our choices, we walk a path that brings deeper fulfillment.

3. Hearing the Dhamma is not enough — transformation comes only through practice.

Many listen to teachings, read spiritual books, or attend talks, yet only a few integrate them into daily actions. True change happens when teachings shape speech, behaviour, and perception. This inspires us to embody what we learn — pausing before reacting, speaking kindly, restraining harmful habits, and observing the mind during anger or craving. By living the teaching rather than simply knowing it, wisdom becomes visible in our character.

4. Diligence is what separates true seekers from passive listeners.

In the story, only a small number stayed awake and listened attentively throughout the night; others left early or sat half-asleep. The difference was not opportunity but commitment. This invites us to cultivate even small but consistent effort — a few minutes of meditation each day, steady ethical conduct, or regular reflection. Such persistence slowly but surely reshapes the mind, allowing emotional balance and clarity to grow over time.

5. The untrained mind is naturally restless and drawn toward distraction.

Running along the “near shore” symbolizes the cycle of craving, comparison, anxiety, boredom, and constant stimulation. We see this today in endless scrolling, compulsive multitasking, and the inability to sit quietly with ourselves. Recognizing this pattern allows us to interrupt it by returning to awareness — taking a conscious breath, grounding in the present moment, or noticing thoughts without being swept away. Each moment of awareness weakens the spell of restlessness.

6. Freedom requires living “according to Dhamma,” not selectively or conveniently.

The Buddha emphasizes practising the whole path — right view, ethical conduct, mindfulness, wisdom, and compassion — not only the parts we prefer. When our intentions, speech, and actions align with our values, the mind becomes light instead of conflicted. This brings a steady happiness rooted in integrity: fewer regrets, clearer relationships, and a deep sense of self-respect that does not depend on circumstance.

7. Crossing the realm of death means breaking the cycle of ego-based suffering.

“Maccudheyya” refers not only to physical death but to the repeated inner suffering caused by fear, anger, craving, insecurity, and attachment. Each time we let go — softening the ego, releasing resentment, forgiving others or ourselves, responding rather than reacting — we cross a little further toward freedom. Liberation becomes a daily experience, not a distant ideal, because suffering weakens each time the ego loosens its grip.

8. Awakening is possible for anyone who follows the path sincerely.

The Buddha makes clear that liberation is not reserved for monks, scholars, or extraordinary people — it is open to anyone who lives the teaching with sincerity. Whether busy, stressed, or imperfect, we can take one mindful step at a time: showing kindness, restraining harmful speech, being grateful, observing emotions, or choosing patience over anger. Hope replaces discouragement because the path is always available in every moment.

A final thought

Most people chase short-term satisfaction; a rare few cultivate the causes of deep peace. Those who live the Dhamma wholeheartedly — not just intellectually — slowly but surely cross the ocean of suffering and discover freedom within their own minds.