1. Right Mindfulness (sammā sati) naturally leads to exertion/constant practice (uyyuñjanti)
The verse begins by linking right mindfulness with right effort. The mindful ones do not merely observe; they apply themselves continuously. This shows that sammā sati in Early Buddhism is not passive awareness but an active, vigilant engagement with life. Arahant Mahākassapa’s conduct reflects this—his renunciation was not symbolic but lived through disciplined action and readiness to move when conditions required.
2. Non-delight in abodes (places/temples/vihāras) means freedom from psychological settling
“Not delighting in abodes (places/temples/vihāra)” (na nikete ramanti) does not only mean lack of clinging to physical dwellings. It also points to freedom from mental abodes—identity, reputation, familiarity, and emotional security. Arahant Mahākassapa did not “settle” even in respect, devotion, or abundance of support. His thoughts remained unlocated.
3. Renunciation is proven where reverence is abundant
Arahant Mahākassapa was surrounded by devotees, relatives, and supporters who provided the four requisites with deep respect. Yet abundance can easily breed subtle clinging. His life shows that true renunciation is tested not in scarcity but in comfort. He accepted requisites without psychological ownership, exemplifying use without clinging.
4. Obedience to the Buddha overrides personal inclination
Arahant Mahākassapa returned to Rājagaha not because he preferred it, but because the Buddha instructed him to do so for the welfare of the Saṅgha. This illustrates that an arahant’s freedom does not mean independence from Dhamma discipline. Wisdom expresses itself through harmony with the Teacher’s intention, not through personal choice.
5. Judging others without insight leads to a wrong view
The monks interpreted Arahant Mahākassapa’s actions through assumption and suspicion. This episode warns that outward behaviour alone cannot reveal inner freedom. Without insight into intention/volition (cetanā), judgment becomes projection. The story trains monks—and laypeople—to suspend quick conclusions and cultivate charitable understanding.
6. The swan simile reveals non-abiding engagement
Like a swan entering and leaving a lake without disturbance, Arahant Mahākassapa could dwell among people without being bound by them. This is not avoidance of society but mastery within it. The arahant engages fully yet leaves no trace—no dependence, no resentment, no possession.
7. The “path of the moon” signifies traceless movement
The Buddha describes Arahant Mahākassapa as following a lunar path—visible yet ungraspable. Just as the moon leaves no footprints, arahants act without generating new karma. Their actions arise from wisdom, not craving or aversion, and therefore do not bind them to place, praise, or blame.
8. Non-resident mood of living (dwelling without settling) is the fruit of abandoning ‘I’ and ‘mine.’
The deepest meaning of “leaving abode after abode” (okamokaṃ jahanti) is the abandonment of appropriation. Because arahants are free from the notions of “I live here” or “this supports me,” no situation can imprison them.
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