Dear Yong Peng,
op 01-03-2005 01:41 schreef Ong Yong Peng op yongpeng.ong@...:
The Rhinoceros horn (and the Sutta Nipaata) is probably one

> of the earliest records of Buddha's teachings.

N: I am using the PTS edition by Norman. He also says that its antiguity is
shown by its presence in the Mahavastu, and also that it is commented upon
in the Niddesa.
Y.P.:Just out of curiosity, how does not hurting other beings relate to not
wishing for a son?

> And do both relate to the phrase "Whence a friend?"

N: This sutta is included in the Apadaana (Khuddaka Nikaaya) in the part on
Paccekabuddhas, solitary Buddhas. See also Wheel 305-307.
This sutta praises the solitary life of a paccekabuddha. The one horn of the
Indian Rhinoceros symbolizes the solitary life, according to Norman.
Not hurting beings: this is a life without violence, like the life of an
ascetic. Not wishing for a son, being without clinging to a family, such as
is the case in the householder's life. Evenso, one should not cling to
having a friend.
Further on in the sutta it is explained that one should avoid an evil
companion. One should cultivate a noble friend, but when doubts have been
dispelled one should wander solitary (vs. 58).
This sutta is a reminder of the amount of clinging connected with the
household life. A wise friend can help one to develop the Path but then one
should develop it oneself, independently of others.
Nina.