At 10:07 PM 08-06-05, yifertw wrote:

> The reason we go to SN Verses 796 to 803 is:
> We are reading S1.2.10 Samiddhi, and find it difficult to explain
>why Bhikkhus should not perceive "I am superior", "I am equal" or "I
>am inferior". We propose the Paramatthaka Sutta of SN may echo or is
>the sources of it.

I wonder if in Taiwan they have a saying as we do here: "ren2 bi3 ren2, qi4 si3 ren2".

For the benefit of those who don't understand Mandarin, let me try render it in English, which is quite impossible do while keeping the literal meaning intact. In essence it is "Comparing among individuals is exasperating."

I'm not too sure about the technicality of why this comparing should not be done, but it certainly can be experienced that when such perception arises, there's a tension in the mind, which also has an effect on the body, which can be felt. Regardless of the feelings that arises with it, it is akusala and dukkha.

I understand that only arahants are truly rid of such a habit. For the rest of us, it's still a training, something to watch out for.


metta,
kb

"Life is tough, tougher if you're stupid." -- John Wayne