At 22 Nov 2007 16:12:17 +0800 Piya Tan wrote:

> Ven Yuttadhammo,
>
> I often consult the Vism, but I would first check to see if the Suttas have
> the word or
> concept first. They are like a book (Suttas) and a pair of spectacles
> (Vism).
>
> Even if I do not have my spectacles, I can still beneift from the book, but
> the spectacles
> would not be so useful without the book :)

Not to be argumentative, but I don't agree with the anology... that is saying that the Vism. has no value if taken on its own, which of course is to also deny the value of the canonical material it contains.

Maybe the Vism. is like condensed chicken soup, and the tipitaka is like adding water and spices. Of course, the latter is to be preferred, but the former will do in a pinch, and is much quicker.

Or the Tipitaka is like a vast road map, and the Vism specific directions. The former is okay if you have time to study it thoroughly and pick the right roads, but the latter will do for someone with little time and a destination to reach.

Anyway, take your pick, I've given both.

> Best wishes in your coming exams.

Thank you - an ordination the day before will make things interesting!

Best wishes,

Yuttadhammo