The
way of the sweet dew
Buddhist followers usually describe their bliss after hearing the Dharma with the phrase 'quenched by the sweet dew'.What actually is 'sweet dew'? And why this description?
A Bikshu asked the Buddha these questions one day.
The Buddha told him:" 'Sweet dew implies eternal life or the state of Nirvana. Now that I have realised the state of 'no more leakages', I can elucidate on the way of practice to reach that state."
" Buddha! Are there any footsteps to trace on this way of practice? Can everyone reach the state of Nirvana?" The Bikshu asked.
" Yes. There are eight ways of practice that help to reach the State of Nirvana. They are called the Noble Eightfold Path. Everyone can trail on it to attain Buddhahood so it can also be called the Way to Accomplishment of Buddhahood."
" Which eight noble ways are they?" The Bikshu asked eagerly.
The Buddha said:" They are:1. Right view: The proper understanding of Buddhist Dharma, and departure from believing solely in spirits, the self or material things.
2. Right thinking: The proper way of thinking is to depart from perversion, delusion, craving and desires. Contemplate on truth and wisdom.
3. Right speech: This means to refrain from false speech, slander, lies and idle talk.
4. Right deeds: Proper deeds should include abiding by the law, observing the precepts, and practising a kind and noble way living.
5. Right livelihood: Proper occupation to maintain a reasonable standard of living,and always bearing in mind the importance of social ethics and morals.
6. Right mindfulness: Be mindful of what is right and proper, be sincere and depart from delusion.
7. Right effort: Work hard towards the right direction to progress. Persevere in precept observance, meditation and attainment of wisdom.
8. Right concentration: Proper meditation will bring forth inner wisdom and further lead to pure concentration. When focus of contemplation is aimed at one point, all distractions will dissipate, and wholesomeness will be achieved.
The above eight paths constitute the way to Nirvana, and must be practised to be liberated from life and death."
Having heard this, the Bikshu gladly said:" Today I have tasted the sweet dew on having heard this from the Buddha himself. From now on, I will act with faith in accordance with this teaching."[ The 'sweet dew' method refers to the Noble Eightfold Path which if practised, will lead us to the state of Nirvana . It helps in guarding against misdeeds of our actions, speech and thoughts as well as purifying us of the three 'poisons' of craving, resentment and delusion, thus enabling us to be liberated.]
