Four kinds of followers
Following the Buddha's propagation, countless followers took refuge with him. This inevitably led to a mix of quality among the Sangha community. It was quite impossible for all of them to become saints in a short time. Like the ten fingers, which vary in length, there were bound to be a few weeds found even in a field of top grade.
One day in question time, a disciple asked: " Buddha! Can you tell us about the requirements of an ideal disciple?"
" You have asked at the appropriate time, as I have always wanted to tell you this. There are four kinds of birds: the first has an attractive appearance, but the sound these birds make is unbearable; the second can sing captivatingly, but they are ugly; the third is not only horrible looking, but also sing worse than the others; the fourth is the peacock which is lovely to look at and listen to. Similarly, there are four kinds of Sramanas:
The first possesses a dignified image and majestic posture. Yet they neither practise in accordance with the Dharma nor study well the Sutras. They are like the first kind of birds.
The second cannot compare with the first in appearance and manners, but they are diligent in their Sutra studies and they perceive the Dharma well enough to uphold the precepts. They are like the second kind of birds.
The third not only depart from the teaching of the Dharma and pure practice, but are so lazy and mindless they cannot initiate faith. They became perverted in their beliefs and are just like the third kind of birds.
The fourth are dignified and solemn, industrious in studying the Sutras, diligent in practice and observe the precepts strictly. They would deeply repent even for trivial transgressions, and they readily accept every aspect of the proper Dharma without overlooking the tiniest detail. They are really comparable to the peacocks!
You should all aim to become the fourth kind, as this is my ideal kind of followers. I hope you will deliberate on this and learn likewise."
All the disciples who heard this were totally in agreement with what the
Buddha required of them, and hoped to live up to his expectations.
