Date: 12/21/2024 12/22/2024
Location: Star Ocean Meditation Center
Teacher: Otto Huang
Dharma Talk
War and Victory & Defeat
Once, the Buddha traveled to the capital city of Shravasti in the Kosala kingdom and stayed in the Jeta Grove Monastery, south of the city.
At that time, the kingdom of Kosala, located in the midstream region of the Ganges, was ruled by King Prasenajit and was quite powerful. Neighboring countries, including Kapilavastu to the north (the Buddha’s homeland) and Kashi to the south, had submitted to him, becoming vassal states. Thus, Kosala was a dominant force in the region. Meanwhile, after King Ajatashatru ascended the throne of the Magadha kingdom, he promoted military prowess and frequently dispatched troops to conquer neighboring countries, establishing Magadha as a powerful kingdom downstream on the Ganges. Consequently, Kosala and Magadha became two powerful neighboring states, often clashing over interests, resulting in constant conflicts.
This time, King Ajatashatru led his forces to invade the neighboring Kashi kingdom to the west. King Prasenajit, as the leader of Kashi’s protectorate, dispatched troops from the north to aid Kashi, leading to a fierce battle. However, King Prasenajit suffered a crushing defeat and separated from his entourage, fled alone in his chariot back to the capital city of Shravasti. Monks begging for alms in Shravasti learned of this situation and reported it to the Buddha, who then said:
“Victory breeds resentment in enemies;
Defeat brings anguish in sleepless nights.
Thus, letting go of both victory and defeat,
One sleeps in peace and finds joy in tranquility.”
On another occasion, King Ajatashatru launched a direct attack on the Kosala kingdom. King Prasenajit, well-prepared, dealt a heavy blow to the invading forces and captured King Ajatashatru alive. Remembering that Ajatashatru was his nephew and that there was no deep-seated enmity between them, King Prasenajit considered releasing him after confiscating his military resources. He brought Ajatashatru to see the Buddha, hoping to hear his opinion. The Buddha fully supported this decision and said:
“Power that crushes others
Will, in turn, be crushed by others.
Force that plunders people
Will, in turn, be plundered.
The foolish think they will go unpunished,
But great suffering awaits them.
When their life ends, they will realize
There are indeed consequences.”
