The Dharma

The Pearl that Cannot be Stolen

It is said that on his path to enlightenment, Manjushri Bodhisattva observed the precepts so well that not once did he steal or lie. As some disbelieved this, he replied that since he had never stolen anything, his belongings would never be stolen. To prove this, he left his precious pearl at a busy city gate. It was agreed that if no one takes it for himself within three days, what he said would be true. In the next three days, countless people passed by... yet it was left untouched.

What is this pearl that cannot be taken by others? It symbolises the "fruit" of his spiritual cultivation. He was putting the embodiment of his virtues to the test. Your precious pearl is the treasury of your cultivated virtues and merits. Though none can steal it, you can always share it. Perhaps, many missed Manjushri's pearl as they did not see the value of virtue. Just as our virtues protect us and our possessions, unseen Bodhisattvas guard the virtuous, as their precious virtues are shining examples for all to see. I imagine then, many other Bodhisattvas guarding Manjushri and his pearl. How then, can it ever be stolen? The Buddha taught that karmically, if one does not taken what is not given, one will not have anything taken from oneself. Vice versa, if one practises generosity, one will gain wealth. Since the most valuable wealth is not material but spiritual, the greatest gift is the Dharma - the gift of Truth.

Enlightened beings are often portrayed holding a glowing wish-fulfilling jewel - a pearl that "magically" grants the wishes of its owner. It represents the truth that if the Dharma is practised well, one's wishes will easily be fulfilled, as one would have "planted" enough merits for their ready "fruition". Interestingly, the wishes of such a person naturally circles around benefitting others, which furthers one's merits. Along with the perfection of wisdom, one's merits thus become immeasurable, culminating in Buddhahood. Are you diligently polishing your pearl of virtue yet? Why not let it shine?

- shian | pic:prajna.nl

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