one day, approached by an old hag. Knowing him to be one of India's
greatest Buddhist teachers, she boldly asked him if he understood
all the words in the large book he was reading. He answered smugly
in the affirmative, and the old woman danced and laughed with glee.
Then she asked if he understood every instruction in the book, and
again, Naropa answered affirmatively. This time, however, the old
woman's face darkened with a scowl, and she flew into an immediate
rage, pointing a finger at him and accusing him of being a liar and
a hypocrite. It is said Naropa was forever changed by the encounter
because he inwardly knew he'd been "caught in the act." He did know
the words, this was true, and from this knowledge, he could teach,
and brilliantly so. But he had not yet wholly experienced the
teachings in his heart, and therefore, could not fully understand
that which he taught.
"I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing;
therefore, choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live."
Deuteronomy 30:19
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