Brahmin Piṅgalakoccha

1 discourse

MN 30 Cūḷasāropama sutta - The Lesser Discourse on the Simile of the Heartwood

When questioned about rival teachers, the Buddha sets the debate aside to explain the true purpose of the spiritual life through the simile of the heartwood. He cautions that settling for fame, ethical conduct, or lesser meditative states is like mistaking branches or bark for the core. The ultimate goal remains the unshakeable liberation of mind.

PTS 1.198–1.204