Francis of Assisi
Sacro Monte di Orta, Italy
My dear friends,
In the journey of spiritual practice, teachings are like a map, the words of the wise are like a lamp illuminating the path. It is in the authentic embodiment of these teachings that one reveals the essence of true wisdom, not merely in their recitation.
and to his disciples,
"The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat;
therefore, do whatever they teach you and follow it;
but do not do as they do,
for they do not practice what they teach."
- Matthew 23:1-3
Like a tree that is known by its fruit, a teacher is known by their actions. To sit in the seat of Moses is to shoulder a responsibility that extends beyond verbal guidance to the embodiment of the precepts. True teachers guide by example, aligning action with instruction, so that teachings are not hollow, but filled with the substance of lived experience.
but they themselves are unwilling to lift a finger to move them."
- Matthew 23:4
Compassion is the very essence of a spiritual path, and it manifests in easing the burdens of others, not in increasing them. The wise take care not to impose what they themselves cannot bear. It is in shared toil and mutual support that the community's spiritual growth is nurtured.
for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long."
- Matthew 23:5
True virtue lies in the quietude of action not aimed at the gallery of spectators but rooted in the silent soil of the heart. It is not outward display, but inward intention, that nurtures the seed of spirituality. As a flower does not bloom for admiration but as a natural expression of its essence, so too should actions be a reflection of inner commitment to the path, not a costume worn for public accolade.
and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have people call them rabbi."
- Matthew 23:6-7
In the pursuit of recognition and honor, one may stray from the path. True practitioners do not perform virtuous deeds out of a wish for admiration, but out of wisdom and compassion. As the peacock does not spread its feathers in vanity, but in the natural expression of its being, so too should virtuous actions be an uncontrived expression of inner purity.
And call no one your father on earth, for you have one Father--the one in heaven.
Nor are you to be called instructors, for you have one instructor, the Messiah."
- Matthew 23:8-10
Beware the lure of titles, the worldly accolades that whisper promises of superiority and separation. For those who walk the Way, such distinctions are but illusions, mere shadows cast by the ego. The true teacher serves not under the heavy cloak of titles but stands radiant in the light of true Bodhisattva motivation. With loving kindness and great compassion as their guides, they walk alongside their students in shared humility. Their greatest joy lies in guiding others toward liberation.
All who exalt themselves will be humbled,
and all who humble themselves will be exalted."
- Matthew 23:11-12
The path to true greatness winds through the valleys of service and humility. Just as the highest peaks are supported by the earth below, the truly exalted are those who support others. Humility is the root from which the flower of wisdom blossoms, and in serving others selflessly, one finds the path to enlightenment.
Let us we seek to embody the virtues espoused in these teachings: to practice with sincerity, to share the load of others with compassion, to perform actions without seeking recognition, to approach each being with humility, and to serve with the selflessness of the enlightened ones. May this reflection guide us towards a path of wisdom and compassion, for the benefit of all beings.