Buddha criticized the Brahmins for their casteism. But among his students there were many people belonging to the highest caste. One of them was Sariputta.
He came to argue with Buddha.
There was such a tradition. Scientists traveled around the country, defeating each other in arguments. By that time, Sariputta had defeated all the scientists and had a huge number of disciples. Buddha asked him:
—Are you interested in the Truth or your victory? Have you learned the Truth, or are you still just a scientist?
Sariputta replied:
- I cannot claim that I have learned the Truth.
Then Buddha said:
“I’m ready to argue, but is it possible to argue?” I see the Light, you don't. I cannot explain to you what Light is. So if you are interested in Truth and not in winning, stay here.
Sariputta addressed his disciples:
“I’m no longer your teacher, I remain at the feet of this man as a student, if you want, you can stay too.”
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru