Chapter Eleven: Analysis of Beginnings and Ends
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When asked whether any beginning can be seen,
The Able One answered in the negative. Cyclic existence has no beginning or end; There is no before and there is no after. [11.1] When something has neither beginning nor end, How could it possibly have a middle? Therefore, cyclic existence cannot Be either sequential or simultaneous. [11.2] If birth came first And aging and death followed later, There would be birth without aging and death As well as birth without anyone having died. [11.3] If birth occurred later, And aging and death before, How could this causeless aging and death Happen to someone who was never born? [11.4] Birth, aging and death Cannot occur simultaneously, For the one being born would then be dying, And both would be lacking their cause. [11.5] As it is impossible for them to occur In sequence or simultaneously, Why would anyone think In terms of birth, aging and death? [11.6] Not only does cyclic existence Have no beginning, But also cause and effect, Characteristics and their bearers. [11.7] Feelings and those that feel-- Whatever there may be. The same applies to all things; None have a beginning. [11.8] <- Prev Next -> |
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