Should an Arahant become an unwanted burden to his caretaker?
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The following sutta quote suggests that under the stated conditions, an Arahant should forcibly remain an unwanted burden or guest to a specific individual caretaker, even if sent away (or dismissed - according to Ven. Suddhaso's translation).
Is this really the case?
If that specific individual caretaker is unable to care for that Arahant any more due to personal circumstances e.g. due to financial reasons or family reasons or health reasons, what should he do?
> Take another case of a mendicant who lives supported by an individual.
> As they do so, their mindfulness becomes established, their mind
> becomes immersed in samādhi, their defilements come to an end, and
> they arrive at the supreme sanctuary. And the necessities of life that
> a renunciate requires—robes, almsfood, lodgings, and medicines and
> supplies for the sick—are easy to come by. That mendicant should
> reflect: ‘While living supported by this person, my mindfulness
> becomes established … And the necessities of life are easy to come
> by.’ That mendicant should follow that person for the rest of their
> life. **They shouldn’t leave them, even if sent away**.”
> MN 17 (translated by Ven. Sujato)
Asked by ruben2020
(39432 rep)
Apr 22, 2022, 10:17 AM
Last activity: Apr 22, 2022, 06:52 PM
Last activity: Apr 22, 2022, 06:52 PM