From the time he was thirty-five years old, Buddha gave his teaching to everyone who was interested. For the next forty-five years, he travelled bringing people peace, love and kindness.
When Buddha was eighty years old, he thought, “I have done all I could to help others. I have spread knowledge. Now it is time to show them how to leave this world without fear.”
So he called Ananda and said, “Ananda, it is time for us to return to Kapilavastu for the last time. I wish to die in the city where I grew up.”
Ananda spoke sadly, “Oh, Buddha, please do not leave us! What will we do without you?” Buddha answered, “I have always taught that death is a natural part of life. It is nothing to fear. You must understand that. When I am gone, let my teachings be your guide. Come, let us go.”
During the trip, they passed through the village called Kushinagar. Buddha asked his students to stop there and rest. Then he returned to Ananda and said, “This is a place where I shall pass away.” This was the last day of his life. Buddha went out into the garden and lay down between two trees. His students gathered around him. Some were crying, but others, their minds completely at peace, looked on silently. Then Buddha spoke for the last time. “Remember what I have taught you. Craving and desire are the cause of all unhappiness. Everythings sooner or later must change, so do not become attached to anything. Instead of this, you devote yourself to clearing your mind and finding true, lasting happiness. ”
Buddha then turned onto his right side and placed his right hand under his head. He closed his eyes and very peacefully passed away. It was the full moon day of the fourth month.
The Luminous Life of Buddha ( မဟာလူသား မြတ်ဗုဒ္ဓ ) Edited by SHYAM DUA TINYTOT Publication
