The Simile of the Ship
“When a ship is wrecked at sea, those who do not hold onto a timber, or plank, or other solid support will drown in the water, never reaching the other shore. Subhuti, those that do hold onto a timber, or plank, or other solid support will not drown in the water. Happily unhindered, they may reach the shore, where they will stand safe and sound on firm ground.
“Similarly, Subhuti, a bodhisattva who is endowed with a full measure of faith and purity, of kindness and intentions, but without taking hold of the perfection of wisdom, can fall along the way. Not reaching all-embracing knowledge, he may remain only a disciple, or a pratyekabuddha.”
The Perfection of Wisdom by R.C. Jamieson (pg 63)
Illustration: The Buddha of the past, Dipamkara at sea with two attendants. He is the protector of others from sea monsters.
108zenbooks 
another wonderful piece of art. love this image, Buddha standing in the stream, there to help us to the other shore.
reminds me of a quote I saw on tumblr (see where I get my education!) be a lamp (which of course the Buddha said, unto yourself) but someone had added “be a lifeboat, be a ladder.)
Okay I’ll go now that I’ve defiled your wonderful wisdom and ancient scrolls with tumblerspeak.
😆 I love my tumblr. Love your tumblr too!
I particularly liked this one because of the wonderful controlled chaos and the stillness of the Buddha. And it’s blue. 😉
Nothing defiled, nothing immaculate!
These are great! I thought for a moment this was going to be about the doctrine of tabula in naufragio, but that’s pretty boring 🙂
David, there are days I wonder about you – then there are days I worry! 😉
Ok so did look that up… were you getting ready to Occupy108? 😆