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(The Buddha with his disciples. One disciple stands up.)DISCIPLE: O Lord, I wish to preach your teachings.
BUDDHA: Certainly you may, but I would like to ask you a few questions first. I am sure you will be able to answer them.
DISCIPLE: It is by your grace that I will be able to answer them.
BUDDHA: Tell me, if somebody speaks ill of you, what will you do?
DISCIPLE: My Lord, I shall keep silent.
BUDDHA: Tell me, if he strikes you, what will you do?
DISCIPLE: I shall not raise my hands. I shall remain silent.
BUDDHA: If he wants to kill you, what will you do?
DISCIPLE: I shall keep silent. I know that death is inevitable. Everybody has to die. I shall also have to die one day. I shall not invoke death, and at the same time I shall not avoid death.
BUDDHA: I am most pleased with your answers. You can preach my philosophy. You have my blessings. (To all the disciples.) Today I would like to walk in the forest. Those who want to follow me can come along.
(All the disciples eagerly follow the Buddha.)
