don't expect help from anyone

bodhi tree

Ashok Mishra

When Gautam Buddha realized that his death was near, he thought of giving his last sermon to his disciples. Anyway, at the age of eighty the body had become quite weak. Consuming Sukar Maddava was causing stomach ache, dysentery and bleeding. In such a situation, even if any normal person was there, he could have imagined the future apprehension. All the disciples became alert to listen to the last message of Buddha. 

First he preached to the householders. He said in a weak voice that you people should always follow the path of religion. Religion teaches us to live within limits. Religion teaches discipline. Just like a river without a bank becomes unruly. She destroys herself and everyone else, similarly, without being bound by the limits of religion, he destroys himself and others. 

Household disciples, believe in yourself. Don't expect help from anyone else. By believing in yourself, knowledge will blossom in your heart. You become your own lamp. You will not need anyone's orders or instructions. May you be a lamp. No incarnation will come to teach you the right path. You have to find your own way. 

After this he told the separated that you should never live together for more than two days. Never stay at one place for more than three days. The life of a true monk is made for lifelong tourism. Keep sharing whatever good things you have. Your duty is to inspire people to follow the path of religion. Don't get distracted from your work. After this Mahatma Buddha closed his eyes forever.