Few Cross to the Other Shore – Buddhist Wisdom on Rarity.
In the ancient Buddhist text known as the Dhammapada, the Buddha offers a profound and haunting observation:
“Few among men are those who reach the other shore; the rest run up and down the shore.”
— Dhammapada, Verse 85
This verse is more than poetry—it’s a truth that continues to echo through time. It speaks to the spiritual path that few take, the inner journey that leads to freedom, peace, and awakening. In today’s fast-paced, distraction-filled world, this insight is more relevant than ever.
Table of Contents
What Is the “Other Shore”?
The “other shore” is a metaphor for enlightenment—a state of liberation from suffering, ignorance, and the endless cycle of craving and aversion. In Buddhist philosophy, this cycle is called samsara. Most people, the Buddha teaches, are caught in the currents of samsara: pursuing temporary pleasures, fearing loss, and reacting to life from ego and attachment.
To “reach the other shore” is to step out of this cycle. It means to live with mindfulness, clarity, and compassion. It is to realize the impermanence of all things and find peace in the present moment.
Why So Few?
Why do so few people reach the other shore?
Because the path is not easy.
It requires deep self-awareness, consistent meditation, and a willingness to let go of the illusions we cling to—identity, possessions, beliefs, and even our stories. The path asks us to look within rather than blame the world outside. It challenges us to examine our fears, our habits, and our attachments.
Most people avoid this. It’s easier to stay busy, distracted, and entertained than to sit in silence and observe the mind. It’s easier to run up and down the shore than to actually cross the river.
Crossing the River
The Buddha often described the spiritual path as a crossing. He said the Dharma—the teachings—are like a raft. We use it to cross over from confusion to clarity, from suffering to serenity. But once we reach the other shore, we don’t carry the raft on our backs. We let it go.
This speaks to the non-dogmatic nature of Buddhism. The teachings are a guide, not a belief system to be clung to. They serve their purpose—to help us awaken—and then we move forward with lightness and understanding.
Bringing It Into Daily Life
You don’t have to live in a monastery or renounce the world to begin crossing to the other shore. The journey starts in the present moment—with each breath, each choice, and each act of awareness.
Ask yourself:
- Am I reacting from ego or responding with wisdom?
- Am I clinging to something that’s causing suffering?
- Can I let go and be present right now?
Practicing mindfulness, cultivating compassion, and reflecting on the impermanence of life are all part of the crossing.
Final Thoughts
The Buddha’s words remind us that the path of wisdom is not popular—it’s personal. It’s not loud, but quiet. Not filled with guarantees, but with invitations to look within. And while few may choose this path, those who do discover a freedom and peace that cannot be found on the surface of things.
At YourWisdomVault, we share timeless teachings like this to inspire the modern seeker. If this message speaks to you, consider taking your own first step toward the other shore. You don’t have to know the whole path—just start walking it with intention.
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