The Zen Buddhist expression "cannot make crossing until you can take everyone with" speaks to the profound interconnectedness of all beings and the bodhisattva ideal of universal salvation. It highlights the following interconnected principles:
* Interdependence: It emphasizes that we are all interconnected and that our individual liberation is ultimately linked to the liberation of all beings. We are not separate entities but part of a larger whole.
* Compassion: It reflects the deep compassion at the heart of Buddhism, particularly Mahayana Buddhism. The idea is that true enlightenment involves not only realizing the nature of reality but also actively working to alleviate the suffering of others.
* Bodhisattva Ideal: The saying embodies the bodhisattva vow, which is the commitment to postpone one's own final nirvana until all sentient beings are liberated. It's not necessarily about physically carrying everyone across a river but about a deep commitment to helping others on their path to awakening.
* Ego and Attachment: The saying challenges the ego's tendency to seek individual enlightenment as a separate achievement. It suggests that clinging to the idea of "my" enlightenment while others are suffering is a form of attachment that hinders true awakening.
* Practice and Action: It's not just a philosophical concept but a call to action. It encourages us to engage in practices that benefit others, whether through direct service, teaching, or simply cultivating compassion and understanding in our daily lives.
In essence, the expression urges us to broaden our perspective, recognizing that our own well-being is intimately tied to the well-being of all others. It encourages us to cultivate compassion, act with kindness, and work tirelessly to alleviate suffering, understanding that true enlightenment is a collective endeavor.