Qualities of a Dharma teacher The Buddha speaks with the Venerable Ananda:
"It's not easy to teach the Dharma to others. The Dharma should be taught to others only when five qualities are established within the person teaching. Which five?
"[1] The Dharma should be taught with the thought, 'I will speak step-by-step.'
"[2] The Dharma should be taught with the thought, 'I will speak explaining the sequence [of cause & effect].'
" The Dharma should be taught with the thought, 'I will speak out of compassion.'
"[4] The Dharma should be taught with the thought, 'I will speak not for the purpose of material reward.'
"[5] The Dharma should be taught with the thought, 'I will speak without disparaging myself or others.'
"It's not easy to teach the Dharma to others, Ananda. The Dharma should be taught to others only when these five qualities are established within the person teaching."
In reference to our host
Posted - Jul 20 2006 : 12:10:13 AM
The Dharma should be taught with the thought, 'I will speak out of compassion.' 