The Six-Sensed Animal

The Simile of the Six Animals00:00:12

The monk uses a metaphor of six wild animals (a snake, crocodile, bird, dog, jackal, and monkey) tied together and pulling in different directions to represent the six senses. Each animal seeks its own domain, pulling the individual along. The 'strong post' to which they must be tied is the mindfulness of the body.

Mindfulness as Perspective00:02:15

True mindfulness of the body is not just a physical technique but a fundamental perspective or knowledge regarding the nature of the body. Without this perspective, one is constantly pulled down the 'rabbit hole' of sensuality. One must distinguish between simply replacing one object with another and developing a deep understanding that remains regardless of focus.

Correcting Identification with the Senses00:08:48

The central challenge is not the existence of the senses, but the tendency to identify with them as 'mine'. One should not attempt to destroy the senses, but rather exercise restraint by maintaining a perspective that prevents identification with the pulling sensation, acknowledging that letting them run wild leads to suffering.

Guarding the Sense Doors00:15:31

Guarding the sense doors involves anticipating potential excitement before it occurs. Like holding back a dog that hasn't yet spotted prey, a practitioner must maintain focus to prevent the senses from becoming overwhelmed, ultimately leading to a state where the senses are tamed, compliant, and no longer in control of the individual.

Achieving Freedom from Pull00:21:32

Through patient practice and sustained perspective, one can reach a point where the senses are fully trained and obedient. This state of non-identification allows for true peace and the elimination of suffering, as the 'creature' of the senses no longer drags the individual toward greed, aversion, or delusion.