Chapter 32 provides a detailed and profound metaphor of the 'tree of worldly existence.' It is described as a vast, perishable entity with its roots above and branches spreading immeasurably. This tree, born from the seed of the unmanifest, is fundamentally rooted in ignorance, desire, and karma. The chapter states that its leaves are desires and cravings, while its branches represent the spread of possessions like wealth, grain, sons, and wife, as well as the infinite beings with their subtle bodies. This entire structure, which may appear pleasant from afar, is ultimately essenceless like a plantain trunk and flourishes on the foundation of body-consciousness, binding beings through karma.
How does Chapter 32 describe the metaphorical 'tree of worldly existence'?
📖 Chapter 32