What does it mean to encounter a Buddha on the road?
Synthesized from Source
definition
"To encounter a Buddha on the road is to meet a guide; use them to cross to your own realization, then let go, for true enlightenment lies beyond the teacher."
According to Osho, 'encountering a Buddha on the road' means meeting the master or any mental image of enlightenment; you must 'kill' it—let go of the teacher and the concept—once it has served, or it becomes bondage. The master is a ladder/boat, a door; use it to cross, then drop it to realize your own Buddha-nature, beyond duality and possessive devotion.
Learn from a wise guide, then stop clinging—even to them or your ideas—so your own wisdom can shine.
Why this matters practically
- Prevents dependence on gurus or traditions; builds inner authority.
- Cuts attachment to concepts that block direct experience.
- Teaches loving guidance without possessiveness, enabling true freedom.
- Cuts attachment to concepts that block direct experience.
- Teaches loving guidance without possessiveness, enabling true freedom.
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