As a custodian of the Buddha’s relics, I find myself reflecting on the Buddha’s own struggles during his lifetime and how they mirror the challenges I face today in preserving these sacred objects.
Even before his final days, the Buddha encountered many hardships, both internally and externally. In his very first Dhamma talk—the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta (SN 56.11)—he faced resistance from his own close disciples, the five ascetics, who were initially reluctant to listen to him. Despite their hesitation, he persevered, guiding them gently toward understanding.
The Buddha’s path was never easy. He faced opposition from within his own followers and from external religious institutions. According to the Anguttara Nikaya (AN 3.66), there were even three attempts on his life—a sobering reminder that not everyone welcomed the light of the Dhamma.
His solitary struggles are also well-documented. The Dhaniya Sutta (Sn 1.2) beautifully describes the Buddha’s contentment in solitude, even amid challenges. Yet, there were moments of profound loneliness. For instance, when Venerable Meghiya left him alone during a critical time (AN 9.3), the Buddha remained silent and composed, reflecting his deep equanimity.
In the Dīgha Nikāya (DN 16), we read of the incident at the Capala shrine, where the Buddha felt a strong desire for water but struggled to find clean drinking water—an experience that echoes the challenges faced by seekers of truth who, even today, may struggle to find pure resources amid defilements and obstacles.
Internal Sangha disputes were not uncommon. The Kosambiya Sutta (MN 48) recounts how the Buddha’s own disciples divided into factions over disagreements about Vinaya rules. In the Kinti Sutta (MN 103) and the Sāmagāma Sutta (MN 104), the Buddha had to guide his followers through disputes and help them maintain harmony.
These references remind me that the challenges I face today—political pressures, false claims, misunderstandings, and betrayals—are not new. The Buddha himself faced them, and he taught us how to respond with patience, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the Dhamma.
One passage that resonates deeply with me is from AN 5.77:
“These are the five future dangers, as yet unarisen, that will arise in the future. Be alert to them and, being alert, work to get rid of them.”
The Buddha’s teachings and relics have always needed protection—from ignorance, from greed, from doubt. Today, as I work to preserve his relics and share their significance with the world, I draw strength from the Buddha’s own struggles and victories.
May this work continue to honor his legacy, despite the challenges that remain. May those who walk this path find courage in his example and wisdom in his words.
With respect and determination,
Bhikkhu Indasoma Siridantamahāpālaka (Sao Dhammasami)
Research Scholar, Buddhist Studies
Hswagata Buddha Tooth Relics Preservation Museum
"Note: As the author of this article, I am an ordinary young monk writing about traditional Buddhist teachings regarding custodian Devas, Yakkhas, and Vijjadharas. This writing is based on scriptural sources and traditional accounts. I make no claims of personal supernatural abilities or direct experience with these beings. This article is purely for educational purposes and sharing traditional Buddhist knowledge.
I wish to clearly state that this work does not involve any claims of jhāna, magga, or superhuman states. It is simply an academic exploration of these finding."