The Meaning of “The Middle Way”

Buddhism shows us the healthy way forward is somewhere between too little and too much

When the Buddha began his teaching, he inspired many people to give up their old lives, and join him. One particular young man named Sona was so fervent about following the spiritual path that he gave up everything, even his vina (an instrument), even his dreams of becoming a musician.

Sona came from a wealthy family, and felt that his upbringing had left him too pampered and soft. Believing he therefore needed to discipline himself immensely, he went into the forest to meditate, braving poisonous snakes and other dangerous creatures. To ensure that he would leave his softness behind, Sona went into the forest barefoot.

Concerned by Sona’s zeal, the Buddha decided to follow him into the forest and check on him. Sona was easy to track — the Buddha followed the path of blood from his bare feet.

The Buddha brought with him a vina, but had loosened the strings until they were totally limp. When he found Sona, the Buddha asked him for instructions on how to play the instrument.

“Blessed One, you cannot play when the strings are so limp!”

The Buddha responded by tightening the strings, so much so that Sona winced, thinking they…