Maharatnakuta Sutra, “Dwelling In the Forest”

1. Introduction to Textual Resources
The Buddhist tradition spans 2,500 years and more than a dozen cultures. Many texts address important aspects of human-nature relations, and a good number of these demonstrate ecological insight. No single text encompasses the diversity of Buddhist doctrines and practices related to the environment. Contemporary Buddhists are exploring affinities between cardinal Buddhist teachings and environmentally conscious ways of life. As they seek inspiration and guidance on present-day environmental issues, they often find themselves reinterpreting classic sources. In that way, the literature of eco-Buddhism�old and new�continues to develop.

2. Classic Sources from the Buddhist Tradition
Maharatnakuta Sutra, “Dwelling In the Forest”
“Kashyapa, after a forest-dwelling monk arrives at a secluded place, he should follow the Dharma of a forest-dweller and perform eight deeds to show kindness for all sentient beings. What are the eight?

Kashyapa, a forest-dwelling monk should perform these eight deeds to show kindness for all sentient beings. . . .”

“Kashyapa, if a forest-dwelling monk sees men, women, boys, girls, or animals when begging for food, he should have kindness and compassion toward them and think, ‘I strive with vigor so that I can make the vow that sentient beings who see me and those who give me food will all be reborn in heaven.’ . . .”

“Kashyapa, if a forest-dwelling monk is given much food, he should gladly put a handful of it on a clean rock, thinking, ‘I give this to the birds and beasts that can eat it. I am the donor and they are the recipients.’ . . .”¹

more reference on the website whcih this quote was taken from