Question

Answer the following question in 40 - 50 words:

Though he knew it was impossible, why did Buddha ask Kisa Gotami to bring mustard seeds from a house untouched by death? (The Sermon at Benares)

Answer 1

Buddha asked Kisa Gotami for mustard seeds from a house untouched by death to lead her to a self-realization. Knowing a direct explanation might fail due to her intense grief, he used this practical task to help her discover the universality of death. Her failure to find such a house taught her that mortality is inevitable for all.