The Half-closed Eyes of the Buddha and Slowly Sinking Sun

Understanding the text

Answer the following questions.

a. How does the tourist describe his initial impression of the Kathmandu valley?

The tourist describes his initial impression of the Kathmandu valley with words of admiration for the breathtaking natural landscapes, the earthy fragrance of the soil, and the charm of the traditional clay-made homes painted in vibrant colors of red, yellow, and white. The air feels serene with the presence of surrounding mountains, and the tourist is captivated by the picturesque views of the valley.

b. According to the tourist, why is the West indebted to the East?

According to the tourist, the West is indebted to the East because the East has provided the West with diverse civilizations, such as ancient scriptures, brass figures, and intricate ivory decorations. The manuscripts on palm leaves, copperplate inscriptions, and unique West Asian ornaments have captivated the Western world. The cultural and religious harmony, as well as the overall atmosphere of the East, have left a deep impact on the West, leading to a sense of indebtedness.

c. How does the tourist interpret the gaze of the monks and nuns?

The tourist interprets the gaze of the monks and nuns as a profound and sacred gaze, often referred to as the "samyak gaze." They perceive the gaze of these spiritual practitioners as pure, untainted by impurities or prejudices. It is seen as a gaze of wisdom, compassion, and transcendence, reflecting their deep devotion to their spiritual practices.

d. Why do the tourists think Nepali people are wonderful and exceptional?

The tourists find the Nepali people to be wonderful and exceptional due to their ability to live together in harmony and their peaceful nature. The coexistence of different communities, their respect for one another's beliefs and traditions, and the overall peaceful atmosphere of Nepal leave a lasting impression on the tourists.

e. What are the different kinds of communities in the Kathmandu valley and how do they co-exist with each other?

The Kathmandu valley is home to various communities, including Aryans, non-Aryans, Hindus, and Buddhists, among others. These communities coexist with each other due to the inclusive nature of Nepali society and the shared values of peace, harmony, and mutual respect. The Nepali soil, metaphorically representing the nation's ethos, allows for the growth and coexistence of these diverse communities.

f. What does the tourist feel about the temple of Adinath?

The tourist feels a sense of awe and appreciation for the temple of Adinath. Seeing the temple from Chobhar hill, the tourist perceives it as a living testament to the tolerance and harmony of the Nepalese people. The temple represents the coexistence of multiple gods, religions, and philosophies, highlighting Nepal's rich cultural and religious diversity.

g. Why does the guide take the tourist to the remote village?

The guide takes the tourist to the remote village to expose her to the harsh realities and experiences of people living beyond the typical tourist scenarios. By visiting the remote village, the guide aims to show the tourist the unseen poverty and other aspects of the country that are often overlooked in books, novels, or captured by cameras. It provides a more authentic and comprehensive understanding of the country and its challenges.

h. What does the innocent village couple think of the doctor?

i. What are the differences between the paralyzed child and his sister?

The paralyzed child and his sister differ in their physical abilities. The paralyzed child, as described in the story, is extremely sick, rendering his entire body useless. He is unable to speak, move his hands, chew food, or even spit. His body does not respond to commands from his brain, and his eyes are the only indication of his presence and consciousness. On the other hand, his sister is physically capable, crawling around, exploring her surroundings, and displaying typical motor functions like picking up objects and putting them in her mouth.

j. Why does the guide show the instances of poverty to the tourist?

The guide shows the instances of poverty to the tourist in order to offer a more holistic and authentic experience of the country. The initial exposure to the cultural and religious diversity, natural beauty, and other positive aspects of the country may create an incomplete or idealized perception of Nepal. By showing the tourist the realities of poverty and the challenges faced by certain communities, the guide aims to provide a deeper understanding of the country's social and economic dynamics. This exposure allows the tourist to gain a more nuanced perspective and fosters empathy and awareness about the diverse realities within Nepal. It encourages a balanced and compassionate view of the country and its people.

Reference to the context

a. Which narrative technique is used by the author to tell the story? How is this story different from other stories you have read?

The narrative technique used by the author to tell the story is primarily that of a travelogue or a personal account. The story is narrated from the perspective of a tourist visiting the Kathmandu valley and experiencing various aspects of the culture, people, and places. The narrative style is descriptive, emphasizing the sensory details and the tourist's impressions and interpretations of what they encounter.

This story differs from other stories in several ways. Firstly, it focuses on the exploration of a specific location, the Kathmandu valley, and the tourist's encounters and observations during their visit. It provides a glimpse into the cultural richness, religious diversity, and natural beauty of the region through the eyes of the tourist.

Secondly, the story incorporates elements of social commentary and contrasts by addressing topics such as the indebtedness of the West to the East, the gaze of monks and nuns, the coexistence of different communities, the perception of poverty, and the interactions with local people. These themes add depth and insight to the narrative, offering a more layered exploration of the destination beyond mere travel descriptions.

Lastly, the story also touches upon themes of empathy, compassion, and the human condition through the encounters with the paralyzed child and his sister, as well as the innocent village couple. These moments provide a poignant reflection on the challenges and resilience of individuals in the face of adversity.

Overall, this story stands out by combining the elements of a travelogue with social commentary and humanistic observations, offering a unique perspective on the Kathmandu valley and the people who inhabit it.

b. How is the author able to integrate two fragments of the narration into a unified whole?

The author brings together two different parts of the story to make a complete story. They do this by sharing different perspectives and experiences. One part shows the beautiful side of Nepal that tourists usually see, like the mountains and forests. But the other part shows the difficult reality of poverty and suffering that many people in Nepal face. The author helps us see both sides of the story, and understand the challenges that people in Nepal go through. They show us the real hardships and diseases that people in the community experience. It's a way for us to see beyond just the beauty and understand the pain and struggles of the people.

c. The author brings some historical and legendary references in the story. Collect these references and show their significance in the story.

The author includes several historical and legendary references in the story, each carrying its own significance:

Manjushri and his deed: According to the belief, Kathmandu Valley was once a lake, and Manjushri, a legendary figure, cut a gorge at Chobhar Gorge to drain the water and create habitable land. This legendary act is significant as it explains how the Kathmandu valley came into existence.
Cultural, tradition, and art crafts: The story mentions that the Easterners have given various things to the Westerners, such as Puranas (sacred texts), brass images, ivory ornaments, palm leaf manuscripts, and copperplate inscriptions. These cultural artifacts and traditions hold great value and contribute to the richness of culture, tradition, religion, and art.
The gaze of monks and nuns: The story emphasizes the gaze of monks and nuns, who maintain a pure and focused gaze while receiving alms and spreading religious teachings. This "samyak gaze" symbolizes a perception free from impurities and signifies their deep spiritual connection.
Historical Relationship: The story mentions the close relationship between Nepal and Tibet during the Licchavi dynasty, highlighting the historical ties between these two regions.
Half-closed eyes of Buddha and the setting sun reflected in the Buddha's eyes: This visual imagery represents peace and harmony within the country. The image of the Buddha with half-closed eyes, along with the reflection of the setting sun, symbolizes a serene and tranquil environment that fosters love and peace.

d. The author talks about the eyes in many places: the eyes of the shaven monks and nuns, eyes in the window and door panels, the eyes of the Himalayas, the eyes of the paralyzed boy, the eyes of the welcoming villagers and above all the half-closed eyes of the Buddha. Explain how all the instances of eyes contribute to the overall unity of the story.

Throughout the story, the author repeatedly mentions various instances of eyes, such as the eyes of shaven monks and nuns, eyes in window and door panels, eyes of the Himalayas, eyes of the paralyzed boy, eyes of the welcoming villagers, and above all, the half-closed eyes of the Buddha. These instances of eyes contribute to the overall unity of the story in several ways:

Symbolism: The eyes serve as symbolic representations of perception, awareness, and spiritual insight. They convey a deeper understanding of the world and its nuances. Each instance of eyes carries its own symbolic significance, adding layers of meaning to the story.
Theme of Observation: The focus on eyes highlights the act of observing and perceiving. It emphasizes the importance of keen observation in understanding the world and the people within it. The eyes serve as a medium through which characters and readers alike gain insights into the environment, people, and their experiences.
Unity of Experience: The recurrent theme of eyes creates a sense of interconnectedness and unity among the characters and their experiences. It implies that despite their diverse backgrounds and circumstances, they share a common thread of observation and perception. It unifies the characters' perspectives and experiences, allowing the reader to perceive the story as a cohesive whole.
Spiritual and Reflective Nature: Eyes are often associated with spiritual insight and introspection. The mention of the half-closed eyes of the Buddha and the meditative gazes of the monks and nuns evokes a sense of tranquility, inner reflection, and spiritual awakening. It reinforces the overarching theme of seeking enlightenment and finding inner peace.

By incorporating various instances of eyes throughout the story, the author creates a cohesive narrative that explores themes of observation, unity, spirituality, and self-reflection. These instances contribute to the overall unity of the story by intertwining the experiences, perceptions, and spiritual journeys of the characters.

Reference beyond the text

a. Write an essay on Living Proximity to Nature.

Living Proximity to Nature

Nature has always held a special place in the hearts of humans. It provides solace, inspiration, and a sense of connectedness to something greater than ourselves. In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, the importance of living in close proximity to nature cannot be overstated. Whether it is the peaceful embrace of a lush forest, the rhythmic sound of crashing waves on a beach, or the awe-inspiring sight of a majestic mountain range, nature offers us a sanctuary from the chaos of modern life.

Living in close proximity to nature has numerous benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. One of the most evident advantages is the opportunity for physical activity and outdoor recreation. Being surrounded by nature encourages us to engage in activities such as hiking, cycling, or simply taking leisurely walks. These activities not only promote fitness but also allow us to immerse ourselves in the beauty and serenity of natural landscapes.

Moreover, living close to nature provides us with a sense of perspective and humility. It reminds us of our place in the grand scheme of things and helps us appreciate the wonders of the natural world. The vastness of the ocean, the intricacy of a spider's web, or the vibrant colors of a sunset can evoke a sense of awe and wonder that is often lost in our daily routines. This connection to nature fosters a deep sense of gratitude and respect for the environment, leading to a greater commitment to its preservation and conservation.

Living in proximity to nature also has a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Numerous studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. The calming effect of natural surroundings, coupled with the absence of the constant noise and distractions of urban living, allows our minds to relax and recharge. Nature provides a refuge where we can escape the pressures of everyday life and find solace in its simplicity and beauty.

Furthermore, living close to nature promotes a healthier lifestyle. Access to fresh air, clean water, and nutritious food sources is more readily available in natural environments. Being surrounded by green spaces and natural landscapes has been linked to improved cognitive function, increased creativity, and enhanced overall happiness and life satisfaction.

Living in proximity to nature also fosters a sense of community and connectedness. In rural areas or close-knit neighborhoods near natural settings, people often develop stronger bonds and a shared appreciation for the environment. Community gardens, outdoor activities, and communal efforts to protect and conserve nature create a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents. This communal spirit not only enhances social connections but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly way of life.

In conclusion, living in close proximity to nature is a precious gift that offers countless benefits to our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, allowing us to find peace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of perspective. Whether it is the healing power of a forest, the tranquility of a river, or the vastness of a desert, nature holds the key to a more balanced and fulfilling existence. As we strive to build sustainable and harmonious communities, let us cherish and preserve the natural world that sustains us.

b. The story talks about ethnic/religious co-existence of different communities in Nepal, where the Buddhists and the Hindus and the Aryans and non-Aryans have lived in communal harmony for ages. In your view, how have the Nepali people been able to live in such harmony?

The Nepali people have been able to live in communal harmony, despite their diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, due to several factors that have fostered a sense of unity and respect among different communities.

Firstly, Nepal has a long history of cultural diversity and acceptance. The country has been a melting pot of various ethnic groups and religious traditions for centuries. This cultural tapestry has created an environment where different communities have learned to coexist and appreciate each other's customs, beliefs, and practices. The rich cultural heritage of Nepal has served as a unifying force, promoting tolerance and understanding among its people.

Secondly, the influence of religious teachings and philosophies has played a significant role in promoting harmony. Both Buddhism and Hinduism, the two major religions in Nepal, emphasize concepts such as compassion, non-violence, and respect for all living beings. These values have permeated Nepali society and have contributed to a culture of peaceful coexistence. The teachings of religious leaders and the shared rituals and traditions have acted as bridges between different communities, fostering mutual understanding and harmony.

Additionally, the Nepali people have a deep-rooted sense of national identity and pride. Despite their diverse ethnic backgrounds, they share a common love for their country and a strong sense of belonging. This shared national identity has helped to transcend ethnic and religious differences, allowing for a sense of unity and cooperation among the people.

Furthermore, the Nepali government has made efforts to promote inclusivity and equality among different communities. The country's constitution recognizes the rights of all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity or religion. Various policies and initiatives have been implemented to ensure the representation and participation of different ethnic groups in political, social, and economic spheres. These measures have helped to create a more equitable society and have contributed to the overall harmony among different communities.

Lastly, the Nepali people have a deep respect for nature and the environment. Nepal's breathtaking landscapes, including the majestic Himalayas and lush forests, are considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. This shared reverence for nature has fostered a sense of interconnectedness and stewardship among the people, transcending religious and ethnic boundaries. The common goal of preserving the natural beauty of Nepal has brought communities together and further strengthened their bond.

In conclusion, the Nepali people have been able to live in communal harmony through a combination of factors. The country's rich cultural diversity, the influence of religious teachings, a shared national identity, inclusive government policies, and a deep respect for nature have all contributed to the peaceful coexistence of different communities. It is this spirit of acceptance, understanding, and unity that has allowed the Nepali people to thrive as a harmonious society for ages.