On Being ‘All Things to All Men’
Here we actually meet the figure of Vimalakīrti, an extraordinary being living in Vaiśālī under
the guise of a layman. This gives an opportunity to explore the Mahāyāna teaching of skilful
means. Try to make time to read Chapter 2 of the Vimalakīrti Nirdeśa during the week.
Questions for reflection and discussion

1. What is meant by skilful means in the context of Mahāyāna Buddhism? Does it have any
   relevance to your own life?
2. “The Bodhisattva has to take into account … the possible effects of his skilful means on observers”
   (page 49).
   What might be the relationship between the motivation behind an act and the effect on
   others?
3. Reflect and comment on your practice of any one of the four Saṁ grahavastus.
4. What other means of unification might there be?
5. In your own words, give an account of one of the four Pratisaṁ vids.
6. Why might it be misleading to think of Vimalakīrti as a layman?
7. When have you had ‘a touch of magic’ in your spiritual life? How can you stay in touch with
   this more of the time?
8. Do you think it is realistic to think in terms of ‘being all things to all men’ (and women)?