Why do Beings Live in Hate?

In the Sakka-pañha Sutta, Sakka approaches the Buddha with a question that is remarkably current. Sakka is troubled by conflict. He notices that beings wish to live peacefully, free from hatred or violence, yet time and again they become involved in quarrels, rivalry, and war. He asks the Buddha directly:

“Why is it that beings who wish to live in peace end up living in hostility, hatred, and conflict?”

The Buddha’s initial reply is stark and uncompromising. He says that conflict arises from envy and miserliness.