Here “father” denotes his own sire. Rectitude means the righteous way. “Does not follow the upright path” means failing to conduct oneself morally. Though his father instructs him to do what is right, the son retorts that his father is no example of rectitude, and refuses all admonishment.
His father swallows his anger in silence. What end can there be to this?
An “end” here signifies a way out of the predicament. The father has long spoiled his child, shielding his faults at every turn and warping the son’s temperament. Now when he tries to guide him onto the right path, he is met with insolent pushback. He can only choke back his rage. How shall he extricate himself from such a plight!
I reflect upon famed mountains and great rivers — where are there no men of profound wisdom?
Famed mountains are celebrated peaks; great rivers are mighty watercourses. The Divine Sovereign means that throughout these lands, there are surely many persons of discerning insight.
Yet when the conversation turns to restraining lust, few do not deem it a hardship. Why is this?
When speaking of curbing sensual desire, most people regard it as difficult; very few see it otherwise. What is the underlying cause?
For the steed of intention is hard to tether, long entangled by worldly karmic ties; the ape of the mind remains unlocked, fettered by the realm of sensual allure.
“The steed of intention and the ape of the mind” are metaphors for wandering, unruly thoughts: like a horse galloping free that cannot be reined in, like a monkey leaping wild that cannot be confined. Mostly, people have long been snared by worldly karmic bonds and trapped by sensual temptations; hence they find reformation so hard.
They cannot distinguish harm from benefit, and cling stubbornly to delusion.