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THE DHAMMAPADA
A Collection of Verses Being One of the Canonical Books of the Buddhists
Translated from Pali by F. Max Muller
From:
From:
The Sacred Books of the East Translated by Various Oriental Scholars Edited by F. Max Muller Volume X Part I
[Note: The introduction, notes and index have been omitted.]
[Note: The introduction, notes and index have been omitted.]
CONTENTS
CONTENTS
DHAMMAPADA
Chapter I. The Twin-Verses
Chapter II. On Earnestness
Chapter III. Thought
Chapter IV. Flowers
Chapter V. The Fool
Chapter VI. The Wise Man (Pandita)
Chapter VII. The Venerable (Arhat).
Chapter VIII. The Thousands
Chapter IX. Evil
Chapter X. Punishment
Chapter XI. Old Age
Chapter XII. Self
Chapter XIII. The World
Chapter XIV. The Buddha (The Awakened)
Chapter XV. Happiness
Chapter XVI. Pleasure
Chapter XVII. Anger
Chapter XVIII. Impurity
Chapter XIX. The Just
Chapter XX. The Way
Chapter XXI. Miscellaneous
Chapter XXII. The Downward Course
Chapter XXIII. The Elephant
Chapter XXIV. Thirst
Chapter XXV. The Bhikshu (Mendicant)
Chapter XXVI. The Brahmana (Arhat)
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_0__
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_1__ The Twin Verses
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_2__ On Earnestness
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_3__ Thought
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_4__ Flowers
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_5__ The Fool
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_6__ The Wise Man (Pandita)
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_7__ The Venerable (Arhat).
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_8__ The Thousands
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_9__ Evil
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_10__ Punishment
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_11__ Old Age
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_12__ Self
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_13__ The World
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_14__ The Buddha (The Awakened)
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_15__ Happiness
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_16__ Pleasure
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_17__ Anger
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_18__ Impurity
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_19__ The Just
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_20__ The Way
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_21__ Miscellaneous
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_22__ The Downward Course
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_23__ The Elephant
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_24__ Thirst
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_25__ The Bhikshu (Mendicant)
__A_TAG_PLACEHOLDER_26__ The Brahmana (Arhat)
DHAMMAPADA
Chapter I. The Twin-Verses
1. All that we are is the result of what we have thought: it is founded on our thoughts, it is made up of our thoughts. If a man speaks or acts with an evil thought, pain follows him, as the wheel follows the foot of the ox that draws the carriage.
1. Everything we are comes from what we've thought: it's based on our thoughts, it consists of our thoughts. If someone speaks or acts with a malicious thought, suffering follows them, just like the wheel follows the foot of the ox pulling the carriage.
2. All that we are is the result of what we have thought: it is founded on our thoughts, it is made up of our thoughts. If a man speaks or acts with a pure thought, happiness follows him, like a shadow that never leaves him.
2. Everything we are comes from what we've thought: it's built on our thoughts, it's composed of our thoughts. If someone speaks or acts with a pure thought, happiness follows them like a shadow that never disappears.
3. "He abused me, he beat me, he defeated me, he robbed me,"—in those who harbour such thoughts hatred will never cease.
3. "He hurt me, he hit me, he conquered me, he took from me,"—in those who hold onto such thoughts, hatred will never end.
4. "He abused me, he beat me, he defeated me, he robbed me,"—in those who do not harbour such thoughts hatred will cease.
4. "He mistreated me, he hit me, he conquered me, he took advantage of me,"—in those who do not hold such thoughts, hatred will come to an end.
5. For hatred does not cease by hatred at any time: hatred ceases by love, this is an old rule.
5. Hatred never ends through hatred; it ends through love. This is an old rule.
6. The world does not know that we must all come to an end here;—but those who know it, their quarrels cease at once.
6. The world doesn’t realize that we all have to come to an end here;—but for those who do, their conflicts stop immediately.
7. He who lives looking for pleasures only, his senses uncontrolled, immoderate in his food, idle, and weak, Mara (the tempter) will certainly overthrow him, as the wind throws down a weak tree.
7. A person who only seeks pleasure, lacks self-control, overeats, is lazy, and weak will definitely be brought down by Mara (the tempter), just like the wind knocks down a fragile tree.
8. He who lives without looking for pleasures, his senses well controlled, moderate in his food, faithful and strong, him Mara will certainly not overthrow, any more than the wind throws down a rocky mountain.
8. The person who lives without seeking out pleasures, with well-controlled senses, moderates their food, and is faithful and strong, will certainly not be overcome by Mara, just as a strong wind cannot topple a rocky mountain.
9. He who wishes to put on the yellow dress without having cleansed himself from sin, who disregards temperance and truth, is unworthy of the yellow dress.
9. Anyone who wants to wear the yellow dress without having cleansed themselves of sin, and who ignores moderation and honesty, is not deserving of the yellow dress.
10. But he who has cleansed himself from sin, is well grounded in all virtues, and regards also temperance and truth, he is indeed worthy of the yellow dress.
10. But the one who has purified himself from sin, is well established in all virtues, and values both moderation and honesty, truly deserves the yellow robe.
11. They who imagine truth in untruth, and see untruth in truth, never arrive at truth, but follow vain desires.
11. Those who see truth in what isn't true and see falsehood in what is true will never find the truth; they just chase empty wishes.
12. They who know truth in truth, and untruth in untruth, arrive at truth, and follow true desires.
12. Those who recognize truth as truth and falsehood as falsehood reach the truth and pursue genuine desires.
13. As rain breaks through an ill-thatched house, passion will break through an unreflecting mind.
13. Just like rain seeps through a poorly thatched roof, passion will burst forth from a mind that doesn’t think things through.
14. As rain does not break through a well-thatched house, passion will not break through a well-reflecting mind.
14. Just like rain can't get through a well-thatched roof, passion can't get through a clear, thoughtful mind.
15. The evil-doer mourns in this world, and he mourns in the next; he mourns in both. He mourns and suffers when he sees the evil of his own work.
15. The wrongdoer suffers in this life, and they suffer in the next; they are tormented in both. They grieve and feel pain when they witness the consequences of their own actions.
16. The virtuous man delights in this world, and he delights in the next; he delights in both. He delights and rejoices, when he sees the purity of his own work.
16. The virtuous person enjoys this world and the next; they find joy in both. They feel happiness and satisfaction when they see the purity of their own work.
17. The evil-doer suffers in this world, and he suffers in the next; he suffers in both. He suffers when he thinks of the evil he has done; he suffers more when going on the evil path.
17. The wrongdoer suffers in this life, and they suffer in the next; they suffer in both. They suffer when they think about the wrongs they've committed; they suffer even more when they continue down that path of wrongdoing.
18. The virtuous man is happy in this world, and he is happy in the next; he is happy in both. He is happy when he thinks of the good he has done; he is still more happy when going on the good path.
18. The good person is happy in this life and in the next; he is happy in both. He feels joy when he reflects on the good he has done; he feels even more joy when he continues on the right path.
19. The thoughtless man, even if he can recite a large portion (of the law), but is not a doer of it, has no share in the priesthood, but is like a cowherd counting the cows of others.
19. The careless person, even if he can recite a big part of the law, but doesn’t actually follow it, has no place in the priesthood, but is like a cowherd counting someone else’s cows.
20. The follower of the law, even if he can recite only a small portion (of the law), but, having forsaken passion and hatred and foolishness, possesses true knowledge and serenity of mind, he, caring for nothing in this world or that to come, has indeed a share in the priesthood.
20. The person who follows the law, even if they can only recite a small part of it, but has let go of passion, hatred, and ignorance, and has true understanding and peace of mind, who doesn’t care about anything in this world or the next, truly shares in the priesthood.
Chapter II. On Earnestness
21. Earnestness is the path of immortality (Nirvana), thoughtlessness the path of death. Those who are in earnest do not die, those who are thoughtless are as if dead already.
21. Being serious is the way to eternal life (Nirvana), while being careless leads to death. Those who are sincere do not die, but those who are indifferent are as good as dead already.
22. Those who are advanced in earnestness, having understood this clearly, delight in earnestness, and rejoice in the knowledge of the Ariyas (the elect).
22. Those who are deeply sincere, having understood this clearly, take pleasure in sincerity and celebrate the knowledge of the Ariyas (the chosen ones).
23. These wise people, meditative, steady, always possessed of strong powers, attain to Nirvana, the highest happiness.
23. These wise individuals, reflective and composed, always equipped with strong abilities, reach Nirvana, the ultimate happiness.
24. If an earnest person has roused himself, if he is not forgetful, if his deeds are pure, if he acts with consideration, if he restrains himself, and lives according to law,—then his glory will increase.
24. If a genuine person has awakened, if he is not forgetful, if his actions are pure, if he acts thoughtfully, if he exercises self-control, and lives by the law—then his reputation will grow.
25. By rousing himself, by earnestness, by restraint and control, the wise man may make for himself an island which no flood can overwhelm.
25. By motivating himself, being sincere, and exercising self-control, a wise person can create a refuge that no flood can drown.
26. Fools follow after vanity, men of evil wisdom. The wise man keeps earnestness as his best jewel.
26. Fools chase after emptiness, driven by bad judgment. The wise person values sincerity as their greatest treasure.
27. Follow not after vanity, nor after the enjoyment of love and lust! He who is earnest and meditative, obtains ample joy.
27. Don't chase after vanity or the pleasures of love and lust! Those who are serious and reflective find true joy.
28. When the learned man drives away vanity by earnestness, he, the wise, climbing the terraced heights of wisdom, looks down upon the fools, serene he looks upon the toiling crowd, as one that stands on a mountain looks down upon them that stand upon the plain.
28. When the knowledgeable person pushes aside vanity through genuine effort, he, the wise one, ascending the levels of wisdom, gazes down upon the foolish, calmly observing the struggling masses, like someone standing on a mountain looks down on those in the flatlands.
29. Earnest among the thoughtless, awake among the sleepers, the wise man advances like a racer, leaving behind the hack.
29. Serious among the careless, alert among the sleepy, the wise person moves forward like a competitor, leaving the rest behind.
30. By earnestness did Maghavan (Indra) rise to the lordship of the gods. People praise earnestness; thoughtlessness is always blamed.
30. Maghavan (Indra) earned the title of lord of the gods through his dedication. People admire dedication; carelessness is always criticized.
31. A Bhikshu (mendicant) who delights in earnestness, who looks with fear on thoughtlessness, moves about like fire, burning all his fetters, small or large.
31. A monk who takes joy in seriousness, who fears being careless, moves like fire, burning away all his ties, big or small.
32. A Bhikshu (mendicant) who delights in reflection, who looks with fear on thoughtlessness, cannot fall away (from his perfect state)—he is close upon Nirvana.
32. A monk who enjoys deep thinking and fears being careless can't stray from his perfect state—he is almost at Nirvana.
Chapter III. Thought
33. As a fletcher makes straight his arrow, a wise man makes straight his trembling and unsteady thought, which is difficult to guard, difficult to hold back.
33. Just like a fletcher straightens his arrow, a wise person steadies their shaky and unsteady thoughts, which are challenging to control and hard to hold back.
34. As a fish taken from his watery home and thrown on dry ground, our thought trembles all over in order to escape the dominion of Mara (the tempter).
34. Just like a fish pulled from its home in the water and thrown onto dry land, our thoughts shake in every direction trying to break free from the control of Mara (the tempter).
35. It is good to tame the mind, which is difficult to hold in and flighty, rushing wherever it listeth; a tamed mind brings happiness.
35. It's beneficial to control the mind, which is hard to manage and easily distracted, darting off wherever it wants; a controlled mind brings happiness.
36. Let the wise man guard his thoughts, for they are difficult to perceive, very artful, and they rush wherever they list: thoughts well guarded bring happiness.
36. A wise person should be careful with their thoughts, as they can be hard to notice, very clever, and they go wherever they want. Well-guarded thoughts lead to happiness.
37. Those who bridle their mind which travels far, moves about alone, is without a body, and hides in the chamber (of the heart), will be free from the bonds of Mara (the tempter).
37. Those who control their wandering mind, which roams alone, is without a body, and hides in the heart, will be free from the chains of Mara (the tempter).
38. If a man's thoughts are unsteady, if he does not know the true law, if his peace of mind is troubled, his knowledge will never be perfect.
38. If a man's thoughts are restless, if he doesn't understand the true law, if his peace of mind is disturbed, his knowledge will never be complete.
39. If a man's thoughts are not dissipated, if his mind is not perplexed, if he has ceased to think of good or evil, then there is no fear for him while he is watchful.
39. If a person’s thoughts are focused, if their mind isn't troubled, if they have stopped worrying about good or bad, then there is nothing to fear as long as they stay alert.
40. Knowing that this body is (fragile) like a jar, and making this thought firm like a fortress, one should attack Mara (the tempter) with the weapon of knowledge, one should watch him when conquered, and should never rest.
40. Understanding that this body is fragile like a jar, and solidifying this thought like a fortress, one should confront Mara (the tempter) with the weapon of knowledge, keep an eye on him after being defeated, and never let up.
41. Before long, alas! this body will lie on the earth, despised, without understanding, like a useless log.
41. Before long, unfortunately! this body will be on the ground, ignored, without awareness, like a useless log.
42. Whatever a hater may do to a hater, or an enemy to an enemy, a wrongly-directed mind will do us greater mischief.
42. No matter what a hater does to another hater, or what an enemy does to an enemy, a misguided mind will cause us even more harm.
43. Not a mother, not a father will do so much, nor any other relative; a well-directed mind will do us greater service.
43. Neither a mother nor a father will do as much, nor will any other relative; a focused mind will serve us better.
Chapter IV. Flowers
44. Who shall overcome this earth, and the world of Yama (the lord of the departed), and the world of the gods? Who shall find out the plainly shown path of virtue, as a clever man finds out the (right) flower?
44. Who will conquer this earth, the realm of Yama (the lord of the departed), and the world of the gods? Who will discover the clearly marked path of virtue, just as a smart person identifies the right flower?
45. The disciple will overcome the earth, and the world of Yama, and the world of the gods. The disciple will find out the plainly shown path of virtue, as a clever man finds out the (right) flower.
45. The student will conquer the earth, the realm of Yama, and the domain of the gods. The student will discover the clearly marked path of goodness, just as a smart person identifies the right flower.
46. He who knows that this body is like froth, and has learnt that it is as unsubstantial as a mirage, will break the flower-pointed arrow of Mara, and never see the king of death.
46. Whoever realizes that this body is like foam, and understands that it is as insubstantial as a mirage, will shatter Mara's flower-tipped arrow and will never encounter the king of death.
47. Death carries off a man who is gathering flowers and whose mind is distracted, as a flood carries off a sleeping village.
47. Death takes away a man who is picking flowers and whose mind is wandering, just like a flood sweeps away a sleeping village.
48. Death subdues a man who is gathering flowers, and whose mind is distracted, before he is satiated in his pleasures.
48. Death catches up to a man who is picking flowers, his mind wandering, before he has had his fill of enjoyment.
49. As the bee collects nectar and departs without injuring the flower, or its colour or scent, so let a sage dwell in his village.
49. Just like a bee gathers nectar and leaves the flower unharmed, without changing its color or scent, a wise person should live in their village.
50. Not the perversities of others, not their sins of commission or omission, but his own misdeeds and negligences should a sage take notice of.
50. A wise person should focus on their own wrongdoings and neglects, not the faults or mistakes of others.
51. Like a beautiful flower, full of colour, but without scent, are the fine but fruitless words of him who does not act accordingly.
51. Like a beautiful flower, full of color, but without fragrance, are the fine but useless words of someone who doesn’t take action.
52. But, like a beautiful flower, full of colour and full of scent, are the fine and fruitful words of him who acts accordingly.
52. But, like a beautiful flower, vibrant and fragrant, are the wonderful and meaningful words of someone who lives by them.
53. As many kinds of wreaths can be made from a heap of flowers, so many good things may be achieved by a mortal when once he is born.
53. Just like you can create many kinds of wreaths from a pile of flowers, a person can accomplish many great things once they are born.
54. The scent of flowers does not travel against the wind, nor (that of) sandal-wood, or of Tagara and Mallika flowers; but the odour of good people travels even against the wind; a good man pervades every place.
54. The scent of flowers doesn’t move against the wind, nor do the scents of sandalwood, Tagara, or Mallika flowers; but the fragrance of good people can reach you even against the wind; a good person fills every space.
55. Sandal-wood or Tagara, a lotus-flower, or a Vassiki, among these sorts of perfumes, the perfume of virtue is unsurpassed.
55. Among these types of perfumes, sandalwood or tagara, a lotus flower, or a vassiki, the scent of virtue is unmatched.
56. Mean is the scent that comes from Tagara and sandal-wood;—the perfume of those who possess virtue rises up to the gods as the highest.
56. The scent of Tagara and sandalwood is pleasant; the fragrance of those who have virtue rises to the gods as the most revered.
57. Of the people who possess these virtues, who live without thoughtlessness, and who are emancipated through true knowledge, Mara, the tempter, never finds the way.
57. Among those who have these virtues, who live mindfully, and who are freed by true knowledge, Mara, the tempter, can never find a way in.
58, 59. As on a heap of rubbish cast upon the highway the lily will grow full of sweet perfume and delight, thus the disciple of the truly enlightened Buddha shines forth by his knowledge among those who are like rubbish, among the people that walk in darkness.
58, 59. Just as a lily grows with sweet fragrance and beauty on a pile of trash by the roadside, the disciple of the truly enlightened Buddha stands out with their knowledge among those who are like rubbish, among the people who walk in darkness.
Chapter V. The Fool
60. Long is the night to him who is awake; long is a mile to him who is tired; long is life to the foolish who do not know the true law.
60. The night feels endless to someone who's awake; a mile feels never-ending to someone who's tired; and life feels long to those who are foolish and don’t understand the true law.
61. If a traveller does not meet with one who is his better, or his equal, let him firmly keep to his solitary journey; there is no companionship with a fool.
61. If a traveler doesn’t encounter someone who is better or equal to him, he should stick to his solo journey; there’s no benefit in spending time with a fool.
62. "These sons belong to me, and this wealth belongs to me," with such thoughts a fool is tormented. He himself does not belong to himself; how much less sons and wealth?
62. "These sons are mine, and this wealth is mine," with those thoughts, a fool is tormented. He doesn't even belong to himself; how much less do his sons and wealth?
63. The fool who knows his foolishness, is wise at least so far. But a fool who thinks himself wise, he is called a fool indeed.
63. A fool who recognizes his own foolishness is at least somewhat wise. But a fool who believes he is wise is truly a fool.
64. If a fool be associated with a wise man even all his life, he will perceive the truth as little as a spoon perceives the taste of soup.
64. If a fool spends his whole life with a wise person, he will understand the truth just as little as a spoon can taste soup.
65. If an intelligent man be associated for one minute only with a wise man, he will soon perceive the truth, as the tongue perceives the taste of soup.
65. If a smart person spends even just a minute with a wise person, they’ll quickly understand the truth, just like how taste buds recognize the flavor of soup.
66. Fools of little understanding have themselves for their greatest enemies, for they do evil deeds which must bear bitter fruits.
66. People with little understanding are their own worst enemies because they do harmful things that will lead to negative consequences.
67. That deed is not well done of which a man must repent, and the reward of which he receives crying and with a tearful face.
67. A deed isn’t truly good if a person has to regret it, and if the reward comes with tears and a sad expression.
68. No, that deed is well done of which a man does not repent, and the reward of which he receives gladly and cheerfully.
68. No, a good deed is one that a person does not regret, and for which they receive the reward happily and willingly.
69. As long as the evil deed done does not bear fruit, the fool thinks it is like honey; but when it ripens, then the fool suffers grief.
69. As long as the bad action taken does not have consequences, the fool thinks it’s sweet like honey; but when it finally catches up with them, the fool feels sorrow.
70. Let a fool month after month eat his food (like an ascetic) with the tip of a blade of Kusa grass, yet he is not worth the sixteenth particle of those who have well weighed the law.
70. Let a fool eat his food month after month (like an ascetic) with the tip of a blade of Kusa grass, yet he is not worth even a sixteenth of those who have truly understood the law.
71. An evil deed, like newly-drawn milk, does not turn (suddenly); smouldering, like fire covered by ashes, it follows the fool.
71. A wicked act, like fresh milk, doesn't spoil right away; hidden like embers under ashes, it haunts the fool.
72. And when the evil deed, after it has become known, brings sorrow to the fool, then it destroys his bright lot, nay, it cleaves his head.
72. And when the bad action, once it becomes known, brings grief to the fool, it destroys his good fortune; in fact, it cuts him down.
73. Let the fool wish for a false reputation, for precedence among the Bhikshus, for lordship in the convents, for worship among other people!
73. Let the fool crave a fake reputation, for status among the monks, for authority in the monasteries, for admiration from others!
74. "May both the layman and he who has left the world think that this is done by me; may they be subject to me in everything which is to be done or is not to be done," thus is the mind of the fool, and his desire and pride increase.
74. "May both the everyday person and the one who has renounced the world believe that I am the one in control; may they submit to me in everything that should or shouldn't be done," such is the mindset of a fool, and his ambitions and arrogance grow.
75. "One is the road that leads to wealth, another the road that leads to Nirvana;" if the Bhikshu, the disciple of Buddha, has learnt this, he will not yearn for honour, he will strive after separation from the world.
75. "One path leads to wealth, the other to Nirvana;" if the Bhikshu, the disciple of Buddha, understands this, he will not crave honor, but will seek to detach himself from the world.
Chapter VI. The Wise Man (Pandita)
76. If you see an intelligent man who tells you where true treasures are to be found, who shows what is to be avoided, and administers reproofs, follow that wise man; it will be better, not worse, for those who follow him.
76. If you come across a smart person who points out where the real treasures are, shows you what to steer clear of, and offers constructive criticism, stick with that wise person; it will be better, not worse, for those who follow them.
77. Let him admonish, let him teach, let him forbid what is improper!—he will be beloved of the good, by the bad he will be hated.
77. Let him warn, let him educate, let him stop what’s wrong!—he will be loved by the good and hated by the bad.
78. Do not have evil-doers for friends, do not have low people for friends: have virtuous people for friends, have for friends the best of men.
78. Don't befriend wrongdoers, don't associate with lowlifes: make virtuous people your friends, surround yourself with the best individuals.
79. He who drinks in the law lives happily with a serene mind: the sage rejoices always in the law, as preached by the elect (Ariyas).
79. Whoever immerses themselves in the law lives happily with a calm mind: the wise person always finds joy in the law, as taught by the chosen ones (Ariyas).
80. Well-makers lead the water (wherever they like); fletchers bend the arrow; carpenters bend a log of wood; wise people fashion themselves.
80. Well-makers direct the water wherever they want; fletchers shape the arrow; carpenters curve a log of wood; wise people shape themselves.
81. As a solid rock is not shaken by the wind, wise people falter not amidst blame and praise.
81. Just like a solid rock won't be moved by the wind, wise people don't waver in the face of blame or praise.
82. Wise people, after they have listened to the laws, become serene, like a deep, smooth, and still lake.
82. Wise people, after they have heard the laws, become calm, like a deep, smooth, and still lake.
83. Good people walk on whatever befall, the good do not prattle, longing for pleasure; whether touched by happiness or sorrow wise people never appear elated or depressed.
83. Good people keep moving forward no matter what happens; they don't chatter on about wanting pleasure. Whether experiencing happiness or sadness, wise people never seem too high or too low.
84. If, whether for his own sake, or for the sake of others, a man wishes neither for a son, nor for wealth, nor for lordship, and if he does not wish for his own success by unfair means, then he is good, wise, and virtuous.
84. If a man desires neither a son, wealth, nor power, whether for his own benefit or for others, and if he doesn't seek his own success through dishonest means, then he is good, wise, and virtuous.
85. Few are there among men who arrive at the other shore (become Arhats); the other people here run up and down the shore.
85. There are few people who reach the other side (become Arhats); the rest just run back and forth along the shore.
86. But those who, when the law has been well preached to them, follow the law, will pass across the dominion of death, however difficult to overcome.
86. But those who, when the law has been clearly taught to them, follow the law, will triumph over death, no matter how tough it may be to conquer.
87, 88. A wise man should leave the dark state (of ordinary life), and follow the bright state (of the Bhikshu). After going from his home to a homeless state, he should in his retirement look for enjoyment where there seemed to be no enjoyment. Leaving all pleasures behind, and calling nothing his own, the wise man should purge himself from all the troubles of the mind.
87, 88. A wise person should move away from the mundane aspects of life and embrace the enlightened path of a monk. After leaving his home for a life without attachment, he should seek fulfillment in places that seem devoid of pleasure. By abandoning all material desires and claiming nothing as his own, the wise person should free himself from all mental disturbances.
89. Those whose mind is well grounded in the (seven) elements of knowledge, who without clinging to anything, rejoice in freedom from attachment, whose appetites have been conquered, and who are full of light, are free (even) in this world.
89. Those whose minds are firmly rooted in the seven elements of knowledge, who enjoy freedom from attachment without clinging to anything, who have mastered their desires, and who are filled with light, are free even in this world.
Chapter VII. The Venerable (Arhat).
90. There is no suffering for him who has finished his journey, and abandoned grief, who has freed himself on all sides, and thrown off all fetters.
90. There is no suffering for someone who has completed their journey and let go of sorrow, who has freed themselves in every way and cast off all chains.
91. They depart with their thoughts well-collected, they are not happy in their abode; like swans who have left their lake, they leave their house and home.
91. They leave with their minds clear; they aren’t happy where they are. Like swans that have left their lake, they abandon their house and home.
92. Men who have no riches, who live on recognised food, who have perceived void and unconditioned freedom (Nirvana), their path is difficult to understand, like that of birds in the air.
92. Men without wealth, who eat simple, everyday food, and who have experienced the emptiness and unconditional freedom (Nirvana), have a path that is hard to grasp, much like that of birds flying in the sky.
93. He whose appetites are stilled, who is not absorbed in enjoyment, who has perceived void and unconditioned freedom (Nirvana), his path is difficult to understand, like that of birds in the air.
93. The person whose desires are calmed, who isn't caught up in pleasure, who has realized emptiness and unconditioned freedom (Nirvana), walks a path that's hard to comprehend, much like the flight of birds in the sky.
94. The gods even envy him whose senses, like horses well broken in by the driver, have been subdued, who is free from pride, and free from appetites.
94. The gods even envy the person whose senses, like well-trained horses, have been tamed, who is free from pride and free from cravings.
95. Such a one who does his duty is tolerant like the earth, like Indra's bolt; he is like a lake without mud; no new births are in store for him.
95. Someone who does their duty is patient like the earth, strong like Indra's bolt; they are like a clear lake; they have no new lives ahead of them.
96. His thought is quiet, quiet are his word and deed, when he has obtained freedom by true knowledge, when he has thus become a quiet man.
96. His thoughts are calm, his words and actions are calm, once he has gained freedom through true knowledge, and in this way, he has become a peaceful man.
97. The man who is free from credulity, but knows the uncreated, who has cut all ties, removed all temptations, renounced all desires, he is the greatest of men.
97. The man who isn’t gullible but understands the uncreated, who has severed all connections, removed all temptations, and given up all desires, is the greatest of men.
98. In a hamlet or in a forest, in the deep water or on the dry land, wherever venerable persons (Arhanta) dwell, that place is delightful.
98. In a village or in a forest, in the deep water or on dry land, wherever respected individuals (Arhanta) live, that place is wonderful.
99. Forests are delightful; where the world finds no delight, there the passionless will find delight, for they look not for pleasures.
99. Forests are enchanting; where the world lacks joy, there the indifferent will find joy, for they don't seek pleasures.
Chapter VIII. The Thousands
100. Even though a speech be a thousand (of words), but made up of senseless words, one word of sense is better, which if a man hears, he becomes quiet.
100. Even if a speech has a thousand words, if it's just a bunch of nonsense, one sensible word is better, because when a person hears it, they become calm.
101. Even though a Gatha (poem) be a thousand (of words), but made up of senseless words, one word of a Gatha is better, which if a man hears, he becomes quiet.
101. Even if a Gatha (poem) has a thousand words, if those words are meaningless, one word from a Gatha is more valuable, because if someone hears it, they find peace.
102. Though a man recite a hundred Gathas made up of senseless words, one word of the law is better, which if a man hears, he becomes quiet.
102. Even if a person recites a hundred Gathas filled with meaningless words, just one word of the law is more valuable; when someone hears it, they become calm.
103. If one man conquer in battle a thousand times thousand men, and if another conquer himself, he is the greatest of conquerors.
103. If one person defeats a thousand times a thousand people in battle, and another person conquers their own self, they are the greatest of all conquerors.
104, 105. One's own self conquered is better than all other people; not even a god, a Gandharva, not Mara with Brahman could change into defeat the victory of a man who has vanquished himself, and always lives under restraint.
104, 105. Conquering yourself is better than defeating anyone else; not even a god, a Gandharva, or Mara with Brahman can turn the victory of someone who has mastered themselves into defeat. That person always lives with self-control.
106. If a man for a hundred years sacrifice month after month with a thousand, and if he but for one moment pay homage to a man whose soul is grounded (in true knowledge), better is that homage than sacrifice for a hundred years.
106. If a man spends a hundred years making sacrifices month after month with a thousand offerings, but for just one moment shows respect to someone whose soul is rooted in true knowledge, that moment of respect is worth more than a hundred years of sacrifice.
107. If a man for a hundred years worship Agni (fire) in the forest, and if he but for one moment pay homage to a man whose soul is grounded (in true knowledge), better is that homage than sacrifice for a hundred years.
107. If a person worships Agni (fire) in the forest for a hundred years, but then pays respect for just one moment to someone whose soul is rooted in true knowledge, that moment of respect is worth more than a hundred years of sacrifice.
108. Whatever a man sacrifice in this world as an offering or as an oblation for a whole year in order to gain merit, the whole of it is not worth a quarter (a farthing); reverence shown to the righteous is better.
108. Whatever a person sacrifices in this world as an offering or as a gift for a whole year to gain merit, it’s still not worth a quarter (a farthing); showing respect to the righteous is much better.
109. He who always greets and constantly reveres the aged, four things will increase to him, viz. life, beauty, happiness, power.
109. The person who always greets and shows respect to the elderly will gain four things: life, beauty, happiness, and strength.
110. But he who lives a hundred years, vicious and unrestrained, a life of one day is better if a man is virtuous and reflecting.
110. But a person who lives for a hundred years, full of vice and indulgence, has a life that's no better than a single day for someone who is virtuous and thoughtful.
111. And he who lives a hundred years, ignorant and unrestrained, a life of one day is better if a man is wise and reflecting.
111. And someone who lives a hundred years, clueless and uncontrolled, has a life no better than a single day if a person is wise and thinks deeply.
112. And he who lives a hundred years, idle and weak, a life of one day is better if a man has attained firm strength.
112. And someone who lives a hundred years, lazy and weak, has a life that is only one day long that's better if they have gained true strength.
113. And he who lives a hundred years, not seeing beginning and end, a life of one day is better if a man sees beginning and end.
113. And someone who lives a hundred years without seeing any beginnings or endings has a life that's not as meaningful as someone who lives just one day but sees both the beginning and the end.
114. And he who lives a hundred years, not seeing the immortal place, a life of one day is better if a man sees the immortal place.
114. And a person who lives a hundred years without seeing the eternal place is worse off than someone who lives just one day but gets to see the eternal place.
115. And he who lives a hundred years, not seeing the highest law, a life of one day is better if a man sees the highest law.
115. And someone who lives for a hundred years without understanding the ultimate truth has a life that is less meaningful than a single day lived by someone who sees that truth.
Chapter IX. Evil
116. If a man would hasten towards the good, he should keep his thought away from evil; if a man does what is good slothfully, his mind delights in evil.
116. If a person wants to move towards goodness, they should keep their thoughts away from bad things; if someone does good things lazily, their mind finds pleasure in evil.
117. If a man commits a sin, let him not do it again; let him not delight in sin: pain is the outcome of evil.
117. If a person sins, they shouldn’t do it again; they shouldn’t find joy in sin: suffering is the result of wrongdoing.
118. If a man does what is good, let him do it again; let him delight in it: happiness is the outcome of good.
118. If a person does something good, let them do it again; let them enjoy it: happiness comes from doing good.
119. Even an evil-doer sees happiness as long as his evil deed has not ripened; but when his evil deed has ripened, then does the evil-doer see evil.
119. Even someone who does bad things feels happy as long as their wrongdoing hasn’t caught up with them; but once their wrongdoing finally catches up, that’s when they really see the consequences.
120. Even a good man sees evil days, as long as his good deed has not ripened; but when his good deed has ripened, then does the good man see happy days.
120. Even a good person experiences tough times, as long as their good actions haven't come to fruition; but when those good actions do bear fruit, then the good person sees happier days.
121. Let no man think lightly of evil, saying in his heart, It will not come nigh unto me. Even by the falling of water-drops a water-pot is filled; the fool becomes full of evil, even if he gather it little by little.
121. Let no one underestimate evil, thinking to themselves, "It won't come near me." Just like a pot fills up with drops of water, a fool becomes filled with evil, even if it accumulates slowly.
122. Let no man think lightly of good, saying in his heart, It will not come nigh unto me. Even by the falling of water-drops a water-pot is filled; the wise man becomes full of good, even if he gather it little by little.
122. Let no one underestimate the importance of doing good, thinking to themselves, "It won't affect me." Just like a pot fills up drop by drop, a wise person becomes filled with goodness, even if they collect it bit by bit.
123. Let a man avoid evil deeds, as a merchant, if he has few companions and carries much wealth, avoids a dangerous road; as a man who loves life avoids poison.
123. A person should steer clear of bad actions just like a merchant with few friends and a lot of money avoids a risky path; just as someone who values their life avoids poison.
124. He who has no wound on his hand, may touch poison with his hand; poison does not affect one who has no wound; nor is there evil for one who does not commit evil.
124. Someone who has no cuts on their hands can touch poison without harm; poison doesn’t affect a person without wounds, just as there’s no harm for someone who doesn’t do harm.
125. If a man offend a harmless, pure, and innocent person, the evil falls back upon that fool, like light dust thrown up against the wind.
125. If a man wrongs a harmless, pure, and innocent person, the negativity comes back to him, like light dust blown back in the wind.
126. Some people are born again; evil-doers go to hell; righteous people go to heaven; those who are free from all worldly desires attain Nirvana.
126. Some people are reborn; wrongdoers go to hell; good people go to heaven; those who are free from all worldly desires reach Nirvana.
127. Not in the sky, not in the midst of the sea, not if we enter into the clefts of the mountains, is there known a spot in the whole world where a man might be freed from an evil deed.
127. There’s no place in the sky, no spot in the middle of the sea, and no hiding in the mountains where someone can escape from a wrongdoing.
128. Not in the sky, not in the midst of the sea, not if we enter into the clefts of the mountains, is there known a spot in the whole world where death could not overcome (the mortal).
128. Not in the sky, not in the middle of the sea, and not if we go into the cracks of the mountains, is there a place in the entire world where death cannot conquer (the mortal).
Chapter X. Punishment
129. All men tremble at punishment, all men fear death; remember that you are like unto them, and do not kill, nor cause slaughter.
129. Everyone fears punishment, everyone fears death; remember that you are just like them, so don’t kill or cause harm.
130. All men tremble at punishment, all men love life; remember that thou art like unto them, and do not kill, nor cause slaughter.
130. Everyone fears punishment, everyone loves life; remember that you are just like them, so don’t kill or cause harm.
131. He who seeking his own happiness punishes or kills beings who also long for happiness, will not find happiness after death.
131. Anyone who pursues their own happiness by punishing or killing others who also seek happiness will not find happiness after they die.
132. He who seeking his own happiness does not punish or kill beings who also long for happiness, will find happiness after death.
132. Whoever seeks their own happiness without harming or killing others who also desire happiness will find happiness after death.
133. Do not speak harshly to anybody; those who are spoken to will answer thee in the same way. Angry speech is painful, blows for blows will touch thee.
133. Don’t talk harshly to anyone; those you speak to will respond in the same way. Angry words hurt, and retaliation will come back to you.
134. If, like a shattered metal plate (gong), thou utter not, then thou hast reached Nirvana; contention is not known to thee.
134. If, like a broken metal plate (gong), you do not speak up, then you have reached Nirvana; you are free from conflict.
135. As a cowherd with his staff drives his cows into the stable, so do Age and Death drive the life of men.
135. Just like a cowherd with his staff leads his cows into the barn, Age and Death guide the lives of people.
136. A fool does not know when he commits his evil deeds: but the wicked man burns by his own deeds, as if burnt by fire.
136. A fool doesn't realize when he's doing wrong: but the wicked person suffers from his own actions, as if he were burned by fire.
137. He who inflicts pain on innocent and harmless persons, will soon come to one of these ten states:
137. The person who causes pain to innocent and harmless individuals will soon find themselves in one of these ten states:
138. He will have cruel suffering, loss, injury of the body, heavy affliction, or loss of mind,
138. He will experience severe suffering, loss, physical harm, intense hardship, or mental anguish,
139. Or a misfortune coming from the king, or a fearful accusation, or loss of relations, or destruction of treasures,
139. Or a disaster coming from the king, or a terrifying accusation, or loss of loved ones, or destruction of valuables,
140. Or lightning-fire will burn his houses; and when his body is destroyed, the fool will go to hell.
140. Or lightning will set his houses on fire; and when his body is destroyed, the fool will end up in hell.
141. Not nakedness, not platted hair, not dirt, not fasting, or lying on the earth, not rubbing with dust, not sitting motionless, can purify a mortal who has not overcome desires.
141. Not nudity, not braided hair, not dirt, not fasting, or lying on the ground, not rubbing with dust, not sitting still, can purify a person who has not conquered their desires.
142. He who, though dressed in fine apparel, exercises tranquillity, is quiet, subdued, restrained, chaste, and has ceased to find fault with all other beings, he indeed is a Brahmana, an ascetic (sramana), a friar (bhikshu).
142. The person who wears nice clothes but stays calm, quiet, humble, disciplined, pure, and has stopped criticizing others is truly a Brahmana, an ascetic (sramana), a friar (bhikshu).
143. Is there in this world any man so restrained by humility that he does not mind reproof, as a well-trained horse the whip?
143. Is there anyone in this world so humble that they don't mind criticism, just like a well-trained horse accepts the whip?
144. Like a well-trained horse when touched by the whip, be ye active and lively, and by faith, by virtue, by energy, by meditation, by discernment of the law you will overcome this great pain (of reproof), perfect in knowledge and in behaviour, and never forgetful.
144. Like a well-trained horse responding to the whip, be active and energetic, and through faith, virtue, effort, reflection, and understanding of the law, you will overcome this significant pain (of criticism), becoming perfect in knowledge and behavior, and always mindful.
145. Well-makers lead the water (wherever they like); fletchers bend the arrow; carpenters bend a log of wood; good people fashion themselves.
145. Well-makers direct the water wherever they want; fletchers shape the arrow; carpenters bend a log of wood; good people shape themselves.
Chapter XI. Old Age
146. How is there laughter, how is there joy, as this world is always burning? Why do you not seek a light, ye who are surrounded by darkness?
146. How can there be laughter and joy when this world is always on fire? Why don't you look for a light, you who are surrounded by darkness?
147. Look at this dressed-up lump, covered with wounds, joined together, sickly, full of many thoughts, which has no strength, no hold!
147. Look at this dressed-up mass, covered in wounds, held together, weak, and full of conflicting thoughts, with no strength or stability!
148. This body is wasted, full of sickness, and frail; this heap of corruption breaks to pieces, life indeed ends in death.
148. This body is wasted, full of illness, and weak; this pile of decay falls apart, life truly ends in death.
149. Those white bones, like gourds thrown away in the autumn, what pleasure is there in looking at them?
149. Those white bones, like discarded gourds in the fall, what enjoyment is there in looking at them?
150. After a stronghold has been made of the bones, it is covered with flesh and blood, and there dwell in it old age and death, pride and deceit.
150. Once the bones are fortified, they are covered with flesh and blood, and in this place reside old age and death, pride and deceit.
151. The brilliant chariots of kings are destroyed, the body also approaches destruction, but the virtue of good people never approaches destruction,—thus do the good say to the good.
151. The amazing chariots of kings can be ruined, the body eventually faces decay, but the goodness of virtuous people never fades away—this is what the good say to one another.
152. A man who has learnt little, grows old like an ox; his flesh grows, but his knowledge does not grow.
152. A man who has learned little ages like an ox; his body develops, but his knowledge doesn’t.
153, 154. Looking for the maker of this tabernacle, I shall have to run through a course of many births, so long as I do not find (him); and painful is birth again and again. But now, maker of the tabernacle, thou hast been seen; thou shalt not make up this tabernacle again. All thy rafters are broken, thy ridge-pole is sundered; the mind, approaching the Eternal (visankhara, nirvana), has attained to the extinction of all desires.
153, 154. To find the creator of this tabernacle, I would have to go through many lifetimes, as long as I don’t find him; and being born again and again is painful. But now, creator of the tabernacle, you have been seen; you will not build this tabernacle again. All your rafters are broken, your ridge-pole is shattered; the mind, moving toward the Eternal (visankhara, nirvana), has achieved the end of all desires.
155. Men who have not observed proper discipline, and have not gained treasure in their youth, perish like old herons in a lake without fish.
155. Men who haven't practiced proper discipline and haven't gained wealth in their youth end up like old herons in a fishless lake.
156. Men who have not observed proper discipline, and have not gained treasure in their youth, lie, like broken bows, sighing after the past.
156. Men who haven’t practiced proper discipline and didn’t earn treasures in their youth, lie like broken bows, lamenting what they’ve lost.
Chapter XII. Self
157. If a man hold himself dear, let him watch himself carefully; during one at least out of the three watches a wise man should be watchful.
157. If a man values himself, he should pay close attention to his actions; at least during one of the three shifts, a wise person should stay alert.
158. Let each man direct himself first to what is proper, then let him teach others; thus a wise man will not suffer.
158. Let everyone first focus on what’s right for themselves, and then teach others; this way, a wise person won't struggle.
159. If a man make himself as he teaches others to be, then, being himself well subdued, he may subdue (others); one's own self is indeed difficult to subdue.
159. If a man becomes who he teaches others to be, then, having mastered himself, he can master others; controlling oneself is indeed challenging.
160. Self is the lord of self, who else could be the lord? With self well subdued, a man finds a lord such as few can find.
160. The self is the master of the self; who else could be the master? When a person has control over themselves, they discover a leader that few others can find.
161. The evil done by oneself, self-begotten, self-bred, crushes the foolish, as a diamond breaks a precious stone.
161. The harm caused by oneself, born and raised from within, destroys the foolish, just like a diamond shatters a gemstone.
162. He whose wickedness is very great brings himself down to that state where his enemy wishes him to be, as a creeper does with the tree which it surrounds.
162. Someone whose wickedness is extreme lowers themselves to the level where their enemy wants them to be, just like a vine wraps around the tree it clings to.
163. Bad deeds, and deeds hurtful to ourselves, are easy to do; what is beneficial and good, that is very difficult to do.
163. It's easy to do bad things and actions that hurt ourselves; however, what's truly beneficial and good is actually very hard to accomplish.
164. The foolish man who scorns the rule of the venerable (Arahat), of the elect (Ariya), of the virtuous, and follows false doctrine, he bears fruit to his own destruction, like the fruits of the Katthaka reed.
164. The foolish person who disregards the teachings of the respected (Arahat), of the chosen ones (Ariya), of the good, and instead follows misleading beliefs, brings about their own downfall, like the fruits of the Katthaka reed.
165. By oneself the evil is done, by oneself one suffers; by oneself evil is left undone, by oneself one is purified. Purity and impurity belong to oneself, no one can purify another.
165. By yourself, evil is done; by yourself, you suffer. By yourself, evil is not done; by yourself, you are purified. Purity and impurity are your own responsibility; no one can purify someone else.
166. Let no one forget his own duty for the sake of another's, however great; let a man, after he has discerned his own duty, be always attentive to his duty.
166. Don’t let anyone neglect their own responsibilities for someone else’s, no matter how important; once a person understands their own responsibilities, they should always stay focused on them.
Chapter XIII. The World
167. Do not follow the evil law! Do not live on in thoughtlessness! Do not follow false doctrine! Be not a friend of the world.
167. Don't follow the wicked ways! Don't live without thinking! Don't embrace false teachings! Don't be a friend of the world.
168. Rouse thyself! do not be idle! Follow the law of virtue! The virtuous rests in bliss in this world and in the next.
168. Wake up! Don't be lazy! Follow the path of goodness! The good live in happiness in this world and the next.
169. Follow the law of virtue; do not follow that of sin. The virtuous rests in bliss in this world and in the next.
169. Follow the path of virtue; don’t follow the path of sin. The virtuous person finds happiness in this life and the next.
170. Look upon the world as a bubble, look upon it as a mirage: the king of death does not see him who thus looks down upon the world.
170. View the world as a bubble, see it as an illusion: the king of death doesn’t notice someone who looks down on the world like that.
171. Come, look at this glittering world, like unto a royal chariot; the foolish are immersed in it, but the wise do not touch it.
171. Come, check out this dazzling world, like a royal chariot; the foolish are caught up in it, but the wise stay away from it.
172. He who formerly was reckless and afterwards became sober, brightens up this world, like the moon when freed from clouds.
172. Someone who used to be careless and then became responsible makes the world a better place, like the moon when it’s out from behind the clouds.
173. He whose evil deeds are covered by good deeds, brightens up this world, like the moon when freed from clouds.
173. Someone whose bad actions are hidden by good ones lights up the world, just like the moon when it’s clear of clouds.
174. This world is dark, few only can see here; a few only go to heaven, like birds escaped from the net.
174. This world is dark; only a few can see clearly here. Only a few make it to heaven, like birds that have escaped from the net.
175. The swans go on the path of the sun, they go through the ether by means of their miraculous power; the wise are led out of this world, when they have conquered Mara and his train.
175. The swans follow the path of the sun, moving through the sky with their amazing abilities; the wise are guided away from this world once they have defeated Mara and his followers.
176. If a man has transgressed one law, and speaks lies, and scoffs at another world, there is no evil he will not do.
176. If a man breaks one law, lies, and mocks the idea of another world, there’s no wrong he won’t commit.
177. The uncharitable do not go to the world of the gods; fools only do not praise liberality; a wise man rejoices in liberality, and through it becomes blessed in the other world.
177. The unkind do not reach the realm of the gods; only fools fail to appreciate generosity; a wise person finds joy in generosity, and through it, they are blessed in the afterlife.
178. Better than sovereignty over the earth, better than going to heaven, better than lordship over all worlds, is the reward of the first step in holiness.
178. Better than ruling the earth, better than ascending to heaven, better than having dominion over all worlds, is the reward of the first step in holiness.
Chapter XIV. The Buddha (The Awakened)
179. He whose conquest is not conquered again, into whose conquest no one in this world enters, by what track can you lead him, the Awakened, the Omniscient, the trackless?
179. He whose victory is never overthrown, into whose success no one in this world can interfere, by what path can you guide him, the Enlightened One, the All-Knowing, the one without a path?
180. He whom no desire with its snares and poisons can lead astray, by what track can you lead him, the Awakened, the Omniscient, the trackless?
180. The one who can't be misled by any desire's traps and toxins—how can you guide him, the Awakened, the All-Knowing, the one with no path?
181. Even the gods envy those who are awakened and not forgetful, who are given to meditation, who are wise, and who delight in the repose of retirement (from the world).
181. Even the gods envy those who are aware and not forgetful, who engage in meditation, who are wise, and who find joy in the peace of solitude (away from the world).
182. Difficult (to obtain) is the conception of men, difficult is the life of mortals, difficult is the hearing of the True Law, difficult is the birth of the Awakened (the attainment of Buddhahood).
182. It's hard for people to understand, life is hard for mortals, it's hard to hear the True Law, and it's hard to be born Awakened (to achieve Buddhahood).
183. Not to commit any sin, to do good, and to purify one's mind, that is the teaching of (all) the Awakened.
183. Avoid any wrongdoing, do good deeds, and cleanse your mind; that is the teaching of all the Enlightened.
184. The Awakened call patience the highest penance, long-suffering the highest Nirvana; for he is not an anchorite (pravragita) who strikes others, he is not an ascetic (sramana) who insults others.
184. The Enlightened say that patience is the greatest form of self-discipline, and enduring hardship is the ultimate Nirvana; because someone who harms others is not truly a hermit (pravragita), and someone who insults others is not a real ascetic (sramana).
185. Not to blame, not to strike, to live restrained under the law, to be moderate in eating, to sleep and sit alone, and to dwell on the highest thoughts,—this is the teaching of the Awakened.
185. Not to blame others, not to hit, to live within the law, to eat in moderation, to sleep and sit alone, and to focus on the most elevated thoughts—that’s the teaching of the Enlightened One.
186. There is no satisfying lusts, even by a shower of gold pieces; he who knows that lusts have a short taste and cause pain, he is wise;
186. You can't satisfy your desires, even with a pile of gold; the one who understands that desires are fleeting and bring pain is truly wise;
187. Even in heavenly pleasures he finds no satisfaction, the disciple who is fully awakened delights only in the destruction of all desires.
187. Even in heavenly pleasures, he finds no satisfaction; the fully awakened disciple only takes joy in the complete eradication of all desires.
188. Men, driven by fear, go to many a refuge, to mountains and forests, to groves and sacred trees.
188. Men, motivated by fear, seek refuge in many places, like mountains and forests, groves, and sacred trees.
189. But that is not a safe refuge, that is not the best refuge; a man is not delivered from all pains after having gone to that refuge.
189. But that's not a safe place to turn to, and it's not the best one either; a person isn't free from all their troubles just by going to that place.
190. He who takes refuge with Buddha, the Law, and the Church; he who, with clear understanding, sees the four holy truths:—
190. Someone who takes refuge in Buddha, the Law, and the Church; someone who, with clear understanding, sees the four noble truths:—
191. Viz. pain, the origin of pain, the destruction of pain, and the eightfold holy way that leads to the quieting of pain;—
191. That is, pain, the cause of pain, the end of pain, and the eightfold path that leads to the relief of pain;—
192. That is the safe refuge, that is the best refuge; having gone to that refuge, a man is delivered from all pain.
192. That is the safe place, that is the best place; once someone finds that refuge, they are free from all suffering.
193. A supernatural person (a Buddha) is not easily found, he is not born everywhere. Wherever such a sage is born, that race prospers.
193. A supernatural person (a Buddha) isn't easily found; they're not born everywhere. Wherever such a wise person is born, that community thrives.
194. Happy is the arising of the awakened, happy is the teaching of the True Law, happy is peace in the church, happy is the devotion of those who are at peace.
194. Happy is the coming of the enlightened, happy is the teaching of the True Law, happy is peace in the community, happy is the devotion of those who are at peace.
195, 196. He who pays homage to those who deserve homage, whether the awakened (Buddha) or their disciples, those who have overcome the host (of evils), and crossed the flood of sorrow, he who pays homage to such as have found deliverance and know no fear, his merit can never be measured by anybody.
195, 196. Anyone who pays respect to those worthy of it, whether it's the enlightened one (Buddha) or their followers, those who have conquered the many evils and moved beyond the suffering, and who honor those who have found freedom and feel no fear, their merit is beyond measurement by anyone.
Chapter XV. Happiness
197. Let us live happily then, not hating those who hate us! among men who hate us let us dwell free from hatred!
197. Let’s live happily then, not hating those who hate us! Among those who hate us, let’s stay free from hatred!
198. Let us live happily then, free from ailments among the ailing! among men who are ailing let us dwell free from ailments!
198. Let's live happily then, free from sickness among those who are unwell! Among people who are struggling, let's stay clear of illness!
199. Let us live happily then, free from greed among the greedy! among men who are greedy let us dwell free from greed!
199. Let’s live happily, free from greed among those who are greedy! Among greedy people, let’s live without greed!
200. Let us live happily then, though we call nothing our own! We shall be like the bright gods, feeding on happiness!
200. Let’s live happily then, even if we own nothing! We’ll be like the bright gods, thriving on joy!
201. Victory breeds hatred, for the conquered is unhappy. He who has given up both victory and defeat, he, the contented, is happy.
201. Winning leads to resentment, because the defeated are unhappy. The one who has let go of both winning and losing, he who is at peace, is happy.
202. There is no fire like passion; there is no losing throw like hatred; there is no pain like this body; there is no happiness higher than rest.
202. There’s no fire like passion; there’s no defeat like hatred; there’s no pain like this body; there’s no happiness greater than rest.
203. Hunger is the worst of diseases, the body the greatest of pains; if one knows this truly, that is Nirvana, the highest happiness.
203. Hunger is the worst disease, and the body feels the greatest pain; if you truly understand this, that is Nirvana, the ultimate happiness.
204. Health is the greatest of gifts, contentedness the best riches; trust is the best of relationships, Nirvana the highest happiness.
204. Health is the greatest gift, contentment the best wealth; trust is the best foundation for relationships, and Nirvana is the ultimate happiness.
205. He who has tasted the sweetness of solitude and tranquillity, is free from fear and free from sin, while he tastes the sweetness of drinking in the law.
205. Whoever has experienced the joy of being alone and at peace is free from fear and sin while enjoying the satisfaction of embracing the law.
206. The sight of the elect (Arya) is good, to live with them is always happiness; if a man does not see fools, he will be truly happy.
206. The sight of the chosen ones (Arya) is a blessing; being with them always brings joy. If a person avoids fools, they will be genuinely happy.
207. He who walks in the company of fools suffers a long way; company with fools, as with an enemy, is always painful; company with the wise is pleasure, like meeting with kinsfolk.
207. If you hang out with fools, it’s a tough journey; being around fools, like being with an enemy, is always hard; being with the wise is enjoyable, just like reuniting with family.
208. Therefore, one ought to follow the wise, the intelligent, the learned, the much enduring, the dutiful, the elect; one ought to follow a good and wise man, as the moon follows the path of the stars.
208. Therefore, one should follow the wise, the smart, the knowledgeable, the patient, the responsible, the chosen; one should follow a good and wise person, just as the moon follows the path of the stars.
Chapter XVI. Pleasure
209. He who gives himself to vanity, and does not give himself to meditation, forgetting the real aim (of life) and grasping at pleasure, will in time envy him who has exerted himself in meditation.
209. Someone who focuses on vanity and doesn't spend time on reflection, losing sight of the true purpose of life and chasing after pleasure, will eventually envy those who have dedicated themselves to meditation.
210. Let no man ever look for what is pleasant, or what is unpleasant. Not to see what is pleasant is pain, and it is pain to see what is unpleasant.
210. Let no one ever seek out what is enjoyable or what is not enjoyable. Not seeing what is pleasant brings pain, and seeing what is unpleasant brings pain as well.
211. Let, therefore, no man love anything; loss of the beloved is evil. Those who love nothing and hate nothing, have no fetters.
211. So, let no one love anything; losing what you love is painful. Those who love nothing and hate nothing are free.
212. From pleasure comes grief, from pleasure comes fear; he who is free from pleasure knows neither grief nor fear.
212. Pleasure brings grief, and pleasure brings fear; someone who is free from pleasure knows neither grief nor fear.
213. From affection comes grief, from affection comes fear; he who is free from affection knows neither grief nor fear.
213. From love comes sadness, from love comes fear; the person who is free from love knows neither sadness nor fear.
214. From lust comes grief, from lust comes fear; he who is free from lust knows neither grief nor fear.
214. From desire comes sorrow, from desire comes fear; the one who is free from desire knows neither sorrow nor fear.
215. From love comes grief, from love comes fear; he who is free from love knows neither grief nor fear.
215. Love brings sorrow, and love brings fear; those who are free from love know neither sorrow nor fear.
216. From greed comes grief, from greed comes fear; he who is free from greed knows neither grief nor fear.
216. Greed brings sadness and fear; those who are free from greed feel neither sadness nor fear.
217. He who possesses virtue and intelligence, who is just, speaks the truth, and does what is his own business, him the world will hold dear.
217. A person who has virtue and intelligence, is fair, speaks the truth, and takes care of their own responsibilities will be valued by the world.
218. He in whom a desire for the Ineffable (Nirvana) has sprung up, who is satisfied in his mind, and whose thoughts are not bewildered by love, he is called urdhvamsrotas (carried upwards by the stream).
218. The person who has developed a desire for the Unnameable (Nirvana), who is content in their mind, and whose thoughts aren’t confused by love, is referred to as urdhvamsrotas (lifted up by the current).
219. Kinsmen, friends, and lovers salute a man who has been long away, and returns safe from afar.
219. Family, friends, and loved ones greet a man who has been away for a long time and has returned home safely.
220. In like manner his good works receive him who has done good, and has gone from this world to the other;—as kinsmen receive a friend on his return.
220. Similarly, his good deeds welcome the one who has done good and has moved on from this world to the next—just as family welcomes a friend upon their return.
Chapter XVII. Anger
221. Let a man leave anger, let him forsake pride, let him overcome all bondage! No sufferings befall the man who is not attached to name and form, and who calls nothing his own.
221. Let a person let go of anger, let them abandon pride, let them overcome all chains! No suffering comes to someone who isn’t attached to names and appearances, and who claims nothing as their own.
222. He who holds back rising anger like a rolling chariot, him I call a real driver; other people are but holding the reins.
222. The one who controls their rising anger like a chariot in motion, I call a true driver; others are just holding the reins.
223. Let a man overcome anger by love, let him overcome evil by good; let him overcome the greedy by liberality, the liar by truth!
223. Let a person conquer anger with love, let them defeat evil with goodness; let them overcome greed with generosity, and lies with truth!
224. Speak the truth, do not yield to anger; give, if thou art asked for little; by these three steps thou wilt go near the gods.
224. Speak the truth, don't give in to anger; share what you can when asked for a little; with these three steps, you'll get closer to the gods.
225. The sages who injure nobody, and who always control their body, they will go to the unchangeable place (Nirvana), where, if they have gone, they will suffer no more.
225. The wise who harm no one and always have control over themselves will reach the unchanging place (Nirvana), where, once they've arrived, they will experience no more suffering.
226. Those who are ever watchful, who study day and night, and who strive after Nirvana, their passions will come to an end.
226. Those who are always alert, who study day and night, and who strive for Nirvana, will see their passions fade away.
227. This is an old saying, O Atula, this is not only of to-day: `They blame him who sits silent, they blame him who speaks much, they also blame him who says little; there is no one on earth who is not blamed.'
227. This is an old saying, O Atula, and it’s not just for today: "They criticize the one who stays quiet, they criticize the one who talks a lot, they also criticize the one who says a little; there’s no one on earth who isn’t criticized."
228. There never was, there never will be, nor is there now, a man who is always blamed, or a man who is always praised.
228. There has never been, there isn’t now, and there never will be a person who is always criticized or a person who is always celebrated.
229, 230. But he whom those who discriminate praise continually day after day, as without blemish, wise, rich in knowledge and virtue, who would dare to blame him, like a coin made of gold from the Gambu river? Even the gods praise him, he is praised even by Brahman.
229, 230. But the person whom those who discern keep praising day after day, as flawless, wise, and wealthy in knowledge and virtue, who would dare to criticize him, like a gold coin from the Gambu river? Even the gods praise him; he is even praised by Brahman.
231. Beware of bodily anger, and control thy body! Leave the sins of the body, and with thy body practise virtue!
231. Be aware of physical anger, and take control of your body! Avoid the sins of the body, and with your body practice virtue!
232. Beware of the anger of the tongue, and control thy tongue! Leave the sins of the tongue, and practise virtue with thy tongue!
232. Be cautious of the anger that comes from your words, and control what you say! Avoid speaking in ways that cause harm, and focus on using your words to do good!
233. Beware of the anger of the mind, and control thy mind! Leave the sins of the mind, and practise virtue with thy mind!
233. Be aware of the anger of your mind, and take control of it! Let go of the wrongs of your mind, and focus on doing good with your mind!
234. The wise who control their body, who control their tongue, the wise who control their mind, are indeed well controlled.
234. The wise who manage their bodies, who manage their words, the wise who manage their minds, are truly well-managed.
Chapter XVIII. Impurity
235. Thou art now like a sear leaf, the messengers of death (Yama) have come near to thee; thou standest at the door of thy departure, and thou hast no provision for thy journey.
235. You are now like a withered leaf, the messengers of death (Yama) have come close to you; you are at the threshold of your departure, and you have no preparations for your journey.
236. Make thyself an island, work hard, be wise! When thy impurities are blown away, and thou art free from guilt, thou wilt enter into the heavenly world of the elect (Ariya).
236. Make yourself an island, work hard, be wise! When your impurities are washed away, and you are free from guilt, you will enter into the heavenly realm of the chosen ones (Ariya).
237. Thy life has come to an end, thou art come near to death (Yama), there is no resting-place for thee on the road, and thou hast no provision for thy journey.
237. Your life has come to an end, you are close to death (Yama), there is no resting place for you on the road, and you have no provisions for your journey.
238. Make thyself an island, work hard, be wise! When thy impurities are blown away, and thou art free from guilt, thou wilt not enter again into birth and decay.
238. Make yourself an island, work hard, be smart! When your impurities are gone and you're free from guilt, you won't be born again into the cycle of birth and death.
239. Let a wise man blow off the impurities of his self, as a smith blows off the impurities of silver one by one, little by little, and from time to time.
239. Let a wise person get rid of their flaws, just as a blacksmith removes the impurities from silver, bit by bit, gradually, and occasionally.
240. As the impurity which springs from the iron, when it springs from it, destroys it; thus do a transgressor's own works lead him to the evil path.
240. Just as the impurity that comes from iron destroys it, a person’s own actions lead them down a bad path.
241. The taint of prayers is non-repetition; the taint of houses, non-repair; the taint of the body is sloth; the taint of a watchman, thoughtlessness.
241. The flaw in prayers is not repeating them; the flaw in houses is not fixing them; the flaw in the body is laziness; the flaw in a watchman is carelessness.
242. Bad conduct is the taint of woman, greediness the taint of a benefactor; tainted are all evil ways in this world and in the next.
242. Bad behavior is the flaw of a woman, greediness the flaw of a benefactor; all wicked paths are tainted in this world and the next.
243. But there is a taint worse than all taints,—ignorance is the greatest taint. O mendicants! throw off that taint, and become taintless!
243. But there’s a stain worse than any other—ignorance is the biggest stain. O seekers! Shed that stain and become free of all stains!
244. Life is easy to live for a man who is without shame, a crow hero, a mischief-maker, an insulting, bold, and wretched fellow.
244. Life is easy for a man who knows no shame, a cocky show-off, a troublemaker, a rude, daring, and miserable person.
245. But life is hard to live for a modest man, who always looks for what is pure, who is disinterested, quiet, spotless, and intelligent.
245. But life is tough for a humble person, who constantly seeks what is pure, who is unselfish, calm, innocent, and intelligent.
246. He who destroys life, who speaks untruth, who in this world takes what is not given him, who goes to another man's wife;
246. The person who takes a life, who lies, who claims what isn't theirs in this world, and who goes after another man's wife;
247. And the man who gives himself to drinking intoxicating liquors, he, even in this world, digs up his own root.
247. And the man who gives himself to drinking alcohol, he, even in this world, digs up his own foundation.
248. O man, know this, that the unrestrained are in a bad state; take care that greediness and vice do not bring thee to grief for a long time!
248. Oh man, understand this: those who lack self-control are in a tough situation; be careful that greed and wrongdoing don’t lead you to suffering for a long time!
249. The world gives according to their faith or according to their pleasure: if a man frets about the food and the drink given to others, he will find no rest either by day or by night.
249. The world provides based on people's beliefs or desires: if someone stresses over the food and drink that others receive, they will find no peace, either during the day or at night.
250. He in whom that feeling is destroyed, and taken out with the very root, finds rest by day and by night.
250. The person who has completely lost that feeling, having removed it entirely, finds peace both day and night.
251. There is no fire like passion, there is no shark like hatred, there is no snare like folly, there is no torrent like greed.
251. There’s no fire like passion, no predator like hatred, no trap like foolishness, and no flood like greed.
252. The fault of others is easily perceived, but that of oneself is difficult to perceive; a man winnows his neighbour's faults like chaff, but his own fault he hides, as a cheat hides the bad die from the gambler.
252. It's easy to see the faults in others, but seeing our own is tough; a person points out their neighbor's mistakes like separating chaff, but hides their own faults like a cheat hiding a bad die from a gambler.
253. If a man looks after the faults of others, and is always inclined to be offended, his own passions will grow, and he is far from the destruction of passions.
253. If a man focuses on the faults of others and is constantly upset, his own emotions will intensify, and he is far from overcoming his desires.
254. There is no path through the air, a man is not a Samana by outward acts. The world delights in vanity, the Tathagatas (the Buddhas) are free from vanity.
254. There’s no way to fly; a person isn’t a Samana just because of their actions. The world is full of pride, but the Tathagatas (the Buddhas) are free from it.
255. There is no path through the air, a man is not a Samana by outward acts. No creatures are eternal; but the awakened (Buddha) are never shaken.
255. There’s no way to travel through the air; a person isn’t enlightened just by their actions. No beings are immortal, but those who are awakened (Buddha) are always steady.
Chapter XIX. The Just
256, 257. A man is not just if he carries a matter by violence; no, he who distinguishes both right and wrong, who is learned and leads others, not by violence, but by law and equity, and who is guarded by the law and intelligent, he is called just.
256, 257. A man isn’t just because he forces an issue with violence; no, the one who differentiates between right and wrong, who is knowledgeable and guides others not through force but through law and fairness, and who is protected by the law and wise, is considered just.
258. A man is not learned because he talks much; he who is patient, free from hatred and fear, he is called learned.
258. A man isn’t knowledgeable just because he talks a lot; the one who is patient and free from hate and fear is the one who is truly learned.
259. A man is not a supporter of the law because he talks much; even if a man has learnt little, but sees the law bodily, he is a supporter of the law, a man who never neglects the law.
259. A man isn’t a supporter of the law just because he talks a lot; even if someone knows very little, if they understand the law fundamentally, they are a supporter of the law, someone who never disregards it.
260. A man is not an elder because his head is grey; his age may be ripe, but he is called `Old-in-vain.'
260. A man isn’t an elder just because he has grey hair; he might be of a certain age, but he’s considered ‘Old-in-vain.’
261. He in whom there is truth, virtue, love, restraint, moderation, he who is free from impurity and is wise, he is called an elder.
261. The person who embodies truth, virtue, love, self-control, and moderation—someone who is pure and wise—is referred to as an elder.
262. An envious greedy, dishonest man does not become respectable by means of much talking only, or by the beauty of his complexion.
262. An envious, greedy, dishonest person doesn't become respectable just by talking a lot or having good looks.
263. He in whom all this is destroyed, and taken out with the very root, he, when freed from hatred and wise, is called respectable.
263. The person in whom all this is removed and pulled out at the root, when free from hatred and wise, is considered respectable.
264. Not by tonsure does an undisciplined man who speaks falsehood become a Samana; can a man be a Samana who is still held captive by desire and greediness?
264. An undisciplined person who tells lies doesn’t become a Samana just by getting a shaved head; can someone truly be a Samana if they're still trapped by desire and greed?
265. He who always quiets the evil, whether small or large, he is called a Samana (a quiet man), because he has quieted all evil.
265. The person who always calms the bad, whether it's minor or major, is called a Samana (a peaceful person), because they have quelled all negativity.
266. A man is not a mendicant (Bhikshu) simply because he asks others for alms; he who adopts the whole law is a Bhikshu, not he who only begs.
266. A man isn’t a beggar just because he asks others for donations; it’s the one who embraces the entire way of life who is a true beggar, not just the one who asks for handouts.
267. He who is above good and evil, who is chaste, who with knowledge passes through the world, he indeed is called a Bhikshu.
267. The person who transcends good and evil, who is pure, and who navigates the world with wisdom is truly called a Bhikshu.
268, 269. A man is not a Muni because he observes silence (mona, i.e. mauna), if he is foolish and ignorant; but the wise who, taking the balance, chooses the good and avoids evil, he is a Muni, and is a Muni thereby; he who in this world weighs both sides is called a Muni.
268, 269. A person isn’t considered a Muni just because they keep silent (mona, i.e. mauna) if they’re foolish and ignorant; rather, the wise person who carefully evaluates options, chooses what’s good, and steers clear of what’s bad is the true Muni. A Muni is someone who weighs both sides in this world.
270. A man is not an elect (Ariya) because he injures living creatures; because he has pity on all living creatures, therefore is a man called Ariya.
270. A person is not considered noble (Ariya) because they harm living beings; it is because they show compassion towards all living beings that a person is called noble.
271, 272. Not only by discipline and vows, not only by much learning, not by entering into a trance, not by sleeping alone, do I earn the happiness of release which no worldling can know. Bhikshu, be not confident as long as thou hast not attained the extinction of desires.
271, 272. It's not just through discipline and vows, not just through extensive learning, not by going into a trance, not by sleeping alone, that I achieve the happiness of liberation that no ordinary person can understand. Monk, don’t be too sure of yourself until you’ve truly extinguished your desires.
Chapter XX. The Way
273. The best of ways is the eightfold; the best of truths the four words; the best of virtues passionlessness; the best of men he who has eyes to see.
273. The best path is the eightfold; the best truths are the four noble truths; the best virtue is being free from passion; the best person is one who has insight.
274. This is the way, there is no other that leads to the purifying of intelligence. Go on this way! Everything else is the deceit of Mara (the tempter).
274. This is the path; there’s no other that leads to the clarity of mind. Follow this path! Everything else is the deception of Mara (the tempter).
275. If you go on this way, you will make an end of pain! The way was preached by me, when I had understood the removal of the thorns (in the flesh).
275. If you keep going like this, you'll put an end to suffering! I shared this path when I realized how to get rid of the thorns (in the flesh).
276. You yourself must make an effort. The Tathagatas (Buddhas) are only preachers. The thoughtful who enter the way are freed from the bondage of Mara.
276. You have to put in the effort yourself. The Tathagatas (Buddhas) are just teachers. Those who are mindful and follow the path are freed from the grasp of Mara.
277. `All created things perish,' he who knows and sees this becomes passive in pain; this is the way to purity.
277. "Everything that has been created comes to an end." Someone who understands and realizes this becomes more accepting of pain; this is the path to purity.
278. `All created things are grief and pain,' he who knows and sees this becomes passive in pain; this is the way that leads to purity.
278. `All created things bring grief and pain,' the one who understands and acknowledges this becomes indifferent to suffering; this is the path to purity.
279. `All forms are unreal,' he who knows and sees this becomes passive in pain; this is the way that leads to purity.
279. `All forms are not real,' when someone understands and sees this, they become indifferent to pain; this is the path that leads to purity.
280. He who does not rouse himself when it is time to rise, who, though young and strong, is full of sloth, whose will and thought are weak, that lazy and idle man will never find the way to knowledge.
280. The person who doesn’t wake up when it’s time to get up, who, despite being young and strong, is filled with laziness, and whose will and thoughts are weak, will never discover the path to knowledge.
281. Watching his speech, well restrained in mind, let a man never commit any wrong with his body! Let a man but keep these three roads of action clear, and he will achieve the way which is taught by the wise.
281. While listening to his speech, a person should stay calm and avoid doing anything wrong with their actions! If someone can keep these three paths clear, they will follow the way that the wise teach.
282. Through zeal knowledge is gotten, through lack of zeal knowledge is lost; let a man who knows this double path of gain and loss thus place himself that knowledge may grow.
282. Knowledge is gained through enthusiasm, and it is lost through a lack of it; let a person who understands this dual path of gain and loss position themselves in a way that allows their knowledge to expand.
283. Cut down the whole forest (of lust), not a tree only! Danger comes out of the forest (of lust). When you have cut down both the forest (of lust) and its undergrowth, then, Bhikshus, you will be rid of the forest and free!
283. Cut down the entire forest of desire, not just one tree! Danger arises from the forest of desire. Once you’ve cleared both the forest and its underbrush, then, Bhikshus, you will be free from the forest and liberated!
284. So long as the love of man towards women, even the smallest, is not destroyed, so long is his mind in bondage, as the calf that drinks milk is to its mother.
284. As long as a man's love for women, even the smallest amount, isn't gone, his mind remains trapped, like a calf that drinks milk from its mother.
285. Cut out the love of self, like an autumn lotus, with thy hand! Cherish the road of peace. Nirvana has been shown by Sugata (Buddha).
285. Cut out self-love, like an autumn lotus, with your own hand! Embrace the path of peace. Nirvana has been revealed by Sugata (Buddha).
286. `Here I shall dwell in the rain, here in winter and summer,' thus the fool meditates, and does not think of his death.
286. `Here I will stay in the rain, here in winter and summer,' thinks the fool, and he doesn't consider his death.
287. Death comes and carries off that man, praised for his children and flocks, his mind distracted, as a flood carries off a sleeping village.
287. Death arrives and takes away that man, celebrated for his kids and livestock, his thoughts scattered, like a flood sweeping away a sleeping village.
288. Sons are no help, nor a father, nor relations; there is no help from kinsfolk for one whom death has seized.
288. Sons can’t help, nor can a father or relatives; there’s no support from family for someone whom death has claimed.
289. A wise and good man who knows the meaning of this, should quickly clear the way that leads to Nirvana.
289. A wise and good person who understands this should quickly clear the path to Nirvana.
Chapter XXI. Miscellaneous
290. If by leaving a small pleasure one sees a great pleasure, let a wise man leave the small pleasure, and look to the great.
290. If by giving up a small pleasure you can see a bigger pleasure, let a wise person give up the small pleasure and focus on the bigger one.
291. He who, by causing pain to others, wishes to obtain pleasure for himself, he, entangled in the bonds of hatred, will never be free from hatred.
291. Whoever inflicts pain on others to gain pleasure for themselves, trapped in the chains of hatred, will never be free from that hatred.
292. What ought to be done is neglected, what ought not to be done is done; the desires of unruly, thoughtless people are always increasing.
292. What should be done is ignored, and what shouldn’t be done is carried out; the wants of impulsive, careless individuals are always growing.
293. But they whose whole watchfulness is always directed to their body, who do not follow what ought not to be done, and who steadfastly do what ought to be done, the desires of such watchful and wise people will come to an end.
293. But those whose constant focus is on their bodies, who avoid what shouldn’t be done and consistently do what should be done, will find their desires coming to an end.
294. A true Brahmana goes scatheless, though he have killed father and mother, and two valiant kings, though he has destroyed a kingdom with all its subjects.
294. A true Brahmana remains unharmed, even if he has killed his father and mother, and two brave kings, even if he has destroyed an entire kingdom along with all its people.
295. A true Brahmana goes scatheless, though he have killed father and mother, and two holy kings, and an eminent man besides.
295. A true Brahmin remains unharmed, even if he has killed his father and mother, two holy kings, and another distinguished person.
296. The disciples of Gotama (Buddha) are always well awake, and their thoughts day and night are always set on Buddha.
296. The followers of Gotama (Buddha) are always alert, and their thoughts, day and night, are consistently focused on Buddha.
297. The disciples of Gotama are always well awake, and their thoughts day and night are always set on the law.
297. The followers of Gotama are always alert, and their minds are constantly focused on the teachings, day and night.
298. The disciples of Gotama are always well awake, and their thoughts day and night are always set on the church.
298. The followers of Gotama are always alert, and their thoughts day and night are consistently focused on the community.
299. The disciples of Gotama are always well awake, and their thoughts day and night are always set on their body.
299. The followers of Gotama are always alert, and their minds day and night are constantly focused on their bodies.
300. The disciples of Gotama are always well awake, and their mind day and night always delights in compassion.
300. The followers of Gotama are always alert, and their minds, day and night, consistently find joy in compassion.
301. The disciples of Gotama are always well awake, and their mind day and night always delights in meditation.
301. Gotama's disciples are always alert, and their minds are constantly joyful in meditation, both day and night.
302. It is hard to leave the world (to become a friar), it is hard to enjoy the world; hard is the monastery, painful are the houses; painful it is to dwell with equals (to share everything in common) and the itinerant mendicant is beset with pain. Therefore let no man be an itinerant mendicant and he will not be beset with pain.
302. It's tough to leave the world to become a friar, and it's tough to enjoy the world; the monastery is hard, and living in communal houses is painful; it's painful to live among equals and sharing everything can be a burden. So, let no one be an itinerant mendicant, and they won't be overwhelmed by pain.
303. Whatever place a faithful, virtuous, celebrated, and wealthy man chooses, there he is respected.
303. Wherever a trustworthy, virtuous, well-known, and wealthy person decides to go, they are respected.
304. Good people shine from afar, like the snowy mountains; bad people are not seen, like arrows shot by night.
304. Good people stand out from a distance, like snowy mountains; bad people are not noticed, like arrows fired in the dark.
305. He alone who, without ceasing, practises the duty of sitting alone and sleeping alone, he, subduing himself, will rejoice in the destruction of all desires alone, as if living in a forest.
305. Only the person who continuously practices the act of sitting alone and sleeping alone, mastering themselves, will find joy in the complete eradication of all desires, almost as if they were living in a forest.
Chapter XXII. The Downward Course
306. He who says what is not, goes to hell; he also who, having done a thing, says I have not done it. After death both are equal, they are men with evil deeds in the next world.
306. Whoever lies goes to hell; so does the person who, after doing something, claims they didn't do it. After death, both are the same; they are people with wicked acts in the afterlife.
307. Many men whose shoulders are covered with the yellow gown are ill-conditioned and unrestrained; such evil-doers by their evil deeds go to hell.
307. Many men wearing the yellow gown are ill-tempered and uncontrolled; these wrongdoers end up in hell because of their bad actions.
308. Better it would be to swallow a heated iron ball, like flaring fire, than that a bad unrestrained fellow should live on the charity of the land.
308. It would be better to swallow a hot iron ball, like blazing fire, than to let a reckless troublemaker live off the generosity of the land.
309. Four things does a wreckless man gain who covets his neighbour's wife,—a bad reputation, an uncomfortable bed, thirdly, punishment, and lastly, hell.
309. A reckless man who covets his neighbor's wife gains four things: a bad reputation, an uncomfortable bed, punishment, and finally, hell.
310. There is bad reputation, and the evil way (to hell), there is the short pleasure of the frightened in the arms of the frightened, and the king imposes heavy punishment; therefore let no man think of his neighbour's wife.
310. There’s a bad reputation and a terrible path (to hell), there’s the brief pleasure of the scared in the arms of the scared, and the king imposes severe punishment; so let no man consider his neighbor’s wife.
311. As a grass-blade, if badly grasped, cuts the arm, badly-practised asceticism leads to hell.
311. Just like a grass blade can cut your arm if you hold it the wrong way, poorly practiced asceticism can lead to hell.
312. An act carelessly performed, a broken vow, and hesitating obedience to discipline, all this brings no great reward.
312. An act done carelessly, a broken promise, and hesitating compliance with discipline—all of this brings no great reward.
313. If anything is to be done, let a man do it, let him attack it vigorously! A careless pilgrim only scatters the dust of his passions more widely.
313. If something needs to be done, let a person take charge and tackle it head-on! A careless traveler just spreads the dust of their emotions even further.
314. An evil deed is better left undone, for a man repents of it afterwards; a good deed is better done, for having done it, one does not repent.
314. It’s better not to commit a bad deed because a person regrets it later; doing a good deed is worthwhile because once it's done, there’s no regret.
315. Like a well-guarded frontier fort, with defences within and without, so let a man guard himself. Not a moment should escape, for they who allow the right moment to pass, suffer pain when they are in hell.
315. Just like a well-protected frontier fort, with defenses inside and out, a person should protect themselves. Not a single moment should go by without awareness, because those who let the right moment slip by experience pain when they face their consequences.
316. They who are ashamed of what they ought not to be ashamed of, and are not ashamed of what they ought to be ashamed of, such men, embracing false doctrines enter the evil path.
316. Those who are ashamed of what they shouldn’t be ashamed of, and aren’t ashamed of what they should be ashamed of, such people, embracing false beliefs, go down the wrong path.
317. They who fear when they ought not to fear, and fear not when they ought to fear, such men, embracing false doctrines, enter the evil path.
317. Those who are afraid when they shouldn't be and are not afraid when they should be, such people, holding onto false beliefs, choose the wrong path.
318. They who forbid when there is nothing to be forbidden, and forbid not when there is something to be forbidden, such men, embracing false doctrines, enter the evil path.
318. Those who prohibit when there's nothing to prohibit, and don't prohibit when there is something that should be prohibited, those people, following false beliefs, take the wrong path.
319. They who know what is forbidden as forbidden, and what is not forbidden as not forbidden, such men, embracing the true doctrine, enter the good path.
319. Those who understand what is forbidden and what isn't, knowing the true teachings, follow the right path.
Chapter XXIII. The Elephant
320. Silently shall I endure abuse as the elephant in battle endures the arrow sent from the bow: for the world is ill-natured.
320. I will quietly take the abuse just like an elephant in battle takes the arrow shot from a bow: because the world is cruel.
321. They lead a tamed elephant to battle, the king mounts a tamed elephant; the tamed is the best among men, he who silently endures abuse.
321. They bring a trained elephant to fight, the king rides a trained elephant; the one who endures silently is the best among men.
322. Mules are good, if tamed, and noble Sindhu horses, and elephants with large tusks; but he who tames himself is better still.
322. Mules are great when trained, as are noble Sindhu horses and elephants with big tusks; but someone who has control over themselves is even better.
323. For with these animals does no man reach the untrodden country (Nirvana), where a tamed man goes on a tamed animal, viz. on his own well-tamed self.
323. Because with these animals, no one can reach the unexplored territory (Nirvana), where a disciplined person rides a trained animal, specifically, on their own well-disciplined self.
324. The elephant called Dhanapalaka, his temples running with sap, and difficult to hold, does not eat a morsel when bound; the elephant longs for the elephant grove.
324. The elephant named Dhanapalaka, with sap trickling down his temples and hard to manage, won’t eat a bite when he’s tied up; he yearns for the elephant grove.
325. If a man becomes fat and a great eater, if he is sleepy and rolls himself about, that fool, like a hog fed on wash, is born again and again.
325. If a man becomes overweight and eats a lot, if he is drowsy and keeps lying around, that fool, like a pig that’s been spoiled with slop, is reborn over and over.
326. This mind of mine went formerly wandering about as it liked, as it listed, as it pleased; but I shall now hold it in thoroughly, as the rider who holds the hook holds in the furious elephant.
326. My mind used to drift wherever it wanted, however it pleased; but now I will control it completely, like a rider who uses a hook to rein in a wild elephant.
327. Be not thoughtless, watch your thoughts! Draw yourself out of the evil way, like an elephant sunk in mud.
327. Don’t be careless, pay attention to your thoughts! Pull yourself out of the bad path, just like an elephant stuck in the mud.
328. If a man find a prudent companion who walks with him, is wise, and lives soberly, he may walk with him, overcoming all dangers, happy, but considerate.
328. If a man finds a sensible companion who walks with him, is wise, and lives a sober life, he can walk alongside him, overcoming all dangers, feeling happy but also thoughtful.
329. If a man find no prudent companion who walks with him, is wise, and lives soberly, let him walk alone, like a king who has left his conquered country behind,—like an elephant in the forest.
329. If a man can't find a sensible companion who is wise and lives a sober life, let him walk alone, like a king who has left his conquered land behind—like an elephant in the forest.
330. It is better to live alone, there is no companionship with a fool; let a man walk alone, let him commit no sin, with few wishes, like an elephant in the forest.
330. It’s better to live alone; there’s no point in being around a fool. Let a person walk alone, let them avoid wrongdoing, with minimal desires, like an elephant in the forest.
331. If an occasion arises, friends are pleasant; enjoyment is pleasant, whatever be the cause; a good work is pleasant in the hour of death; the giving up of all grief is pleasant.
331. When the moment comes, friends are great; having fun is great, no matter the reason; doing good feels rewarding at the end of life; letting go of all sorrow is great.
332. Pleasant in the world is the state of a mother, pleasant the state of a father, pleasant the state of a Samana, pleasant the state of a Brahmana.
332. The life of a mother is joyful in the world, the life of a father is joyful, the life of a Samana is joyful, and the life of a Brahmana is joyful.
333. Pleasant is virtue lasting to old age, pleasant is a faith firmly rooted; pleasant is attainment of intelligence, pleasant is avoiding of sins.
333. It's nice to have virtue that lasts into old age, nice to have a faith that’s solid and unwavering; nice to achieve knowledge, nice to steer clear of sins.
Chapter XXIV. Thirst
334. The thirst of a thoughtless man grows like a creeper; he runs from life to life, like a monkey seeking fruit in the forest.
334. The thirst of a careless person grows like a vine; they hop from one life to another, like a monkey searching for fruit in the jungle.
335. Whomsoever this fierce thirst overcomes, full of poison, in this world, his sufferings increase like the abounding Birana grass.
335. Whoever is overcome by this intense thirst, filled with poison, in this world will experience suffering that multiplies like the abundant Birana grass.
336. He who overcomes this fierce thirst, difficult to be conquered in this world, sufferings fall off from him, like water-drops from a lotus leaf.
336. The person who conquers this intense craving, which is hard to overcome in this world, has their sufferings fall away from them like water drops from a lotus leaf.
337. This salutary word I tell you, `Do ye, as many as are here assembled, dig up the root of thirst, as he who wants the sweet-scented Usira root must dig up the Birana grass, that Mara (the tempter) may not crush you again and again, as the stream crushes the reeds.'
337. This helpful advice I give you: all of you who are gathered here, uproot the source of your thirst, just as someone seeking the fragrant Usira root must also dig up the Birana grass, so that Mara (the tempter) doesn't crush you over and over again, like the river crushes the reeds.
338. As a tree, even though it has been cut down, is firm so long as its root is safe, and grows again, thus, unless the feeders of thirst are destroyed, the pain (of life) will return again and again.
338. Just like a tree that's been cut down stays strong as long as its roots are intact and can grow back, similarly, as long as the sources of our needs and desires exist, the pain of life will keep returning over and over.
339. He whose thirst running towards pleasure is exceeding strong in the thirty-six channels, the waves will carry away that misguided man, viz. his desires which are set on passion.
339. The person whose thirst for pleasure is extremely strong in the thirty-six channels will be swept away by the waves, meaning his desires focused on passion will lead him astray.
340. The channels run everywhere, the creeper (of passion) stands sprouting; if you see the creeper springing up, cut its root by means of knowledge.
340. The paths are everywhere, and the creeping vine of passion keeps growing; if you notice the vine taking hold, cut its root with knowledge.
341. A creature's pleasures are extravagant and luxurious; sunk in lust and looking for pleasure, men undergo (again and again) birth and decay.
341. A creature's pleasures are extravagant and luxurious; consumed by desire and seeking enjoyment, people go through (over and over) birth and decay.
342. Men, driven on by thirst, run about like a snared hare; held in fetters and bonds, they undergo pain for a long time, again and again.
342. Men, pushed by thirst, run around like a trapped hare; restrained and bound, they endure pain for a long time, over and over.
343. Men, driven on by thirst, run about like a snared hare; let therefore the mendicant drive out thirst, by striving after passionlessness for himself.
343. Men, driven by thirst, run around like a trapped hare; therefore, let the beggar overcome thirst by pursuing a state of detachment for himself.
344. He who having got rid of the forest (of lust) (i.e. after having reached Nirvana) gives himself over to forest-life (i.e. to lust), and who, when removed from the forest (i.e. from lust), runs to the forest (i.e. to lust), look at that man! though free, he runs into bondage.
344. The person who has escaped the forest (of desire) (i.e. after reaching Nirvana) and then returns to the forest (i.e. indulges in desire), and who, when separated from the forest (i.e. from desire), rushes back into it (i.e. towards desire), look at that person! Even though they are free, they run back into bondage.
345. Wise people do not call that a strong fetter which is made of iron, wood, or hemp; far stronger is the care for precious stones and rings, for sons and a wife.
345. Smart people don't consider a strong tie to be made of iron, wood, or hemp; much stronger is the attachment to valuable gems and jewelry, as well as to children and a partner.
346. That fetter wise people call strong which drags down, yields, but is difficult to undo; after having cut this at last, people leave the world, free from cares, and leaving desires and pleasures behind.
346. Wise people refer to the strong bond as one that weighs you down, is submissive, but hard to break free from; after finally cutting this bond, people leave the world, free from worries, leaving desires and pleasures behind.
347. Those who are slaves to passions, run down with the stream (of desires), as a spider runs down the web which he has made himself; when they have cut this, at last, wise people leave the world free from cares, leaving all affection behind.
347. Those who are slaves to their desires get swept away by the current, like a spider descending the web it spun itself; when they finally break free, wise people leave the world behind, free from worries, leaving all attachment behind.
348. Give up what is before, give up what is behind, give up what is in the middle, when thou goest to the other shore of existence; if thy mind is altogether free, thou wilt not again enter into birth and decay.
348. Let go of what’s in front of you, let go of what’s behind you, let go of what’s in the middle, when you cross to the other side of existence; if your mind is completely free, you won’t be born again into life and death.
349. If a man is tossed about by doubts, full of strong passions, and yearning only for what is delightful, his thirst will grow more and more, and he will indeed make his fetters strong.
349. If a man is overwhelmed by doubts, filled with strong emotions, and only longing for what's pleasurable, his desire will only intensify, and he will definitely strengthen his chains.
350. If a man delights in quieting doubts, and, always reflecting, dwells on what is not delightful (the impurity of the body, &c.), he certainly will remove, nay, he will cut the fetter of Mara.
350. If a person finds joy in calming doubts and constantly thinks about what is unpleasant (like the impurities of the body, etc.), they will definitely break, or rather, cut the bond of Mara.
351. He who has reached the consummation, who does not tremble, who is without thirst and without sin, he has broken all the thorns of life: this will be his last body.
351. The one who has achieved fulfillment, who doesn't shake with fear, who has no desires and no sins, has overcome all the struggles of life: this will be their final body.
352. He who is without thirst and without affection, who understands the words and their interpretation, who knows the order of letters (those which are before and which are after), he has received his last body, he is called the great sage, the great man.
352. The one who feels no thirst and has no attachments, who understands the words and their meanings, and knows the arrangement of letters (what comes before and what comes after), has reached the end of their physical existence; they are called the great sage, the great person.
353. `I have conquered all, I know all, in all conditions of life I am free from taint; I have left all, and through the destruction of thirst I am free; having learnt myself, whom shall I teach?'
353. `I've conquered everything, I know everything, and in every situation in life, I'm free from blemish; I've let go of everything, and by overcoming desire, I am free; having understood myself, who should I teach?'`
354. The gift of the law exceeds all gifts; the sweetness of the law exceeds all sweetness; the delight in the law exceeds all delights; the extinction of thirst overcomes all pain.
354. The gift of the law is greater than any other gift; the sweetness of the law is more enjoyable than anything else; the joy found in the law is greater than any other joy; and the relief from thirst surpasses all suffering.
355. Pleasures destroy the foolish, if they look not for the other shore; the foolish by his thirst for pleasures destroys himself, as if he were his own enemy.
355. Pleasures ruin the foolish, if they don't look for the other side; the foolish, driven by their craving for pleasures, bring destruction upon themselves, as if they were their own enemy.
356. The fields are damaged by weeds, mankind is damaged by passion: therefore a gift bestowed on the passionless brings great reward.
356. The fields are harmed by weeds, and people are harmed by their desires: so a gift given to those free from passion brings great rewards.
357. The fields are damaged by weeds, mankind is damaged by hatred: therefore a gift bestowed on those who do not hate brings great reward.
357. The fields are harmed by weeds, and humanity is harmed by hate; so, giving a gift to those who don't hate brings great rewards.
358. The fields are damaged by weeds, mankind is damaged by vanity: therefore a gift bestowed on those who are free from vanity brings great reward.
358. Weeds ruin the fields, and vanity harms humanity: therefore, a gift given to those who are free from vanity brings great rewards.
359. The fields are damaged by weeds, mankind is damaged by lust: therefore a gift bestowed on those who are free from lust brings great reward.
359. The fields are hurt by weeds, and humanity is hurt by desire: so a gift given to those who are free from desire brings great reward.
Chapter XXV. The Bhikshu (Mendicant)
360. Restraint in the eye is good, good is restraint in the ear, in the nose restraint is good, good is restraint in the tongue.
360. It's good to have restraint in what you see, it's good to have restraint in what you hear, it's good to have restraint in what you smell, and it's good to have restraint in what you say.
361. In the body restraint is good, good is restraint in speech, in thought restraint is good, good is restraint in all things. A Bhikshu, restrained in all things, is freed from all pain.
361. Being disciplined in actions is beneficial; being disciplined in speech is beneficial; being disciplined in thoughts is beneficial; being disciplined in everything is beneficial. A monk who practices self-restraint in all aspects is free from all suffering.
362. He who controls his hand, he who controls his feet, he who controls his speech, he who is well controlled, he who delights inwardly, who is collected, who is solitary and content, him they call Bhikshu.
362. The person who controls their hands, their feet, their speech, who is well-disciplined, who finds joy within, who is composed, solitary, and content, is called a Bhikshu.
363. The Bhikshu who controls his mouth, who speaks wisely and calmly, who teaches the meaning and the law, his word is sweet.
363. The monk who manages his speech, who talks wisely and calmly, who shares the meaning and the teachings, his words are pleasing.
364. He who dwells in the law, delights in the law, meditates on the law, follows the law, that Bhikshu will never fall away from the true law.
364. The person who lives by the law, enjoys the law, thinks deeply about the law, and follows the law will never stray from the true law.
365. Let him not despise what he has received, nor ever envy others: a mendicant who envies others does not obtain peace of mind.
365. Let him not reject what he has received, nor ever be envious of others: a beggar who envies others does not find peace of mind.
366. A Bhikshu who, though he receives little, does not despise what he has received, even the gods will praise him, if his life is pure, and if he is not slothful.
366. A monk who, even though he receives little, doesn’t look down on what he has, will be praised by the gods, as long as his life is pure and he is not lazy.
367. He who never identifies himself with name and form, and does not grieve over what is no more, he indeed is called a Bhikshu.
367. The person who never gets attached to names and appearances and doesn’t mourn what’s lost is truly called a Bhikshu.
368. The Bhikshu who acts with kindness, who is calm in the doctrine of Buddha, will reach the quiet place (Nirvana), cessation of natural desires, and happiness.
368. The monk who is kind and composed in the teachings of Buddha will reach a peaceful state (Nirvana), free from natural desires, and find happiness.
369. O Bhikshu, empty this boat! if emptied, it will go quickly; having cut off passion and hatred thou wilt go to Nirvana.
369. Hey, monk, empty this boat! If you empty it, it will move quickly; by letting go of desire and anger, you'll reach Nirvana.
370. Cut off the five (senses), leave the five, rise above the five. A Bhikshu, who has escaped from the five fetters, he is called Oghatinna, `saved from the flood.'
370. Cut off the five senses, leave them behind, and rise above them. A bhikshu who has escaped from the five attachments is referred to as Oghatinna, meaning 'saved from the flood.'
371. Meditate, O Bhikshu, and be not heedless! Do not direct thy thought to what gives pleasure that thou mayest not for thy heedlessness have to swallow the iron ball (in hell), and that thou mayest not cry out when burning, `This is pain.'
371. Meditate, O Bhikshu, and be mindful! Don’t let your thoughts drift towards things that bring pleasure, so you don’t end up suffering the consequences in hell, and so you don’t cry out in pain, saying, `This hurts.'
372. Without knowledge there is no meditation, without meditation there is no knowledge: he who has knowledge and meditation is near unto Nirvana.
372. Without knowledge, there is no meditation; without meditation, there is no knowledge. The person who has both knowledge and meditation is close to Nirvana.
373. A Bhikshu who has entered his empty house, and whose mind is tranquil, feels a more than human delight when he sees the law clearly.
373. A monk who has entered his empty house, and whose mind is calm, feels a profound joy when he sees the truth clearly.
374. As soon as he has considered the origin and destruction of the elements (khandha) of the body, he finds happiness and joy which belong to those who know the immortal (Nirvana).
374. Once he reflects on the origin and dissolution of the elements (khandha) of the body, he discovers the happiness and joy that belong to those who understand the eternal (Nirvana).
375. And this is the beginning here for a wise Bhikshu: watchfulness over the senses, contentedness, restraint under the law; keep noble friends whose life is pure, and who are not slothful.
375. This is where a wise monk starts: being mindful of the senses, being content, and following the rules; surrounding yourself with noble friends who lead pure lives and are not lazy.
376. Let him live in charity, let him be perfect in his duties; then in the fulness of delight he will make an end of suffering.
376. Let him live with kindness, let him excel in his responsibilities; then in complete joy, he will put an end to suffering.
377. As the Vassika plant sheds its withered flowers, men should shed passion and hatred, O ye Bhikshus!
377. As the Vassika plant drops its dead flowers, people should let go of passion and hatred, O you Bhikshus!
378. The Bhikshu whose body and tongue and mind are quieted, who is collected, and has rejected the baits of the world, he is called quiet.
378. The monk whose body, speech, and mind are calm, who is focused, and has turned away from worldly temptations, is considered at peace.
379. Rouse thyself by thyself, examine thyself by thyself, thus self-protected and attentive wilt thou live happily, O Bhikshu!
379. Wake yourself up, reflect on yourself, and stay aware; this way, you'll be self-protected and live happily, O Monk!
380. For self is the lord of self, self is the refuge of self; therefore curb thyself as the merchant curbs a good horse.
380. You are the master of yourself, and you are your own safe place; so control yourself like a merchant controls a good horse.
381. The Bhikshu, full of delight, who is calm in the doctrine of Buddha will reach the quiet place (Nirvana), cessation of natural desires, and happiness.
381. The monk, filled with joy, who is at peace with the teachings of Buddha will attain the peaceful realm (Nirvana), the end of natural desires, and true happiness.
382. He who, even as a young Bhikshu, applies himself to the doctrine of Buddha, brightens up this world, like the moon when free from clouds.
382. Someone who, even as a young monk, dedicates themselves to the teachings of the Buddha, lights up this world like the moon when it's clear of clouds.
Chapter XXVI. The Brahmana (Arhat)
383. Stop the stream valiantly, drive away the desires, O Brahmana! When you have understood the destruction of all that was made, you will understand that which was not made.
383. Courageously halt the flow, push away your cravings, O Brahmana! Once you grasp the end of everything that was created, you'll comprehend what was never created.
384. If the Brahmana has reached the other shore in both laws (in restraint and contemplation), all bonds vanish from him who has obtained knowledge.
384. If the Brahmana has reached the other side in both practices (in self-discipline and meditation), all attachments disappear from him who has gained knowledge.
385. He for whom there is neither this nor that shore, nor both, him, the fearless and unshackled, I call indeed a Brahmana.
385. The one who doesn’t belong to either shore, nor to both, him, the fearless and free, I truly call a Brahmana.
386. He who is thoughtful, blameless, settled, dutiful, without passions, and who has attained the highest end, him I call indeed a Brahmana.
386. The person who is reflective, innocent, calm, responsible, free of strong emotions, and has achieved the ultimate goal, I truly call a Brahmana.
387. The sun is bright by day, the moon shines by night, the warrior is bright in his armour, the Brahmana is bright in his meditation; but Buddha, the Awakened, is bright with splendour day and night.
387. The sun shines brightly during the day, the moon glows at night, the warrior looks striking in his armor, the Brahmana radiates in his meditation; but Buddha, the Awakened One, shines with brilliance both day and night.
388. Because a man is rid of evil, therefore he is called Brahmana; because he walks quietly, therefore he is called Samana; because he has sent away his own impurities, therefore he is called Pravragita (Pabbagita, a pilgrim).
388. A man is called Brahmana because he has rid himself of evil; he is called Samana because he walks calmly; and he is called Pravragita (Pabbagita, a pilgrim) because he has let go of his own impurities.
389. No one should attack a Brahmana, but no Brahmana (if attacked) should let himself fly at his aggressor! Woe to him who strikes a Brahmana, more woe to him who flies at his aggressor!
389. No one should attack a Brahmin, but if a Brahmin is attacked, he shouldn't react violently toward his attacker! Cursed is the one who strikes a Brahmin, and even more cursed is the one who retaliates against his attacker!
390. It advantages a Brahmana not a little if he holds his mind back from the pleasures of life; when all wish to injure has vanished, pain will cease.
390. It benefits a Brahmana greatly if he restrains his mind from life's pleasures; when all desire to harm disappears, suffering will end.
391. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who does not offend by body, word, or thought, and is controlled on these three points.
391. I truly consider someone a Brahmana if they don’t cause harm through their actions, speech, or thoughts, and they have self-control in these three areas.
392. After a man has once understood the law as taught by the Well-awakened (Buddha), let him worship it carefully, as the Brahmana worships the sacrificial fire.
392. Once a person has understood the teachings of the law from the Well-awakened (Buddha), they should honor it diligently, just like a Brahmana worships the sacrificial fire.
393. A man does not become a Brahmana by his platted hair, by his family, or by birth; in whom there is truth and righteousness, he is blessed, he is a Brahmana.
393. A man doesn’t become a Brahmana just because of his hairstyle, his family, or his birth; the one who embodies truth and righteousness is truly blessed, and he is a Brahmana.
394. What is the use of platted hair, O fool! what of the raiment of goat-skins? Within thee there is ravening, but the outside thou makest clean.
394. What’s the point of braided hair, you fool! What’s the use of goat-skin clothing? Inside you, there is a hunger, but you make the outside look clean.
395. The man who wears dirty raiments, who is emaciated and covered with veins, who lives alone in the forest, and meditates, him I call indeed a Brahmana.
395. The guy dressed in ragged clothes, who's thin and has visible veins, living by himself in the woods, and reflecting, that's who I truly consider a Brahmana.
396. I do not call a man a Brahmana because of his origin or of his mother. He is indeed arrogant, and he is wealthy: but the poor, who is free from all attachments, him I call indeed a Brahmana.
396. I don't define a person as a Brahmana based on their background or mother. Yes, he may be proud and wealthy, but the poor person who is free from all attachments—I truly consider him a Brahmana.
397. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who has cut all fetters, who never trembles, is independent and unshackled.
397. I truly consider him a Brahmana who has broken all bonds, who never shakes, and is free and unbound.
398. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who has cut the strap and the thong, the chain with all that pertains to it, who has burst the bar, and is awakened.
398. I truly call him a Brahmana who has severed the strap and the thong, the chain and everything that goes with it, who has broken the bar, and is awakened.
399. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who, though he has committed no offence, endures reproach, bonds, and stripes, who has endurance for his force, and strength for his army.
399. I truly consider him a Brahmana who, despite having done no wrong, faces criticism, imprisonment, and punishment, who relies on patience as his strength and resilience as his power.
400. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who is free from anger, dutiful, virtuous, without appetite, who is subdued, and has received his last body.
400. The person I truly call a Brahmana is someone who is free from anger, responsible, virtuous, self-controlled, and has reached the end of their physical existence.
401. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who does not cling to pleasures, like water on a lotus leaf, like a mustard seed on the point of a needle.
401. I truly call him a Brahmana who does not hold on to pleasures, like water on a lotus leaf, like a mustard seed on the tip of a needle.
402. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who, even here, knows the end of his suffering, has put down his burden, and is unshackled.
402. I truly consider him a Brahmana who, even now, understands the end of his suffering, has laid down his burden, and is free from all restraints.
403. Him I call indeed a Brahmana whose knowledge is deep, who possesses wisdom, who knows the right way and the wrong, and has attained the highest end.
403. I truly call him a Brahmana who has deep knowledge, who possesses wisdom, who understands the right and wrong path, and has reached the highest goal.
404. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who keeps aloof both from laymen and from mendicants, who frequents no houses, and has but few desires.
404. I truly call him a Brahmana who stays away from both regular people and beggars, who doesn’t visit homes, and has only a few desires.
405. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who finds no fault with other beings, whether feeble or strong, and does not kill nor cause slaughter.
405. I truly call someone a Brahmana who doesn't criticize others, whether they are weak or strong, and who neither kills nor encourages killing.
406. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who is tolerant with the intolerant, mild with fault-finders, and free from passion among the passionate.
406. I truly call someone a Brahmana who is patient with those who are difficult, gentle with critics, and remains calm among those who are full of desires.
407. Him I call indeed a Brahmana from whom anger and hatred, pride and envy have dropt like a mustard seed from the point of a needle.
407. I truly call him a Brahmana from whom anger and hatred, pride and envy have fallen away like a mustard seed from the tip of a needle.
408. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who utters true speech, instructive and free from harshness, so that he offend no one.
408. I consider someone a Brahmana if they speak the truth, are informative, and avoid being harsh, ensuring they don’t offend anyone.
409. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who takes nothing in the world that is not given him, be it long or short, small or large, good or bad.
409. I truly call him a Brahmana who doesn't take anything in the world that isn't given to him, whether it's long or short, small or large, good or bad.
410. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who fosters no desires for this world or for the next, has no inclinations, and is unshackled.
410. I truly consider him a Brahmana who has no desires for this world or the next, has no attachments, and is free from constraints.
411. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who has no interests, and when he has understood (the truth), does not say How, how? and who has reached the depth of the Immortal.
411. I truly call him a Brahmana who has no personal interests, and when he understands the truth, he doesn’t ask “How, how?” and who has reached the depth of the Immortal.
412. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who in this world is above good and evil, above the bondage of both, free from grief from sin, and from impurity.
412. I truly call him a Brahmana who in this world is beyond good and evil, above the constraints of both, free from the pain of sin, and from impurity.
413. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who is bright like the moon, pure, serene, undisturbed, and in whom all gaiety is extinct.
413. I truly consider him a Brahmana who is bright like the moon, pure, calm, undisturbed, and in whom all joy has faded.
414. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who has traversed this miry road, the impassable world and its vanity, who has gone through, and reached the other shore, is thoughtful, guileless, free from doubts, free from attachment, and content.
414. I truly consider him a Brahmana who has navigated this muddy path, the impossible world and its emptiness, who has made it through and reached the other side, is reflective, sincere, free from doubt, free from attachment, and content.
415. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who in this world, leaving all desires, travels about without a home, and in whom all concupiscence is extinct.
415. I truly consider him a Brahmana who in this world, leaving behind all desires, wanders without a permanent home, and in whom all lust has vanished.
416. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who, leaving all longings, travels about without a home, and in whom all covetousness is extinct.
416. I truly call him a Brahmana who, letting go of all desires, wanders without a permanent home, and in whom all greed has disappeared.
417. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who, after leaving all bondage to men, has risen above all bondage to the gods, and is free from all and every bondage.
417. I truly regard him as a Brahmana who, after freeing himself from all ties to people, has transcended all ties to the gods and is free from every kind of bondage.
418. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who has left what gives pleasure and what gives pain, who is cold, and free from all germs (of renewed life), the hero who has conquered all the worlds.
418. I truly call him a Brahmana who has let go of what brings pleasure and pain, who is calm, and free from all sources of rebirth, the one who has conquered all realms.
419. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who knows the destruction and the return of beings everywhere, who is free from bondage, welfaring (Sugata), and awakened (Buddha).
419. I truly call him a Brahmana who understands the cycle of birth and death of all beings, who is free from attachment, is well-being (Sugata), and is enlightened (Buddha).
420. Him I call indeed a Brahmana whose path the gods do not know, nor spirits (Gandharvas), nor men, whose passions are extinct, and who is an Arhat (venerable).
420. I truly consider him a Brahmana whose path is unknown to the gods, spirits (Gandharvas), and humans, whose desires have faded away, and who is an Arhat (venerable).
421. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who calls nothing his own, whether it be before, behind, or between, who is poor, and free from the love of the world.
421. I truly call him a Brahmana who claims nothing as his own, whether it’s in the past, present, or future, who is humble, and free from worldly attachments.
422. Him I call indeed a Brahmana, the manly, the noble, the hero, the great sage, the conqueror, the impassible, the accomplished, the awakened.
422. I truly call him a Brahmana, the strong one, the noble one, the hero, the great sage, the conqueror, the unshakable one, the accomplished one, the awakened one.
423. Him I call indeed a Brahmana who knows his former abodes, who sees heaven and hell, has reached the end of births, is perfect in knowledge, a sage, and whose perfections are all perfect.
423. I truly call him a Brahmana who knows his past lives, who can see heaven and hell, has ended the cycle of rebirths, is fully knowledgeable, a wise person, and whose qualities are all flawless.
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