CONTENTMENT · DHAMMAPADA 203

The Shelter of Contentment

Hunger is the worst of diseases, the body the greatest of pains; if one knows this truly, that is Nirvana, the highest happiness.

Dhammapada 203 · Chapter 15, Happiness · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg

Reflection

The verse begins, “Hunger is the worst of diseases, the body the greatest of pains.” In its chapter, this image points toward forms of happiness rooted in simplicity. Rather than using change to create fear, the passage can sharpen tenderness for a life that cannot be held still. Because this is a historic English translation, test the teaching in experience rather than treating its wording as a demand for belief.

Practice prompt

What happiness is available without purchasing or achieving anything?