ETHICS · DHAMMAPADA 309

Integrity in Action

Four things does a wreckless man gain who covets his neighbour's wife,—a bad reputation, an uncomfortable bed, thirdly, punishment, and lastly, hell.

Dhammapada 309 · Chapter 22, The Downward Course · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg

Reflection

The verse begins, “Four things does a wreckless man gain who covets his neighbour's wife,—a bad reputation, an uncomfortable….” In its chapter, this image points toward actions and the consequences they set in motion. Its value is practical when it changes how you meet one choice, relationship, or difficult feeling today. Because this is a historic English translation, test the teaching in experience rather than treating its wording as a demand for belief.

Practice prompt

Before speaking, ask whether your words are true and useful.