ETHICS · DHAMMAPADA 310
The Direction of a Deed
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.
Dhammapada 310 · Chapter 22, The Downward Course · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg
Reflection
The verse begins, “There is bad reputation, and the evil way (to hell), there is the short pleasure of….” In its chapter, this image points toward actions and the consequences they set in motion. Notice the difference between enjoying an experience and requiring it to provide lasting security. 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 good habit can receive one more drop today?