LETTING GO · DHAMMAPADA 335

Nothing to Defend

Whomsoever this fierce thirst overcomes, full of poison, in this world, his sufferings increase like the abounding Birana grass.

Dhammapada 335 · Chapter 24, Thirst · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg

Reflection

The verse begins, “Whomsoever this fierce thirst overcomes, full of poison, in this world, his sufferings increase like the….” In its chapter, this image points toward craving and the possibility of release. 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

Where could ‘enough’ replace ‘more’?