LETTING GO · DHAMMAPADA 340

Releasing the Grip

The channels run everywhere, the creeper (of passion) stands sprouting; if you see the creeper springing up, cut its root by means of knowledge.

Dhammapada 340 · Chapter 24, Thirst · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg

Reflection

The verse begins, “The channels run everywhere, the creeper (of passion) stands sprouting.” In its chapter, this image points toward craving and the possibility of release. 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

What would remain if you stopped defending this story?