LETTING GO · DHAMMAPADA 350

Space Beyond Possession

If a man delights in quieting doubts, and, always reflecting, dwells on what is not delightful (the impurity of the body, &c.), he certainly will remove, nay, he will cut the fetter of Mara.

Dhammapada 350 · Chapter 24, Thirst · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg

Reflection

The verse begins, “If a man delights in quieting doubts, and, always reflecting, dwells on what is not delightful….” In its chapter, this image points toward craving and the possibility of release. It locates the turning point before outward action, in the quality of attention you repeatedly cultivate. Because this is a historic English translation, test the teaching in experience rather than treating its wording as a demand for belief.

Practice prompt

Notice the difference between caring and clinging.