MEDITATION · DHAMMAPADA 365

Still Water, Clear Seeing

Let him not despise what he has received, nor ever envy others: a mendicant who envies others does not obtain peace of mind.

Dhammapada 365 · Chapter 25, The Bhikshu (Mendicant) · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg

Reflection

The verse begins, “Let him not despise what he has received, nor ever envy others.” In its chapter, this image points toward the disciplines that support contemplative life. 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

What changes when you do not chase the next thought?