MEDITATION · DHAMMAPADA 368
Steadiness From Within
The Bhikshu who acts with kindness, who is calm in the doctrine of Buddha, will reach the quiet place (Nirvana), cessation of natural desires, and happiness.
Dhammapada 368 · Chapter 25, The Bhikshu (Mendicant) · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg
Reflection
The verse begins, “The Bhikshu who acts with kindness, who is calm in the doctrine of Buddha, will reach….” In its chapter, this image points toward the disciplines that support contemplative life. 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
Choose a simple anchor and return to it five times.