WISE FRIENDSHIP · DHAMMAPADA 83

A Friend Who Points the Way

Good people walk on whatever befall, the good do not prattle, longing for pleasure; whether touched by happiness or sorrow wise people never appear elated or depressed.

Dhammapada 83 · Chapter 6, The Wise Man (Pandita) · trans. F. Max Müller · Read the full text at Project Gutenberg

Reflection

The verse begins, “Good people walk on whatever befall, the good do not prattle, longing for pleasure.” In its chapter, this image points toward the influence of teachers and companions. 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

Offer one piece of honest encouragement today.