The Dhammapada is divided into 26 Chapters, each having their own stanza. Chapter One is called "The Twin Verses" Since these verses are linked. I am interpreting the double sets together. Unless otherwise noted, the text used here is from the F. Max Muller translation:
The text:
1. All that we are is the result of what we have thought: it is
founded on our thoughts, it is made up of our thoughts. If a man
speaks or acts with an evil thought, pain follows him, as the wheel
follows the foot of the ox that draws the carriage.
2. All that we are is the result of what we have thought: it is
founded on our thoughts, it is made up of our thoughts. If a man
speaks or acts with a pure thought, happiness follows him, like a
shadow that never leaves him.
Interpretation:
This text seems quite simple. Maybe overly so. But I found it lead to some interesting thoughts. After I read this I found myself asking, "How many of my thoughts are actually angry or hurtful to others?" I was startled to find that, while I perceived myself to be of good heart, I was in the name of protecting that good heart, thinking and doing all sorts of unpleasant things. I noticed that when I became angry with someone, regardless of how justified my anger was, both I an my target suffered.
A much more peaceful life became available to me when I decided that, regardless of the provocation, I was not going to fill my head with painful thinking.
Understading the Buddha: The Dhammapada
Shortly after his death, The Buddha's followers gathered together to write down and codify the thousands of teachings he had given. One result of this council was the Dhammapada, a series of short quotes taken from across the width of The Buddha's teachings. For those of us born into a world are thirty second television commercials and instant gratification, the Dhammapada offers quick, useful access to the mind of the Buddha.
This blog is an interpretation of the Dhammapada, chapter by chapter. It is hoped that the reader can find peace and understanding in the timeless message of the The Buddha.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
The Dhammapada Chapter 1 Verses 1 and 2: Holding a Grudge
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