One would not do even the slightest thing That others who are wise would speak against. May they be secure and profoundly well; —May all beings be happy in themselves. na ca khuddam samācare kiñci, yena viññū pare upavadeyyuṃ. sukhino vā khemino hontu sabbe sattā bhavantu sukhitattā: One would not do even the slightest thing That others who are wise would speak against. It is interesting how these lines are phrased. Buddhist ethics are not about absolutes, and do not articulate a … [Read more...]
Metta Sutta Verse 2
Andrew Olendzki
Content with little, easily maintained, Not doing too much and lightly engaged; Thoughtful, with a peaceful demeanor, and Modest, without greed among worldly things. santussako ca subharo ca appakicco ca sallahukavutti santindriyo ca nipako ca appagabbho kulesu ananugiddho, Content with little Contentment is usually talked about in our language and culture as something that one reaches, attains, or achieves. The idea seems to be that in order to be content, that is to have one’s … [Read more...]
Metta Sutta Verse 1
Andrew Olendzki
This is what’s done by one skilled in what’s good, Who reaches toward that most peaceful state: One would be capable, and straight—quite straight; Well-spoken, gentle, without too much pride; karaṇīyam atthakusalena yan tam santaṃ padaṃ abhisamecca: sakko ujū ca sūjū ca sūvaco c’ assa mudu anatimānī That peaceful state The focus of this month’s practice is upon what is meant in experience by the phrase “that most peaceful state.” It can be taken to refer to the ultimate … [Read more...]