Chapter of the World (DHP167-178)

Collection of Minor Texts

Verses of Dhamma

Chapter of the World

One should not participate in inferior teachings,

one should not live negligently,

one should not participate in wrong view,

one should not increase worldliness.

One should apply effort, one should not be negligent,

one should practice Dhamma well;

one who practices the Dhamma rests happily,

in this world and the next.

One should practice Dhamma well,

one should not engage in misconduct;

one who practices the Dhamma rests happily,

in this world and the next.

Like seeing a bubble,

like seeing a mirage -

one who regards the world in this way

is not seen by the Lord of Death.

Come, look at this world,

as splendid as a royal chariot,

where fools become immersed,

but the conscious do not stick.

One who previously was negligent

but now is not

illuminates this world

like the moon set free from a cloud.

One who replaces their evil deeds

with wholesome ones

illuminates this world

like the moon set free from a cloud.

This world has become blind;

rare are those who see clearly.

Like a bird freed from a net,

few go to heaven.

Like swans moving through the air,

like mystics moving through the sky,

the wise leave this world,

having defeated Māra and his army.

There is no evil

that cannot be done

by one who tells lies

and disregards the afterlife.

Stingy fools, those who do not praise giving,

do not go the deva-world.

The wise rejoice in giving,

and because of that they are happy hereafter.

Compared to being the sole ruler of the earth,

or going to heaven,

or dominating the entire world,

attaining stream-entry is better.