All that we are
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 from an evil thought, suffering follows him as the wheel follows the foot of the ox that draws the carriage.
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 from a pure thought, joy follows him as his own shadow that never leaves him. (1, 2)
Rain
As rain breaks through an ill-thatched house, so passion breaks through an ill-guarded, unreflecting mind.
As rain does not break through a well-thatched house, so passion does not break through a well-guarded, reflecting mind. (13, 14)
Counting cows
A thoughtless man, though he can recite a large portion of the law and speak many holy words but is not a doer of it; he has no share in the life of holiness. He is like a cowherd counting the cows of others.
The follower of the law, even if he can recite only a small portion of it and speak few holy words; but having forsaken passion, hatred and foolishness, possesses true knowledge and serenity of mind. He, caring nothing in this world or the next, has a full share in the life of holiness.
(19, 20)
Vigilance (mindfulness)
If an earnest person has roused himself, if he is not forgetful, if his deeds are pure, if he acts with consideration, if he restrains himself and lives according to the law, then his glory shall increase.
By rousing himself, by vigilance, by restraint and self-control, the wise man makes for himself an island which no flood can overwhelm. (24, 25)
The mind
If a man's mind is unsteady, if he does not know the path of the true law, if his faith and peace are ever troubled, his knowledge will never be perfect.
But he whose mind is calm and controlled, whose thoughts are not dissipated with desires, who has ceased to think of good and evil, he is one who is awake and has no fear. (38, 39)
Fragrance
As many kinds of garlands and wreaths can be made from a heap of flowers so there are many good things a man can do once he is born.
The fragrance of flowers does not go against the wind, not even the fragrance of sandalwood, rosebay or jasmine. But the fragrance of virtue goes against the wind, for a good man pervades every place. (53, 54)
Solitary journey
Long is the night to him who is awake, long is a mile to him who is tired, long is the wandering of lives to the foolish who cannot find the true path.
If on the journey of life the traveller does not meet with one who is his better or his equal, let him firmly keep to his solitary journey; there is no companionship with a fool. (60, 61)
Homeless life
A wise man should leave the darkness of ordinary life and follow the path of light. Leaving his home for a homeless life, let him find joy in the solitude few can enjoy. Calling nothing his own, he is free from possession, free from desire and free from whatsoever may trouble his mind. (87, 88)
