“You’re the average of the five people you hang around most.” This is one of the most important things to consider in having a life with limited suffering. I first heard this quote in the early 1990s on a cassette by legendary motivational speaker Zig Ziglar. I always felt its importance because the people you…
Category: the Dhammapada
Whoever can control a restless mind: Select Lessons From The Dhammapada Verse 134
Verse 134 of the Dhammapada is a profound teaching that addresses the nature of the mind and the importance of its mastery. The verse reads: “Whoever can control a restless mind, hard to control, full of anxiety, without delay, I call a charioteer. Others merely hold the reins.” Here’s an expanded interpretation of this verse:…
Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship – Select Lessons From The Dhammapada Verse 204
Verse 204 of the Dhammapada states: “Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship.” This verse captures profound insights about the true nature of wealth and well-being, which are central themes in Buddhist teachings. In essence, Verse 204 teaches that the most important aspects of life are not material but…
Mastering Personal Growth – Select Lessons From The Dhammapada Verse 20
Verse 20 of the Dhammapada reads: “Though one may conquer a thousand times a thousand men in battle, yet he indeed is the noblest victor who conquers himself.” This verse emphasizes the importance of self-mastery over external achievements. In Buddhist philosophy, conquering one’s own mind and impulses is considered a greater victory than any military…
Letting Go of Hatred and Grudges – Select Lessons From The Dhammapada Verse 4
The fourth verse of the Dhammapada, a collection of sayings of the Buddha, goes as follows: “He abused me, he struck me, he overpowered me, he robbed me.” Those who harbor such thoughts do not still their hatred. This verse addresses the theme of letting go of hatred and grudges. It suggests that holding onto…
It’s All In Our Head – Select Lessons From The Dhammapada Verse 1
Verse 1 of the Dhammapada, a collection of sayings of the Buddha, states: “All mental phenomena are preceded by the mind, mind is their chief, they are all mind-made.” This verse emphasizes the fundamental Buddhist concept that the mind is the primary source of all experiences and phenomena. Here are some real-life scenarios where this…