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A Chanting Guide

A Chanting Guide

Summary:

A Chanting Guide

by

The Dhammayut Order in the United States of America

Alternate format: chanting_en.pdf (??pages/0.5MB)

Audio recordings of many of these chants are available from DhammaTalks.org

Contents

Pronunciation

Pāli is the original language of the Theravadin Buddhist scriptures, the closest we have to the dialect spoken by the Buddha himself. It has no written script of its own, and so every country that has adopted Theravada Buddhism has used its own script to transcribe it. In Thailand this has meant that Pāli has picked up some of the tones of the Thai language, as each consonant & consonant cluster in the Thai alphabet has a built-in tone — high, medium, low, rising, or falling. This accounts for the characteristic melody of Thai Pāli chanting.

Vowels

Pāli has two sorts of vowels, long — ā, e, ī, o, ū, & ay; and short — a, i, & u. Unlike long and shorts vowels in English, the length here refers to the actual amount of time used to pronounce the vowel, and not to its quality. Thus ā & a are both pronounced like the a in father, simply that the sound ā is held for approximately twice as long as the sound a. The same principle holds for ī & i, and for ū & u. Thus, when chanting Pāli, the vowels are pronounced as follows:

a as in father
o as in go
e as in they
u as in glue
i as in machine
ay as in Aye!

Consonants

Consonants are generally pronounced as they are in English, with a few unexpected twists:

c as in ancient
p unaspirated, as in spot
k unaspirated, as in skin
ph as in upholstery
kh as in backhand
t unaspirated, as in stop
& as ng
th as in Thomas
ñ as in cañon (canyon)
v as w

Certain two-lettered notations — bh, dh, ḍh, gh, jh — denote an aspirated sound, somewhat in the throat, that we do not have in English and that the Thais do not have in their language, either. The Thai solution to this problem is to pronounce bh as a throaty ph, dh as a throaty th, and gh as a throaty kh.

Pāli also contains retroflex consonants, indicated with a dot under the letter: ḍ, ḍh, ḷ, ṇ, ṭ, ṭh. These have no English equivalent. They are sounded by curling the tip of the tongue back against the palate, producing a distinct nasal tone.

Scanning

The meters of Pāli poetry consists of various patterns of full-length syllables alternating with half-length syllables.

Full-length syllables:

contain a long vowel (ā, e, ī, o, ū, ay); or end with ṃ; or end with a consonant followed by a syllable beginning with a consonant (e.g., Bud-dho, Dham-mo, Saṅ-gho).

In this last case, the consonant clusters mentioned above — bh, dh, ḍh, gh, jh, kh, ph, th, ṭh — count as single consonants, while other combinations containing h — such as lh & mh — count as double.)

Half-length syllables end in a short vowel.

Thus, a typical line of verse would scan as follows:

Van -dā -ma -haṃta -ma -ra -ṇaṃsi -ra -ji -nen -daṃ
111/211/21/21/211/21/211/211

In this book, wherever possible, many of the long compound words have been broken down with hyphens into their component words to make them easier to read and — for anyone studying Pāli — to understand. This creates only one problem in scanning: When the hyphen is preceded by a consonant (usually m or d) and followed by a vowel, the consonant forms a syllable together with the vowel following the hyphen and not with the vowel preceding it. Thus, for instance, dhammam-etaṃ would scan as dham-ma-me-taṃ; and tam-araṇaṃ as ta-ma-ra-ṇaṃ.

If all these rules seem daunting, the best course is simply to listen carefully to the group and to chant along, following as closely as possible their tempo, rhythm, and pitch. All voices, ideally, should blend together as one.

Morning Chanting

Arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho bhagavā.

The Blessed One is Worthy & Rightly Self-awakened.

Buddhaṃ bhagavantaṃ abhivādemi.

I bow down before the Awakened, Blessed One.

(BOW DOWN)

Svākkhāto bhagavatā dhammo.

The Dhamma is well-expounded by the Blessed One.

Dhammaṃ namassāmi.

I pay homage to the Dhamma.

(BOW DOWN)

Supaṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho.

The Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples has practiced well.

Saṅghaṃ namāmi.

I pay respect to the Sangha.

(BOW DOWN)

INVOCATION (by leader):

Yam-amha kho mayaṃ bhagavantaṃ saraṇaṃ gatā,

We have gone for refuge to the Blessed One,

(uddissa pabbajitā) yo no bhagavā satthā

(have gone forth on account of) the Blessed One who is our Teacher

yassa ca mayaṃ bhagavato dhammaṃ rocema.

and in whose Dhamma we delight.

Imehi sakkārehi taṃ bhagavantaṃ sasaddhammaṃ sasāvaka-saṅghaṃ abhipūjayāma.

With these offerings we worship most highly that Blessed One together with the True Dhamma & the Sangha of his disciples.

Handa mayaṃ buddhassa bhagavato pubba-bhāga-namakāraṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Awakened One, the Blessed One:

(ALL):

[Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

Praise for the Buddha

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ buddhābhithutiṃ karoma se:

Now let us give high praise to the Awakened One:

(ALL):

[Yo so tathāgato] arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho,

He who has attained the Truth, the Worthy One, Rightly Self-awakened,

Vijjā-caraṇa-sampanno sugato lokavidū,

consummate in knowledge & conduct, one who has gone the good way, knower of the cosmos,

Anuttaro purisa-damma-sārathi satthā deva-manussānaṃ buddho bhagavā;

unexcelled trainer of those who can be taught, teacher of human & divine beings; awakened; blessed;

Yo imaṃ lokaṃ sadevakaṃ samārakaṃ sabrahmakaṃ, Sassamaṇa-brāhmaṇiṃ pajaṃ sadeva-manussaṃ sayaṃ abhiññā sacchikatvā pavedesi.

who made known — having realized it through direct knowledge — this world with its devas, māras, & brahmas, its generations with their contemplatives & brahmans, their rulers & common people;

Yo dhammaṃ desesi ādi-kalyāṇaṃ majjhe-kalyāṇaṃ pariyosāna-kalyāṇaṃ;

who explained the Dhamma fine in the beginning, fine in the middle, fine in the end;

Sātthaṃ sabyañjanaṃ kevala-paripuṇṇaṃ parisuddhaṃ brahma-cariyaṃ pakāsesi.

who expounded the holy life both in its particulars & in its essence, entirely complete, surpassingly pure:

Tam-ahaṃ bhagavantaṃ abhipūjayāmi, Tam-ahaṃ bhagavantaṃ sirasā namāmi.

I worship most highly that Blessed One, To that Blessed One I bow my head down.

(BOW DOWN)

Praise for the Dhamma

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ dhammābhithutiṃ karoma se:

Now let us give high praise to the Dhamma:

(ALL):

[Yo so svākkhāto] bhagavatā dhammo,

The Dhamma well-expounded by the Blessed One,

Sandiṭṭhiko akāliko ehipassiko,

to be seen here & now, timeless, inviting all to come & see,

Opanayiko paccattaṃ veditabbo viññūhi:

leading inward, to be seen by the wise for themselves:

Tam-ahaṃ dhammaṃ abhipūjayāmi, Tam-ahaṃ dhammaṃ sirasā namāmi.

I worship most highly that Dhamma, To that Dhamma I bow my head down.

(BOW DOWN)

Praise for the Sangha

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ saṅghābhithutiṃ karoma se:

Now let us give high praise to the Sangha:

(ALL):

[Yo so supaṭipanno] bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

The Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced well,

Uju-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced straightforwardly,

Ñāya-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced methodically,

Sāmīci-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced masterfully,

Yadidaṃ cattāri purisa-yugāni aṭṭha purisa-puggalā:

i.e., the four pairs — the eight types — of Noble Ones:

Esa bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho —

That is the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples —

Āhuneyyo pāhuneyyo dakkhiṇeyyo añjali-karaṇīyo,

worthy of gifts, worthy of hospitality, worthy of offerings, worthy of respect,

Anuttaraṃ puññakkhettaṃ lokassa:

the incomparable field of merit for the world:

Tam-ahaṃ saṅghaṃ abhipūjayāmi, Tam-ahaṃ saṅghaṃ sirasā namāmi.

I worship most highly that Sangha, To that Sangha I bow my head down.

(BOW DOWN)

Salutation to the Triple Gem & The Topics for Chastened Dispassion

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ ratanattayappaṇāma-gāthāyo ceva saṃvega-vatthu-paridīpaka-pāṭhañca bhaṇāma se:

Now let us recite the stanzas in salutation to the Triple Gem together with the passage on the topics inspiring a sense of chastened dispassion:

(ALL):

[Buddho susuddho] karuṇā-mahaṇṇavo, Yoccanta-suddhabbara-ñāṇa-locano, Lokassa pāpūpakilesa-ghātako: Vandāmi buddhaṃ aham-ādarena taṃ.

The Buddha, well-purified, with ocean-like compassion, Possessed of the eye of knowledge completely purified, Destroyer of the evils & corruptions of the world: I revere that Buddha with devotion.

Dhammo padīpo viya tassa satthuno, Yo magga-pākāmata-bhedabhinnako, Lokuttaro yo ca tad-attha-dīpano: Vandāmi dhammaṃ aham-ādarena taṃ.

The Teacher's Dhamma, like a lamp, divided into Path, Fruition, & the Deathless, both transcendent (itself) & showing the way to that goal: I revere that Dhamma with devotion.

Saṅgho sukhettābhyatikhetta-saññito, Yo diṭṭha-santo sugatānubodhako, Lolappahīno ariyo sumedhaso: Vandāmi saṅghaṃ aham-ādarena taṃ.

The Sangha, called a field better than the best, who have seen peace, awakening after the one gone the good way, who have abandoned carelessness — the noble ones, the wise: I revere that Sangha with devotion.

Iccevam-ekant'abhipūjaneyyakaṃ, Vatthuttayaṃ vandayatābhisaṅkhataṃ, Puññaṃ mayā yaṃ mama sabbupaddavā, Mā hontu ve tassa pabhāva-siddhiyā.

By the power of the merit I have made in giving reverence to the Triple Gem worthy of only the highest homage, may all my obstructions cease to be.

Idha tathāgato loke uppanno arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho,

Here, One attained to the Truth, Worthy & Rightly Self-awakened, has appeared in the world,

Dhammo ca desito niyyāniko upasamiko parinibbāniko sambodhagāmī sugatappavedito.

And Dhamma is explained, leading out (of samsara), calming, tending toward total Nibbana, going to self-awakening, declared by one who has gone the good way.

Mayan-taṃ dhammaṃ sutvā evaṃ jānāma,

Having heard the Dhamma, we know this:

Jātipi dukkhā jarāpi dukkhā maraṇampi dukkhaṃ,

Birth is stressful, aging is stressful, death is stressful,

Soka-parideva-dukkha-domanassupāyāsāpi dukkhā,

Sorrow, lamentation, pain, distress, & despair are stressful,

Appiyehi sampayogo dukkho piyehi vippayogo dukkho yamp'icchaṃ na labhati tampi dukkhaṃ,

Association with things disliked is stressful, separation from things liked is stressful, not getting what one wants is stressful,

Saṅkhittena pañcupādānakkhandhā dukkhā,

In short, the five clinging-aggregates are stressful,

Seyyathīdaṃ:

Namely:

Rūpūpādānakkhandho,

Form as a clinging-aggregate,

Vedanūpādānakkhandho,

Feeling as a clinging-aggregate,

Saññūpādānakkhandho,

Perception as a clinging-aggregate,

Saṅkhārūpādānakkhandho,

Mental processes as a clinging-aggregate,

Viññāṇūpādānakkhandho.

Consciousness as a clinging-aggregate.

Yesaṃ pariññāya, Dharamāno so bhagavā, Evaṃ bahulaṃ sāvake vineti,

So that they might fully understand this, the Blessed One, while still alive, often instructed his listeners in this way;

Evaṃ bhāgā ca panassa bhagavato sāvakesu anusāsanī, Bahulaṃ pavattati:

Many times did he emphasize this part of his admonition:

“Rūpaṃ aniccaṃ,

“Form is inconstant,

Vedanā aniccā,

Feeling is inconstant,

Saññā aniccā,

Perception is inconstant,

Saṅkhārā aniccā,

Mental processes are inconstant,

Viññāṇaṃ aniccaṃ,

Consciousness is inconstant,

Rūpaṃ anattā,

Form is not-self,

Vedanā anattā,

Feeling is not-self,

Saññā anattā,

Perception is not-self,

Saṅkhārā anattā,

Mental processes are not-self,

Viññāṇaṃ anattā,

Consciousness is not-self,

Sabbe saṅkhārā aniccā,

All processes are inconstant,

Sabbe dhammā anattāti.”

All phenomena are not-self.”

Te (WOMEN: Tā ) mayaṃ, Otiṇṇāmha jātiyā jarā-maraṇena, Sokehi paridevehi dukkhehi domanassehi upāyāsehi, Dukkh'otiṇṇā dukkha-paretā,

All of us, beset by birth, aging, & death, by sorrows, lamentations, pains, distresses, & despairs, beset by stress, overcome with stress, (consider),

“Appeva nām'imassa kevalassa dukkhakkhandhassa antakiriyā paññāyethāti!”

“O, that the end of this entire mass of suffering & stress might be known!”

* (MONKS & NOVICES):

Cira-parinibbutampi taṃ bhagavantaṃ uddissa arahantaṃ sammā-sambuddhaṃ, Saddhā agārasmā anagāriyaṃ pabbajitā.

Though the total Liberation of the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One, was long ago, we have gone forth in faith from home to homelessness in dedication to him.

Tasmiṃ bhagavati brahma-cariyaṃ carāma,

We practice that Blessed One's holy life,

(Bhikkhūnaṃ sikkhā-sājīva-samāpannā.

Fully endowed with the bhikkhus' training & livelihood.)

Taṃ no brahma-cariyaṃ, Imassa kevalassa dukkhakkhandhassa antakiriyāya saṃvattatu.

May this holy life of ours bring about the end of this entire mass of suffering & stress.

* (OTHERS):

Cira-parinibbutampi taṃ bhagavantaṃ saraṇaṃ gatā, Dhammañca bhikkhu-saṅghañca,

Though the total Liberation of the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One, was long ago, we have gone for refuge in him, in the Dhamma, & in the Bhikkhu Sangha,

Tassa bhagavato sāsanaṃ yathā-sati yathā-balaṃ manasikaroma, Anupaṭipajjāma,

We attend to the instruction of the Blessed One, as far as our mindfulness & strength will allow, and we practice accordingly.

Sā sā no paṭipatti, Imassa kevalassa dukkhakkhandhassa antakiriyāya saṃvattatu.

May this practice of ours bring about the end of this entire mass of suffering & stress.

Reflection at the Moment of Using the Requisites

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ taṅkhaṇika-paccavekkhaṇa-pāṭhaṃ bhaṇāma se:

Now let us recite the passage for reflection at the moment (of using the requisites):

(ALL):

[Paṭisaṅkhā yoniso] cīvaraṃ paṭisevāmi,

Considering it thoughtfully, I use the robe,

Yāvadeva sītassa paṭighātāya,

Simply to counteract the cold,

Uṇhassa paṭighātāya,

To counteract the heat,

Ḍaṃsa-makasa-vātātapa-siriṃsapa-samphassānaṃ paṭighātāya,

To counteract the touch of flies, mosquitoes, wind, sun, & reptiles;

Yāvadeva hirikopina-paṭicchādan'atthaṃ.

Simply for the purpose of covering the parts of the body that cause shame.

Paṭisaṅkhā yoniso piṇḍapātaṃ paṭisevāmi,

Considering it thoughtfully, I use alms food,

Neva davāya na madāya na maṇḍanāya na vibhūsanāya,

Not playfully, nor for intoxication, nor for putting on bulk, nor for beautification,

Yāvadeva imassa kāyassa ṭhitiyā yāpanāya vihiṃsuparatiyā brahma-cariyānuggahāya,

But simply for the survival & continuance of this body, for ending its afflictions, for the support of the holy life,

Iti purāṇañca vedanaṃ paṭihaṅkhāmi navañca vedanaṃ na uppādessāmi,

(Thinking,) Thus will I destroy old feelings (of hunger) and not create new feelings (from overeating).

Yātrā ca me bhavissati anavajjatā ca phāsu-vihāro cāti.

I will maintain myself, be blameless, & live in comfort.

Paṭisaṅkhā yoniso senāsanaṃ paṭisevāmi,

Considering it thoughtfully, I use the lodging,

Yāvadeva sītassa paṭighātāya,

Simply to counteract the cold,

Uṇhassa paṭighātāya,

To counteract the heat,

Ḍaṃsa-makasa-vātātapa-siriṃsapa-samphassānaṃ paṭighātāya,

To counteract the touch of flies, mosquitoes, wind, sun, & reptiles;

Yāvadeva utuparissaya-vinodanaṃ paṭisallānārām'atthaṃ.

Simply for protection from the inclemencies of weather and for the enjoyment of seclusion.

Paṭisaṅkhā yoniso gilāna-paccaya-bhesajja-parikkhāraṃ paṭisevāmi,

Considering them thoughtfully, I use medicinal requisites for curing the sick,

Yāvadeva uppannānaṃ veyyābādhikānaṃ vedanānaṃ paṭighātāya,

Simply to counteract any pains of illness that have arisen,

Abyāpajjha-paramatāyāti.

And for maximum freedom from disease.

The Lord Buddha taught that his Dhamma, when placed in the heart of an ordinary run-of-the-mill person, is bound to be thoroughly corrupted, but if placed in the heart of a Noble One, it is bound to be genuinely pure & authentic, something that at the same time can be neither effaced nor obscured.

So as long as we are devoting ourselves merely to the theoretical study of the Dhamma, it can't serve us well. Only when we have trained our hearts to eliminate their 'chameleons' — their defilements — will it benefit us in full measure. And only then will the true Dhamma be kept pure, free from distortions & deviations from its original principles. Phra Ajān Mun Bhūridatto

Evening Chanting

Arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho bhagavā.

The Blessed One is Worthy & Rightly Self-awakened.

Buddhaṃ bhagavantaṃ abhivādemi.

I bow down before the Awakened, Blessed One.

(BOW DOWN)

Svākkhāto bhagavatā dhammo.

The Dhamma is well-expounded by the Blessed One.

Dhammaṃ namassāmi.

I pay homage to the Dhamma.

(BOW DOWN)

Supaṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho.

The Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples has practiced well.

Saṅghaṃ namāmi.

I pay respect to the Sangha.

(BOW DOWN)

INVOCATION (by leader):

Yam-amha kho mayaṃ bhagavantaṃ saraṇaṃ gatā,

We have gone for refuge to the Blessed One,

(uddissa pabbajitā) yo no bhagavā satthā

(have gone forth on account of) the Blessed One who is our Teacher

yassa ca mayaṃ bhagavato dhammaṃ rocema.

and in whose Dhamma we delight.

Imehi sakkārehi taṃ bhagavantaṃ sasaddhammaṃ sasāvaka-saṅghaṃ abhipūjayāma.

With these offerings we worship most highly that Blessed One together with the True Dhamma & the Saṅgha of his disciples.

Handadāni mayantaṃ bhagavantaṃ vācāya abhigāyituṃ pubba-bhāga-namakārañceva buddhānussati-nayañca karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Blessed One, together with the guide to the recollection of the Buddha:

(ALL):

[Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

A Guide to the Recollection of the Buddha

[Taṃ kho pana bhagavantaṃ] evaṃ kalyāṇo kitti-saddo abbhuggato,

This fine report of the Blessed One's reputation has spread far & wide:

Itipi so bhagavā arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho,

He is a Blessed One, a Worthy One, a Rightly Self-awakened One,

Vijjā-caraṇa-sampanno sugato lokavidū,

consummate in knowledge & conduct, one who has gone the good way, knower of the cosmos,

Anuttaro purisa-damma-sārathi satthā deva-manussānaṃ buddho bhagavāti.

unexcelled trainer of those who can be taught, teacher of human & divine beings; awakened; blessed.

Verses in Celebration of the Buddha

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ buddhābhigītiṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant in celebration of the Buddha:

(ALL):

[Buddh'vārahanta]-varatādiguṇābhiyutto,

The Buddha, endowed with such virtues as highest worthiness:

Suddhābhiñāṇa-karuṇāhi samāgatatto,

In him, purity, supreme knowledge, & compassion converge.

Bodhesi yo sujanataṃ kamalaṃ va sūro,

He awakens good people like the sun does the lotus.

Vandām'ahaṃ tam-araṇaṃ sirasā jinendaṃ.

I revere with my head that Peaceful One, the Conqueror Supreme.

Buddho yo sabba-pāṇīnaṃ Saraṇaṃ khemam-uttamaṃ.

The Buddha who for all beings is the secure, the highest refuge,

Paṭhamānussatiṭṭhānaṃ Vandāmi taṃ sirenahaṃ,

The first theme for recollection: I revere him with my head.

Buddhassāhasmi dāso (WOMEN: dāsī) va Buddho me sāmikissaro.

I am the Buddha's servant, the Buddha is my sovereign master,

Buddho dukkhassa ghātā ca Vidhātā ca hitassa me.

The Buddha is a destroyer of suffering & a provider of welfare for me.

Buddhassāhaṃ niyyādemi Sarīrañjīvitañcidaṃ.

To the Buddha I dedicate this body & this life of mine.

Vandanto'haṃ (Vandantī'haṃ) carissāmi Buddhasseva subodhitaṃ.

I will fare with reverence for the Buddha's genuine Awakening.

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ, Buddho me saraṇaṃ varaṃ:

I have no other refuge, the Buddha is my foremost refuge:

Etena sacca-vajjena, Vaḍḍheyyaṃ satthu-sāsane.

By the speaking of this truth, may I grow in the Teacher's instruction.

Buddhaṃ me vandamānena (vandamānāya) Yaṃ puññaṃ pasutaṃ idha, Sabbe pi antarāyā me, Māhesuṃ tassa tejasā.

Through the power of the merit here produced by my reverence for the Buddha, may all my obstructions cease to be.

(BOW DOWN AND SAY):

Kāyena vācāya va cetasā vā, Buddhe kukammaṃ pakataṃ mayā yaṃ, Buddho paṭiggaṇhatu accayantaṃ, Kālantare saṃvarituṃ va buddhe.

Whatever bad kamma I have done to the Buddha by body, by speech, or by mind, may the Buddha accept my admission of it, so that in the future I may show restraint toward the Buddha.

A Guide to the Recollection of the Dhamma

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ dhammānussati-nayaṃ karoma se:

Now let us recite the guide to the recollection of the Dhamma:

(ALL):

[Svākkhāto] bhagavatā dhammo,

The Dhamma is well-expounded by the Blessed One,

Sandiṭṭhiko akāliko ehipassiko,

to be seen here & now, timeless, inviting all to come & see,

Opanayiko paccattaṃ veditabbo viññūhīti.

leading inward, to be seen by the wise for themselves.

Verses in Celebration of the Dhamma

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ dhammābhigītiṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant in celebration of the Dhamma:

(ALL):

[Svākkhātatā]diguṇa-yogavasena seyyo,

Superior, through having such virtues as being well-expounded,

Yo magga-pāka-pariyatti-vimokkha-bhedo,

Divided into Path & Fruit, study & emancipation,

Dhammo kuloka-patanā tadadhāri-dhārī.

The Dhamma protects those who hold to it from falling into miserable worlds.

Vandām'ahaṃ tama-haraṃ vara-dhammam-etaṃ.

I revere that foremost Dhamma, the destroyer of darkness.

Dhammo yo sabba-pāṇīnaṃ Saraṇaṃ khemam-uttamaṃ.

The Dhamma that for all beings is the secure, the highest refuge,

Dutiyānussatiṭṭhānaṃ Vandāmi taṃ sirenahaṃ,

The second theme for recollection: I revere it with my head.

Dhammassāhasmi dāso (dāsī) va Dhammo me sāmikissaro.

I am the Dhamma's servant, the Dhamma is my sovereign master,

Dhammo dukkhassa ghātā ca Vidhātā ca hitassa me.

The Dhamma is a destroyer of suffering & a provider of welfare for me.

Dhammassāhaṃ niyyādemi Sarīrañjīvitañcidaṃ.

To the Dhamma I dedicate this body & this life of mine.

Vandanto'haṃ (Vandantī'haṃ) carissāmi Dhammasseva sudhammataṃ.

I will fare with reverence for the Dhamma's genuine rightness.

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ, Dhammo me saraṇaṃ varaṃ:

I have no other refuge, the Dhamma is my foremost refuge:

Etena sacca-vajjena, Vaḍḍheyyaṃ satthu-sāsane.

By the speaking of this truth, may I grow in the Teacher's instruction.

Dhammaṃ me vandamānena (vandamānāya) Yaṃ puññaṃ pasutaṃ idha, Sabbe pi antarāyā me, Māhesuṃ tassa tejasā.

Through the power of the merit here produced by my reverence for the Dhamma, may all my obstructions cease to be.

(BOW DOWN AND SAY):

Kāyena vācāya va cetasā vā, Dhamme kukammaṃ pakataṃ mayā yaṃ, Dhammo paṭiggaṇhatu accayantaṃ, Kālantare saṃvarituṃ va dhamme.

Whatever bad kamma I have done to the Dhamma by body, by speech, or by mind, may the Dhamma accept my admission of it, so that in the future I may show restraint toward the Dhamma.

A Guide to the Recollection of the Saṅgha

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ saṅghānussati-nayaṃ karoma se:

Now let us recite the guide to the recollection of the Saṅgha:

(ALL):

[Supaṭipanno] bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

The Saṅgha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced well,

Uju-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Saṅgha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced straightforwardly,

Ñāya-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Saṅgha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced methodically,

Sāmīci-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Saṅgha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced masterfully,

Yadidaṃ cattāri purisa-yugāni aṭṭha purisa-puggalā:

i.e., the four pairs — the eight types — of Noble Ones:

Esa bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho —

That is the Saṅgha of the Blessed One's disciples —

Āhuneyyo pāhuneyyo dakkhiṇeyyo añjali-karaṇīyo,

worthy of gifts, worthy of hospitality, worthy of offerings, worthy of respect,

Anuttaraṃ puññakkhettaṃ lokassāti.

the incomparable field of merit for the world.

Verses in Celebration of the Saṅgha

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ saṅghābhigītiṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant in celebration of the Saṅgha:

(ALL):

[Saddhammajo] supaṭipatti-guṇādiyutto,

Born of the true Dhamma, endowed with such virtues as good practice,

Yoṭṭhābbidho ariya-puggala-saṅgha-seṭṭho,

The supreme Saṅgha formed of the eight types of Noble Ones,

Sīlādidhamma-pavarāsaya-kāya-citto:

Guided in body & mind by such principles as morality:

Vandām'ahaṃ tam-ariyāna-gaṇaṃ susuddhaṃ.

I revere that group of Noble Ones well-purified.

Saṅgho yo sabba-pāṇīnaṃ Saraṇaṃ khemam-uttamaṃ.

The Saṅgha that for all beings is the secure, the highest refuge,

Tatiyānussatiṭṭhānaṃ Vandāmi taṃ sirenahaṃ,

The third theme for recollection: I revere it with my head.

Saṅghassāhasmi dāso (dāsī) va Saṅgho me sāmikissaro.

I am the Saṅgha's servant, the Saṅgha is my sovereign master,

Saṅgho dukkhassa ghātā ca Vidhātā ca hitassa me.

The Saṅgha is a destroyer of suffering & a provider of welfare for me.

Saṅghassāhaṃ niyyādemi Sarīrañjīvitañcidaṃ.

To the Saṅgha I dedicate this body & this life of mine.

Vandanto'haṃ (Vandantī'haṃ) carissāmi Saṅghassopaṭipannataṃ.

I will fare with reverence for the Saṅgha's good practice.

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ, Saṅgho me saraṇaṃ varaṃ:

I have no other refuge, the Saṅgha is my foremost refuge:

Etena sacca-vajjena, Vaḍḍheyyaṃ satthu-sāsane.

By the speaking of this truth, may I grow in the Teacher's instruction.

Saṅghaṃ me vandamānena (vandamānāya) Yaṃ puññaṃ pasutaṃ idha, Sabbe pi antarāyā me, Māhesuṃ tassa tejasā.

Through the power of the merit here produced by my reverence for the Saṅgha, may all my obstructions cease to be.

(BOW DOWN AND SAY):

Kāyena vācāya va cetasā vā, Saṅghe kukammaṃ pakataṃ mayā yaṃ, Saṅgho paṭiggaṇhatu accayantaṃ, Kālantare saṃvarituṃ va saṅghe.

Whatever bad kamma I have done to the Saṅgha by body, by speech, or by mind, may the Saṅgha accept my admission of it, so that in the future I may show restraint toward the Saṅgha.

Reflection after Using the Requisites

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ atīta-paccavekkhaṇa-pāṭhaṃ bhaṇāma se:

Now let us recite the passage for reflection on the past (use of the requisites):

(ALL):

[Ajja mayā] apaccavekkhitvā yaṃ cīvaraṃ paribhuttaṃ,

Whatever robe I used today without consideration,

Taṃ yāvadeva sītassa paṭighātāya,

Was simply to counteract the cold,

Uṇhassa paṭighātāya,

To counteract the heat,

Ḍaṃsa-makasa-vātātapa-siriṃsapa-samphassānaṃ paṭighātāya,

To counteract the touch of flies, mosquitoes, wind, sun, & reptiles;

Yāvadeva hirikopina-paṭicchādan'atthaṃ.

Simply for the purpose of covering the parts of the body that cause shame.

Ajja mayā apaccavekkhitvā yo piṇḍapatto paribhutto,

Whatever alms food I used today without consideration,

So neva davāya na madāya na maṇḍanāya na vibhūsanāya,

Was not used playfully, nor for intoxication, nor for putting on bulk, nor for beautification,

Yāvadeva imassa kāyassa ṭhitiyā yāpanāya vihiṃsuparatiyā brahma-cariyānuggahāya,

But simply for the survival & continuance of this body, for ending its afflictions, for the support of the holy life,

Iti purāṇañca vedanaṃ paṭihaṅkhāmi navañca vedanaṃ na uppādessāmi,

(Thinking,) Thus will I destroy old feelings (of hunger) and not create new feelings (from overeating).

Yātrā ca me bhavissati anavajjatā ca phāsu-vihāro cāti.

I will maintain myself, be blameless, & live in comfort.

Ajja mayā apaccavekkhitvā yaṃ senāsanaṃ paribhuttaṃ,

Whatever lodging I used today without consideration,

Taṃ yāvadeva sītassa paṭighātāya,

Was simply to counteract the cold,

Uṇhassa paṭighātāya,

To counteract the heat,

Ḍaṃsa-makasa-vātātapa-siriṃsapa-samphassānaṃ paṭighātāya,

To counteract the touch of flies, mosquitoes, wind, sun, & reptiles;

Yāvadeva utuparissaya-vinodanaṃ paṭisallānārām'atthaṃ.

Simply for protection from the inclemencies of weather and for the enjoyment of seclusion.

Ajja mayā apaccavekkhitvā yo gilāna-paccaya-bhesajja-parikkhāro paribhutto,

Whatever medicinal requisite for curing the sick I used today without consideration,

So yāvadeva uppannānaṃ veyyābādhikānaṃ vedanānaṃ paṭighātāya,

Was simply to counteract any pains of illness that had arisen,

Abyāpajjha-paramatāyāti.

And for maximum freedom from disease.

The practice of the Dhamma in keeping with the Dhamma that he gave with utter compassion unequalled by that of anyone else in the world: This is the true homage to the Buddha. The seeing of the truth that lies within you, using discernment step by step at all times: This is the seeing of the Buddha step by step. The seeing of the truth with the full heart using discernment: This is the seeing of the Buddha in full. The true Buddha, the true Dhamma, lie with the heart. To attend to your own heart is to attend to the Buddha. To watch over your own heart with mindfulness & discernment is to see the Buddha, Dhamma, & Saṅgha in a genuine way.

— Phra Ajān Maha Boowa Ñāṇasampanno

Reflections

Contemplation of the Body

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ kāyagatā-sati-bhāvanā-pāṭhaṃ bhaṇāma se:

Let us now recite the passage on mindfulness immersed in the body.

(ALL):

Ayaṃ kho me kāyo,

This body of mine,

Uddhaṃ pādatalā,

from the soles of the feet on up,

Adho kesa-matthakā,

from the crown of the head on down,

Taca-pariyanto,

surrounded by skin,

Pūro nānappakārassa asucino,

filled with all sorts of unclean things.

Atthi imasmiṃ kāye:

In this body there is:

Kesā

Hair of the head,

Lomā

Hair of the body,

Nakhā

Nails,

Dantā

Teeth,

Taco

Skin,

Maṃsaṃ

Flesh,

Nhārū

Tendons,

Aṭṭhī

Bones,

Aṭṭhimiñjaṃ

Bone marrow,

Vakkaṃ

Spleen,

Hadayaṃ

Heart,

Yakanaṃ

Liver,

Kilomakaṃ

Membranes,

Pihakaṃ

Kidneys,

Papphāsaṃ

Lungs,

Antaṃ

Large intestines,

Antaguṇaṃ

Small intestines,

Udariyaṃ

Gorge,

Karīsaṃ

Feces,

Matthake matthaluṅgaṃ

Brain,

Pittaṃ

Gall,

Semhaṃ

Phlegm,

Pubbo

Lymph,

Lohitaṃ

Blood,

Sedo

Sweat,

Medo

Fat,

Assu

Tears,

Vasā

Oil,

Kheḷo

Saliva,

Siṅghāṇikā

Mucus,

Lasikā

Oil in the joints,

Muttaṃ

Urine.

Evam-ayaṃ me kāyo:

Such is this body of mine:

Uddhaṃ pādatalā,

from the soles of the feet on up,

Adho kesa-matthakā,

from the crown of the head on down,

Taca-pariyanto,

surrounded by skin,

Pūro nānappakārassa asucino.

filled with all sorts of unclean things.

Five Subjects for Frequent Recollection

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ abhiṇha-paccavekkhaṇa-pāthaṃ bhaṇāma se:

Let us now recite the passage for frequent recollection:

(ALL):

Jarā-dhammomhi jaraṃ anatīto.

I am subject to aging. Aging is unavoidable.

Byādhi-dhammomhi byādhiṃ anatīto.

I am subject to illness. Illness is unavoidable.

Maraṇa-dhammomhi maraṇaṃ anatīto.

I am subject to death. Death is unavoidable.

Sabbehi me piyehi manāpehi nānā-bhāvo vinā-bhāvo.

I will grow different, separate from all that is dear & appealing to me.

Kammassakomhi kamma-dāyādo kamma-yoni kamma-bandhu kamma-paṭisaraṇo.

I am the owner of my actions, heir to my actions, born of my actions, related through my actions, and live dependent on my actions.

Yaṃ kammaṃ karissāmi kalyāṇaṃ vā pāpakaṃ vā tassa dāyādo bhavissāmi.

Whatever I do, for good or for evil, to that will I fall heir.

Evaṃ amhehi abhiṇhaṃ paccavekkhitabbaṃ.

We should often reflect on this.

The Verses on Friends

Aññadatthu haro mitto

One who makes friends only to cheat them,

Yo ca mitto vacī-paramo,

one who is good only in word,

Anupiyañca yo āhu,

one who flatters & cajoles,

Apāyesu ca yo sakhā,

and a companion in ruinous fun:

Ete amitte cattāro Iti viññāya paṇḍito

These four the wise know as non-friends.

Ārakā parivajjeyya

Avoid them from afar,

Maggaṃ paṭibhayaṃ yathā.

like a dangerous road.

Upakāro ca yo mitto,

A friend who is helpful,

Sukha-dukkho ca yo sakhā,

one who shares in your sorrows & joys,

Atthakkhāyī ca yo mitto,

one who points you to worthwhile things,

Yo ca mittānukampako,

one sympathetic to friends:

Etepi mitte cattāro Iti viññāya paṇḍito

These four, the wise know as true friends.

Sakkaccaṃ payirupāseyya

Attend to them earnestly,

Mātā puttaṃ va orasaṃ.

as a mother her child.

The Verses on Respect

Satthu-garu dhamma-garu

One with respect for the Buddha & Dhamma,

Saṅghe ca tibba-gāravo,

and strong respect for the Saṅgha,

Samādhi-garu ātāpī,

one who is ardent, with respect for concentration,

Sikkhāya tibba-gāravo,

and strong respect for the Training,

Appamāda-garu bhikkhu,

one who sees danger and respects being heedful,

Paṭisanthāra-gāravo:

and shows respect in welcoming guests:

Abhabbo parihānāya,

A person like this cannot decline,

Nibbānasseva santike,

stands right in the presence of Nibbana.

The Verses on the Noble Truths

Ye dukkhaṃ nappajānanti

Those who don't discern suffering,

Atho dukkhassa sambhavaṃ

suffering's cause,

Yattha ca sabbaso dukkhaṃ Asesaṃ uparujjhati,

and where it totally stops, without trace,

Tañca maggaṃ na jānanti,

who don't understand the path,

Dukkhūpasama-gāminaṃ

the way to the stilling of suffering:

Ceto-vimutti-hīnā te

They are far from awareness-release,

Atho paññā-vimuttiyā,

and discernment-release.

Abhabbā te anta-kiriyāya

Incapable of making an end,

Te ve jāti-jarūpagā.

they'll return to birth & aging again.

Ye ca dukkhaṃ pajānanti

While those who do discern suffering,

Atho dukkhassa sambhavaṃ,

suffering's cause,

Yattha ca sabbaso dukkhaṃ Asesaṃ uparujjhati,

and where it totally stops, without trace,

Tañca maggaṃ pajānanti,

who understand the path,

Dukkhūpasama-gāminaṃ:

the way to the stilling of suffering:

Ceto-vimutti-sampannā

They are consummate in awareness-release,

Atho paññā-vimuttiyā,

and in discernment-release.

Bhabbā te anta-kiriyāya

Capable of making an end,

Na te jāti-jarūpagāti.

they won't return to birth & aging ever again.

The Four Dhamma Summaries

1. Upanīyati loko,

The world is swept away.

Addhuvo.

It does not endure.

2. Atāṇo loko,

The world offers no shelter.

Anabhissaro.

There is no one in charge.

3. Assako loko,

The world has nothing of its own.

Sabbaṃ pahāya gamanīyaṃ.

One has to pass on leaving everything behind.

4. Ūno loko,

The world is insufficient,

Atitto,

insatiable,

Taṇhā dāso.

a slave to craving.

The Guardian Meditations

Buddhānussati mettā ca Asubhaṃ maraṇassati, Iccimā catur'ārakkhā Kātabbā ca vipassanā

These four meditations — recollection of the Buddha, loving-kindness, the foulness of the body, and mindfulness of death — are guardians & means of insight that should be done.

Visuddha-dhamma-santāno Anuttarāya bodhiyā Yogato ca pabodhā ca Buddho Buddho'ti ñāyate.

The Buddha is unfailingly pure. Because of his unexcelled Awakening, and because he trains others to awaken, he is known as the Awakened/Awakening One.

Narānara-tiracchāna- bhedā sattā sukhesino, Sabbe pi sukhino hontu Sukhitattā ca khemino.

All living beings — human, non-human, & animal — who are searching for happiness: May they all be happy and, through their happiness, secure.

Kesa-lomādi-chavānaṃ Ayam'eva samussayo Kāyo sabbo pi jeguccho Vaṇṇādito paṭikkulo,

This conglomeration of things from dead bodies, like hair of the head & hair of the body: The body as a whole is disgusting and, in terms of such things as its colors, unclean.

Jīvit'indriy'upaccheda- saṅkhāta-maraṇaṃ siyā, Sabbesaṃ pīdha pāṇīnaṃ Tañhi dhuvaṃ na jīvitaṃ.

Death, the destruction of the faculty of life, will come to all beings. Death is certain, but life is not.

Ten Reflections

Dasa ime bhikkhave dhammā, Pabbajitena abhiṇhaṃ paccavekkhitabbā,

Those gone forth should frequently reflect on these ten things.

Katame dasa?

Which ten?

1) Vevaṇṇiyamhi ajjhūpagatoti.

I have left the social order.

2) Parapaṭibaddhā me jīvikāti.

My life needs the support of others.

3) Añño me ākappo karaṇīyoti.

I must change the way I behave.

4) Kacci nu kho me attā sīlato na upavadatīti?

Can I fault myself with regard to the precepts?

5) Kacci nu kho maṃ anuvicca viññū sabrahma-cārī sīlato na upavadantīti?

Can my knowledgeable fellows in the holy life, on close examination, fault me with regard to the precepts?

6) Sabbehi me piyehi manāpehi nānā-bhāvo vinā-bhāvoti.

I will grow different, separate from all that is dear & appealing to me.

7) Kammassakomhi kamma-dāyādo kamma-yoni kamma-bandhu kamma-paṭisaraṇo. Yaṃ kammaṃ karissāmi kalyāṇaṃ vā pāpakaṃ vā tassa dāyādo bhavissāmīti.

I am the owner of my actions, heir to my actions, born of my actions, related through my actions, and live dependent on my actions. Whatever I do, for good or for evil, to that will I fall heir.

8) Katham-bhūtassa me rattin-divā vītipatantīti?

What am I becoming as the days & the nights fly past?

9) Kacci nu kho'haṃ suññāgāre abhiramāmīti?

Is there an empty dwelling in which I delight?

10) Atthi nu kho me uttari-manussa-dhammā, Alam-ariya-ñāṇa-dassana-viseso adhigato, So'haṃ pacchime kāle sabrahma-cārīhi puṭṭho, Na maṅku bhavissāmīti?

Have I attained a superior human state, a truly noble knowledge & vision, such that when my fellows in the holy life ask me near the hour of my death, I will not feel ashamed?

Ime kho bhikkhave dasa dhammā pabbajitena abhiṇhaṃ paccavekkhitabbāti.

These are the ten things on which those gone forth should frequently reflect.

Ovāda-pāṭimokkha Gāthā

Khantī paramaṃ tapo tītikkhā Nibbānaṃ paramaṃ vadanti buddhā, Na hi pabbajito parūpaghātī Samaṇo hoti paraṃ viheṭhayanto

Patient forbearance is the foremost austerity. Liberation is foremost: that's what the Buddhas say. He is no monk who injures another; nor a contemplative, he who mistreats another.

Sabba-pāpassa akaraṇaṃ, Kusalassūpasampadā, Sacitta-pariyodapanaṃ: Etaṃ buddhāna-sāsanaṃ.

The non-doing of any evil, The performance of what's skillful, The cleansing of one's own mind: This is the Buddhas' teaching.

Anūpavādo anūpaghāto Pāṭimokkhe ca saṃvaro Mattaññutā ca bhattasmiṃ Pantañca sayan'āsanaṃ. Adhicitte ca āyogo: Etaṃ buddhāna-sāsananti.

Not disparaging, not injuring, Restraint in line with the monastic code, Moderation in food, Dwelling in seclusion, Commitment to the heightened mind: This is the Buddhas' teaching.

The Sublime Attitudes

Ahaṃ sukhito homi

May I be happy.

Niddukkho homi

May I be free from stress & pain.

Avero homi

May I be free from animosity.

Abyāpajjho homi

May I be free from oppression.

Anīgho homi

May I be free from trouble.

Sukhī attānaṃ pariharāmi

May I look after myself with ease.

(METTĀ — GOOD WILL)

Sabbe sattā sukhitā hontu.

May all living beings be happy.

Sabbe sattā averā hontu.

May all living beings be free from animosity.

Sabbe sattā abyāpajjhā hontu.

May all living beings be free from oppression.

Sabbe sattā anīghā hontu.

May all living beings be free from trouble.

Sabbe sattā sukhī attānaṃ pariharantu.

May all living beings look after themselves with ease.

(KARUṆĀ — COMPASSION)

Sabbe sattā sabba-dukkhā pamuccantu.

May all living beings be freed from all stress & pain.

(MUDITĀ — APPRECIATION)

Sabbe sattā laddha-sampattito mā vigacchantu.

May all living beings not be deprived of the good fortune they have attained.

(UPEKKHĀ — EQUANIMITY)

Sabbe sattā kammassakā kamma-dāyādā kamma-yonī kamma-bandhū kamma-paṭisaraṇā.

All living beings are the owners of their actions, heir to their actions, born of their actions, related through their actions, and live dependent on their actions.

Yaṃ kammaṃ karissanti kalyāṇaṃ vā pāpakaṃ vā tassa dāyādā bhavissanti.

Whatever they do, for good or for evil, to that will they fall heir.

Sabbe sattā sadā hontu Averā sukha-jīvino

May all beings live happily, always free from animosity

Kataṃ puñña-phalaṃ mayhaṃ Sabbe bhāgī bhavantu te

May all share in the blessings springing from the good I have done.

Hotu sabbaṃ sumaṅgalaṃ

May there be every good blessing.

Rakkhantu sabba-devatā

May the devas protect you.

Sabba-buddhānubhāvena

Through the power of all the Buddhas,

Sotthī hontu nirantaraṃ

May you forever be well.

Hotu sabbaṃ sumaṅgalaṃ

May there be every good blessing.

Rakkhantu sabba-devatā

May the devas protect you.

Sabba-dhammānubhāvena

Through the power of all the Dhamma,

Sotthī hontu nirantaraṃ

May you forever be well.

Hotu sabbaṃ sumaṅgalaṃ

May there be every good blessing.

Rakkhantu sabba-devatā

May the devas protect you.

Sabba-saṅghānubhāvena

Through the power of all the Sangha,

Sotthī hontu nirantaraṃ

May you forever be well.

Dedication of Merit

Puññassidāni katassa Yānaññāni katāni me Tesañca bhāgino hontu Sattānantāppamāṇaka.

May all beings — without limit, without end — have a share in the merit just now made, and in whatever other merit I have made.

Ye piyā guṇavantā ca Mayhaṃ mātā-pitādayo Diṭṭhā me cāpyadiṭṭhā vā Aññe majjhatta-verino;

Those who are dear & kind to me — beginning with my mother & father — whom I have seen or never seen; and others, neutral or hostile;

Sattā tiṭṭhanti lokasmiṃ Te-bhummā catu-yonikā Pañc'eka-catuvokārā Saṃsarantā bhavābhave:

beings established in the cosmos — the three realms, the four modes of birth, with five, one, or four aggregates — wandering on from realm to realm:

Ñātaṃ ye pattidānam-me Anumodantu te sayaṃ Ye cimaṃ nappajānanti Devā tesaṃ nivedayuṃ.

If they know of my dedication of merit, may they themselves rejoice, And if they do not know, may the devas inform them.

Mayā dinnāna-puññānaṃ Anumodana-hetunā Sabbe sattā sadā hontu Averā sukha-jīvino

By reason of their rejoicing in my gift of merit, may all beings always live happily, free from animosity.

Khemappadañca pappontu Tesāsā sijjhataṃ subhā.

May they attain the Serene State, and their radiant hopes be fulfilled.

Even though the mind is intangible, it has influence over the body & all things in the world. It is capable of bringing everything in the world under its control. Still, it isn't so vicious or savage as to lack all sense of good & evil. When a person of good intentions trains the mind to enter correctly into the path of the Buddha's teachings, it will be tractable & quick to learn, developing the wisdom to bring the body, which may be behaving without any principles, back into line. In addition, it can cleanse itself to be bright & clean, free from defilements, able to realize by itself truths that are subtle & profound, bringing dazzling light into this world so dark with blindness.

This is because the true substance of the mind has been, from the very beginning, something bright & clear. But because of the preoccupations that have seeped into it and clouded it, the brightness of the mind has been temporarily darkened, making the world dark as well. If the mind were originally dark, there probably wouldn't be anyone able to cleanse it to the point where it could give rise to the light of discernment at all.

So whether the world is to be dark or bright, whether it is to experience well-being or suffering, depends on the mind of each individual. We as individuals should thus first train our own minds well, and then train the minds of others. The world will then be free from turmoil.

— Phra Ajān Thate Desaraṅsī

Refuge

"Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi..."

Handa mayaṃ buddhassa bhagavato pubba-bhāga-nama-kāraṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Awakened One, the Blessed One:

(ALL):

[Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ saraṇa-gamana-pāṭhaṃ bhaṇāma se:

(ALL):

Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Saṅgha for refuge.

Dutiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dutiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Dutiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Saṅgha for refuge.

Tatiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Tatiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Tatiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Saṅgha for refuge.

Ṅ'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ..."

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ sacca-kiriyā gāthāyo bhaṇāma se:

(ALL):

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ Buddho me saraṇaṃ varaṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi me hotu sabbadā.

I have no other refuge, The Buddha is my foremost refuge. Through the speaking of this truth, may I be blessed always.

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ Dhammo me saraṇaṃ varaṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi me hotu sabbadā.

I have no other refuge, The Dhamma is my foremost refuge. Through the speaking of this truth, may I be blessed always.

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ Saṅgho me saraṇaṃ varaṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi me hotu sabbadā.

I have no other refuge, The Saṅgha is my foremost refuge. Through the speaking of this truth, may I be blessed always.

"Mahā-kāruṇiko nātho..."

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ mahā-kāruṇikonāti-ādikā-gāthāyo bhaṇāma se:

(ALL):

Mahā-kāruṇiko nātho Atthāya sabba-pāṇinaṃ Pūretvā pāramī sabbā Patto sambodhim-uttamaṃ. Etena sacca-vajjena Mā hontu sabbupaddavā.

(The Buddha), our protector, with great compassion, For the welfare of all beings, Having fulfilled all the perfections, Attained the highest self-awakening. Through the speaking of this truth, may all troubles cease to be.

Mahā-kāruṇiko nātho Hitāya sabba-pāṇinaṃ Pūretvā pāramī sabbā Patto sambodhim-uttamaṃ. Etena sacca-vajjena Mā hontu sabbupaddavā.

(The Buddha), our protector, with great compassion, For the benefit of all beings, Having fulfilled all the perfections, Attained the highest self-awakening. Through the power of this truth, may all troubles cease to be.

Mahā-kāruṇiko nātho Sukhāya sabba-pāṇinaṃ Pūretvā pāramī sabbā Patto sambodhim-uttamaṃ. Etena sacca-vajjena Mā hontu sabbupaddavā.

(The Buddha), our protector, with great compassion, For the happiness of all beings, Having fulfilled all the perfections, Attained the highest self-awakening. Through the power of this truth, may all troubles cease to be.

"Bahuṃ ve saraṇaṃ yanti..."

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ khemākhema-saraṇa-gamana- paridīpikā-gāthāyo bhaṇāma se:

(ALL):

Bahuṃ ve saraṇaṃ yanti Pabbatāni vanāni ca, Ārāma-rukkha-cetyāni Manussā bhaya-tajjitā.

Many are those who go for refuge to mountains, forests, Parks, trees, & shrines: People threatened with danger.

N'etaṃ kho saraṇaṃ khemaṃ N'etaṃ saraṇam-uttamaṃ, N'etaṃ saraṇam-āgamma, Sabba-dukkhā pamuccati.

That is not the secure refuge, That is not the highest refuge, That is not the refuge, having gone to which, One gains release from all suffering.

Yo ca buddhañca dhammañca Saṅghañca saraṇaṃ gato, Cāttāri ariya-saccāni Sammappaññāya passati:

But a person who, having gone to the Buddha, Dhamma, & Saṅgha for refuge, Sees the four Noble Truths with right discernment:

Dukkhaṃ dukkha-samuppādaṃ, Dukkhassa ca atikkamaṃ, Ariyañc'aṭṭhaṅgikaṃ maggaṃ, Dukkhūpasama-gāminaṃ.

Stress, the cause of stress, The transcending of stress, And the Noble Eightfold Path, The way to the stilling of stress.

Etaṃ kho saraṇaṃ khemaṃ Etaṃ saraṇam-uttamaṃ, Etaṃ saraṇam-āgamma, Sabba-dukkhā pamuccati.

That is the secure refuge, That is the highest refuge, That is the refuge, having gone to which, One gains release from all suffering.

Discourses

Dhamma-cakkappavattana Sutta The Discourse on Setting the Wheel of Dhamma in Motion

[Evam-me sutaṃ,] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Bārāṇasiyaṃ viharati isipatane migadāye. Tatra kho Bhagavā pañca-vaggiye bhikkhū āmantesi.

I have heard that on one occasion the Blessed One was staying at Varanasi in the Game Refuge at Isipatana. There he addressed the group of five monks:

“Dveme bhikkhave antā pabbajitena na sevitabbā,

“There are these two extremes that are not to be indulged in by one who has gone forth —

Yo cāyaṃ kāmesu kāma-sukhallikānuyogo, Hīno gammo pothujjaniko anariyo anattha-sañhito,

That which is devoted to sensual pleasure in sensual objects: base, vulgar, common, ignoble, unprofitable;

Yo cāyaṃ atta-kilamathānuyogo, Dukkho anariyo anattha-sañhito.

and that which is devoted to self-affliction: painful, ignoble, unprofitable.

Ete te bhikkhave ubho ante anupagamma, Majjhimā paṭipadā tathāgatena abhisambuddhā, Cakkhu-karaṇī ñāṇa-karaṇī upasamāya abhiññāya sambodhāya nibbānāya saṃvattati.

Avoiding both of these extremes, the middle way realized by the Tathagata — producing vision, producing knowledge — leads to calm, to direct knowledge, to self-awakening, to Unbinding.

Katamā ca sā bhikkhave majjhimā paṭipadā tathāgatena abhisambuddhā, Cakkhu-karaṇī ñāṇa-karaṇī upasamāya abhiññāya sambodhāya nibbānāya saṃvattati.

And what is the middle way realized by the Tathagata that — producing vision, producing knowledge — leads to calm, to direct knowledge, to self-awakening, to Unbinding?

Ayam-eva ariyo aṭṭhaṅgiko maggo, Seyyathīdaṃ, Sammā-diṭṭhi sammā-saṅkappo, Sammā-vācā sammā-kammanto sammā-ājīvo, Sammā-vāyāmo sammā-sati sammā-samādhi.

Precisely this Noble Eightfold Path: right view, right resolve, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, right concentration.

Ayaṃ kho sā bhikkhave majjhimā paṭipadā tathāgatena abhisambuddhā, Cakkhu-karaṇī ñāṇa-karaṇī upasamāya abhiññāya sambodhāya nibbānāya saṃvattati.

This is the middle way realized by the Tathagata that — producing vision,producing knowledge — leads to calm, to direct knowledge, to self-awakening, to Unbinding.

Idaṃ kho pana bhikkhave dukkhaṃ ariya-saccaṃ,

Now this, monks, is the noble truth of stress:

Jātipi dukkhā jarāpi dukkhā maraṇampi dukkhaṃ,

Birth is stressful, aging is stressful, death is stressful,

Soka-parideva-dukkha-domanassupāyāsāpi dukkhā,

Sorrow, lamentation, pain, distress, & despair are stressful,

Appiyehi sampayogo dukkho piyehi vippayogo dukkho yamp'icchaṃ na labhati tampi dukkhaṃ,

Association with things disliked is stressful, separation from things liked is stressful, not getting what one wants is stressful,

Saṅkhittena pañcupādānakkhandhā dukkhā.

In short, the five clinging-aggregates are stressful.

Idaṃ kho pana bhikkhave dukkha-samudayo ariya-saccaṃ,

And this, monks, is the noble truth of the origination of stress:

Yāyaṃ taṇhā ponobbhavikā nandi-rāga-sahagatā tatra tatrābhinandinī, Seyyathīdaṃ, Kāma-taṇhā bhava-taṇhā vibhava-taṇhā,

the craving that makes for further becoming — accompanied by passion & delight, relishing now here & now there — i.e., craving for sensual pleasure, craving for becoming, craving for no-becoming.

Idaṃ kho pana bhikkhave dukkha-nirodho ariya-saccaṃ,

And this, monks, is the noble truth of the cessation of stress:

Yo tassā yeva taṇhāya asesa-virāga-nirodho cāgo paṭinissaggo mutti anālayo,

the remainderless fading & cessation, renunciation, relinquishment, release,& letting go of that very craving.

Idaṃ kho pana bhikkhave dukkha-nirodha-gāminī-paṭipadā ariya-saccaṃ,

And this, monks, is the noble truth of the way of practice leading to the cessation of stress:

Ayam-eva ariyo aṭṭhaṅgiko maggo, Seyyathīdaṃ, Sammā-diṭṭhi sammā-saṅkappo, Sammā-vācā sammā-kammanto sammā-ājīvo, Sammā-vāyāmo sammā-sati sammā-samādhi.

precisely this Noble Eightfold Path — right view, right resolve, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, right concentration.

Idaṃ dukkhaṃ ariya-saccanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illuminationarose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This is the noble truth of stress.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkhaṃ ariya-saccaṃ pariññeyyanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of stress is to be comprehended.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkhaṃ ariya-saccaṃ pariññātanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of stress has been comprehended.'

Idaṃ dukkha-samudayo ariya-saccanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This is the noble truth of the origination of stress.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkha-samudayo ariya-saccaṃ pahātabbanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of the origination of stress is to be abandoned.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkha-samudayo ariya-saccaṃ pahīnanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of the origination of stress has been abandoned.'

Idaṃ dukkha-nirodho ariya-saccanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This is the noble truth of the cessation of stress.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkha-nirodho ariya-saccaṃ sacchikātabbanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of the cessation of stress is to be directly experienced.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkha-nirodho ariya-saccaṃ sacchikatanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of the cessation of stress has been directly experienced.'

Idaṃ dukkha-nirodha-gāminī-paṭipadā ariya-saccanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This is the noble truth of the way of practice leading to the cessation of stress.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkha-nirodha-gāminī-paṭipadā ariya-saccaṃ bhāvetabbanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of the way of practice leading to the cessation of stress is to be developed.'

Taṃ kho pan'idaṃ dukkha-nirodha-gāminī-paṭipadā ariya-saccaṃ bhāvitanti me bhikkhave, Pubbe ananussutesu dhammesu, Cakkhuṃ udapādi ñāṇaṃ udapādi paññā udapādi vijjā udapādi āloko udapādi.

Vision arose, insight arose, discernment arose, knowledge arose, illumination arose within me with regard to things never heard before: 'This noble truth of the way of practice leading to the cessation of stress has been developed.'

Yāvakīvañca me bhikkhave imesu catūsu ariya-saccesu, Evan-ti-parivaṭṭaṃ dvādas'ākāraṃ yathābhūtaṃ ñāṇa-dassanaṃ na suvisuddhaṃ ahosi, Neva tāvāhaṃ bhikkhave sadevake loke samārake sabrahmake, Sassamaṇa-brāhmaṇiyā pajāya sadeva-manussāya, Anuttaraṃ sammā-sambodhiṃ abhisambuddho paccaññāsiṃ.

And, monks, as long as this knowledge & vision of mine — with its three rounds & twelve permutations concerning these four noble truths as they actually are — was not pure, I did not claim to have directly awakened to the right self-awakening unexcelled in the cosmos with its deities, Maras, & Brahmas, with its contemplatives & brahmans, its royalty & common people.

Yato ca kho me bhikkhave imesu catūsu ariya-saccesu, Evan-ti-parivaṭṭaṃ dvādas'ākāraṃ yathābhūtaṃ ñāṇa-dassanaṃ suvisuddhaṃ ahosi, Athāhaṃ bhikkhave sadevake loke samārake sabrahmake, Sassamaṇa-brāhmaṇiyā pajāya sadeva-manussāya, Anuttaraṃ sammā-sambodhiṃ abhisambuddho paccaññāsiṃ.

But as soon as this knowledge & vision of mine — with its three rounds & twelve permutations concerning these four noble truths as they actually are — was truly pure, then I did claim to have directly awakened to the right self-awakening unexcelled in the cosmos with its deities, Maras, & Brahmas, with its contemplatives & brahmans, its royalty & commonfolk.

Ñāṇañca pana me dassanaṃ udapādi, Akuppā me vimutti, Ayam-antimā jāti, N'atthidāni punabbhavoti.”

The knowledge & vision arose in me: 'My release is unshakable. This is the last birth. There is now no further becoming.'”

Idam-avoca Bhagavā, Attamanā pañca-vaggiyā bhikkhū Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ abhinanduṃ.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratified, the group of five monks delighted at his words.

Imasmiñca pana veyyā-karaṇasmiṃ bhaññamāne, Āyasmato Koṇḍaññassa virajaṃ vītamalaṃ dhamma-cakkhuṃ udapādi,

And while this explanation was being given, there arose to Ven. Kondañña the dustless, stainless Dhamma eye:

Yaṅkiñci samudaya-dhammaṃ sabban-taṃ nirodha-dhammanti.

“Whatever is subject to origination is all subject to cessation.”

Pavattite ca Bhagavatā dhamma-cakke, Bhummā devā saddamanussāvesuṃ,

Now when the Blessed One had set the Wheel of Dhamma in motion, the earth deities cried out:

“Etam-Bhagavatā Bārāṇasiyaṃ isipatane migadāye anuttaraṃ dhamma-cakkaṃ pavattitaṃ, Appaṭivattiyaṃ samaṇena vā brāhmaṇena vā devena vā mārena vā brahmunā vā kenaci vā lokasminti.”

“At Varanasi, in the Game Refuge at Isipatana, the Blessed One has set in motion the unexcelled Wheel of Dhamma that cannot be stopped by brahman or contemplative, deity, Māra, Brahma, or anyone at all in the cosmos.”

Bhummānaṃ devānaṃ saddaṃ sutvā, Cātummahārājikā devā saddamanussāvesuṃ.

On hearing the earth deities' cry, the deities of the Heaven of the Four Kings took up the cry.

Cātummahārājikānaṃ devānaṃ saddaṃ sutvā, Tāvatiṃsā devā saddamanussāvesuṃ.

On hearing the cry of the deities of the Heaven of the Four Kings, the deities of the Heaven of the Thirty-three took up the cry.

Tāvatiṃsānaṃ devānaṃ saddaṃ sutvā, Yāmā devā saddamanussāvesuṃ.

On hearing the cry of the deities of the Heaven of the Thirty-three, the Yama deities took up the cry.

Yāmānaṃ devānaṃ saddaṃ sutvā, Tusitā devā saddamanussāvesuṃ.

On hearing the cry of the Yama deities, the Tusita deities took up the cry.

Tusitānaṃ devānaṃ saddaṃ sutvā, Nimmānaratī devā saddamanussāvesuṃ.

On hearing the cry of the Tusita deities, the Nimmanarati deities took up the cry.

Nimmānaratīnaṃ devānaṃ saddaṃ sutvā, Paranimmita-vasavattī devā saddamanussāvesuṃ.

On hearing the cry of the Nimmanarati deities, the Paranimmita-vasavatti deities took up the cry.

Paranimmita-vasavattīnaṃ devānaṃ saddaṃ sutvā, Brahma-kāyikā devā saddamanussāvesuṃ,

On hearing the cry of the Paranimmita-vasavatti deities, the deities of Brahma's retinue took up the cry:

“Etam-Bhagavatā Bārāṇasiyaṃ isipatane migadāye anuttaraṃ dhamma-cakkaṃ pavattitaṃ, Appaṭivattiyaṃ samaṇena vā brāhmaṇena vā devena vā mārena vā brahmunā vā kenaci vā lokasminti.”

“At Varanasi, in the Game Refuge at Isipatana, the Blessed One has set in motion the unexcelled Wheel of Dhamma that cannot be stopped by brahman or contemplative, deity, Māra, Brahma, or anyone at all in the cosmos.”

Itiha tena khaṇena tena muhuttena, Yāva brahma-lokā saddo abbhuggacchi.

So in that moment, that instant, the cry shot right up to the Brahma world.

Ayañca dasa-sahassī loka-dhātu, Saṅkampi sampakampi sampavedhi,

And this ten-thousandfold cosmos shivered & quivered & quaked,

Appamāṇo ca oḷāro obhāso loke pāturahosi, Atikkammeva devānaṃ devānubhāvaṃ.

while a great, measureless radiance appeared in the cosmos, surpassing the effulgence of the deities.

Atha kho Bhagavā udānaṃ udānesi, “Aññāsi vata bho Koṇḍañño, Aññāsi vata bho Koṇḍaññoti.”

Then the Blessed One exclaimed: “So you really know, Kondañña? So you really know?”

Itihidaṃ āyasmato Koṇḍaññassa, Añña-koṇḍañño'tveva nāmaṃ, ahosīti.

And that is how Ven. Kondañña acquired the name Añña-Kondañña — Kondañña who knows.

Anatta-lakkhaṇa Sutta The Discourse on the Not-self Characteristic

[Evam-me sutaṃ,] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Bārāṇasiyaṃ viharati isipatane migadāye. Tatra kho Bhagavā pañca-vaggiye bhikkhū āmantesi.

I have heard that on one occasion the Blessed One was staying at Varanasi in the Game Refuge at Isipatana. There he addressed the group of five monks:

“Rūpaṃ bhikkhave anattā. Rūpañca hidaṃ bhikkhave attā abhavissa, Nayidaṃ rūpaṃ ābādhāya saṃvatteyya, Labbhetha ca rūpe, Evaṃ me rūpaṃ hotu evaṃ me rūpaṃ mā ahosīti.

“The body, monks, is not self. If the body were the self, this body would not lend itself to dis-ease. It would be possible (to say) with regard to the body, 'Let my body be thus. Let my body not be thus.'

Yasmā ca kho bhikkhave rūpaṃ anattā, Tasmā rūpaṃ ābādhāya saṃvattati, Na ca labbhati rūpe, Evaṃ me rūpaṃ hotu evaṃ me rūpaṃ mā ahosīti.

But precisely because the body is not self, the body lends itself to dis-ease. And it is not possible (to say) with regard to the body, 'Let my body be thus. Let my body not be thus.'

Vedanā anattā. Vedanā ca hidaṃ bhikkhave attā abhavissa, Nayidaṃ vedanā ābādhāya saṃvatteyya, Labbhetha ca vedanāya, Evaṃ me vedanā hotu evaṃ me vedanā mā ahosīti.

Feeling is not self. If feeling were the self, this feeling would not lend itself to dis-ease. It would be possible (to say) with regard to feeling, 'Let myfeeling be thus. Let my feeling not be thus.'

Yasmā ca kho bhikkhave vedanā anattā, Tasmā vedanā ābādhāya saṃvattati, Na ca labbhati vedanāya, Evaṃ me vedanā hotu evaṃ me vedanā mā ahosīti.

But precisely because feeling is not self, feeling lends itself to dis-ease. And it is not possible (to say) with regard to feeling, 'Let my feeling be thus. Let my feeling not be thus.'

Saññā anattā. Saññā ca hidaṃ bhikkhave attā abhavissa, Nayidaṃ saññā ābādhāya saṃvatteyya, Labbhetha ca saññāya, Evaṃ me saññā hotu evaṃ me saññā mā ahosīti.

Perception is not self. If perception were the self, this perception would not lend itself to dis-ease. It would be possible (to say) with regard to perception, 'Let my perception be thus. Let my perception not be thus.'

Yasmā ca kho bhikkhave saññā anattā, Tasmā saññā ābādhāya saṃvattati, Na ca labbhati saññāya, Evaṃ me saññā hotu evaṃ me saññā mā ahosīti.

But precisely because perception is not self, perception lends itself to dis-ease. And it is not possible (to say) with regard to perception, 'Let my perception be thus. Let my perception not be thus.'

Saṅkhārā anattā. Saṅkhārā ca hidaṃ bhikkhave attā abhavissaṃsu, Nayidaṃ saṅkhārā ābādhāya saṃvatteyyuṃ, Labbhetha ca saṅkhāresu, Evaṃ me saṅkhārā hontu evaṃ me saṅkhārā mā ahesunti.

Mental processes are not self. If mental processes were the self, these mental processes would not lend themselves to dis-ease. It would be possible (to say) with regard to mental processes, 'Let my mental processes be thus. Let my mental processes not be thus.'

Yasmā ca kho bhikkhave saṅkhārā anattā, Tasmā saṅkhārā ābādhāya saṃvattanti, Na ca labbhati saṅkhāresu, Evaṃ me saṅkhārā hontu evaṃ me saṅkhārā mā ahesunti.

But precisely because mental processes are not self, mental processes lend themselves to dis-ease. And it is not possible (to say) with regard to mental processes, 'Let my mental processes be thus. Let my mental processes not be thus.'

Viññāṇaṃ anattā. Viññāṇañca hidaṃ bhikkhave attā abhavissa, Nayidaṃ viññāṇaṃ ābādhāya saṃvatteyya, Labbhetha ca viññāṇe, Evaṃ me viññāṇaṃ hotu evaṃ me viññāṇaṃ mā ahosīti.

Consciousness is not self. If consciousness were the self, this consciousness would not lend itself to dis-ease. It would be possible (to say) with regard to consciousness, 'Let my consciousness be thus. Let my consciousness not be thus.'

Yasmā ca kho bhikkhave viññāṇaṃ anattā, Tasmā viññāṇaṃ ābādhāya saṃvattati, Na ca labbhati viññāṇe, Evaṃ me viññāṇaṃ hotu evaṃ me viññāṇaṃ mā ahosīti.

But precisely because consciousness is not self, consciousness lends itself to dis-ease. And it is not possible (to say) with regard to consciousness, 'Let my consciousness be thus. Let my consciousness not be thus.'

Taṃ kiṃ maññatha bhikkhave rūpaṃ niccaṃ vā aniccaṃ vāti.”

What do you think, monks — Is the body constant or inconstant?”

“Aniccaṃ bhante.”

“Inconstant, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vā taṃ sukhaṃ vāti.”

“And is that which is inconstant easeful or stressful?”

“Dukkhaṃ bhante.”

“Stressful, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vipariṇāma-dhammaṃ, Kallaṃ nu taṃ samanupassituṃ, Etaṃ mama eso'ham-asmi eso me attāti.”

“And is it fitting to regard what is inconstant, stressful, subject to change as: 'This is mine. This is my self. This is what I am'?”

Ṅo hetaṃ bhante.“

Ṅo, lord.”

“Taṃ kiṃ maññatha bhikkhave vedanā niccā vā aniccā vāti.”

“What do you think, monks — Is feeling constant or inconstant?”

“Aniccā bhante.”

“Inconstant, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vā taṃ sukhaṃ vāti.”

And is that which is inconstant easeful or stressful?

“Dukkhaṃ bhante.”

“Stressful, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vipariṇāma-dhammaṃ, Kallaṃ nu taṃ samanupassituṃ, Etaṃ mama eso'ham-asmi eso me attāti.”

“And is it fitting to regard what is inconstant, stressful, subject to change as: 'This is mine. This is my self. This is what I am'?”

Ṅo hetaṃ bhante.“

Ṅo, lord.”

“Taṃ kiṃ maññatha bhikkhave saññā niccā vā aniccā vāti.”

“What do you think, monks — Is perception constant or inconstant?”

“Aniccā bhante.”

“Inconstant, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vā taṃ sukhaṃ vāti.”

“And is that which is inconstant easeful or stressful?”

“Dukkhaṃ bhante.”

“Stressful, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vipariṇāma-dhammaṃ, Kallaṃ nu taṃ samanupassituṃ, Etaṃ mama eso'ham-asmi eso me attāti.”

“And is it fitting to regard what is inconstant, stressful, subject to change as: 'This is mine. This is my self. This is what I am'?”

Ṅo hetaṃ bhante.“

Ṅo, lord.”

“Taṃ kiṃ maññatha bhikkhave saṅkhārā niccā vā aniccā vāti.”

“What do you think, monks — Are mental processes constant or inconstant?”

“Aniccā bhante.”

“Inconstant, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vā taṃ sukhaṃ vāti.”

“And is that which is inconstant easeful or stressful?”

“Dukkhaṃ bhante.”

“Stressful, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vipariṇāma-dhammaṃ, Kallaṃ nu taṃ samanupassituṃ, Etaṃ mama eso'ham-asmi eso me attāti.”

“And is it fitting to regard what is inconstant, stressful, subject to change as: 'This is mine. This is my self. This is what I am'?”

Ṅo hetaṃ bhante.“

Ṅo, lord.”

“Taṃ kiṃ maññatha bhikkhave viññāṇaṃ niccaṃ vā aniccaṃ vāti.”

“What do you think, monks — Is consciousness constant or inconstant?”

“Aniccaṃ bhante.”

“Inconstant, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vā taṃ sukhaṃ vāti.”

“And is that which is inconstant easeful or stressful?”

“Dukkhaṃ bhante.”

“Stressful, lord.”

“Yam-panāniccaṃ dukkhaṃ vipariṇāma-dhammaṃ, Kallaṃ nu taṃ samanupassituṃ, Etaṃ mama eso'ham-asmi eso me attāti.”

“And is it fitting to regard what is inconstant, stressful, subject to change as: 'This is mine. This is my self. This is what I am'?”

Ṅo hetaṃ bhante.“

Ṅo, lord.”

“Tasmātiha bhikkhave yaṅkiñci rūpaṃ atītānāgata-paccuppannaṃ, Ajjhattaṃ vā bahiddhā vā, Oḷārikaṃ vā sukhumaṃ vā, Hīnaṃ vā paṇītaṃ vā, Yandūre santike vā, Sabbaṃ rūpaṃ,

Thus, monks, any body whatsoever — past, future, or present; internal or external; blatant or subtle; common or sublime; far or near: every body —

Netaṃ mama neso'ham-asmi na meso attāti, Evam-etaṃ yathābhūtaṃ sammappaññāya daṭṭhabbaṃ.

is to be seen as it actually is with right discernment as: 'This is not mine. This is not my self. This is not what I am.'

Yā kāci vedanā atītānāgata-paccuppannā, Ajjhattā vā bahiddhā vā, Oḷārikā vā sukhumā vā, Hīnā vā paṇītā vā, Yā dūre santike vā, Sabbā vedanā,

Any feeling whatsoever — past, future, or present; internal or external; blatant or subtle; common or sublime; far or near: every feeling —

Netaṃ mama neso'ham-asmi na meso attāti, Evam-etaṃ yathābhūtaṃ sammappaññāya daṭṭhabbaṃ.

is to be seen as it actually is with right discernment as: 'This is not mine. This is not my self. This is not what I am.'

Yā kāci saññā atītānāgata-paccuppannā, Ajjhattā vā bahiddhā vā, Oḷārikā vā sukhumā vā, Hīnā vā paṇītā vā, Yā dūre santike vā, Sabbā saññā,

Any perception whatsoever — past, future, or present; internal or external; blatant or subtle; common or sublime; far or near: every perception —

Netaṃ mama neso'ham-asmi na meso attāti, Evam-etaṃ yathābhūtaṃ sammappaññāya daṭṭhabbaṃ.

is to be seen as it actually is with right discernment as: 'This is not mine. This is not my self. This is not what I am.'

Ye keci saṅkhārā atītānāgata-paccuppannā, Ajjhattā vā bahiddhā vā, Oḷārikā vā sukhumā vā, Hīnā vā paṇītā vā, Ye dūre santike vā, Sabbe saṅkhārā,

Any mental processes whatsoever — past, future, or present; internal or external; blatant or subtle; common or sublime; far or near: all mental processes —

Netaṃ mama neso'ham-asmi na meso attāti, Evam-etaṃ yathābhūtaṃ sammappaññāya daṭṭhabbaṃ.

are to be seen as they actually are with right discernment as: 'This is not mine. This is not my self. This is not what I am.'

Yaṅkiñci viññāṇaṃ atītānāgata-paccuppannaṃ, Ajjhattaṃ vā bahiddhā vā, Oḷārikaṃ vā sukhumaṃ vā, Hīnaṃ vā paṇītaṃ vā, Yandūre santike vā, Sabbaṃ viññāṇaṃ,

Any consciousness whatsoever — past, future, or present; internal or external; blatant or subtle; common or sublime; far or near: every consciousness —

Netaṃ mama neso'ham-asmi na meso attāti, Evam-etaṃ yathābhūtaṃ sammappaññāya daṭṭhabbaṃ.

is to be seen as it actually is with right discernment as: 'This is not mine. This is not my self. This is not what I am.'

Evaṃ passaṃ bhikkhave sutavā ariya-sāvako, Rūpasmiṃ pi nibbindati, Vedanāya pi nibbindati, Saññāya pi nibbindati, Saṅkhāresu pi nibbindati, Viññāṇasmiṃ pi nibbindati.

Seeing thus, the well-instructed disciple of the noble ones grows disenchanted with the body, disenchanted with feeling, disenchanted with perception, disenchanted with mental processes, & disenchanted with consciousness.

Nibbindaṃ virajjati, Virāgā vimuccati,

Disenchanted, he becomes dispassionate. Through dispassion, he is released.

Vimuttasmiṃ vimuttam-iti ñāṇaṃ hoti, Khīṇā jāti, Vusitaṃ brahma-cariyaṃ, Kataṃ karaṇīyaṃ, Nāparaṃ itthattāyāti pajānātīti.”

With release, there is the knowledge, 'Released.' He discerns that, 'Birth is ended, the holy life fulfilled, the task done. There is nothing further for the sake of this world.'

Idam-avoca Bhagavā, Attamanā pañca-vaggiyā bhikkhū Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ abhinanduṃ.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratified, the group of five monks delighted at his words.

Imasmiñca pana veyyā-karaṇasmiṃ bhaññamāne, Pañca-vaggiyānaṃ bhikkhūnaṃ anupādāya, Āsavehi cittāni vimucciṃsūti.

And while this explanation was being given, the hearts of the group of five monks, through lack of clinging, were released from the mental effluents.

Āditta-pariyāya Sutta The Fire Discourse

[Evam-me sutaṃ,] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Gayāyaṃ viharati gayāsīse, Saddhiṃ bhikkhu-sahassena, Tatra kho Bhagavā bhikkhū āmantesi.

I have heard that on one occasion the Blessed One was staying in Gaya, at Gaya Head, with 1,000 monks. There he addressed the monks:

“Sabbaṃ bhikkhave ādittaṃ, Kiñca bhikkhave sabbaṃ ādittaṃ. Cakkhuṃ bhikkhave ādittaṃ, Rūpā ādittā, Cakkhu-viññāṇaṃ ādittaṃ, Cakkhu-samphasso āditto,

“Monks, the All is aflame. What All is aflame? The eye is aflame. Forms are aflame. Consciousness at the eye is aflame. Contact at the eye is aflame.

Yamp'idaṃ cakkhu-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tampi ādittaṃ.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the eye, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain, that too is aflame.

Kena ādittaṃ.

Aflame with what?

Ādittaṃ rāg'agginā dos'agginā moh'agginā, Ādittaṃ jātiyā jarā-maraṇena, Sokehi paridevehi dukkhehi domanassehi upāyāsehi ādittanti vadāmi.

Aflame with the fire of passion, the fire of aversion, the fire of delusion. Aflame, I tell you, with birth, aging, & death, with sorrows, lamentations, pains, distresses, & despairs.

Sotaṃ ādittaṃ, Saddā ādittā, Sota-viññāṇaṃ ādittaṃ, Sota-samphasso āditto,

The ear is aflame. Sounds are aflame. Consciousness at the ear is aflame. Contact at the ear is aflame.

Yamp'idaṃ sota-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tampi ādittaṃ.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the ear, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain, that too is aflame.

Kena ādittaṃ.

Aflame with what?

Ādittaṃ rāg'agginā dos'agginā moh'agginā, Ādittaṃ jātiyā jarā-maraṇena, Sokehi paridevehi dukkhehi domanassehi upāyāsehi ādittanti vadāmi.

Aflame with the fire of passion, the fire of aversion, the fire of delusion. Aflame, I tell you, with birth, aging, & death, with sorrows, lamentations, pains, distresses, & despairs.

Ghānaṃ ādittaṃ, Gandhā ādittā, Ghāna-viññāṇaṃ ādittaṃ, Ghāna-samphasso āditto,

The nose is aflame. Aromas are aflame. Consciousness at the nose is aflame. Contact at the nose is aflame.

Yamp'idaṃ ghāna-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tampi ādittaṃ.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the nose, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain, that too is aflame.

Kena ādittaṃ.

Aflame with what?

Ādittaṃ rāg'agginā dos'agginā moh'agginā, Ādittaṃ jātiyā jarā-maraṇena, Sokehi paridevehi dukkhehi domanassehi upāyāsehi ādittanti vadāmi.

Aflame with the fire of passion, the fire of aversion, the fire of delusion. Aflame, I tell you, with birth, aging, & death, with sorrows, lamentations, pains, distresses, & despairs.

Jivhā ādittā, Rasā ādittā, Jivhā-viññāṇaṃ ādittaṃ, Jivhā-samphasso āditto,

The tongue is aflame. Flavors are aflame. Consciousness at the tongue is aflame. Contact at the tongue is aflame.

Yamp'idaṃ jivhā-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tampi ādittaṃ.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the tongue, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain, that too is aflame.

Kena ādittaṃ.

Aflame with what?

Ādittaṃ rāg'agginā dos'agginā moh'agginā, Ādittaṃ jātiyā jarā-maraṇena, Sokehi paridevehi dukkhehi domanassehi upāyāsehi ādittanti vadāmi.

Aflame with the fire of passion, the fire of aversion, the fire of delusion. Aflame, I tell you, with birth, aging, & death, with sorrows, lamentations, pains, distresses, & despairs.

Kāyo āditto, Phoṭṭhabbā ādittā, Kāya-viññāṇaṃ ādittaṃ, Kāya-samphasso āditto,

The body is aflame. Tactile sensations are aflame. Consciousness at the body is aflame. Contact at the body is aflame.

Yamp'idaṃ kāya-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tampi ādittaṃ.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the body, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain, that too is aflame.

Kena ādittaṃ.

Aflame with what?

Ādittaṃ rāg'agginā dos'agginā moh'agginā, Ādittaṃ jātiyā jarā-maraṇena, Sokehi paridevehi dukkhehi domanassehi upāyāsehi ādittanti vadāmi.

Aflame with the fire of passion, the fire of aversion, the fire of delusion. Aflame, I tell you, with birth, aging, & death, with sorrows, lamentations, pains, distresses, & despairs.

Mano āditto, Dhammā ādittā, Mano-viññāṇaṃ ādittaṃ, Mano-samphasso āditto,

The intellect is aflame. Ideas are aflame. Consciousness at the intellect is aflame. Contact at the intellect is aflame.

Yamp'idaṃ mano-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tampi ādittaṃ.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the intellect, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain, that too is aflame.

Kena ādittaṃ.

Aflame with what?

Ādittaṃ rāg'agginā dos'agginā moh'agginā, Ādittaṃ jātiyā jarā-maraṇena, Sokehi paridevehi dukkhehi domanassehi upāyāsehi ādittanti vadāmi.

Aflame with the fire of passion, the fire of aversion, the fire of delusion. Aflame, I tell you, with birth, aging & death, with sorrows, lamentations, pains, distresses, & despairs.

Evaṃ passaṃ bhikkhave sutavā ariya-sāvako, Cakkhusmiṃ pi nibbindati, Rūpesu pi nibbindati, Cakkhu-viññāṇe pi nibbindati, Cakkhu-samphasse pi nibbindati,

Seeing thus, the well-instructed disciple of the noble ones grows disenchanted with the eye, disenchanted with forms, disenchanted with consciousness at the eye, disenchanted with contact at the eye.

Yamp'idaṃ cakkhu-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tasmiṃ pi nibbindati.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the eye, experienced as pleasure, pain or neither-pleasure-nor-pain: With that, too, he grows disenchanted.

Sotasmiṃ pi nibbindati, Saddesu pi nibbindati, Sota-viññāṇe pi nibbindati, Sota-samphasse pi nibbindati,

He grows disenchanted with the ear, disenchanted with sounds, disenchanted with consciousness at the ear, disenchanted with contact at the ear.

Yamp'idaṃ sota-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tasmiṃ pi nibbindati.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the ear, experienced as pleasure, pain or neither-pleasure-nor-pain: With that, too, he grows disenchanted.

Ghānasmiṃ pi nibbindati, Gandhesu pi nibbindati, Ghāna-viññāṇe pi nibbindati, Ghāna-samphasse pi nibbindati,

He grows disenchanted with the nose, disenchanted with aromas, disenchanted with consciousness at the nose, disenchanted with contact at the nose.

Yamp'idaṃ ghāna-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tasmiṃ pi nibbindati.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the nose, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain: With that, too, he grows disenchanted.

Jivhāya pi nibbindati, Rasesu pi nibbindati, Jivhā-viññāṇe pi nibbindati, Jivhā-samphasse pi nibbindati,

He grows disenchanted with the tongue, disenchanted with flavors, disenchanted with consciousness at the tongue, disenchanted with contact at the tongue.

Yamp'idaṃ jivhā-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tasmiṃ pi nibbindati.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the tongue, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain: With that, too, he grows disenchanted.

Kāyasmiṃ pi nibbindati, Phoṭṭhabbesu pi nibbindati, Kāya-viññāṇe pi nibbindati, Kāya-samphasse pi nibbindati,

He grows disenchanted with the body, disenchanted with tactile sensations, disenchanted with consciousness at the body, disenchanted with contact at the body.

Yamp'idaṃ kāya-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tasmiṃ pi nibbindati.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the body, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain: With that, too, he grows disenchanted.

Manasmiṃ pi nibbindati, Dhammesu pi nibbindati, Mano-viññāṇe pi nibbindati, Mano-samphasse pi nibbindati,

He grows disenchanted with the intellect, disenchanted with ideas, disenchanted with consciousness at the intellect, disenchanted with contact at the intellect.

Yamp'idaṃ mano-samphassa-paccayā uppajjati vedayitaṃ, Sukhaṃ vā dukkhaṃ vā adukkham-asukhaṃ vā, Tasmiṃ pi nibbindati.

And whatever there is that arises in dependence on contact at the intellect, experienced as pleasure, pain, or neither-pleasure-nor-pain: With that, too, he grows disenchanted.

Nibbindaṃ virajjati, Virāgā vimuccati,

Disenchanted, he becomes dispassionate. Through dispassion, he is released.

Vimuttasmiṃ vimuttam-iti ñāṇaṃ hoti, Khīṇā jāti, Vusitaṃ brahma-cariyaṃ, Kataṃ karaṇīyaṃ, Nāparaṃ itthattāyāti pajānātīti.”

With release, there is the knowledge, 'Released.' He discerns that, 'Birth is ended, the holy life fulfilled, the task done. There is nothing further for the sake of this world.'”

Idam-avoca Bhagavā, Attamanā te bhikkhū Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ abhinanduṃ.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratified, the monks delighted at his words.

Imasmiñca pana veyyā-karaṇasmiṃ bhaññamāne, Tassa bhikkhu-sahassassa anupādāya, Āsavehi cittāni vimucciṃsūti.

And while this explanation was being given, the hearts of the 1,000 monks, through lack of clinging, were released from the mental effluents.

Dhamma-niyāma Sutta The Discourse on the Orderliness of the Dhamma

[Evam-me sutaṃ,] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Sāvatthiyaṃ viharati, Jetavane Anāthapiṇḍikassa, ārāme.

I have heard that at one time the Blessed One was staying in Savatthi at Jeta's Grove, Anathapindika's monastery.

Tatra kho Bhagavā bhikkhū āmantesi bhikkhavo'ti.

There he addressed the monks, saying, “Monks.”

Bhadanteti te bhikkhū Bhagavato paccassosuṃ.

“Yes, lord,” the monks responded to him.

Bhagavā etad-avoca.

The Blessed One said,

“Uppādā vā bhikkhave Tathāgatānaṃ anuppādā vā Tathāgatānaṃ, ṭhitāva sā dhātu dhammaṭṭhitatā dhamma-niyāmatā: Sabbe saṅkhārā aniccāti.

“Whether or not there is the arising of Tathagatas, this property stands — this steadfastness of the Dhamma, this orderliness of the Dhamma: All processes are inconstant.

Taṃ Tathāgato abhisambujjhati abhisameti. Abhisambujjhitvā abhisametvā ācikkhati deseti, paññapeti paṭṭhappeti, vivarati vibhajati uttānī-karoti: Sabbe saṅkhārā aniccāti.

The Tathagata directly awakens to that, breaks through to that. Directly awakening & breaking through to that, he declares it, teaches it, describes it, sets it forth. He reveals it, explains it, & makes it plain: All processes are inconstant.

Uppādā vā bhikkhave Tathāgatānaṃ anuppādā vā Tathāgatānaṃ, ṭhitāva sā dhātu dhammaṭṭhitatā dhamma-niyāmatā: Sabbe saṅkhārā dukkhāti.

Whether or not there is the arising of Tathagatas, this property stands — this steadfastness of the Dhamma, this orderliness of the Dhamma: All processes are stressful.

Taṃ Tathāgato abhisambujjhati abhisameti. Abhisambujjhitvā abhisametvā ācikkhati deseti, paññapeti paṭṭhappeti, vivarati vibhajati uttānī-karoti: Sabbe saṅkhārā dukkhāti.

The Tathagata directly awakens to that, breaks through to that. Directly awakening & breaking through to that, he declares it, teaches it, describes it, sets it forth. He reveals it, explains it, & makes it plain: All processes are stressful.

Uppādā vā bhikkhave Tathāgatānaṃ anuppādā vā Tathāgatānaṃ, ṭhitāva sā dhātu dhammaṭṭhitatā dhamma-niyāmatā: Sabbe dhammā anattāti.

Whether or not there is the arising of Tathagatas, this property stands — this steadfastness of the Dhamma, this orderliness of the Dhamma: All phenomena are not-self.

Taṃ Tathāgato abhisambujjhati abhisameti. Abhisambujjhitvā abhisametvā ācikkhati deseti, paññapeti paṭṭhappeti, vivarati vibhajati uttānī-karoti: Sabbe dhammā anattāti.”

The Tathagata directly awakens to that, breaks through to that. Directly awakening & breaking through to that, he declares it, teaches it, describes it, sets it forth. He reveals it, explains it, & makes it plain: All phenomena are not-self.”

Idam-avoca Bhagavā. Attamanā te bhikkhū Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ, abhinandunti.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratfied, the monks delighted at his words.

Magga-vibhaṅga Sutta An Analysis of the Path

[Evam-me sutaṃ,] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Sāvatthiyaṃ viharati, Jetavane Anāthapiṇḍikassa, ārāme.

I have heard that at one time the Blessed One was staying in Savatthi at Jeta's Grove, Anathapindika's monastery.

Tatra kho Bhagavā bhikkhū āmantesi bhikkhavo'ti.

There he addressed the monks, saying, “Monks.”

Bhadanteti te bhikkhū Bhagavato paccassosuṃ.

“Yes, lord,” the monks responded to him.

Bhagavā etad-avoca.

The Blessed One said,

“Ariyaṃ vo bhikkhave aṭṭhaṅgikaṃ maggaṃ desissāmi vibhajissāmi. Taṃ suṇātha sādhukaṃ manasi-karotha bhāsissāmīti.

“I will teach & analyze for you the Noble Eightfold Path. Listen & pay close attention. I will speak.”

Evam-bhanteti kho te bhikkhū Bhagavato paccassosuṃ.

“As you say, lord,” the monks responded to him.

Bhagavā etad-avoca.

The Blessed One said,

“Katamo ca bhikkhave ariyo aṭṭhaṅgiko maggo?

Ṅow what, monks, is the Noble Eightfold Path?

Seyyathīdam, Sammā-diṭṭhi sammā-saṅkappo, Sammā-vācā sammā-kammanto sammā-ājīvo, Sammā-vāyāmo sammā-sati sammā-samādhi.

Right view, right resolve, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness, right concentration.

Katamā ca bhikkhave sammā-diṭṭhi?

And what, monks, is right view?

Yaṃ kho bhikkhave dukkhe ñāṇaṃ dukkha-samudaye ñāṇaṃ dukkha-nirodhe ñāṇaṃ dukkha-nirodha-gāminiyā paṭipadāya ñāṇaṃ.

Knowledge concerning stress, knowledge concerning the origination of stress, knowledge copncerning the stopping of stress, knowledge concerning the way of practice leading to the stopping of stress:

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-diṭṭhi.

This, monks, is called right view.

Katamo ca bhikkhave sammā-saṅkappo?

And what, monks, is right resolve?

Yo kho bhikkhave nekkhamma-saṅkappo abyāpāda-saṅkappo avihiṃsā-saṅkappo.

Being resolved on renunciation, on freedom from ill will, on harmlessness:

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-saṅkappo.

This, monks, is called right resolve.

Katamā ca bhikkhave sammā-vācā?

And what is right speech?

Yā kho bhikkhave musāvādā veramaṇī, pisuṇāya vācāya veramaṇī, pharusāya vācāya veramaṇī, samphappalāpā veramaṇī.

Abstaining from lying, abstaining from divisive speech, abstaining from abusive speech, abstaining from idle chatter:

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-vācā.

This, monks, is called right speech.

Katamo ca bhikkhave sammā-kammanto?

And what, monks, is right action?

Yā kho bhikkhave pāṇātipātā veramaṇī, adinnādānā veramaṇī, abrahma-cariyā veramaṇī.

Abstaining from taking life, abstaining from stealing, abstaining from sexual intercourse.

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-kammanto.

This, monks, is called right action.

Katamo ca bhikkhave sammā-ājīvo?

And what, monks, is right livelihood?

Idha bhikkhave ariya-sāvako micchā-ājīvaṃ pahāya, Sammā-ājīvena jīvikaṃ kappeti.

There is the case where a well-instructed disciple of the noble ones, having abandoned dishonest livelihood, keeps his life going with right livelihood:

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-ājīvo.

This, monks, is called right livelihood.

Katamo ca bhikkhave sammā-vāyāmo?

And what, monks, is right effort?

Idha bhikkhave bhikkhu anuppannānaṃ pāpakānaṃ akusalānaṃ dhammānaṃ anuppādāya, chandaṃ janeti vāyamati viriyaṃ ārabhati cittaṃ paggaṇhāti padahati.

There is the case where a monk generates desire, endeavors, activates persistence, upholds & exerts his intent for the sake of the non-arising of evil, unskillful qualities that have not yet arisen.

Uppannānaṃ pāpakānaṃ akusalānaṃ dhammānaṃ pahānāya, chandaṃ janeti vāyamati viriyaṃ ārabhati cittaṃ paggaṇhāti padahati.

He generates desire, endeavors, activates persistence, upholds & exerts his intent for the sake of the abandonment of evil, unskillful qualities that have arisen.

Anuppannānaṃ kusalānaṃ dhammānaṃ uppādāya, chandaṃ janeti vāyamati viriyaṃ ārabhati cittaṃ paggaṇhāti padahati.

He generates desire, endeavors, activates persistence, upholds & exerts his intent for the sake of the arising of skillful qualities that have not yet arisen.

Uppannānaṃ kusalānaṃ dhammānaṃ, ṭhitiyā asammosāya bhiyyo-bhāvāya vepullāya bhāvanāya pāripūriyā, chandaṃ janeti vāyamati viriyaṃ ārabhati cittaṃ paggaṇhāti padahati.

He generates desire, endeavors, activates persistence, upholds & exerts his intent for the maintenance, non-confusion, increase, plenitude, development, & culmination of skillful qualities that have arisen:

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-vāyāmo.

This, monks, is called right effort.

Katamā ca bhikkhave sammā-sati?

And what, monks, is right mindfulness?

Idha bhikkhave bhikkhu kāye kāyānupassī viharati, ātāpī sampajāno satimā vineyya loke abhijjhā-domanassaṃ.

There is the case where a monk remains focused on the body in & of itself — ardent, alert, & mindful — putting away greed & distress with reference to the world.

Vedanāsu vedanānupassī viharati, ātāpī sampajāno satimā vineyya loke abhijjhā-domanassaṃ.

He remains focused on feelings in & of themselves — ardent, alert, & mindful — putting away greed & distress with reference to the world.

Citte cittānupassī viharati, ātāpī sampajāno satimā vineyya loke abhijjhā-domanassaṃ.

He remains focused on the mind in & of itself — ardent, alert, & mindful — putting away greed & distress with reference to the world.

Dhammesu dhammānupassī viharati, ātāpī sampajāno satimā vineyya loke abhijjhā-domanassaṃ.

He remains focused on mental qualities in & of themselves — ardent, aware, & mindful — putting away greed & distress with reference to the world.

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-sati.

This, monks, is called right mindfulness.

Katamo ca bhikkhave sammā-samādhi?

And what, monks, is right concentration?

Idha bhikkhave bhikkhu vivicc'eva kāmehi vivicca akusalehi dhammehi, sa-vitakkaṃ sa-vicāraṃ vivekajam-pīti-sukhaṃ paṭhamaṃ jhānaṃ upasampajja viharati.

There is the case where a monk — quite withdrawn from sensuality, withdrawn from unskillful (mental) qualities — enters & remains in the first jhana: rapture & pleasure born from withdrawal, accompanied by directed thought & evaluation.

Vitakka-vicārānaṃ vūpasamā, ajjhattaṃ sampasādanaṃ cetaso ekodi-bhāvaṃ avitakkaṃ avicāraṃ, samādhijam-pīti-sukhaṃ dutiyaṃ jhānaṃ upasampajja viharati.

With the stilling of directed thoughts & evaluations, he enters & remains in the second jhana: rapture & pleasure born of concentration, unification of awareness free from directed thought & evaluation — internal assurance.

Pītiyā ca virāgā, upekkhako ca viharati sato ca sampajāno, sukhañca kāyena paṭisaṃvedeti, yan-taṃ ariyā ācikkhanti upekkhako satimā sukha-vihārīti, tatiyaṃ jhānaṃ upasampajja viharati.

With the fading of rapture, he remains equanimous, mindful, & alert, and senses pleasure with the body. He enters & remains in the third jhana, of which the Noble Ones declare, 'Equanimous & mindful, he has a pleasant abiding.'

Sukhassa ca pahānā dukkhassa ca pahānā, pubbe va somanassa-domanassānaṃ atthaṅgamā, adukkham-asukhaṃ upekkhā-sati-pārisuddhiṃ, catutthaṃ jhānaṃ upasampajja viharati.

With the abandoning of pleasure & pain — as with the earlier disappearance of elation & distress — he enters & remains in the fourth jhana: purity of equanimity & mindfulness, neither pleasure nor pain.

Ayaṃ vuccati bhikkhave sammā-samādhīti.”

This, monks, is called right concentration.”

Idam-avoca Bhagavā. Attamanā te bhikkhū Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ, abhinandunti.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratified, the monks delighted at his words.

Gotamī Sutta The Discourse to Gotamī

[Evam-me sutaṃ,] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Vesāliyaṃ viharati, Mahā-vane kūṭāgārasālāyaṃ,

I have heard that at one time the Blessed One was staying at Vesāli, in the Peaked Roof Hall in the Great Forest.

Atha kho Mahāpajāpati Gotamī, Yena Bhagavā ten'upasaṅkami, Upasaṅkamitvā Bhagavantaṃ abhivādetvā ekam-antaṃ aṭṭhāsi.

Then Mahāpajāpati Gotamī approached the Blessed One and, on approaching, having bowed down to the Blessed One, stood to one side.

Ekam-antaṃ ṭhitā kho Mahāpajāpatī Gotamī Bhagavantaṃ etad-avoca: “Sādhu me bhante Bhagavā saṅkhittena dhammaṃ desetu, Yam-ahaṃ Bhagavato dhammaṃ sutvā, Ekā vūpakaṭṭhā appamattā ātāpinī pahitattā vihareyyanti.”

As she was standing to one side, she said to the Blessed One: “It would be good, Venerable Sir, if the Blessed One would teach me the Dhamma in brief such that, having heard the Dhamma from the Blessed One, I might dwell alone, secluded, heedful, earnest, & resolute.”

“Ye kho tvaṃ Gotami dhamme jāneyyāsi, Ime dhammā sarāgāya saṃvattanti no virāgāya.

“Gotami, the qualities of which you may know, 'These qualities lead to passion, not to dispassion;

Saṃyogāya saṃvattanti no visaṃyogāya.

to being fettered, not to being unfettered;

Ācayāya saṃvattanti no apacayāya.

to self-aggrandizement, not to self-effacement;

Mahicchatāya saṃvattanti no appicchatāya.

to overweaning ambition, not to modesty;

Asantuṭṭhiyā saṃvattanti no santuṭṭhiyā.

to discontent, not to contentment;

Saṅgaṇikāya saṃvattanti no pavivekāya.

to entanglement, not to seclusion;

Kosajjāya saṃvattanti no viriyārambhāya.

to laziness, not to activated persistence;,

Dubbharatāya saṃvattanti no subharatāyāti.

to being burdensome, not to being unburdensome':

Ekaṃsena Gotami dhāreyyāsi, N'eso dhammo n'eso vinayo n'etaṃ satthu-sāsananti.

You may definitely hold, 'This is not the Dhamma, this is not the Vinaya, this is not the Teacher's instruction.'

Ye ca kho tvaṃ Gotami dhamme jāneyyāsi, Ime dhammā virāgāya saṃvattanti no sarāgāya.

As for the qualities of which you may know, 'These qualities lead to dispassion, not to passion;

Visaṃyogāya saṃvattanti no saṃyogāya.

to being unfettered, not to being fettered;

Apacayāya saṃvattanti no ācayāya.

to self-effacement, not to self-aggrandizement;,

Appicchatāya saṃvattanti no mahicchatāya.

to modesty, not to overweaning ambition;

Santuṭṭhiyā saṃvattanti no asantuṭṭhiyā.

to contentment, not to discontent;

Pavivekāya saṃvattanti no saṅgaṇikāya.

to seclusion, not to entanglement;

Viriyārambhāya saṃvattanti no kosajjāya.

to activated persistence, not to laziness;

Subharatāya saṃvattanti no dubbharatāyāti.

to being unburdensome, not to being burdensome':

Ekaṃsena Gotami dhāreyyāsi, Eso dhammo eso vinayo etaṃ satthu-sāsananti.

You may definitely hold, 'This is the Dhamma, this is the Vinaya, this is the Teacher's instruction.'”

Idam-avoca Bhagavā. Attamanā Mahāpajāpati Gotamī Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ, abhinandīti.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratified, Mahāpajāpati Gotamī delighted at his words.

Paṭicca Samuppāda Dependent Origination

Avijjā-paccayā saṅkhārā,

With ignorance as a condition there are processes.

Saṅkhāra-paccayā viññāṇaṃ,

With processes as a condition there is (sensory) consciousness.

Viññāṇa-paccayā nāma-rūpaṃ,

With (sensory) consciousness as a condition there are name & form.

Nāma-rūpa-paccayā saḷāyatanaṃ,

With name & form as a condition there are the six sense media.

Saḷāyatana-paccayā phasso,

With the six sense media as a condition there is contact.

Phassa-paccayā vedanā,

With contact as a condition there is feeling.

Vedanā-paccayā taṇhā,

With feeling as a condition there is craving.

Taṇhā-paccayā upādānaṃ,

With craving as a condition there is clinging.

Upādāna-paccayā bhavo,

With clinging as a condition there is becoming.

Bhava-paccayā jāti,

With becoming as a condition there is birth.

Jāti-paccayā jara-maraṇaṃ soka-parideva-dukkha-domanassupāyāsā sambhavanti.

With birth as a condition, then aging & death, sorrow, lamentation, pain, distress, & despair come into play.

Evam-etassa kevalassa dukkhakkhandhassa, samudayo hoti.

Thus is the origination of this entire mass of suffering & stress.

Avijjāyatveva asesa-virāga-nirodhā saṅkhāra-nirodho,

Now from the remainderless fading & cessation of that very ignorance there is the cessation of processes.

Saṅkhāra-nirodhā viññāṇa-nirodho,

From the cessation of processes there is the cessation of (sensory) consciousness.

Viññāṇa-nirodhā nāma-rūpa-nirodho,

From the cessation of (sensory) consciousness there is the cessation of name & form.

Nāma-rūpa-nirodhā saḷāyatana-nirodho,

From the cessation of name & form there is the cessation of the six sense media.

Saḷāyatana-nirodhā phassa-nirodho,

From the cessation of the six sense media there is the cessation of contact.

Phassa-nirodhā vedanā-nirodho,

From the cessation of contact there is the cessation of feeling.

Vedanā-nirodhā taṇhā-nirodho,

From the cessation of feeling there is the cessation of craving.

Taṇhā-nirodhā upādāna-nirodho,

From the cessation of craving there is the cessation of clinging.

Upādāna-nirodhā bhava-nirodho,

From the cessation of clinging there is the cessation of becoming.

Bhava-nirodhā jāti-nirodho,

From the cessation of becoming there is the cessation of birth.

Jāti-nirodhā jara-maraṇaṃ soka-parideva-dukkha-domanassupāyāsā nirujjhanti.

From the cessation of birth, then aging & death, sorrow, lamentation, pain, distress, & despair all cease.

Evam-etassa kevalassa dukkhakkhandhassa, nirodho hoti.

Thus is the cessation of this entire mass of suffering & stress.

Sārāṇīya-dhamma Sutta Conditions for Amiability

Evam-me sutaṃ. Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Sāvatthiyaṃ viharati, Jetavane Anāthapiṇḍikassa, ārāme. Tatra kho Bhagavā bhikkhū āmantesi, “Bhikkhavo” ti. “Bhadante” te bhikkhū Bhagavato paccassosuṃ. Bhagavā etad-avoca: “Chayime bhikkhave dhammā sārāṇīyā piya-karaṇā garu-karaṇā, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattanti. Katame cha?

I have heard that on one occasion the Blessed One was staying near Savatthi in Jeta's Grove, Anathapindika's monastery. There he said to the monk, “Monks!” “Yes, lord,” the monks responded. The Blessed One said: “Monks, these six are conditions that are conducive to amiability, that engender feelings of endearment, engender feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity. Which six?

“Idha bhikkhave bhikkhuno, mettaṃ kāya-kammaṃ paccupaṭṭhitaṃ hoti, sabrahmacārīsu āvi ceva raho ca. Ayampi dhammo sārāṇīyo piya-karaṇo garu-karaṇo, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattati.

[1] “There is the case where a monk is set on bodily acts of good will with regard to his fellows in the holy life, to their faces & behind their backs. This is a condition that is conducive to amiability, that engenders feelings of endearment, engenders feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity.

“Puna c'aparaṃ bhikkhave bhikkhuno, mettaṃ vacī-kammaṃ paccupaṭṭhitaṃ hoti, sabrahmacārīsu āvi ceva raho ca. Ayampi dhammo sārāṇīyo piya-karaṇo garu-karaṇo, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattati.

[2] “Furthermore, the monk is set on verbal acts of good will with regard to his fellows in the holy life, to their faces & behind their backs. This is a condition that is conducive to amiability, that engenders feelings of endearment, engenders feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity.

“Puna c'aparaṃ bhikkhave bhikkhuno, mettaṃ mano-kammaṃ paccupaṭṭhitaṃ hoti, sabrahmacārīsu āvi ceva raho ca. Ayampi dhammo sārāṇīyo piya-karaṇo garu-karaṇo, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattati.

[3] “Furthermore, the monk is set on mental acts of good will with regard to his fellows in the holy life, to their faces & behind their backs. This is a condition that is conducive to amiability, that engenders feelings of endearment, engenders feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity.

“Puna c'aparaṃ bhikkhave bhikkhu, ye te lābhā dhammikā dhamma-laddhā, antamaso patta-pariyāpanna-mattampi, tathārūpehi lābhehi appaṭivibhattabhogī hoti, sīlavantehi sabrahmacārīhi sādhāraṇa-bhogī. Ayampi dhammo sārāṇīyo piya-karaṇo garu-karaṇo, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattati.

[4] “Furthermore, whatever righteous gains the monk may obtain in a righteous way — even if only as much as the alms in his bowl — he does not consume them alone. He consumes them after sharing them in common with his virtuous fellows in the holy life. This is a condition that is conducive to amiability, that engenders feelings of endearment, engenders feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity.

“Puna c'aparaṃ bhikkhave bhikkhu, yāni tāni sīlāni akhaṇḍāni achiddāni asabalāni akammāsani, bhujissāni viññūpasatthāni aparāmatthāni samadhi-saṃvattanikāni. Tathārūpesu sīlesu sīla-sāmaññagato viharati, sabrahmacārīhi āvi ceva raho ca. Ayampi dhammo sārāṇīyo piya-karaṇo garu-karaṇo, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattati.

[5] “Furthermore — with reference to the virtues that are untorn, unbroken, unspotted, unsplattered, liberating, praised by the wise, untarnished, leading to concentration — the monk dwells with his virtue on a par with that of his fellows in the holy life, to their faces & behind their backs. This is a condition that is conducive to amiability, that engenders feelings of endearment, engenders feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity.

“Puna c'aparaṃ bhikkhave bhikkhu, yāyaṃ diṭṭhi ariyā niyyānikā, niyyāti takkarassa sammā-dukkhakkhayāya, tathārūpāya diṭṭhiyā diṭṭhi-sāmaññagato viharati, sabrahmacārīhi āvi ceva raho ca. Ayampi dhammo sārāṇīyo piya-karaṇo garu-karaṇo, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattati.

[6] “Furthermore — with reference to views that are noble, leading outward, that lead those who act in accordance with them to the right ending of suffering & stress — the monk dwells with his views on a par with those of his fellows in the holy life, to their faces & behind their backs. This is a condition that is conducive to amiability, that engenders feelings of endearment, engenders feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity.

“Ime kho bhikkhave cha dhammā sārāṇīyā piya-karaṇā garu-karaṇā, saṅgahāya avivādāya sāmaggiyā ekī-bhāvāya saṃvattantī” ti.

“These are the six conditions that are conducive to amiability, that engender feelings of endearment, engender feelings of respect, leading to a sense of fellowship, a lack of disputes, harmony, & a state of unity.”

Idam-avoca Bhagavā. Attamanā te bhikkhū Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ, abhinandunti.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratified, the monks delighted in the Blessed One's words.

Bhikkhu-aparihāniya-dhamma Sutta Conditions for No Decline among the Monks

Evam-me sutaṃ. Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Rājagahe viharati, Gijjhakūṭe Pabbate. Tatra kho Bhagavā bhikkhū āmantesi, “Satta vo bhikkhave aparihāniye dhamme desessāmi. Taṃ suṇātha sādhukaṃ manasikarotha bhāsissāmī” ti.

I have heard that on one occasion the Blessed One was staying in Rajagaha, on Vulture Peak Mountain. There he addressed the monks: “Monks, I will teach you the seven conditions that lead to no decline. Listen & pay close attention. I will speak.”

“Evam-bhante” ti kho te bhikkhū Bhagavato paccassosuṃ.

“Yes, lord,” the monks responded.

Bhagavā etad-avoca: “Katame ca bhikkhave satta aparihāniyā dhammā?

The Blessed One said: “And which seven are the conditions that lead to no decline?

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave bhikkhū, abhiṇha-sannipātā bhavissanti sannipāta-bahulā, vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihāni.

[1] “As long as the monks meet often, meet a great deal, their growth can be expected, not their decline.

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave bhikkhū, samaggā sannipatissanti, samaggā vuṭṭhahissanti, samaggā saṅgha-karaṇīyāni karissanti, vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihāni.

[2] “As long as the monks meet in harmony, adjourn from their meetings in harmony, and conduct Sangha business in harmony, their growth can be expected, not their decline.

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave bhikkhū, apaññattaṃ na paññapessanti, paññattaṃ na samucchindissanti. Yathā-paññattesu sikkhāpadesu samādāya vattissanti, vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihāni.

[3] “As long as the monks neither decree what has been undecreed nor repeal what has been decreed, but practice undertaking the training rules as they have been decreed, their growth can be expected, not their decline.

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave bhikkhū, ye te bhikkhū therā rattaññū cira-pabbajitā, saṅgha-pitaro saṅgha-pariṇāyakā, te sakkarissanti garukarissanti mānessanti pūjessanti tesañca sotabbaṃ maññissanti, vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihāni.

[4] “As long as the monks honor, respect, venerate, & do homage to the elder monks — those with seniority who have long been ordained, the fathers of the Sangha, leaders of the Sangha — regarding them as worth listening to, their growth can be expected, not their decline.

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave bhikkhū, uppannāya taṇhāya ponobbhavikāya no vasaṃ gacchissanti, vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihāni.

[5] “As long as the monks do not submit to the power of any arisen craving that leads to further becoming, their growth can be expected, not their decline.

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave bhikkhū, āraññakesu senāsanesu sāpekkhā bhavissanti, vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihāni.

[6] “As long as the monks see their own benefit in wilderness dwellings, their growth can be expected, not their decline.

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave bhikkhū, paccattaññeva satiṃ upaṭṭhapessanti, 'Kinti anāgatā ca pesalā sabrahmacārī āgaccheyyuṃ. Āgatā ca pesalā sabrahmacārī phāsu vihareyyunti,' vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihāni.

[7] “As long as the monks each keep firmly in mind: 'If there are any well-behaved fellow-followers of the holy life who have yet to come, may they come; and may the well-behaved fellow-followers of the holy life who have come live in comfort,' their growth can be expected, not their decline.

“Yāvakīvañca bhikkave ime satta aparihāniyā dhammā bhikkhūsu ṭhassanti, imesu ca sattasu aparihāniyesu dhammesu bhikkhū sandississanti, vuḍḍhiyeva bhikkhave bhikkhūnaṃ pāṭikaṅkhā no parihānī” ti.

“As long as the monks remain steadfast in these seven conditions, and as long as these seven conditions endure among the monks, the monks' growth can be expected, not their decline.”

Idam-avoca Bhagavā. Attamanā te bhikkhū Bhagavato bhāsitaṃ, abhinandunti.

That is what the Blessed One said. Gratified, the monks delighted in the Blessed One's words.

Mahā-samaya Sutta The Great Meeting

[Evam-me sutaṃ.] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Sakkesu viharati Kapilavatthusmiṃ Mahāvane, mahatā bhikkhu-saṅghena saddhiṃ pañca-mattehi bhikkhu-satehi sabbeheva arahantehi. Dasahi ca loka-dhātūthi devatā yebhuyyena sannipatitā honti Bhagavantaṃ dassanāya bhikkhu-saṅghañca.

I have heard that on one occasion the Blessed One was dwelling among the Sakyans at Kapilavatthu in the Great Wood, together with a large Sangha of approximately five hundred bhikkhus, all of them arahants. And most of the devatās from ten world-systems had gathered in order to see the Blessed One & the Bhikkhu Sangha.

Atha kho catunnaṃ suddhāvāsa-kāyikānaṃ devānaṃ etadahosi, “Ayaṃ kho Bhagavā Sakkesu viharati Kapilavatthusmiṃ Mahāvane, mahatā bhikkhu-saṅghena saddhiṃ pañca-mattehi bhikkhu-satehi, sabbeheva arahantehi. Dasahi ca loka-dhātūthi devatā yebhuyyena sannipatitā honti Bhagavantaṃ dassanāya bhikkhu-saṅghañca. Yannūna mayampi yena Bhagavā ten'upasaṅkameyyāma, upasaṅkamitvā Bhagavato santike pacceka-gāthā bhāseyyāmāti.”

Then the thought occurred to four devatās of the ranks from the Pure Abodes: “The Blessed One is dwelling among the Sakyans at Kapilavatthu in the Great Wood, together with a large Sangha of about five hundred bhikkhus, all of them arahants. And most of the devatās from ten world-systems have gathered in order to see the Blessed One & the Bhikkhu Sangha. Let us also approach the Blessed One and, on arrival, let us each speak a verse in his presence.”

Atha kho tā devatā seyyathāpi nāma balavā puriso sammiñjitaṃ vā bāhaṃ pasāreyya, pasāritaṃ vā bāhaṃ sammiñjeyya, evameva suddhāvāsesu devesu antarahitā Bhagavato purato pāturahaṃsu. Atho kho tā devatā Bhagavantaṃ abhivādetvā ekamantaṃ aṭṭhaṃsu, ekamantaṃ ṭhitā kho ekā devatā Bhagavato santike imaṃ gāthaṃ abhāsi.

Then, just as a strong man might extend his flexed arm or flex his extended arm, those devatās disappeared from among the devas of the Pure Abodes and reappeared before the Blessed One. Having paid homage to the Blessed One, they stood to one side. As they were standing there, one devatā recited this verse in the Blessed One's presence:

Mahā-samayo pavanasmiṃ Deva-kāyā samāgatā Āgatamha imaṃ dhamma-samayaṃ Dakkhitāyeva aparājita-saṅghanti.

“A great meeting in the woods: The deva hosts have assembled. We have come to this Dhamma meeting To see the unvanquished Sangha.”

Atha kho aparā devatā Bhagavato santike imaṃ gāthaṃ abhāsi. Tatra bhikkhavo samādahaṃsu Cittaṃ attano ujukam-akaṃsu Sārathī va nettāni gahetvā Indriyāni rakkhanti paṇḍitāti.

Then another devatā recited this verse in the Blessed One's presence: “The bhikkhus there are concentrated, Have straightened their own minds. Like a charioteer holding the reins, The wise ones guard their faculties.”

Atha kho aparā devatā Bhagavato santike imaṃ gāthaṃ abhāsi. Chetvā khīlaṃ chetvā palīghaṃ Inda-khīlaṃ ohaccam-anejā Te caranti suddhā vimalā Cakkhumatā sudantā susu-nāgāti.

Then another devatā recited this verse in the Blessed One's presence: “Having cut through barrenness, cut the cross-bar, Having uprooted Indra's pillar, unstirred, They wander about pure, unstained, Young nāgas well tamed by the One with Vision.”

Atha kho aparā devatā Bhagavato santike imaṃ gāthaṃ abhāsi. Ye keci Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gatāse Na te gamissanti apāya-bhūmiṃ Pahāya mānusaṃ dehaṃ Deva-kāyaṃ paripūressantīti.

Then another devatā recited this verse in the Blessed One's presence: “Those who have gone to the Buddha for refuge Will not go to the plane of woe. On discarding the human body, They will fill the hosts of the devas.”

Atha kho Bhagavā bhikkhū āmantesi, “Yebhuyyena bhikkhave dasasu loka-dhātūsu devatā sannipatitā honti Tathāgataṃ dassanāya bhikkhu-saṅghañca. Yepi te bhikkhave ahesuṃ atītam-addhānaṃ arahanto Sammā-sambuddhā, tesampi Bhagavantānaṃ eta-paramāyeva devatā sannipatitā ahesuṃ, seyyathāpi mayhaṃ etarahi. Yepi te bhikkhave bhavissanti anāgatam-addhānaṃ arahanto Sammā-sambuddhā, tesampi Bhagavantānaṃ eta-paramāyeva devatā sannipatitā bhavissanti, seyyathāpi mayhaṃ etarahi.

Then the Blessed One addressed the monks: “Monks, most of the devatās from ten world-systems have gathered in order to see the Tathagata & the Bhikkhu Sangha. Those who, in the past, were Pure Ones, Rightly Self-awakened, at most had their devatā-gathering like mine at the present. Those who, in the future, will be Pure Ones, Rightly Self-awakened, will at most have their devatā-gathering like mine at the present.

Ācikkhissāmi bhikkhave deva-kāyānaṃ nāmāni. Kittayissāmi bhikkhave deva-kāyānaṃ nāmāni. Desissāmi bhikkhave deva-kāyānaṃ nāmāni. Taṃ suṇātha sādhukaṃ manasikarotha bhāsissāmīti.” “Evam-bhanteti” kho te bhikkhū Bhagavato paccassosuṃ. Bhagavā etad-avoca.

I will detail for you the names of the deva hosts. I will describe to you the names of the deva hosts. I will teach you the names of the deva hosts. Listen & pay close attention. I will speak.” “As you say, lord,” the monks replied. The Blessed One said:

Silokam-anukassāmi Yattha bhummā tadassitā Ye sitā giri-gabbharaṃ Pahitattā samāhitā Puthū sīhāva sallīnā Loma-haṃsābhisambhuno Odāta-manasā suddhā Vippasannam-anāvilā

I recite a verse of tribute. Those who live where spirits dwell, who live in mountain caves, resolute, concentrated, many, like hidden lions, who have overcome horripilation, white-hearted, pure, serene, & undisturbed:

Bhiyyo pañca-sate ñatvā Vane Kāpilavatthave Tato āmantayi Satthā Sāvake sāsane rate “Deva-kāyā abhikkantā Te vijānātha bhikkhavo” Te ca ātappam-akaruṃ Sutvā Buddhassa sāsanaṃ Tesam-pāturahu ñāṇaṃ Amanussāna dassanaṃ Appeke satam-addakkhuṃ Sahassaṃ atha sattariṃ Sataṃ eke sahassānaṃ Amanussānam-addasuṃ Appekenantam-addakkhuṃ Disā sabbā phuṭā ahuṃ

Knowing that more than 500 of them had come to the forest of Kapilavastu, the Teacher then said to them, disciples delighting in his instruction, “The deva hosts have approached. Detect them, monks!” Listening to the Awakened One's instruction, they made a diligent effort. Knowledge appeared to them, vision of non-human beings. Some saw 100, some 1,000, some 70,000, some had vision of 100,000 non-human beings. Some gained vision of innumerable devas filling every direction.

Tañca sabbaṃ abhiññāya Vavakkhitvāna cakkhumā Tato āmantayi Satthā Sāvake sāsane rate “Deva-kāyā abhikkantā Te vijānātha bhikkhavo Ye vohaṃ kittayissāmi Girāhi anupubbaso.”

Realizing all this, the One-with-Vision felt moved to speak. The Teacher then said to them, disciples delighting in his instruction, “The deva hosts have approached. Detect them, monks, as I describe their glories, one by one.

Satta-sahassā va yakkhā Bhummā Kāpilavatthavā Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

7,000 yakkhas inhabiting the land of Kāpilavastu, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Cha-sahassā hemavatā Yakkhā nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

6,000 yakkhas from the Himālayas, of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Sātāgirā ti-sahassā Yakkhā nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

From Mount Sāta 3,000 yakkhas of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Iccete soḷasa-sahassā Yakkhā nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

These 16,000 yakkhas of varied hue powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Vessāmittā pañca-satā Yakkhā nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

500 yakkhas from Vessāmitta, of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Kumbhīro Rājagahiko Vepullassa nivesanaṃ Bhiyyo naṃ sata-sahassaṃ Yakkhānaṃ payirupāsati Kumbhīro Rājagahiko Sop'āga samitiṃ vanaṃ.

Kumbhīra from Rājagaha, who dwells on Mount Vepulla, accompanied by more than 100,000 yakkhas — Kumbhīra from Rājagaha: He, too, has come to the forest meeting.

Purimañca disaṃ rājā Dhataraṭṭho pasāsati Gandhabbānaṃ ādhipati Mahārājā yasassi so Puttāpi tassa bahavo Inda-nāmā mahabbalā Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

And Dhataraṭṭha, who rules as king of the Eastern Direction, as lord of the gandhabbas: A glorious, great king is he, and many are his sons named Indra, of great strength. Powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, they have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Dakkhiṇañca disaṃ rājā Virūḷho tappasāsati Kumbhaṇḍānaṃ ādhipati Mahārājā yasassi so Puttāpi tassa bahavo Inda-nāmā mahabbalā Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

And Virūḷha, who rules as king of the Southern Direction, as lord of the kumbaṇḍas: A glorious, great king is he, and many are his sons named Indra, of great strength. Powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, they have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Pacchimañca disaṃ rājā Virūpakkho pasāsati Nāgānaṃ ādhipati Mahārājā yasassi so Puttāpi tassa bahavo Inda-nāmā mahabbalā Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

And Virūpakkha, who rules as king of the Western Direction, as lord of the nāgas: A glorious, great king is he, and many are his sons named Indra, of great strength. Powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, they have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Uttarañca disaṃ rājā Kuvero tappasāsati Yakkhānaṃ ādhipati Mahārājā yasassi so Puttāpi tassa bahavo Inda-nāmā mahabbalā Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

And Kuvera, who rules as king of the Northern Direction, as lord of the yakkhas: A glorious, great king is he, and many are his sons named Indra, of great strength. Powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, they have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Purima-disaṃ Dhataraṭṭho Dakkhiṇena Virūḷhako Pacchimena Virūpakkho Kuvero uttaraṃ disaṃ Cattāro te mahārājā Samantā caturo disā Daddallamānā aṭṭhaṃsu Vane Kāpilavatthave

Dhataraṭṭha from the Eastern Direction, Virūḷhaka from the South, Virūpakkha from the West, Kuvera from the Northern Direction: These four Great Kings encompassing the four directions, resplendent, stand in the Kāpilavastu forest.

Tesaṃ māyāvino dāsā Āgū vañcanikā saṭhā Māyā Kuṭeṇḍu Veṭeṇḍu Viṭū ca Viṭuṭo saha Candano Kāma-seṭṭho ca Kinnughaṇḍu Nighaṇḍu ca Panādo Opamañño ca Deva-sūto ca Mātali Cittaseno ca gandhabbo Naḷorājā Janosabho Āgū Pañcasikho ceva Timbarū Suriyavacchasā Ete caññe ca rājāno Gandhabbā saha rājubhi Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

Their deceitful vassals have also come — deceptive, treacherous — Māyā, Kuṭeṇḍu, Veṭeṇḍu, Viṭu with Viṭuṭa, Candana, the Chief of Sensual Pleasure, Kinnughaṇḍu, Nighaṇḍu, Panāda, the Mimic, Mātali, the deva's charioteer, Cittasena the gandhabba, King Nāḷa, the Bull of the People, Pañcasikha has come with Timbaru [and his daughter,] Suriyavacchasā. These & other kings, gandhabbas with their kings, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Athāgū Nābhasā nāgā Vesālā saha Tacchakā Kambal'Assatarā āgū Pāyāgā saha ñātibhi Yāmunā Dhataraṭṭhā ca Āgū nāgā yasassino Erāvaṇṇo mahānāgo Sop'āga samitiṃ vanaṃ.

Then there have also come nāgas from Lake Nābhasa, Vesālī & Tacchaka. Kambalas, Assataras, Payāgas, & their kin. And from the River Yāmuna comes the prestigious nāga, Dhataraṭṭha. The great nāga Eravaṇṇa: He, too, has come to the forest meeting.”

Ye nāga-rāje sahasā haranti Dibbā dijā pakkhi visuddha-cakkhū Vehāyasā te vana-majjha-pattā Citrā Supaṇṇā iti tesa'nāmaṃ Abhayantadā nāga-rājānamāsi Supaṇṇato khemam-akāsi Buddho Saṇhāhi vācāhi upavhayantā Nāgā Supaṇṇā saraṇam-akaṃsu Buddhaṃ

They who swoop down swiftly on nāga kings, divine, twice-born, winged, their eyesight pure: (Garuḍas) came from the sky to the midst of the forest. Citra & Supaṇṇa are their names. But the Buddha made the nāga kings safe, made them secure from Supaṇṇa. Addressing one another with affectionate words, the nāgas & Supaṇṇas made the Buddha their refuge.

Jitā vajira-hatthena Samuddaṃ asurā sitā Bhātaro Vāsavassete Iddhimanto yasassino Kālakañjā mahābhismā Asurā Dānaveghasā Vepacitti Sucitti ca Pahārādo Namucī saha Satañca Bali-puttānaṃ Sabbe Veroca-nāmakā Sannayhitvā baliṃ senaṃ Rāhu-bhaddam-upāgamuṃ Samayodāni bhaddante Bhikkhūnaṃ samitaṃ vanaṃ

“Defeated by Indra of the thunderbolt hand, Asuras dwelling in the ocean, Vāsava's brothers — powerful, prestigious — Greatly terrifying Kālakañjas, the Dānaveghasa asuras, Vepacitti & Sucitti, Pahārāda, with Namucī, and Bali's hundred sons, all named Veroca, arrayed with powerful armies have approached their honored Rāhu [and said]: 'Now is the occasion, sir, of the monk's forest meeting.'

Āpo ca devā Paṭhavī ca Tejo Vāyo tad-āgamuṃ Varuṇā Vāruṇā devā Somo ca Yasasā saha Mettā-Karuṇā-kāyikā Āgū devā yasassino Dasete dasadhā kāyā Sabbe nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

Devas of water, earth, fire, & wind have come here. Varuṇas, Vāruṇas, Soma together with Yasa, the prestigious devas of the hosts of goodwill & compassion have come. These ten ten-fold hosts, all of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Veṇḍū ca devā Sahalī ca Asamā ca duve Yamā Candassūpanisā devā Candam-āgū purakkhitā Suriyassūpanisā devā Suriyam-āgū purakkhitā Nakkhattāni purakkhitvā Āgū mandavalāhakā Vasūnaṃ Vāsavo seṭṭho Sakkop'āga purindado Dasete dasadhā kāyā Sabbe nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

Veṇḍu (Vi.sṇu) & Sahalī, Asama & the Yama twins, the devas dependent on the moon surrounding the moon have come. The devas dependent on the sun surrounding the sun have come. Devas surrounding the zodiac stars and the spites of the clouds have come. Sakka, chief of the Vasus, the ancient donor, has come. These ten ten-fold hosts, all of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Athāgū Sahabhū devā Jalam-aggi-sikhāriva Ariṭṭhakā ca Rojā ca Ummā-pupphanibhāsino Varuṇā Sahadhammā ca Accutā ca Anejakā Sūleyya-Rucirā āgū Āgū Vāsavanesino Dasete dasadhā kāyā Sabbe nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

Then come the Sahabhu devas, blazing like crests of fire-flame. The Ariṭṭakas, Rojas, cornflower blue. Varuṇas & Sahadhammas, Accutas & Anejakas, Sūleyyas & Ruciras, and Vasavanesis have come. These ten ten-fold hosts, all of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Samānā Mahāsamānā Mānusā Mānusuttamā Khiḍḍā-padūskikā āgū Āgū Mano-padūsikā Athāgū Harayo devā Ye ca Lohitavāsino Pāragā Mahāpāragā Āgū devā yasassino Dasete dasadhā kāyā Sabbe nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

Samānas, Great Samānas, Mānusas, Super Manusas, the devas corrupted by fun have come, as well as devas corrupted by mind. Then come green-gold devas and those wearing red. Pāragas, Great Pāragas, prestigious devas have come. These ten ten-fold hosts, all of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Sukkā Karumhā Aruṇā Āgū Veghanasā saha Odātagayhā pāmokkhā Āgū devā Vicakkhaṇā Sadāmattā Hāragajā Missakā ca yasassino Thanayaṃ āgā Pajunno Yo disā abhivassati Dasete dasadhā kāyā Sabbe nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

White devas, ruddy-green devas, dawn-devas have come with the Veghanas headed by devas totally in white. The Vicakkhaṇas have come. Sadāmatta, Hāragajas, & the prestigious multi-coloreds, Pajunna, the thunderer, who brings rain in all directions: These ten ten-fold hosts, all of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Khemiyā Tusitā Yāmā Kaṭṭhakā ca yasassino Lambitakā Lāmaseṭṭhā Jotināmā ca āsavā Nimmānaratino āgū Athāgū Paranimmitā Dasete dasadhā kāyā Sabbe nānatta-vaṇṇino Iddhimanto jutimanto Vaṇṇavanto yasassino Modamānā abhikkāmuṃ Bhikkhūnaṃ samitiṃ vanaṃ.

The Khemiyas, Tusitas, & Yāmas, the prestigious Kaṭṭhakas, Lambitakas & Lāma chiefs, the Jotināmas & Āsavas, the Nimmānaratis have come, as have the Paranimmitas. These ten ten-fold hosts, all of varied hue, powerful, effulgent, glamorous, prestigious, rejoicing, have approached the monks' forest meeting.

Saṭṭhete deva-nikāyā Sabbe nānatta-vaṇṇino Nāmanvayena āgañchuṃ Ye caññe sadisā saha 'Pavuttha-jātim-akkhīlaṃ Ogha-tiṇṇam-anāsavaṃ Dakkhemoghataraṃ nāgaṃ Candaṃ va asitātitaṃ.'

These 60 deva groups, all of varied hue, have come arranged in order, together with others in like manner [thinking:] 'We'll see him who has transcended birth, who has no bounds, who has crossed over the flood, the Mighty One, beyond evil, like the moon freed from a cloud.'

Subrahmā Paramatto ca Puttā iddhimato saha Sanaṅkumāro Tisso ca Sop'āga samitiṃ vanaṃ. Sahassa-brahma-lokānaṃ Mahā-brahmābhitiṭṭhati Upapanno jutimanto Bhismā-kāyo yasassi so Desettha issarā āgū Pacceka-vasavattino Tesañca majjhato āgā Hārito parivārito.”

Subrahmā and Paramatta Brahma, together with sons of the Powerful One, Sanaṅkumāra and Tissa: They too have come to the forest meeting. Great Brahmā, who stands over 1,000 Brahma worlds, who arose there spontaneously, effulgent: Prestigious is he, with a terrifying body. And ten brahma sovereigns, each the lord of his own realm — and in their midst has come Harita Brahma surrounded by his retinue.”

Te ca sabbe abhikkante Sinde deve sabrahmake Māra-senā abhikkāmi Passa kaṇhassa mandiyaṃ “Etha gaṇhatha bandhatha Rāgena bandhamatthu vo Samantā parivāretha Mā vo muñcittha koci naṃ.” Iti tattha mahāseno Kaṇha-senaṃ apesayi Pāṇinā talam-āhacca Saraṃ katvāna bheravaṃ Yathā pāvussako megho Thanayanto savijjuko Tadā so paccudāvatti Saṅkuddho asayaṃ-vase

When all these devas with Indras and Brahmas had come, Māra came as well. Now look at the Dark One's foolishness! [He said:] “Come seize them! Bind them! Tie them down with passion! Surround them on every side! Don't let anyone at all escape!” Thus the great war-lord urged on his dark army, slapping the ground with his hand, making a horrendous din, as when a storm cloud bursts with thunder, lightning, and torrents of rain. But then he withdrew — enraged, with none under his sway.

Tañca sabbaṃ abhiññāya Vavakkhitvāna cakkhumā Tato āmantayi Satthā Sāvake sāsane rate “Māra-senā abhikkantā Te vijānātha bhikkhavo” Te ca ātappam-akaruṃ Sutvā Buddhassa sāsanaṃ Vītarāgehi pakkāmuṃ Nesaṃ lomampi iñjayuṃ Sabbe vijita-saṅgāmā Bhayātītā yasassino Modanti saha bhūtehi, Sāvakā te janesutāti.

Realizing all this, the One-with-Vision felt moved to speak. The Teacher then said to them, disciples delighting in his instruction, “Māra's army has approached. Detect them, monks!” Listening to the Awakened One's instruction, they made a diligent effort. The army retreated from those without passion, without raising even a hair on their bodies. Having all won the battle — prestigious, past fear — they rejoice with all beings: Disciples outstanding among the human race.

Blessings

An Invitation to the Devas

Samantā cakkavāḷesu Atrāgacchantu devatā Saddhammaṃ muni-rājassa Suṇantu sagga-mokkhadaṃ

From around the galaxies may the devas come here. May they listen to the True Dhamma of the King of Sages, Leading to heaven & emancipation.

Sagge kāme ca rūpe Giri-sikharataṭe c'antalikkhe vimāne Dīpe raṭṭhe ca gāme Taruvana-gahane geha-vatthumhi khette

Those in the heavens of sensuality & form, On peaks & mountain precipices, in palaces floating in the sky, In islands, countries, & towns, In groves of trees & thickets, around homesites & fields.

Bhummā cāyantu devā Jala-thala-visame yakkha-gandhabba-nāgā Tiṭṭhantā santike yaṃ Muni-vara-vacanaṃ sādhavo me suṇantu

And the earth-devas, spirits, heavenly minstrels, & nagas In water, on land, in badlands, & nearby: May they come & listen with approval As I recite the word of the excellent sage.

Dhammassavana-kālo ayam-bhadantā. Dhammassavana-kālo ayam-bhadantā. Dhammassavana-kālo ayam-bhadantā.

This is the time to listen to the Dhamma, Venerable Sirs. This is the time to listen to the Dhamma, Venerable Sirs. This is the time to listen to the Dhamma, Venerable Sirs.

Namakāra-siddhi Gāthā The Verses on Success through Homage

Yo cakkhumā moha-malāpakaṭṭho Sāmaṃ va buddho sugato vimutto Mārassa pāsā vinimocayanto Pāpesi khemaṃ janataṃ vineyyaṃ.

The One with Vision, with the stain of delusion removed, Self-awakened, Well-Gone, & Released, Freed from the snares of Mortal Temptation, He leads humanity from evil to security.

Buddhaṃ varantaṃ sirasā namāmi Lokassa nāthañca vināyakañca. Tan-tejasā te jaya-siddhi hotu Sabb'antarāyā ca vināsamentu.

I pay homage with my head to that excellent Buddha, The Protector & Mentor for the world, By the power of this, may you have triumph & success, And may all your dangers be destroyed.

Dhammo dhajo yo viya tassa satthu Dassesi lokassa visuddhi-maggaṃ Niyyāniko dhamma-dharassa dhārī Sātāvaho santikaro suciṇṇo.

The Teacher's Dhamma, like a banner, Shows the path of purity to the world. Leading out, upholding those who uphold it, Rightly accomplished, it brings pleasure, makes peace.

Dhammaṃ varantaṃ sirasā namāmi Mohappadālaṃ upasanta-dāhaṃ. Tan-tejasā te jaya-siddhi hotu Sabb'antarāyā ca vināsamentu.

I pay homage with my head to that excellent Dhamma, Which pierces delusion and makes fever grow calm. By the power of this, may you have triumph & success, And may all your dangers be destroyed.

Saddhamma-senā sugatānugo yo Lokassa pāpūpakilesa-jetā Santo sayaṃ santi-niyojako ca Svākkhāta-dhammaṃ viditaṃ karoti.

The True Dhamma's army, following the One Well-Gone, Is victor over the evils & corruptions of the world. Self-calmed, it is calming & without fetter, And makes the well-taught Dhamma be known.

Saṅghaṃ varantaṃ sirasā namāmi Buddhānubuddhaṃ sama-sīla-diṭṭhiṃ. Tan-tejasā te jaya-siddhi hotu Sabb'antarāyā ca vināsamentu.

I pay homage with my head to that excellent Sangha, Awakened after the Awakened, harmonious in virtue & view. By the power of this, may you have triumph & success, And may all your dangers be destroyed.

Sambuddhe The Buddhas

Sambuddhe aṭṭhavīsañca Dvādasañca sahassake Pañca-sata-sahassāni Namāmi sirasā ahaṃ.

I pay homage with my head to the 512,028 Buddhas.

Tesaṃ dhammañca saṅghañca Ādarena namāmi'haṃ. Namakārānubhāvena Hantvā sabbe upaddave Anekā antarāyāpi Vinassantu asesato.

I pay devoted homage to their Dhamma & Sangha. Through the power of this homage, having demolished all misfortunes, May countless dangers be destroyed without trace.

Sambuddhe pañca-paññāsañca Catuvīsati sahassake Dasa-sata-sahassāni Namāmi sirasā ahaṃ.

I pay homage with my head to the 1,024,055 Buddhas.

Tesaṃ dhammañca saṅghañca Ādarena namāmi'haṃ. Namakārānubhāvena Hantvā sabbe upaddave Anekā antarāyāpi Vinassantu asesato.

I pay devoted homage to their Dhamma & Sangha. Through the power of this homage, having demolished all misfortunes, May countless dangers be destroyed without trace.

Sambuddhe navuttarasate Aṭṭhacattāḷīsa sahassake Vīsati-sata-sahassāni Namāmi sirasā ahaṃ.

I pay homage with my head to the 2,048,109 Buddhas.

Tesaṃ dhammañca saṅghañca Ādarena namāmi'haṃ. Namakārānubhāvena Hantvā sabbe upaddave Anekā antarāyāpi Vinassantu, asesato.

I pay devoted homage to their Dhamma & Sangha. Through the power of this homage, having demolished all misfortunes, May countless dangers be destroyed without trace.

Namo-kāra-aṭṭhakaṃ The Homage Octet

Namo arahato sammā- Sambuddhassa mahesino

Homage to the Great Seer, the Worthy One, Rightly Self-awakened.

Namo uttama-dhammassa Svākkhātasseva tenidha

Homage to the highest Dhamma, well-taught by him here.

Namo mahā-saṅghassāpi Visuddha-sīla-diṭṭhino

And homage to the Great Sangha, pure in virtue & view.

Namo omātyāraddhassa Ratanattayassa sādhukaṃ

Homage to the Triple Gem beginning auspiciously with AUM.

Namo omakātītassa Tassa vatthuttayassapi

And homage to those three objects that have left base things behind.

Namo-kārappabhāvena Vigacchantu upaddavā

By the potency of this homage, may misfortunes disappear.

Namo-kārānubhāvena Suvatthi hotu sabbadā

By the potency of this homage, may there always be well-being.

Namo-kārassa tejena Vidhimhi homi, tejavā.

By the power of this homage, may success in this ceremony be mine.

Maṅgala Suttaṃ The Discourse on Good Fortune

[Evam-me sutaṃ,] Ekaṃ samayaṃ Bhagavā, Sāvatthiyaṃ viharati, Jetavane Anāthapiṇḍikassa, ārāme.

I have heard that at one time the Blessed One was staying in Savatthi at Jeta's Grove, Anathapindika's monastery.

Atha kho aññatarā devatā, abhikkantāya rattiyā abhikkanta-vaṇṇā kevala-kappaṃ Jetavanaṃ obhāsetvā, yena Bhagavā ten'upasaṅkami.

Then a certain devata, in the far extreme of the night, her extreme radiance lighting up the entirety of Jeta's Grove, approached the Blessed One.

Upasaṅkamitvā Bhagavantaṃ abhivādetvā ekamantaṃ aṭṭhāsi.

On approaching, having bowed down to the Blessed One, she stood to one side.

Ekam-antaṃ ṭhitā kho sā devatā Bhagavantaṃ gāthāya ajjhabhāsi.

As she was standing there, she addressed a verse to the Blessed One.

“Bahū devā manussā ca maṅgalāni acintayuṃ Ākaṅkhamānā sotthānaṃ brūhi maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

“Many devas & human beings give thought to good fortune, Desiring well-being. Tell, then, the highest good fortune.”

“Asevanā ca bālānaṃ paṇḍitānañca sevanā Pūjā ca pūjanīyānaṃ etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Ṅot consorting with fools, consorting with the wise, Paying homage to those who deserve homage: This is the highest good fortune.

Paṭirūpa-desa-vāso ca pubbe ca kata-puññatā Atta-sammā-paṇidhi ca etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Living in a civilized country, having made merit in the past, Directing oneself rightly: This is the highest good fortune.

Bāhu-saccañca sippañca vinayo ca susikkhito Subhāsitā ca yā vācā etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Broad knowledge, skill, discipline well-mastered, Words well-spoken: This is the highest good fortune.

Mātā-pitu-upaṭṭhānaṃ putta-dārassa saṅgaho Anākulā ca kammantā etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Support for one's parents, assistance to one's wife & children, Jobs that are not left unfinished: This is the highest good fortune.

Dānañca dhamma-cariyā ca ñātakānañca saṅgaho Anavajjāni kammāni etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Generosity, living by the Dhamma, assistance to one's relatives, Deeds that are blameless: This is the highest good fortune.

Āratī viratī pāpā majja-pānā ca saññamo Appamādo ca dhammesu etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Avoiding, abstaining from evil; refraining from intoxicants, Being heedful with regard to qualities of the mind: This is the highest good fortune.

Gāravo ca nivāto ca santuṭṭhī ca kataññutā Kālena dhammassavanaṃ etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Respect, humility, contentment, gratitude, Hearing the Dhamma on timely occasions: This is the highest good fortune.

Khantī ca sovacassatā samaṇānañca dassanaṃ Kālena dhamma-sākacchā etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Patience, compliance, seeing contemplatives, Discussing the Dhamma on timely occasions: This is the highest good fortune.

Tapo ca brahma-cariyañca ariya-saccāna-dassanaṃ Nibbāna-sacchi-kiriyā ca etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

Austerity, celibacy, seeing the Noble Truths, Realizing Liberation: This is the highest good fortune.

Phuṭṭhassa loka-dhammehi cittaṃ yassa na kampati Asokaṃ virajaṃ khemaṃ etam-maṅgalam-uttamaṃ.

A mind that, when touched by the ways of the world, Is unshaken, sorrowless, dustless, secure: This is the highest good fortune.

Etādisāni katvāna sabbattham-aparājitā Sabbattha sotthiṃ gacchanti tan-tesaṃ maṅgalam-uttamanti.”

Everywhere undefeated when doing these things, People go everywhere in well-being: This is their highest good fortune.”

Cha Ratana Paritta Gāthā The Six Protective Verses from the Discourse on Treasures

Yaṅkiñci vittaṃ idha vā huraṃ vā Saggesu vā yaṃ ratanaṃ paṇītaṃ Na no samaṃ atthi tathāgatena.

Whatever wealth in this world or the next, Whatever exquisite treasure in the heavens, Is not, for us, equal to the Tathagata.

Idam-pi buddhe ratanaṃ paṇītaṃ Etena saccena suvatthi hotu.

This, too, is an exquisite treasure in the Buddha. By this truth may there be well-being.

Khayaṃ virāgaṃ amataṃ paṇītaṃ Yad-ajjhagā sakyamunī samāhito Na tena dhammena sam'atthi kiñci.

The exquisite Deathless — dispassion, ending — Discovered by the Sakyan Sage while in concentration: There is nothing equal to that Dhamma.

Idam-pi dhamme ratanaṃ paṇītaṃ Etena saccena suvatthi hotu.

This, too, is an exquisite treasure in the Dhamma. By this truth may there be well-being.

Yam-buddha-seṭṭho parivaṇṇayī suciṃ Samādhim-ānantarik'aññam-āhu Samādhinā tena samo na vijjati.

What the excellent Awakened One extolled as pure And called the concentration of unmediated knowing: No equal to that concentration can be found.

Idam-pi dhamme ratanaṃ paṇītaṃ Etena saccena suvatthi hotu.

This, too, is an exquisite treasure in the Dhamma. By this truth may there be well-being.

Ye puggalā aṭṭha sataṃ pasatthā Cattāri etāni yugāni honti Te dakkhiṇeyyā sugatassa sāvakā Etesu dinnāni mahapphalāni.

The eight persons — the four pairs — praised by those at peace: They, disciples of the One Well-Gone, deserve offerings. What is given to them bears great fruit.

Idam-pi saṅghe ratanaṃ paṇītaṃ Etena saccena suvatthi hotu.

This, too, is an exquisite treasure in the Sangha. By this truth may there be well-being.

Ye suppayuttā manasā daḷhena Nikkāmino gotama-sāsanamhi Te pattipattā amataṃ vigayha Laddhā mudhā nibbutiṃ bhuñjamānā.

Those who, devoted, firm-minded, Apply themselves to Gotama's message, On attaining their goal, plunge into the Deathless, Freely enjoying the Liberation they've gained.

Idam-pi saṅghe ratanaṃ paṇītaṃ Etena saccena suvatthi hotu.

This, too, is an exquisite treasure in the Sangha. By this truth may there be well-being.

Khīṇaṃ purāṇaṃ navaṃ n'atthi sambhavaṃ Viratta-cittāyatike bhavasmiṃ Te khīṇa-bījā aviruḷhi-chandā Nibbanti dhīrā yathā'yam-padīpo.

Ended the old, there is no new taking birth. Dispassioned their minds toward further becoming, They, with no seed, no desire for growth, The wise, they go out like this flame.

Idam-pi saṅghe ratanaṃ paṇītaṃ Etena saccena suvatthi hotu.

This, too, is an exquisite treasure in the Sangha. By this truth may there be well-being.

Karaṇīya Mettā Sutta The Discourse on Loving-kindness

Karaṇīyam-attha-kusalena yantaṃ santaṃ padaṃ abhisamecca,

This is to be done by one skilled in aims Who wants to break through to the state of peace:

Sakko ujū ca suhujū ca suvaco cassa mudu anatimānī,

Be capable, upright, & straightforward, Easy to instruct, gentle, & not conceited,

Santussako ca subharo ca appakicco ca sallahuka-vutti,

Content & easy to support, with few duties, living lightly,

Santindriyo ca nipako ca appagabbho kulesu ananugiddho.

With peaceful faculties, masterful, modest, & no greed for supporters.

Na ca khuddaṃ samācare kiñci yena viññū pare upavadeyyuṃ.

Do not do the slightest thing that the wise would later censure.

Sukhino vā khemino hontu sabbe sattā bhavantu sukhitattā.

Think: Happy & secure, may all beings be happy at heart.

Ye keci pāṇa-bhūtatthi tasā vā thāvarā vā anavasesā,

Whatever beings there may be, weak or strong, without exception,

Dīghā vā ye mahantā vā majjhimā rassakā aṇuka-thūlā,

Long, large, middling, short, subtle, blatant,

Diṭṭhā vā ye ca adiṭṭhā ye ca dūre vasanti avidūre,

Seen or unseen, near or far,

Bhūtā vā sambhavesī vā sabbe sattā bhavantu sukhitattā.

Born or seeking birth: May all beings be happy at heart.

Na paro paraṃ nikubbetha nātimaññetha katthaci naṃ kiñci,

Let no one deceive another or despise anyone anywhere,

Byārosanā paṭīgha-saññā nāññam-aññassa dukkham-iccheyya.

Or through anger or resistance wish for another to suffer.

Mātā yathā niyaṃ puttaṃ āyusā eka-puttam-anurakkhe,

As a mother would risk her life to protect her child, her only child,

Evam-pi sabba-bhūtesu māna-sambhāvaye aparimāṇaṃ.

Even so should one cultivate a limitless heart with regard to all beings.

Mettañca sabba-lokasmiṃ māna-sambhāvaye aparimāṇaṃ,

With good will for the entire cosmos, cultivate a limitless heart:

Uddhaṃ adho ca tiriyañca asambādhaṃ averaṃ asapattaṃ.

Above, below, & all around, unobstructed, without enmity or hate.

Tiṭṭhañ'caraṃ nisinno vā sayāno vā yāvatassa vigatam-iddho,

Whether standing, walking, sitting, or lying down, as long as one is alert,

Etaṃ satiṃ adhiṭṭheyya brahmam-etaṃ vihāraṃ idham-āhu.

One should be resolved on this mindfulness. This is called a sublime abiding here & now.

Diṭṭhiñca anupagamma sīlavā dassanena sampanno,

Not taken with views, but virtuous & consummate in vision,

Kāmesu vineyya gedhaṃ, Na hi jātu gabbha-seyyaṃ punaretīti.

Having subdued desire for sensual pleasures, One never again will lie in the womb.

Khandha Paritta The Group Protection

Virūpakkhehi me mettaṃ Mettaṃ Erāpathehi me Chabyā-puttehi me mettaṃ Mettaṃ Kaṇhā-Gotamakehi ca

I have good will for the Virupakkhas, the Erapathas, the Chabya descendants, & the Black Gotamakas.

Apādakehi me mettaṃ Mettaṃ di-pādakehi me Catuppadehi me mettaṃ Mettaṃ bahuppadehi me

I have good will for footless beings, two-footed, four-footed, & many-footed beings.

Mā maṃ apādako hiṃsi Mā maṃ hiṃsi di-pādako Mā maṃ catuppado hiṃsi Mā maṃ hiṃsi bahuppado

May footless beings, two-footed beings, four-footed beings, & many-footed beings do me no harm.

Sabbe sattā sabbe pāṇā Sabbe bhūtā ca kevalā Sabbe bhadrāni passantu Mā kiñci pāpam'āgamā

May all creatures, all breathing things, all beings — each & every one — meet with good fortune. May none of them come to any evil.

Appamāṇo Buddho, Appamāṇo Dhammo, Appamāṇo Saṅgho,

The Buddha, Dhamma, & Sangha are limitless.

Pamāṇa-vantāni siriṃ-sapāni, Ahi vicchikā sata-padī uṇṇānābhī sarabū mūsikā,

There is a limit to creeping things — snakes, scorpions, centipedes, spiders, lizards, & rats.

Katā me rakkhā, Katā me parittā, Paṭikkamantu bhūtāni.

I have made this protection, I have made this spell. May the beings depart.

So'haṃ namo Bhagavato, Namo sattannaṃ Sammā-sambuddhānaṃ.

I pay homage to the Blessed One, homage to the seven Rightly Self-awakened Ones.

Mora Paritta The Peacock's Protection

Udetayañcakkhumā eka-rājā Harissa-vaṇṇo paṭhavippabhāso Taṃ taṃ namassāmi harissa-vaṇṇaṃ paṭhavippabhāsaṃ Tayajja guttā viharemu divasaṃ.

The One King, rising, with Vision, Golden-hued, illumining the Earth: I pay homage to you, Golden-hued, illumining the Earth. Guarded today by you, may I live through the day.

Ye brāhmaṇā vedagu sabba-dhamme Te me namo te ca maṃ pālayantu. Namatthu buddhānaṃ namatthu bodhiyā. Namo vimuttānaṃ namo vimuttiyā.

Those Brahmans who are knowers of all truths, I pay homage to them; may they keep watch over me. Homage to the Awakened Ones. Homage to Awakening. Homage to the Released Ones. Homage to Release.

Imaṃ so parittaṃ katvā Moro carati esanā.

Having made this protection, the peacock sets out in search for food.

Apetayañcakkhumā eka-rājā Harissa-vaṇṇo paṭhavippabhāso Taṃ taṃ namassāmi harissa-vaṇṇaṃ paṭhavippabhāsaṃ Tayajja guttā viharemu rattiṃ

The One King, setting, with Vision, Golden-hued, illumining the Earth: I pay homage to you, Golden-hued, illumining the Earth. Guarded today by you, may I live through the night.

Ye brāhmaṇā vedagu sabba-dhamme Te me namo te ca maṃ pālayantu. Namatthu buddhānaṃ namatthu bodhiyā Namo vimuttānaṃ namo vimuttiyā

Those Brahmans who are knowers of all truths, I pay homage to them; may they keep watch over me. Homage to the Awakened Ones, Homage to Awakening. Homage to the Released Ones, Homage to Release.

Imaṃ so parittaṃ katvā Moro vāsamakappayīti.

Having made this protection, the peacock arranges his nest.

Vaṭṭaka Paritta The Baby Quail's Protection

Atthi loke sīla-guṇo Saccaṃ soceyy'anuddayā Tena saccena kāhāmi Sacca-kiriyam-anuttaraṃ

There is in this world the quality of virtue, Truth, purity, tenderness. In accordance with this truth I will make An unsurpassed vow of truth.

Āvajjitvā dhamma-balaṃ Saritvā pubbake jine Sacca-balam-avassāya Sacca-kiriyam-akāsa'haṃ

Sensing the strength of the Dhamma, Calling to mind the victors of the past, In dependence on the strength of truth, I made an unsurpassed vow of truth:

Santi pakkhā apattanā Santi pādā avañcanā Mātā pitā ca nikkhantā Jāta-veda paṭikkama

Here are wings with no feathers, Here are feet that can't walk. My mother & father have left me. Fire, go back!

Saha sacce kate mayhaṃ Mahāpajjalito sikhī Vajjesi soḷasa karīsāni Udakaṃ patvā yathā sikhī Saccena me samo n'atthi Esā me sacca-pāramīti.

When I made my vow with truth, The great crested flames Avoided the sixteen acres around me As if they had come to a body of water. My truth has no equal: Such is my perfection of truth.

Dhajagga Paritta The Top-of-the-Banner-Staff Protection

Itipi so bhagavā arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho,

He is a Blessed One, a Worthy One, a Rightly Self-awakened One,

Vijjā-caraṇa-sampanno sugato lokavidū,

consummate in knowledge & conduct, one who has gone the good way, knower of the cosmos,

Anuttaro purisa-damma-sārathi satthā deva-manussānaṃ buddho bhagavāti.

unexcelled trainer of those who can be taught, teacher of human & divine beings; awakened; blessed.

Svākkhāto bhagavatā dhammo,

The Dhamma is well-expounded by the Blessed One,

Sandiṭṭhiko akāliko ehipassiko,

to be seen here & now, timeless, inviting all to come & see,

Opanayiko paccattaṃ veditabbo viññūhīti.

leading inward, to be seen by the wise for themselves.

Supaṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

The Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced well,

Uju-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced straightforwardly,

Ñāya-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced methodically,

Sāmīci-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho,

the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples who have practiced masterfully,

Yadidaṃ cattāri purisa-yugāni aṭṭha purisa-puggalā:

i.e., the four pairs — the eight types — of Noble Ones:

Esa bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho —

That is the Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples —

Āhuneyyo pāhuneyyo dakkhiṇeyyo añjali-karaṇīyo,

worthy of gifts, worthy of hospitality, worthy of offerings, worthy of respect,

Anuttaraṃ puññakkhettaṃ lokassāti.

the incomparable field of merit for the world.

Āṭānāṭiya Paritta Homage to the Seven Past Buddhas

Vipassissa namatthu Cakkhumantassa sirīmato Sikhissa pi namatthu Sabba-bhūtānukampino

Homage to Vipassī, possessed of vision & splendor. Homage to Sikhī, sympathetic to all beings.

Vessabhussa namatthu Nhātakassa tapassino Namatthu Kakusandhassa Māra-senappamaddino

Homage to Vesabhū, cleansed, austere. Homage to Kakusandha, crusher of Mara's host.

Konāgamanassa namatthu Brāhmaṇassa vusīmato Kassapassa namatthu Vippamuttassa sabbadhi

Homage to Konāgamana, the Brahman who lived the life perfected. Homage to Kassapa, entirely released.

Aṅgīrasassa namatthu Sakya-puttassa sirīmato Yo imaṃ dhammam-adesesi Sabba-dukkhāpanūdanaṃ.

Homage to Aṅgīrasa, splendid son of the Sakyans, who taught this Dhamma — the dispelling of all stress.

Ye cāpi nibbutā loke Yathābhūtaṃ vipassisuṃ Te janā apisuṇā Mahantā vītasāradā

Those unbound in the world, who have seen things as they are, Great Ones of gentle speech, thoroughly mature,

Hitaṃ deva-manussānaṃ Yaṃ namassanti Gotamaṃ Vijjā-caraṇa-sampannaṃ Mahantaṃ vītasāradaṃ

Even they pay homage to Gotama, the benefit of human & heavenly beings, Consummate in knowledge & conduct, the Great One, thoroughly mature.

Vijjā-caraṇa-sampannaṃ Buddhaṃ vandāma Gotamanti

We revere the Buddha Gotama, consummate in knowledge & conduct.

Aṅgulimāla Paritta Ven. Angulimala's Protection

Yato'haṃ bhagini ariyāya jātiyā jāto, Nābhijānāmi sañcicca pāṇaṃ jīvitā voropetā, Tena saccena sotthi te hotu sotthi gabbhassa.

Sister, since being born in the Noble Birth, I am not aware that I have intentionally deprived a being of life. By this truth may you be well, And so may the child in your womb.

Bojjhaṅga Paritta The Factor-of-Awakening Protection

Bojjhaṅgo sati-saṅkhāto Dhammānaṃ vicayo tathā Viriyam-pīti-passaddhi- Bojjhaṅgā ca tathāpare Samādh'upekkha-bojjhaṅgā Satt'ete sabba-dassinā Muninā sammadakkhātā Bhāvitā bahulīkatā Saṃvattanti abhiññāya Nibbānāya ca bodhiyā Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi te hotu sabbadā.

The factors for Awakening include mindfulness, Investigation of qualities, Persistence, rapture, & serentiy factors for Awakening, plus Concentration & equanimity factors for Awakening. These seven, which the All-seeing Sage Has rightly taught, when developed & matured, Bring about heightened knowledge, Liberation, & Awakening. By the saying of this truth, may you always be well.

Ekasmiṃ samaye nātho Moggallānañca Kassapaṃ Gilāne dukkhite disvā Bojjhaṅge satta desayi Te ca taṃ abhinanditvā Rogā mucciṃsu taṃkhaṇe Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi te hotu sabbadā.

At one time, our Protector — seeing that Moggallana & Kassapa Were sick & in pain — taught them the seven factors for Awakening. They, delighting in that, were instantly freed from their illness. By the saying of this truth, may you always be well.

Ekadā dhamma-rājā pi Gelaññenābhipīḷito Cundattherena taññeva Bhaṇāpetvāna sādaraṃ Sammoditvā ca ābādhā Tamhā vuṭṭhāsi ṭhānaso Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi te hotu sabbadā.

Once, when the Dhamma King was afflicted with fever, He had the Elder Cunda recite that very teaching with devotion. And as he approved, he rose up from that disease. By the saying of this truth, may you always be well.

Pahīnā te ca ābādhā Tiṇṇannam-pi mahesinaṃ Maggāhata-kilesā va Pattānuppattidhammataṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi te hotu sabbadā.

Those diseases were abandoned by the three great seers, Just as defilements are demolished by the Path In accordance with step-by-step attainment. By the saying of this truth, may you always be well.

Buddha-jaya-maṅgala Gāthā The Verses of the Buddha's Auspicious Victories

Bāhuṃ sahassam-abhinimmita-sāvudhantaṃ Grīmekhalaṃ udita-ghora-sasena-māraṃ Dānādi-dhamma-vidhinā jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni [Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgal'aggaṃ].

Creating a form with 1,000 arms, each equipped with a weapon, Mara, on the elephant Girimekhala, uttered a frightening roar together with his troops. The Lord of Sages defeated him by means of such qualities as generosity: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings. [By the power of this, may you have the highest victory blessing.]

Mārātirekam-abhiyujjhita-sabba-rattiṃ Ghorampan'āḷavaka-makkham-athaddha-yakkhaṃ Khantī-sudanta-vidhinā jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni.

Even more frightful than Mara making war all night Was Āḷavaka, the arrogant unstable ogre. The Lord of Sages defeated him by means of well-trained endurance: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings.

Nāḷāgiriṃ gaja-varaṃ atimattabhūtaṃ Dāvaggi-cakkam-asanīva sudāruṇantaṃ Mett'ambuseka-vidhinā jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni.

Nāḷāgiri, the excellent elephant, when maddened, Was very horrific, like a forest fire, a flaming discus, a lightning bolt. The Lord of Sages defeated him by sprinkling the water of good will: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings.

Ukkhitta-khaggam-atihattha sudāruṇantaṃ Dhāvan-ti-yojana-path'aṅguli-mālavantaṃ Iddhībhisaṅkhata-mano jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni.

Very horrific, with a sword upraised in his expert hand, Garlanded-with-Fingers ran three leagues along the path. The Lord of Sages defeated him with mind-fashioned marvels: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings.

Katvāna kaṭṭham-udaraṃ iva gabbhinīyā Ciñcāya duṭṭha-vacanaṃ jana-kāya-majjhe Santena soma-vidhinā jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni.

Having made a wooden belly to appear pregnant, Ciñca made a lewd accusation in the midst of the gathering. The Lord of Sages defeated her with peaceful, gracious means: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings.

Saccaṃ vihāya mati-saccaka-vāda-ketuṃ Vādābhiropita-manaṃ ati-andhabhūtaṃ Paññā-padīpa-jalito jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni.

Saccaka, whose provocative views had abandoned the truth, Delighting in argument, had become thoroughly blind. The Lord of Sages defeated him with the light of discernment: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings.

Nandopananda-bhujagaṃ vibudhaṃ mahiddhiṃ Puttena thera-bhujagena damāpayanto Iddhūpadesa-vidhinā jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni.

Nandopananda was a serpent with great power but wrong views. The Lord of Sages defeated him by means of a display of marvels, sending his son (Moggallana), the serpent-elder, to tame him: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings.

Duggāha-diṭṭhi-bhujagena sudaṭṭha-hatthaṃ Brahmaṃ visuddhi-jutim-iddhi-bakābhidhānaṃ Ñāṇāgadena vidhinā jitavā munindo Tan-tejasā bhavatu te jaya-maṅgalāni.

His hands bound tight by the serpent of wrongly held views, Baka, the Brahma, thought himself pure in his radiance & power. The Lord of Sages defeated him by means of his words of knowledge: By the power of this, may you have victory blessings.

Etāpi buddha-jaya-maṅgala-aṭṭha-gāthā Yo vācano dinadine sarate matandī Hitvān'aneka-vividhāni c'upaddavāni Mokkhaṃ sukhaṃ adhigameyya naro sapañño.

These eight verses of the Buddha's victory blessings: Whatever person of discernment Recites or recalls them day after day without lapsing, Destroying all kinds of obstacles, Will attain emancipation & happiness.

Jaya Gāthā The Victory Protection

Mahā-kāruṇiko nātho Hitāya sabba-pāṇinaṃ Pūretvā pāramī sabbā Patto sambodhim-uttamaṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Hotu te jaya-maṅgalaṃ

(The Buddha), our protector, with great compassion, For the welfare of all beings, Having fulfilled all the perfections, Attained the highest self-awakening. Through the speaking of this truth, may you have a victory blessing.

Jayanto bodhiyā mūle Sakyānaṃ nandi-vaḍḍhano Evaṃ tvam vijayo hohi Jayassu jaya-maṅgale

Victorious at the foot of the Bodhi tree, Was he who increased the Sakyans' delight. May you have the same sort of victory, May you win victory blessings.

Aparājita-pallaṅke Sīse paṭhavi-pokkhare Abhiseke sabba-buddhānaṃ Aggappatto pamodati

At the head of the lotus leaf of the world On the undefeated seat Consecrated by all the Buddhas, He rejoiced in the utmost attainment.

Sunakkhattaṃ sumaṅgalaṃ Supabhātaṃ suhuṭṭhitaṃ Sukhaṇo sumuhutto ca Suyiṭṭhaṃ brahmacārisu Padakkhiṇaṃ kāya-kammaṃ Vācā-kammaṃ padakkhiṇaṃ Padakkhiṇaṃ mano-kammaṃ Paṇidhī te padakkhiṇā Padakkhiṇāni katvāna Labhantatthe, padakkhiṇe

A lucky star it is, a lucky blessing, a lucky dawn, a lucky sacrifice, a lucky instant, a lucky moment, a lucky offering: i.e., a rightful bodily act a rightful verbal act, a rightful mental act, your rightful intentions with regard to those who lead the chaste life. Doing these rightful things, your rightful aims are achieved.

Abhaya Gāthā The Danger-free Protection

Yan-dunnimittaṃ avamaṅgalañca Yo cāmanāpo sakuṇassa saddo Pāpaggaho dussupinaṃ akantaṃ Buddhānubhāvena vināsamentu

Whatever unlucky portents & ill omens, And whatever distressing bird calls, Evil planets, upsetting nightmares: By the Buddha's power may they be destroyed.

Yan-dunnimittaṃ avamaṅgalañca Yo cāmanāpo sakuṇassa saddo Pāpaggaho dussupinaṃ akantaṃ Dhammānubhāvena vināsamentu

Whatever unlucky portents & ill omens, And whatever distressing bird calls, Evil planets, upsetting nightmares: By the Dhamma's power may they be destroyed.

Yan-dunnimittaṃ avamaṅgalañca Yo cāmanāpo sakuṇassa saddo Pāpaggaho dussupinaṃ akantaṃ Saṅghānubhāvena vināsamentu

Whatever unlucky portents & ill omens, And whatever distressing bird calls, Evil planets, upsetting nightmares: By the Saṅgha's power may they be destroyed.

"Sakkatvā buddha-ratanaṃ..."

Sakkatvā buddha-ratanaṃ Osathaṃ uttamaṃ varaṃ Hitaṃ deva-manussānaṃ Buddha-tejena sotthinā Nassant'upaddavā sabbe Dukkhā vūpasamentu te.

Having revered the jewel of the Buddha, The highest, most excellent medicine, The welfare of human & heavenly beings: Through the Buddha's might & safety May all obstacles vanish, May your sufferings grow totally calm.

Sakkatvā dhamma-ratanaṃ Osathaṃ uttamaṃ varaṃ Pariḷāhūpasamanaṃ Dhamma-tejena sotthinā Nassant'upaddavā sabbe Bhayā vūpasamentu te.

Having revered the jewel of the Dhamma, The highest, most excellent medicine, The stiller of feverish passion: Through the Dhamma's might & safety May all obstacles vanish, May your fears grow totally calm.

Sakkatvā saṅgha-ratanaṃ Osathaṃ uttamaṃ varaṃ Āhuneyyaṃ pāhuneyyaṃ Saṅgha-tejena sotthinā Nassant'upaddavā sabbe Rogā vūpasamentu te.

Having revered the jewel of the Saṅgha, The highest, most excellent medicine, Worthy of gifts, worthy of hospitality: Through the Saṅgha's might & safety May all obstacles vanish, May your diseases grow totally calm.

"Dukkhappattā ca niddukkhā..."

Dukkhappattā ca niddukkhā Bhayappattā ca nibbhayā Sokappattā ca nissokā Hontu sabbe pi pāṇino.

May all beings: who have fallen into suffering be without suffering, who have fallen into danger be without danger, who have fallen into sorrow be without sorrow.

Ettāvatā ca amhehi Sambhataṃ puñña-sampadaṃ Sabbe devānumodantu Sabba-sampatti-siddhiyā.

For the sake of all attainment & success May all heavenly beings rejoice In the extent to which we have gathered a consummation of merit.

Dānaṃ dadantu saddhāya Sīlaṃ rakkhantu sabbadā Bhāvanābhiratā hontu Gacchantu devatāgatā.

May they give gifts with conviction, may they always maintain virtue, May they delight in meditation, may they go to a heavenly destination.

Sabbe buddhā balappattā Paccekānañca yaṃ balaṃ Arahantānañca tejena Rakkhaṃ bandhāmi sabbaso.

From the strength attained by all the Buddhas, The strength of the Private Buddhas, By the power of the arahants, I bind this protection all around.

Mahā-maṅgala-cakkavāḷa The Great Universe of Blessings

Siri-dhiti-mati-tejo-jayasiddhi-mahiddhi- maguṇāparimita-puññādhikārassa sabbantarāya-nivāraṇa-samatthassa bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa dvattiṃsa-mapurisa-lakkhaṇ'ānubhāvena

Through the power of the 32 marks of the Great Man belonging to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One, who through his accumulation of merit is endowed with glory, steadfastness of intent, majesty, victorious power, great might, countless great virtues, who settles all dangers & obstacles,

atyānubyañjan'ānubhāvena

through the power of his 80 minor characteristics,

aṭṭh'uttara-sata-maṅgal'ānubhāvena

through the power of his 108 blessings,

chabbaṇṇa-raṃsiy'ānubhāvena ketumāl'ānubhāvena

through the power of his sixfold radiance, through the power of the aura surrounding his head

dasa-pāramit'ānubhāvena dasa-upapāramit'ānubhāvena dasa-paramattha-pāramit'ānubhāven

through the power of his ten perfections, ten higher perfections, & ten ultimate perfections,

la-samādhi-paññ'ānubhāvena

through the power of his virtue, concentration, & discernment,

buddh'ānubhāvena dhamm'ānubhāvena saṅgh'ānubhāvena

through the power of the Buddha, Dhamma, & Saṅgha,

tej'ānubhāvena iddh'ānubhāvena bal'ānubhāvena

through the power of his majesty, might, & strength,

ñeyya-dhamm'ānubhāvena

through the power of the Dhammas that can be known,

caturāti-sahassa-dhammakkhandh'ānubhāvena

through the power of the 84,000 divisions of the Dhamma,

nava-lokuttara-dhamm'ānubhāvena

through the power of the nine transcendent Dhammas,

aṭṭhaṅgika-magg'ānubhāvena

through the power of the eightfold path,

aṭṭha-samāpattiy'ānubhāvena

through the power of his eight meditative attainments,

chaḷabhiññ'ānubhāvena catu-sacca-ñāṇ'ānubhāvena

through the power of his six cognitive skills, through the power of his knowledge of the four noble truths,

dasa-bala-ñāṇ'ānubhāvena

through the power of his knowledge of the ten strengths,

sabbaññuta-ñāṇ'ānubhāvena

through the power of his omniscience,

mettā-karuṇā-muditā-upekkh'ānubhāvena

through the power of his good will, compassion, appreciation, & equanimity,

sabba-paritt'ānubhāvena

through the power of all protective chants,

ratanattaya-saraṇ'ānubhāvena

through the power of refuge in the Triple Gem:

tuyhaṃ sabba-roga-sok'upaddava-dukkha-domanass-upāyā vinassantu

May all your diseases, griefs, misfortunes, pains, distresses, & despairs be destroyed,

sabba-antarāyāpi vinassantu sabba-saṅkappā tuyhaṃ samijjhant

may all obstructions be destroyed, may all your resolves succeed,

dīghayutā tuyhaṃ hotu sata-vassa-jīvena samaṅgiko hotu sabbadā

may you live long, always attaining 100 years.

Ākāsa-pabbata-vana-bhūmi-gaṅgā-masamuddā ārakkhakā devatā sadā tumhe, anurakkhantu

May the protective devas of the sky, the mountains, the forests, the land, the River Ganges, & the great ocean always protect you.

"Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ..."

Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā

May there be every blessing. May all heavenly beings protect you.

Sabba-buddhānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te.

Through the power of all the Buddhas, may you always be well.

Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā

May there be every blessing. May all heavenly beings protect you.

Sabba-dhammānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te.

Through the power of all the Dhammas, may you always be well.

Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā

May there be every blessing. May all heavenly beings protect you.

Sabba-saṅghānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te.

Through the power of all the Saṅghas, may you always be well.

Jinapañjara Gāthā The Victor's Cage

Jay'āsan'āgatā Buddhā Jetvā Māraṃ savāhanaṃ Catu-saccāsabhaṃ rasaṃ Ye piviṅsu narāsabhā

The Buddhas, noble men who drank the nectar of the four noble truths, having come to the victory seat, having defeated Māra together with his mount:

Taṇhaṅkar'ādayo Buddhā Aṭṭha-vīsati nāyakā Sabbe patiṭṭhitā mayhaṃ Matthake te munissarā

These Buddhas — 28 leaders, sovereign sages beginning with Taṇhaṅkara — are all established on the crown of my head.

Sīse patiṭṭhito mayhaṃ Buddho dhammo dvilocane Saṅgho patiṭṭhito mayhaṃ Ure sabba-guṇākaro

The Buddha is established in my head, the Dhamma in my two eyes, the Saṅgha — the mine of all virtues — is established in my chest.

Hadaye me Anuruddho Sārīputto ca dakkhiṇe Koṇḍañño piṭṭhi-bhāgasmiṃ Moggallāno ca vāmake

Anuruddha is in my heart, and Sārīputta on my right. Koṇḍañña is behind me, and Moggallāna on my left.

Dakkhiṇe savane mayhaṃ Āsuṃ Ānanda-Rāhulo Kassapo ca Mahānāmo Ubh'āsuṃ vāma-sotake

Ānanda & Rāhula are in my right ear, Kassapa & Mahānāma are both in my left ear.

Kesante piṭṭhi-bhāgasmiṃ Suriyova pabhaṅkaro Nisinno siri-sampanno Sobhito muni-puṅgavo

Sobhita, the noble sage, sits in consummate glory, shining like the sun all over the hair at the back of my head.

Kumāra-kassapo thero Mahesī citta-vādako So mayhaṃ vadane niccaṃ Patiṭṭhāsi guṇākaro

Elder Kumārakassapa — great sage, brilliant speaker, a mine of virtue — is constantly in my mouth.

Puṇṇo Aṅgulimālo ca Upālī Nanda-Sīvalī Therā pañca ime jātā Nalāṭe tilakā mama

These five elders — Puṇṇa, Aṅgulimāla, Upālī, Nanda, & Sīvalī — have arisen as auspicious marks at the middle of my forehead.

Sesāsīti mahātherā Vijitā jina-sāvakā Etesīti mahātherā Jitavanto jinorasā Jalantā sīla-tejena Aṅgamaṅgesu saṇṭhitā

The rest of the 80 great elders — victorious, disciples of the Victor, sons of the Victor, shining with the majesty of moral virtue — are established in the various parts of my body.

Ratanaṃ purato āsi Dakkhiṇe Metta-suttakaṃ Dhajaggaṃ pacchato āsi Vāme Aṅgulimālakaṃ

Khandha-Mora-parittañca Āṭānāṭiya-suttakaṃ Ākāse chadanaṃ āsi Sesā pākāra-saṇṭhitā

The Ratana Sutta is in front, the Metta Sutta to the right. The Dhajagga Sutta is behind, the Aṅgulimāla Paritta to the left. The Khandha & Mora Parittas and the Āṭānāṭiya Sutta are a roof in space. The remaining suttas are established as a rampart.

Jināṇābala-saṃyuttā Satta-pākāra-laṅkatā Vāta-pitt'ādi-sañjātā Bāhir'ajjhatt'upaddavā Asesā vinayaṃ yantu Ananta-jina-tejasā

Bound by the Victor's authority & strength, seven ramparts arrayed against them, may all misfortunes within & without — caused by such things as wind or bile — be destroyed without trace through the unending Victor's majesty.

Vasato me sakiccena Sadā Sambuddha-pañjare Jina-pañjara-majjhamhi Viharantaṃ mahītale Sadā pālentu maṃ sabbe Te mahā-purisāsabhā

As I dwell, in all my affairs, always in the cage of the Self-awakened One, living on earth in the middle of the cage of the Victors, I am always guarded by all of those great noble men.

Iccevamanto sugutto surakkho Jinānubhāvena jit'upaddavo Dhammānubhavena jitārisaṅgho Saṅghānubhāvena jit'antarāyo Saddhammānubhāva-pālito carāmi jina-pañjareti.

Thus am I utterly well-sheltered, well-protected. Through the power of the Victor, misfortunes are vanquished. Through the power of the Dhamma, the enemy horde is vanquished. Through the power of the Saṅgha, dangers are vanquished. Guarded by the power of the True Dhamma, I go about in the Victor's Cage.

Verses

The Heart

Mano-pubbaṅgamā dhammā Mano-seṭṭhā mano-mayā,

Phenomena are preceded by the heart, Ruled by the heart, Made of the heart.

Manasā ce paduṭṭhena Bhāsati vā karoti vā, Tato naṃ dukkham-anveti Cakkaṃ va vahato padaṃ.

If one speaks or acts with a corrupted heart, Suffering follows one, As the wheel of the cart, the foot of the ox that draws it.

Mano-pubbaṅgamā dhammā Mano-seṭṭhā mano-mayā,

Phenomena are preceded by the heart, Ruled by the heart, Made of the heart.

Manasā ce pasannena Bhāsati vā karoti vā, Tato naṃ sukham-anveti Chāyā va anapāyinīti.

If one speaks or acts with a bright heart, Happiness follows one, Like a shadow that never leaves.

The Three Inspired Verses

Yadā have pātubhavanti dhammā, Ātāpino jhāyato brāhmaṇassa, Athassa kaṅkhā vapayanti sabbā, Yato pajānāti sahetu-dhammaṃ.

As phenomena grow clear To the Brahman, ardent, absorbed, His doubts all vanish When he discerns what has a cause.

Yadā have pātubhavanti dhammā, Ātāpino jhāyato brāhmaṇassa, Athassa kaṅkhā vapayanti sabbā, Yato khayaṃ paccayānaṃ avedi.

As phenomena grow clear To the Brahman, ardent, absorbed, His doubts all vanish When he penetrates the end of conditions.

Yadā have pātubhavanti dhammā, Ātāpino jhāyato brāhmaṇassa, Vidhūpayaṃ tiṭṭhati māra-senaṃ, Sūrova obhāsayam-antalikkhanti.

As phenomena grow clear To the Brahman, ardent, absorbed, He stands, routing the troops of Mara, Like the sun that illumines the sky.

The House Builder

Aneka-jāti-saṅsāraṃ Sandhāvissaṃ anibbisaṃ, Gahakāraṃ gavesanto Dukkhā jāti punappunaṃ,

Through the round of many births I wandered without reward, without rest, Seeking the house builder. Painful is birth again & again.

Gahakāraka diṭṭhosi Puna-gehaṃ na kāhasi.

House builder, you are seen! You will not build a house again.

Sabbā te phāsukā bhaggā Gahakūṭaṃ visaṅkhataṃ Visaṅkhāra-gataṃ cittaṃ Taṇhānaṃ khayam-ajjhagā

All your rafters broken, The ridge pole destroyed, Gone to the Unformed, the mind Has attained the end of craving.

The Mountain

Yathāpi selā vipulā Nabhaṃ āhacca pabbatā Samantā anupariyeyyuṃ Nippothentā catuddisā

Like gigantic boulders, Mountains reaching to the sky Moving in from all sides, crushing the four directions,

Evaṃ jarā ca maccu ca Adhivattanti pāṇino Khattiye brāhmaṇe vesse Sudde caṇḍāla-pukkuse

In the same way, aging & death Roll over living beings: Noble warriors, brahmans, merchants, workers, outcastes, & scavengers.

Na kiñci parivajjeti Sabbam-evābhimaddati Na tattha hatthīnaṃ bhūmi Na rathānaṃ na pattiyā Na cāpi manta-yuddhena Sakkā jetuṃ dhanena vā

They spare nothing, They trample everything. Here elephants can hold no ground Nor can chariots or infantry. Nor can a battle of spells Or wealth win out.

Tasmā hi paṇḍito poso Sampassaṃ attham-attano Buddhe Dhamme ca Saṅghe ca Dhīro saddhaṃ nivesaye

So a wise person, Seeing his own good, Secures firm conviction In the Buddha, Dhamma, & Sangha.

Yo dhammacārī kāyena Vācāya uda cetasā Idh'eva naṃ pasaṃsati Pecca sagge pamodati.

He who practices the Dhamma In thought, word, & deed, receives praise here on earth And after death rejoices in heaven.

Noble Wealth

Yassa saddhā tathāgate Acalā supatiṭṭhitā, Sīlañca yassa kalyāṇaṃ Ariya-kantaṃ pasaṃsitaṃ

One whose conviction in the Tathagata Is unshakable, well-established, Whose virtue is admirable, Praised, cherished by the Noble Ones,

Saṅghe pasādo yassatthi Ujubhūtañca dassanaṃ Adaḷiddoti taṃ āhu Amoghan-tassa jīvitaṃ

Who has faith in the Sangha, straightforwardness, vision: “He is not poor,” they say. His life has not been in vain.

Tasmā saddhañca sīlañca Pasādaṃ dhamma-dassanaṃ Anuyuñjetha medhāvī Saraṃ buddhāna-sāsananti

So conviction & virtue, faith, & dhamma-vision Should be cultivated by the wise, Remembering the Buddhas' teachings.

An Auspicious Day

Atītaṃ nānvāgameyya Nappaṭikaṅkhe anāgataṃ Yad'atītam-pahīnantaṃ Appattañca anāgataṃ

He would not range after the past, Nor wonder about the future. What is past has been left behind, The future is as yet unreached.

Paccuppannañca yo dhammaṃ Tatha tatha vipassati Asaṃhiraṃ asaṅkuppaṃ Taṃ viddhā manubrūhaye

Whatever phenomenon is present, he clearly sees right there, right there. Unvanquished, unshaken, That is how he develops the mind.

Ajjeva kiccam-ātappaṃ Ko jaññā maraṇaṃ suve Na hi no saṅgarantena Mahāsenena maccunā

Doing his duty ardently, today, For — who knows? — tomorrow death may come. There is no bargaining With Death & his mighty horde.

Evaṃ vihārim-ātāpiṃ Aho-rattam-atanditaṃ Taṃ ve bhaddeka-ratto'ti Santo ācikkhate munīti.

Whoever lives thus ardently, relentlessly both day & night, has truly had an auspicious day: So says the Peaceful Sage.

The Three Characteristics

Sabbe saṅkhārā aniccā'ti Yadā paññāya passati, Atha nibbindati dukkhe: Esa maggo visuddhiyā.

All processes are inconstant: When one sees this with discernment, One grows disenchanted with stress — This is the path to purity.

Sabbe saṅkhārā dukkhā'ti Yadā paññāya passati, Atha nibbindati dukkhe: Esa maggo visuddhiyā.

All processes are stressful: When one sees this with discernment, One grows disenchanted with stress — This is the path to purity.

Sabbe dhammā anattā'ti Yadā paññāya passati, Atha nibbindati dukkhe: Esa maggo visuddhiyā.

All phenomena are not-self: When one sees this with discernment, One grows disenchanted with stress — This is the path to purity.

Appakā te manussesu Ye janā pāra-gāmino Athāyaṃ itarā pajā Tīram-evānudhāvati.

Few are the human beings who go to the Further Shore, These others simply scurry around on this shore.

Ye ca kho sammadakkhāte Dhamme dhammānuvattino Te janā pāramessanti Maccudheyyaṃ suduttaraṃ.

But those who practice the Dhamma In line with the well-taught Dhamma, They will cross over Death's realm, so hard to transcend.

Kaṇhaṃ dhammaṃ vippahāya Sukkaṃ bhāvetha paṇḍito. Okā anokam-āgamma Viveke yattha dūramaṃ

Abandoning dark practices, The wise person should develop the bright, Having gone from home to no-home In seclusion, so hard to relish.

Tatrābhiratim-iccheyya Hitvā kāme akiñcano. Pariyodapeyya attānaṃ Citta-klesehi paṇḍito

There he should wish for delight, Having discarded sensuality — he who has nothing. He should cleanse himself, the wise one, of mental defilement.

Yesaṃ sambodhiyaṅgesu Sammā cittaṃ subhāvitaṃ Ādāna-paṭinissagge Anupādāya ye ratā, Khīṇ'āsavā jutimanto Te loke parinibbutā'ti.

Whose minds are well-developed In the factors for Awakening, Who delight in non-clinging, Relinquishing grasping, Glorious, free of effluent: They are unbound in the world.

Compounded Things

Aniccā vata saṅkhārā Uppāda-vaya-dhammino Uppajjitvā nirujjhanti Tesaṃ vūpasamo sukho

Inconstant are compounded things. Their nature: to arise & pass away. They disband as they are arising. Their total stilling is bliss.

The Burden

Bhārā have pañcakkhandhā Bhārahāro ca puggalo. Bhārādānaṃ dukkhaṃ loke Bhāra-nikkhepanaṃ sukhaṃ.

The five aggregates are truly a burden, And the individual is what carries the burden. To take up the burden is to suffer in the world. To throw off the burden is bliss.

Nikkhipitvā garuṃ bhāraṃ Aññaṃ bhāraṃ anādiya Sa-mūlaṃ taṇhaṃ abbuḷha Nicchāto parinibbuto'ti.

Having thrown off the heavy burden, and not taking on another, One pulls out craving, root & all — Free from desire, totally unbound.

Heedfulness

Appamādo amataṃ padaṃ Pamādo maccuno padaṃ

Heedfulness, the path to the Deathless. Heedlessness, the path to death.

Appammattā ne miyyanti Ye pamattā yathā matā.

The heedful do not die. The heedless, as if already dead.

Etaṃ vesesato ñatvā, Appamādamhi paṇḍitāti.

Knowing this as a true distinction, The wise are established in heedfulness.

Formal Requests

Taking the Five Precepts

THE REQUEST:

Mayaṃ bhante, ti-saraṇena saha pañca sīlāni yācāma.

Venerable Sir, we request the Three Refuges & the Five Precepts.

Dutiyampi mayaṃ bhante…

Venerable Sir, a second time…

Tatiyampi mayaṃ bhante…

Venerable Sir, a third time…

The monk then recites the following passage three times, after which the lay people repeat it three times:

Namo tassa bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa.

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

The monk then recites the following passages line by line, with the lay people reciting line by line after him.

Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Dutiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dutiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Dutiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Tatiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Tatiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Tatiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Sangha for refuge.

The monk then says:

Ti-saraṇa-gamanaṃ niṭṭhitaṃ.

This ends the going for refuge.

The lay people respond:

Āma bhante.

Yes, Venerable Sir.

The monk then recites the precepts line by line, with the lay people reciting them line by line after him.

Pāṇātipātā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from taking life.

Adinnādānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from stealing.

Kāmesu micchācārā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from sexual misconduct.

Musāvādā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from telling lies.

Surā-meraya-majja-pamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from intoxicating liquors & drugs that lead to carelessness.

The monk then concludes with the following:

Imāni pañca sikkhā-padāni:

These are the five training rules.

Sīlena sugatiṃ yanti.

Through virtue they go to a good bourn.

Sīlena bhoga-sampadā.

Through virtue is wealth attained.

Sīlena nibbutiṃ yanti.

Through virtue they go to Liberation.

Tasmā sīlaṃ visodhaye.

Therefore we should purify our virtue.

BOW THREE TIMES

Taking the Eight Precepts

THE REQUEST:

Mayaṃ bhante, ti-saraṇena saha aṭṭha sīlāni yācāma.

Venerable Sir, we request the Three Refuges & the Eight Precepts.

Dutiyampi mayaṃ bhante…

Venerable Sir, a second time…

Tatiyampi mayaṃ bhante…

Venerable Sir, a third time…

The monk then recites the following passage three times, after which the lay people repeat it three times:

Namo tassa bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa.

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

The monk then recites the following passages line by line, with the lay people reciting line by line after him.

Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Dutiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dutiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Dutiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Tatiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Tatiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Tatiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Sangha for refuge.

The monk then says:

Ti-saraṇa-gamanaṃ niṭṭhitaṃ.

This ends the going for refuge.

The lay people respond:

Āma bhante.

Yes, Venerable Sir.

The monk then recites the precepts line by line, with the lay people reciting them line by line after him.

Pāṇātipātā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from taking life.

Adinnādānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from stealing.

Abrahma-cariyā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from sexual intercourse.

Musāvādā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from telling lies.

Surā-meraya-majja-pamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from intoxicating liquors & drugs that lead to carelessness.

Vikāla-bhojanā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from eating after noon & before dawn.

Nacca-gīta-vādita-visūka-dassanā mālā-gandha-vilepana-dhāraṇa-maṇḍana-vibhūsanaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from dancing, singing, music, watching shows, wearing garlands, beautifying myself with perfumes & cosmetics.

Uccāsayana-mahāsayanā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from high & luxurious seats & beds.

Imāni aṭṭha sikkhā-padāni samādiyāmi.

I undertake these eight precepts.

Imāni aṭṭha sikkhā-padāni samādiyāmi.

I undertake these eight precepts.

Imāni aṭṭha sikkhā-padāni samādiyāmi.

I undertake these eight precepts.

BOW THREE TIMES

Ordination for an Eight-Precept Nun

Arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho bhagavā.

The Blessed One is Worthy & Rightly Self-awakened.

Buddhaṃ bhagavantaṃ abhivādemi.

I bow down before the Awakened, Blessed One.

(BOW DOWN)

Svākkhāto bhagavatā dhammo.

The Dhamma is well-expounded by the Blessed One.

Dhammaṃ namassāmi.

I pay homage to the Dhamma.

(BOW DOWN)

Supaṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho.

The Sangha of the Blessed One's disciples has practiced well.

Saṅghaṃ namāmi.

I pay respect to the Sangha.

(BOW DOWN)

Namo tassa bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

Esāhaṃ bhante, sucira-parinibbutampi, taṃ bhagavantaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi, dhammañca bhikkhu-saṅghañca, pabbajjaṃ maṃ saṅgho dhāretu, ajjatagge pānupetaṃ saraṇaṃ gataṃ.

Venerable sir, I take refuge in the Blessed One — though he long ago attained Liberation — together with the Dhamma & the Bhikkhu Sangha. May the Sangha regard me as one gone forth, having attained refuge from this day forward.

Ahaṃ bhante, ti-saraṇena saha aṭṭha sīlāni yācāmi.

Venerable Sir, I request the Three Refuges & the Eight Precepts.

Dutiyampi ahaṃ bhante…

Venerable Sir, a second time…

Tatiyampi ahaṃ bhante…

Venerable Sir, a third time…

The monk then recites the following passage three times, after which the nun repeats it three times:

Namo tassa bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa.

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

The monk then recites the following passages line by line, with the nun reciting line by line after him.

Buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Dutiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Dutiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Dutiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A second time, I go to the Sangha for refuge.

Tatiyampi buddhaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Buddha for refuge.

Tatiyampi dhammaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Dhamma for refuge.

Tatiyampi saṅghaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

A third time, I go to the Sangha for refuge.

The monk then says:

Ti-saraṇa-gamanaṃ niṭṭhitaṃ.

This ends the going for refuge.

The nun responds:

Āma bhante.

Yes, Venerable Sir.

The monk then recites the precepts line by line, with the nun reciting them line by line after him.

Pāṇātipātā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from taking life.

Adinnādānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from stealing.

Abrahma-cariyā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from sexual intercourse.

Musāvādā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from telling lies.

Surā-meraya-majja-pamādaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from intoxicating liquors & drugs that lead to carelessness.

Vikāla-bhojanā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from eating after noon & before dawn.

Nacca-gīta-vādita-visūka-dassanā mālā-gandha-vilepana-dhāraṇa-maṇḍana-vibhūsanaṭṭhānā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from dancing, singing, music, watching shows, wearing garlands, beautifying myself with perfumes & cosmetics.

Uccāsayana-mahāsayanā veramaṇī sikkhā-padaṃ samādiyāmi.

I undertake the training rule to refrain from high & luxurious seats & beds.

Imāni aṭṭha sikkhā-padāni samādiyāmi.

I undertake these eight precepts.

Imāni aṭṭha sikkhā-padāni samādiyāmi.

I undertake these eight precepts.

Imāni aṭṭha sikkhā-padāni samādiyāmi.

I undertake these eight precepts.

BOW THREE TIMES

Requesting a Discourse

Brahmā ca lokādhipatī sahampati Kat'añjalī andhivaraṃ ayācatha: Santīdha sattāpparajakkha-jātikā Desetu dhammaṃ anukampimaṃ pajaṃ.

The Brahma Sahampati, Lord of the World, With hands palm-to-palm before his heart, requested a blessing: There are beings here with only a little dust in their eyes. Please teach the Dhamma out of compassion for them.

Requesting Blessings

Vipatti-paṭibāhāya sabba-sampatti-siddhiyā, Sabba-dukkha-vināsāya parittaṃ brūtha maṅgalaṃ. Vipatti-paṭibāhāya sabba-sampatti-siddhiyā, Sabba-bhaya-vināsāya parittaṃ brūtha maṅgalaṃ. Vipatti-paṭibāhāya sabba-sampatti-siddhiyā, Sabba-roga-vināsāya parittaṃ brūtha maṅgalaṃ.

For warding off misfortune, for the achievement of all good fortune, For the dispelling of all pain, may you chant a blessing & protection. For warding off misfortune, for the achievement of all good fortune, For the dispelling of all danger, may you chant a blessing & protection. For warding off misfortune, for the achievement of all good fortune, For the dispelling of all illness, may you chant a blessing & protection.

Requesting Forgiveness

(From the Triple Gem)

Repeat Namo… three times. Then:

Ratanattaye pamādena, dvārattayena kataṃ, Sabbaṃ aparādhaṃ khamatu no bhante.

May the Triple Gem forgive us for any wrong we have done out of carelessness in thought, word, or deed.

(From a Senior Monk)

Repeat Namo… three times. Then:

[Mahāthere]* pamādena, dvārattayena kataṃ, Sabbaṃ aparādhaṃ khamatu no bhante. (Three times.)

Venerable Sir, may you forgive us for any wrong we have done you out of carelessness in thought, word, or deed.

[* Mahāthere is used for very senior & highly respected monks. Change it to There for somewhat less senior monks, Upajjhāye for one's preceptor, Ācariye for one's teacher, and Āyasmante for monks in general.]

Bow down & stay there while the monk says:

Ahaṃ khamāmi, tumhehi pi me khamitabbaṃ.

I forgive you; may you all also forgive me.

Respond:

Khamāma bhante.

We forgive you, Venerable Sir.

The monk will then recite a blessing, after which all say:

Sādhu bhante.

Very good, Venerable Sir.

BOW THREE TIMES

(When one person is asking forgiveness)

Repeat Namo… three times. Then:

[Mahāthere]* pamādena, dvārattayena kataṃ, Sabbaṃ aparādhaṃ khamatha me bhante. (Three times.)

Venerable Sir, may you forgive me for any wrong I have done you out of carelessness in thought, word, or deed.

[* Mahathere is used for very senior & highly respected monks. Change it to There for somewhat less senior monks, Upajjhāye for one's preceptor, Ācariye for one's teacher, and Āyasmante for monks in general.]

Bow down & stay there while the monk says:

Ahaṃ khamāmi, tayā pi me khamitabbaṃ.

I forgive you; may you all also forgive me.

Respond:

Khamāmi bhante.

I forgive you, Venerable Sir.

The monk will then recite a blessing, after which say:

Sādhu bhante.

Very good, Venerable Sir.

BOW THREE TIMES

Formal Offerings

Food

To four or more monks. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, bhattāni, saparivārāni, bhikkhu-saṅghassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, bhikkhu-saṅgho, imāni, bhattāni, saparivārāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these foods of ours, together with their accompanying articles, to the Bhikkhu Sangha. May our Bhikkhu Sangha accept these foods, together with their accompanying articles, for our long-term welfare & happiness.

To three monks or less. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, bhattāni, saparivārāni, sīlavantassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, sīlavanto, imāni, bhattāni, saparivārāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these foods of ours, together with their accompanying articles, to the virtuous ones. May our virtuous ones accept these foods, together with their accompanying articles, for our long-term welfare & happiness.

General Items (after noon)

To four or more monks. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, saṅgha-dānāni, bhikkhu-saṅghassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, bhikkhu-saṅgho, imāni saṅgha-dānāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these Sangha gifts of ours to the Bhikkhu Sangha. May our Bhikkhu Sangha accept these Sangha gifts for our long-term welfare & happiness.

To three monks or less. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, saṅgha-dānāni, sīlavantassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, sīlavanto, imāni saṅgha-dānāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these Sangha gifts of ours to the virtuous ones. May our virtuous ones accept these Sangha gifts for our long-term welfare & happiness.

"Forest Cloth"

To four or more monks. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, paṅsukūla-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, bhikkhu-saṅghassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, bhikkhu-saṅgho, imāni, paṅsukūla-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these cast-off cloths of ours, together with their accompanying articles, to the Bhikkhu Sangha. May our Bhikkhu Sangha accept these cast-off cloths, together with their accompanying articles, for our long-term welfare & happiness.

To three monks or less. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, paṅsukūla-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, sīlavantassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, sīlavanto, imāni, paṅsukūla-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these cast-off cloths of ours, together with their accompanying articles, to the virtuous ones. May our virtuous ones accept these cast-off cloths, together with their accompanying articles, for our long-term welfare & happiness.

Declaration for a Gift to the Bhikkhu Sangha (to be made by one of the monks)

Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Yagghe bhante saṅgho jāneyya: Ayaṃ paṭhama-bhāgo therassa pāpuṇāti. Avasesā bhāgā amhākaṃ pāpuṇantu. Bhikkhū ca (sāmaṇerā ca gahaṭṭhā ca)* yathā-sukhaṃ paribhuñjantu.

May the Sangha please pay attention: The first share [of this gift] goes to the senior monk. May the remaining shares be ours. May the monks, (the novices, & the lay people)* [living here] use these things as they please.

* Omit or include the references to novices & lay people as is appropriate.

Rains Bathing Cloth

To four or more monks. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, vassāvāsika-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, bhikkhu-saṅghassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, bhikkhu-saṅgho, imāni, vassāvāsika-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these Rains bathing cloths of ours, together with their accompanying articles, to the Bhikkhu Sangha. May our Bhikkhu Sangha accept these Rains bathing cloths, together with their accompanying articles, for our long-term welfare & happiness.

To three monks or less. Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, vassāvāsika-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, sīlavantassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, sīlavanto, imāni, vassāvāsika-cīvarāni, saparivārāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these Rains bathing cloths of ours, together with their accompanying articles, to the virtuous ones. May our virtuous ones accept these Rains bathing cloths, together with their accompanying articles, for our long-term welfare & happiness.

Candles

Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, dīpa-dhūpa-puppha-varāni, ratanattayasseva, abhipūjema. Amhākaṃ, ratanattayassa pūjā, dīgha-rattaṃ, hita-sukhāvahā hotu, āsavakkhayappattiyā, saṃvattatu.

We offer these excellent candles, incense sticks, & flowers in homage to the Triple Gem. May our homage of the Triple Gem bring about our long-term welfare & happiness; may it lead to the attainment of the ending of defilement.

Kaṭhina Cloth

Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imaṃ bhante, saparivāraṃ, kaṭhina-cīvara-dussaṃ, saṅghassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, saṅgho, imaṃ, saparivāraṃ, kaṭhina-cīvara-dussaṃ, paṭiggaṇhātu, paṭiggahetvā ca, iminā dussena, kaṭhinaṃ attharatu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

Venerable Sirs, we present this kathina-robe cloth, together with its accompanying articles, to the Sangha. May our Sangha please accept this kathina- robe cloth, together with its accompanying articles, and having accepted it, spread the kathina with this cloth for our long-term welfare & happiness.

Lodgings

Repeat Namo… three times, then:

Imāni mayaṃ bhante, senāsanāni, āgatānāgatassa, cātuddisassa, bhikkhu-saṅghassa, oṇojayāma. Sādhu no bhante, bhikkhu-saṅgho, imāni, senāsanāni, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ, dīgha-rattaṃ, hitāya, sukhāya.

We present these lodgings to the Bhikkhu Sangha of the four directions, both those who have come & those who have yet to come. May our Bhikkhu Sangha accept these lodgings for our long-term welfare & happiness.

Homage

Visākha Pūjā

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ buddhassa bhagavato pubba-bhāga-namakāraṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Awakened One, the Blessed One:

(ALL):

[Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

Yam-amha kho mayaṃ, Bhagavantaṃ saraṇam gatā, yo no Bhagavā satthā, yassa ca mayaṃ Bhagavato dhammaṃ rocema:

The Blessed One to whom we have gone for refuge, who is our Teacher, & in whose Dhamma we delight:

Ahosi kho so Bhagavā, majjhimesu janapadesu ariyakesu manussesu uppanno, khattiyo jātiyā, gotamo gottena;

was born in the Middle Country, the Ariyaka race, the noble warrior class, & the Gotama lineage.

Sakya-putto Sakya-kulā pabbajito, sadevake loke samārake sabrahmake, sassamaṇa-brāhmaṇiya pajāya sadeva-manussāya, anuttaraṃ sammā-sambodhiṃ abhisambuddho.

A member of the Sakyan clan, he left his Sakyan family, went forth into the homeless life, & attained Right Self-Awakening unsurpassed in the cosmos with its Devas, Maras, & Brahmas, its generations with their contemplatives & brahmans, their rulers & common people.

Nissaṃsayaṃ kho so Bhagavā, arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho, vijjā-caraṇa-sampanno sugato loka-vidū, anuttaro purisa-damma-sārathi satthā deva-manussānaṃ buddho bhagavā.

There is no doubt that the Blessed One is worthy and rightly self-awakened, consummate in knowledge & conduct, one who has gone the good way, a knower of the cosmos, unexcelled as a trainer for those who can be taught, the teacher for human & divine beings; awakened & blessed.

Svākkhāto kho pana, tena Bhagavatā dhammo, sandiṭṭhiko akāliko ehi-passiko, opanayiko paccattaṃ veditabbo viññūhi.

And that the Dhamma is well-taught by the Blessed One, to be seen here & now, timeless, inviting all to come & see, pertinent, to be realized by the wise for themselves.

Supaṭipanno kho panassa, Bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, uju-paṭipanno Bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, ñāya-paṭipanno Bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, sāmīci-paṭipanno Bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, yadidaṃ cattāri purisa-yugāni aṭṭha purisa-puggalā.

And that the Community of the Blessed One's disciples — the four pairs, the eight types of Noble Ones — have practiced well, have practiced straightforwardly, have practiced methodically, have practiced masterfully.

Ayaṃ kho pana paṭimā, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ uddissa katā patiṭṭhāpitā, yāvadeva dassanena, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ anussaritvā, pasāda-saṃvega-paṭilābhāya.

This image dedicated to the Blessed One has been fashioned & placed here so that, in seeing it, we will remember him and gain a sense of inspiration & chastened dispassion.

[Ayaṃ kho pana thūpo, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ uddissa kato patiṭṭhāpito, yāvadeva dassanena, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ anussaritvā, pasāda-saṃvega-paṭilābhāya.

This stupa dedicated to the Blessed One has been fashioned & placed here so that, in seeing it, we will remember him and gain a sense of inspiration & chastened dispassion.]

Mayaṃ kho etarahi, imaṃ visākha-puṇṇamī-kālaṃ, tassa Bhagavato jāti-sambodhi-nibbāna-kāla-sammataṃ patvā, imaṃ ṭhānaṃ sampattā.

Now, on this full moon day of Visakha — recognized as the date of the Blessed One's birth, Awakening, & total Liberation — we have gathered together in this place.

Ime daṇḍa-dīpa-dhūpādi-sakkāre gahetvā, attano kāyaṃ sakkār'ūpadhānaṃ karitvā,

We take these offerings — candles, incense, & so forth — and make our bodies a vessel for them.

Tassa Bhagavato yathā-bhucce guṇe anussarantā, imaṃ paṭimā-gharaṃ [thūpaṃ] tikkhattuṃ padakkhiṇaṃ karissāma, yathā-gahitehi sakkārehi pūjaṃ kurumānā.

Reflecting on the Blessed One's virtues as they actually are, we will circumambulate this image-shelter [stupa] three times, paying homage to him with the offerings we hold.

Sādhu no bhante Bhagavā, sucira-parinibbutopi, ñātabbehi guṇehi atīt'ārammaṇatāya paññāyamāno,

Although the Blessed One long ago attained total Liberation, he is still discernible through our remembrance of his perceivable virtues.

Ime amhehi gahite sakkāre paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ dīgha-rattaṃ hitāya sukhāya.

May he accept the offerings we hold, for the sake of our long-term welfare & happiness.

Visākha Aṭṭhamī

(LEADER): Handa mayaṃ buddhassa bhagavato pubba-bhāga-namakāraṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Awakened One, the Blessed One:

(ALL): [Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

Yam-amha kho mayaṃ, Bhagavantaṃ saraṇam gatā, yo no Bhagavā satthā, yassa ca mayaṃ Bhagavato dhammaṃ rocema:

The Blessed One to whom we have gone for refuge, who is our Teacher, & in whose Dhamma we delight:

Ahosi kho so Bhagavā, majjhimesu janapadesu ariyakesu manussesu uppanno, khattiyo jātiyā, gotamo gottena;

was born in the Middle Country, the Ariyaka race, the noble warrior class & the Gotama lineage.

Sakya-putto Sakya-kulā pabbajito, sadevake loke samārake sabrahmake, sassamaṇa-brāhmaṇiya pajāya sadeva-manussāya, anuttaraṃ sammā-sambodhiṃ abhisambuddho.

A member of the Sakyan clan, he left his Sakyan family, went forth into the homeless life & attained Right Self-Awakening unsurpassed in the cosmos with its Devas, Maras & Brahmas, its generations with their contemplatives & brahmans, their rulers & common people.

Nissaṃsayaṃ kho so Bhagavā, arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho, vijjā-caraṇa-sampanno sugato loka-vidū, anuttaro purisa-damma-sārathi satthā deva-manussānaṃ buddho bhagavā.

There is no doubt that the Blessed One is worthy and Rightly Self-Awakened, consummate in knowledge & conduct, one who has gone the good way, a knower of the cosmos, unexcelled as a trainer for those who can be taught, the teacher for human & divine beings; awakened & blessed.

Svākkhāto kho pana, tena Bhagavatā dhammo, sandiṭṭhiko akāliko ehi-passiko, opanayiko paccattaṃ veditabbo viññūhi.

And that the Dhamma is well-taught by the Blessed One, to be seen here & now, timeless, inviting all to come & see, pertinent, to be realized by the wise for themselves.

Supaṭipanno kho panassa, Bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, uju-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, ñāya-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, sāmīci-paṭipanno bhagavato sāvaka-saṅgho, yadidaṃ cattāri purisa-yugāni aṭṭha purisa-puggalā.

And that the Community of the Blessed One's disciples — the four pairs, the eight types of Noble Ones — have practiced well, have practiced straightforwardly, have practiced methodically, have practiced masterfully.

Ayaṃ kho pana paṭimā, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ uddissa katā patiṭṭhāpitā, yāvadeva dassanena, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ anussaritvā, pasāda-saṃvega-paṭilābhāya.

This image dedicated to the Blessed One has been fashioned & placed here so that, in seeing it, we will remember him and gain a sense of inspiration & chastened dispassion.

[Ayaṃ kho pana thūpo, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ uddissa kato atiṭṭhāpito, yāvadeva dassanena, taṃ Bhagavantaṃ anussaritvā, pasāda-saṃvega-paṭilābhāya.

This stupa dedicated to the Blessed One has been fashioned & placed here so that, in seeing it, we will remember him and gain a sense of inspiration & chastened dispassion.]

Mayaṃ kho etarahi, imaṃ visākha-puṇṇamito paraṃ aṭṭhamī-kālaṃ, tassa Bhagavato sarīrajjhāpana-kāla-sammataṃ patvā, imaṃ ṭhānaṃ sampattā.

Now, on this eighth day after the full moon day of Visakha — recognized as the date of the Blessed One's cremation — we have gathered together in this place.

Ime daṇḍa-dīpa-dhūpādi-sakkāre gahetvā, attano kāyaṃ sakkār'ūpadhānaṃ karitvā,

We take these offerings — candles, incense, & so forth — and make our bodies a vessel for them.

Tassa Bhagavato yathā-bhucce guṇe anussarantā, imaṃ paṭimā-gharaṃ [thūpaṃ] tikkhattuṃ padakkhiṇaṃ karissāma, yathā-gahitehi sakkārehi pūjaṃ kurumānā.

Reflecting on the Blessed One's virtues as they actually are, we will circumambulate this image-shelter [stupa] three times, paying homage to him with the offerings we hold.

Sādhu no bhante bhagavā, sucira-parinibbutopi, ñātabbehi guṇehi atīt'ārammaṇatāya paññāyamāno,

Although the Blessed One long ago attained total Liberation, he is still discernible through our remembrance of his perceivable virtues.

Ime amhehi gahite sakkāre paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ dīgha-rattaṃ hitāya sukhāya.

May he accept the offerings we hold, for the sake of our long-term welfare & happiness.

Āsāḷha Pūjā

(LEADER): Handa mayaṃ buddhassa bhagavato pubba-bhāga-namakāraṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Awakened One, the Blessed One:

(ALL): [Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

Yam-amha kho mayaṃ, Bhagavantaṃ saraṇam gatā, yo no Bhagavā satthā, yassa ca mayaṃ Bhagavato dhammaṃ rocema:

The Blessed One to whom we have gone for refuge, who is our Teacher, & in whose Dhamma we delight:

Ahosi kho so Bhagavā, arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho, sattesu kāruññaṃ paṭicca, karuṇāyako hitesī, anukampaṃ upādāya, āsāḷha-puṇṇamiyaṃ, Bārāṇasiyaṃ isipatane migadāye, pañca-vaggiyānaṃ bhikkūnaṃ, anuttaraṃ dhamma-cakkaṃ paṭhamaṃ pavattetvā, cattāri ariya-saccāni pakāsesi.

is a Worthy One, Rightly Self-awakened. Through his compassion & sympathy for living beings, compassionately desiring their welfare, he first set the unexcelled Wheel of Dhamma in motion on the full moon night of the month of Asalha, in the Deer Refuge at the Meeting Place of the Seers near Varanasi, and proclaimed the Four Noble Truths to the Group of Five Monks.

Tasmiñca kho samaye, pañca-vaggiyānaṃ bhikkhūnaṃ pāmukho, āyasmā Añña-koṇḍañño, Bhagavantaṃ dhammaṃ sutvā, virajaṃ vītamalaṃ dhamma-cakkhuṃ paṭilabhitvā, “Yaṅkiñci samudaya-dhammaṃ sabban-taṃ nirodha-dhammanti.”

At that time, the leader of the Group of Five Monks — Venerable Añña-Kondañña — having listened to the Blessed One's teaching, gained the vision of Dhamma that, “Whatever is subject to origination is all subject to cessation.”

Bhagavantaṃ upasampadaṃ yācitvā, Bhagavatoyeva santike, ehi-bhikkhu-upasampadaṃ paṭilabhitvā, Bhagavato dhamma-vinaye ariya-sāvaka-saṅgho, loke paṭhamaṃ uppanno ahosi.

Having asked for ordination, he gained the Come-Bhikkhu ordination in the Blessed One's very presence, and so became the world's first noble disciple in the Blessed One's doctrine & discipline.

Tasmiñcāpi kho samaye, saṅgha-ratanaṃ loke paṭhamaṃ uppannaṃ ahosi. Buddha-ratanaṃ dhamma-ratanaṃ saṅgha-ratanaṃ, tiratanaṃ sampuṇṇaṃ ahosi.

And at that time the Gem of the Sangha first appeared in the world, making the Triple Gem — the Gem of the Buddha, the Gem of the Dhamma, & the Gem of the Sangha — complete.

Mayaṃ kho etarahi, imaṃ āsāḷha-puṇṇamī-kālaṃ, tassa Bhagavato dhamma-cakkappavattana-kāla-sammatañca, ariya-sāvaka-saṅgha-uppatti-kāla-sammatañca, ratanattaya-sampuraṇa-kāla-sammatañca patvā, imaṃ ṭhānaṃ sampattā,

Now, on this full moon day of Asalha — recognized as the date of the Blessed One's setting the Wheel of Dhamma in motion, the date of the arising of the Community of the Noble Disciples, and of the completion of the Triple Gem — we have gathered together in this place.

Ime daṇḍa-dīpa-dhūpādi-sakkāre gahetvā, attano kāyaṃ sakkār'ūpadhānaṃ karitvā,

We take these offerings — candles, incense, & so forth — and make our bodies a vessel for them.

Tassa Bhagavato yathā-bhucce guṇe anussarantā, imaṃ paṭimā-gharaṃ [thūpaṃ] tikkhattuṃ padakkhiṇaṃ karissāma, yathā-gahitehi sakkārehi pūjaṃ kurumānā.

Reflecting on the Blessed One's virtues as they actually are, we will circumambulate this image shelter [stupa] three times, paying homage to him with the offerings we hold.

Sādhu no bhante Bhagavā, sucira-parinibbutopi, ñātabbehi guṇehi atīt'ārammaṇatāya paññāyamāno,

Although the Blessed One long ago attained total Liberation, he is still discernible through our remembrance of his perceivable virtues.

Ime amhehi gahite sakkāre, paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ dīgha-rattaṃ hitāya sukhāya.

May he accept the offerings we hold, for the sake of our long-term welfare & happiness.

Māgha Pūjā

(LEADER): Handa mayaṃ buddhassa bhagavato pubba-bhāga-namakāraṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Awakened One, the Blessed One:

(ALL): [Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

Ajjāyaṃ māgha-puṇṇamī sampattā, māgha-nakkhattena puṇṇa-cando yutto, yattha Tathāgato arahaṃ sammā-sambuddho, cāturaṅgike sāvaka-sannipāte, ovāda-pāṭimokkhaṃ uddisi.

Today is the full moon day in the month of Magha, the date on which the Tathagata — the Worthy One, Rightly Self- awakened — held the four-factored meeting of his disciples and gave the Patimokkha Exhortation.

Tadā hi aḍḍha-terasāni bhikkhu-satāni, sabbesaṃyeva khīṇāsavānaṃ, sabbe te ehi-bhikkhukā, sabbepi te anāmantitāva, Bhagavato santikaṃ āgatā, Veḷuvane kalandaka-nivāpe, māgha-puṇṇamiyaṃ vaḍḍhamāna- kacchāyāya.

At that time, 1,250 monks — all entirely free of defilements, all recipients of the Come-Bhikkhu ordination, all unnotified of the meeting — came to the Blessed One's presence in the Squirrels' Feeding Ground in the Bamboo Forest on the afternoon of the full moon day in Magha.

Tasmiñca sannipāte, Bhagavā visuddh'uttam'uposathaṃ akāsi, ovāda-pāṭimokkhaṃ uddisi.

In that meeting, the Blessed One led an utterly pure full moon observance and gave the Patimokkha Exhortation.

Ayaṃ amhākaṃ Bhagavato, ekoyeva sāvaka-sannipāto ahosi, cāturaṅgiko, aḍḍha-terasāni bhikkhu-satāni, sabbesaṃ yeva khīṇāsavānaṃ.

This was the only time our Blessed One held a four-factored meeting with his disciples, 1,250 monks, all entirely free of defilement.

Mayandāni, imaṃ māgha-puṇṇamī-nakkhatta-samayaṃ, takkālasadisaṃ sampattā, sucira-parinibbutampi taṃ Bhagavantaṃ samanussaramāna, imasmiṃ tassa Bhagavato sakkhi-bhūte cetiye,

Now, on this same date — the full moon day in Magha — remembering the Blessed One, even though he long ago gained Total Liberation, we have come to this memorial to him.

Ime daṇḍa-dīpa-dhūpādi-sakkāre gahetvā, attano kāyaṃ sakkār'ūpadhānaṃ karitvā,

We take these offerings — candles, incense, & so forth — and make our bodies a vessel for them.

Tassa Bhagavato yathā-bhucce guṇe anussarantā, imaṃ paṭimā-gharaṃ [thūpaṃ] tikkhattuṃ padakkhiṇaṃ karissāma, yathā-gahitehi sakkārehi pūjaṃ kurumānā.

Reflecting on the Blessed One's virtues as they actually are, we will circumambulate this image shelter [stupa] three times, paying homage to him with the offerings we hold.

Sādhu no bhante Bhagavā, sasāvaka-saṅgho, sucira-parinibbutopi, guṇehi dharamāno,

Although the Blessed One, together with that Community of his Noble Disciples, long ago attained total Liberation, they are remembered through their virtues.

Ime amhehi gahite sakkāre paṭiggaṇhātu, amhākaṃ dīgha-rattaṃ hitāya sukhāya.

May he accept the offerings we hold, for the sake of our long- term welfare & happiness.

Veneration

Ukāsa, dvāra-tayena kataṃ, sabbaṃ apāradhaṃ khamatu no (me) bhante.

We (I) ask your leave. We (I) ask you to forgive us (me) for whatever wrong we (I) have done with the three doors (of body, speech, & mind).

Vandāmi bhante cetiyaṃ, sabbaṃ sabbattha ṭhāne, supatiṭṭhitaṃ sārīraṅka-dhātuṃ, mahā-bodhiṃ buddha-rūpaṃ, sakkāratthaṃ.

I revere every stupa established in every place, every Relic of the Buddha's body, every Great Bodhi tree, every Buddha image that is an object of veneration.

Ahaṃ vandāmi dhātuyo, ahaṃ vandāmi sabbaso, iccetaṃ ratana-tayaṃ, ahaṃ vandāmi sabbadā.

I revere the relics. I revere them everywhere. I always revere the Triple Gem.

Buddha-pūjā mahā-tejavanto, Dhamma-pūjā mahappañño, Saṅgha-pūjā mahā-bhogāvaho.

Homage to the Buddha brings great glory. Homage to the Dhamma, great discernment. Homage to the Saṅgha, great wealth.

Buddhaṃ Dhammaṃ Saṅghaṃ, jīvitaṃ yāva-nibbānaṃ saraṇaṃ gacchāmi.

I go to the Buddha, Dhamma, & Saṅgha as my life & refuge until reaching Liberation.

Parisuddho ahaṃ bhante, parisuddhoti maṃ, Buddho Dhammo Saṅgho dhāretu.

I am morally pure. May the Buddha, Dhamma, & Saṅgha recognize me as morally pure.

Sabbe sattā sadā hontu, averā sukha-jīvino.

May all living beings always live happily, free from enmity.

Kataṃ puñña-phalaṃ mayhaṃ, sabbe bhāgī bhavantu te.

May all share in the blessings springing from the good I have done.

Homage to the Buddha's Footprints

(LEADER): Handa mayaṃ pāda-lañjana-pāṭhaṃ bhaṇāma se:

Let us now repeat the footprint passage.

(ALL): Vandāmi buddhaṃ bhava-pāra-tiṇṇaṃ, Ti-loka-ketuṃ ti-bhav'eka-nāthaṃ, Yo loka-seṭṭho sakalaṃ kilesaṃ, Chetvāna bodhesi janaṃ anantaṃ.

I revere the Buddha, who has crossed over becoming, The banner of the threefold cosmos, The sole protector of the three levels of becoming, The foremost in the world Who, having destroyed the entirety of defilement, Has led countless people to Awakening.

Yaṃ nammadāya nadiyā puline ca tīre, Yaṃ sacca-bandha-girike sumanācal'agge, Yaṃ tattha yonaka-pure munino ca pādaṃ: Taṃ pāda-lañjanam-ahaṃ sirasā namāmi.

I pay homage with my head to the footprints That the Sage left in the sands by the Nammada River, On Saccabandha Mountain, on Sumana's unshakeable summit, & in Yonaka-pura.

Suvaṇṇa-mālike suvaṇṇa-pabbate Sumana-kūṭe yonaka-pure nammadāya nadiyā, Pañca pāda-varaṃ ṭhānaṃ ahaṃ vandāmi durato.

I revere from afar the places of the five foremost footprints: On Suvannamalika Mountain, on Gold Mount, On Sumana's Peak, in Yonakapura, & by the Nammada River.

Iccevam-accanta-namassaneyyaṃ, Namassamāno ratanattayaṃ yaṃ, Puññābhisandaṃ vipulaṃ alatthaṃ, Tassānubhāvena hat'antarāyo.

In paying homage thus to the Triple Gem, worthy of the highest homage, A vast amount of merit is accumulated: By its power, may danger be destroyed.

The Buddha's Last Words

Āmantayāmi vo bhikkhave, Paṭivedayāmi vo bhikkhave:

I address you, monks, I inform you, monks:

Khaya-vaya-dhammā saṅkhārā, Appamādena sampādethāti.

Processes are subject to passing away. Become consummate Through heedfulness.

Anumodana

Introduction

Anumodana is a difficult word to translate into English. Literally, it means “rejoicing together,” but it can also mean approval and encouragement. The tradition of Buddhist monks' giving anumodana to donors of food and other requisites goes back to the time of the Buddha. After a meal or when presented with a gift, he would often “instruct, urge, rouse, and encourage” the donor(s) with a talk on Dhamma. Many of the anumodana stanzas used today come straight from these talks. Reading them in translation, it is obvious that the stanzas are not mere blessings. They express approval for the donor's wisdom in being generous, explain the rewards of generosity, and give encouragement to continue being generous. Other stanzas, composed in later centuries, fall more into the category of blessings, wishing happiness and good fortune for the donor(s).

The stanzas collected and translated here are those that are most widely used in the Thai Theravada tradition at present. All are appropriate for general merit-making donations, although some are considered especially appropriate for special occasions as well. The common pattern when giving anumodana is to begin with Passage I, to end with Passage XIII, and to include one or two of the other passages in between.

Notes have been included to identify the source of the stanzas, if they come from the Pali canon, and to give other useful information on their meaning and use.

My hope is that this collection will be useful, not only for the monks and novices who must memorize and chant these stanzas, but also for lay donors who wish to know the meaning of the stanzas and who appreciate encouragement in their practice of the Buddha's teachings.

I "Yathā vārivahā pūrā..."

(LEADER):

Yathā vārivahā pūrā Paripūrenti sāgaraṃ Evameva ito dinnaṃ Petānaṃ upakappati Icchitaṃ patthitaṃ tumhaṃ Khippameva samijjhatu Sabbe pūrentu saṅkappā Cando paṇṇaraso yathā Maṇi jotiraso yathā.

Just as rivers full of water fill the ocean full, Even so does that here given benefit the dead (the hungry shades). May whatever you wish or want quickly come to be, May all your aspirations be fulfilled, as the moon on the fifteenth (full moon) day, or as a radiant, bright gem.

(ALL):

Sabbītiyo vivajjantu Sabba-rogo vinassatu Mā te bhavatvantarāyo Sukhī dīghāyuko bhava Abhivādana-sīlissa Niccaṃ vuḍḍhāpacāyino Cattāro dhammā vaḍḍhanti Āyu vaṇṇo sukhaṃ, balaṃ.

May all distresses be averted, may every disease be destroyed, May there be no dangers for you, May you be happy & live long. For one of respectful nature who constantly honors the worthy, Four qualities increase: long life, beauty, happiness, strength.

Note: These stanzas are chanted as part of every anumodana. If two or more monks are chanting, they should repeat the two lines beginning “Sabbitiyo…” three times before going on to the lines beginning “Abhivadana-sīlissa…” On some occasions, the leader will omit his solo part and will lead the entire group in chanting the following verses as a prelude to the passage beginning “Sabbityo…”

Sabba-roga-vinimutto Sabba-santāpa-vajjito Sabba-veram-atikkanto Nibbuto ca tuvaṃ bhava

May you be: freed from all disease, safe from all torment, beyond all animosity, & unbound.

II "Adāsi me akāsi me..."

Adāsi me akāsi me Ñāti-mittā sakhā ca me Petānaṃ dakkhiṇaṃ dajjā Pubbe katam-anussaraṃ Na hi ruṇṇaṃ vā soko vā Yā vaññā paridevanā Na taṃ petānam-atthāya Evaṃ tiṭṭhanti ñātayo *Ayañca kho dakkhiṇā dinnā Saṅghamhi supatiṭṭhitā Dīgha-rattaṃ hitāyassa Ṭhānaso upakappati So ñāti-dhammo ca ayaṃ nidassito Petāna-pūjā ca katā uḷārā Balañca bhikkhūnam-anuppadinnaṃ Tumhehi puññaṃ pasutaṃ anappakanti.

“He gave to me, he acted on my behalf, and he was my relative, companion, friend.” Offerings should be given for the dead when one reflects (thus) on what was done in the past. For no weeping or sorrowing or any kind of lamentation benefit the dead whose relatives keep acting in that way. * But when this offering is given, well-placed in the Sangha, It works for their long-term benefit And they profit immediately. In this way the proper duty to relatives has been shown And great honor has been done to the dead And the monks have been given strength: You've acquired merit that's not small.

Note: These verses are the concluding part of the Tirokuddakanda Sutta (Discourse on Those Outside the Wall), Khuddakapatha 8. They are often chanted on occasions when donors dedicate merit to the dead. A common practice is for the leader to begin chanting at the asterisk, omitting the first four lines.

III "Aggato ve pasannānaṃ..."

Aggato ve pasannānaṃ Aggaṃ dhammaṃ vijānataṃ Agge buddhe pasannānaṃ Dakkhiṇeyye anuttare Agge dhamme pasannānaṃ Virāgūpasame sukhe Agge saṅghe pasannānaṃ Puññakkhette anuttare Aggasmiṃ dānaṃ dadataṃ Aggaṃ puññaṃ pavaḍḍhati Aggaṃ āyu ca vaṇṇo ca Yaso kitti sukhaṃ balaṃ Aggassa dātā medhāvī Agga-dhamma-samāhito Deva-bhūto manusso vā Aggappatto pamodatīti.

For one with confidence, realizing the supreme Dhamma to be supreme, With confidence in the supreme Buddha, unsurpassed in deserving offerings, With confidence in the supreme Dhamma, the happiness of dispassion & calm, With confidence in the supreme Sangha, unsurpassed as a field of merit, Having given gifts to the supreme, one develops supreme merit, supreme long life & beauty, status, honor, happiness, strength. Having given to the supreme, the intelligent person, firm in the supreme Dhamma, Whether becoming a deva or a human being, rejoices, having attained the supreme.

Note: These verses are from the Aggappasada Sutta (Discourse on Faith in the Supreme), Anguttara Nikaya V.32.

IV "Āyudo balado dhīro..."

Āyudo balado dhīro Vaṇṇado paṭibhāṇado Sukhassa dātā medhāvī Sukhaṃ so adhigacchati āyuṃ datvā balaṃ vaṇṇaṃ Sukhañca paṭibhāṇado Dīghāyu yasavā hoti Yattha yatthūpapajjatīti.

The enlightened person, having given life, strength, beauty, quick-wittedness — The intelligent person, a giver of happiness — attains happiness himself. Having given life, strength, beauty, happiness,& quick-wittedness, He has long life & status wherever he arises.

Note: These verses are from the Bhojana-dananumodana Sutta (Discourse on Rejoicing in the Gift of Food), Anguttara Nikaya V.37.

V "Āyuṃ vaṇṇaṃ yasaṃ kittiṃ..."

Āyuṃ vaṇṇaṃ yasaṃ kittiṃ Saggaṃ uccākulīnataṃ Ratiyo patthayānena Uḷārā aparāparā Appamādaṃ pasaṃsanti Puñña-kiriyāsu paṇḍitā Appamatto ubho atthe Adhiggaṇhāti paṇḍito Diṭṭhe dhamme ca yo attho Yo c'attho samparāyiko Atthābhisamayā dhīro Paṇḍito'ti pavuccatīti.

Long life, beauty, status, honor, heaven, high birth: To those who delight in aspiring for these things in great measure, continuously, the wise praise non-complacency in the making of merit. The wise person, uncomplacent, acquires a two-fold welfare: welfare in this life & welfare in the next. By breaking through to his welfare he is called “enlightened, wise.”

Note: These verses are from the Ittha Sutta (Discourse on What is Welcome), Anguttara Nikaya V.43.

VI "Bhuttā bhogā bhaṭā bhaccā..."

Bhuttā bhogā bhaṭā bhaccā Vitiṇṇā āpadāsu me Uddhaggā dakkhiṇā dinnā Atho pañca balī katā Upaṭṭhitā sīlavanto Saññatā brahmacārino Yadatthaṃ bhogam-iccheyya Paṇḍito gharam-āvasaṃ So me attho anuppatto Kataṃ ananutāpiyaṃ Etaṃ anussaraṃ macco Ariya-dhamme ṭhito naro Idheva naṃ pasaṃsanti Pecca sagge pamodatīti.

“My wealth has been enjoyed, My dependents supported, protected from calamities by me. I have given lofty offerings, and performed the five oblations. I have provided for the virtuous, the restrained, leaders of the holy life. For whatever aim a wise householder would desire wealth, that aim I have attained. I have done what will not lead to future distress.” When this is recollected by a mortal, a person established in the Dhamma of the Noble Ones, He is praised in this life and, after death, rejoices in heaven.

Note: These verses are from the Adiya Sutta (Discourse on Edibles), Anguttara Nikaya V.41. The “five oblations” are gifts/offerings given to one's relatives, guests, the dead, kings (taxes paid to the government), and devas. This selection is often chanted when donors are making a donation dedicated to a relative or friend who has long been dead.

VII "Dānañca peyya-vajjañca..."

Dānañca peyya-vajjañca Attha-cariyā ca yā idha Samānattatā ca dhammesu Tattha tattha yathārahaṃ Ete kho saṅgahā loke Rathassāṇī va yāyato Ete ca saṅgahā nāssu Na mātā putta-kāraṇā Labhetha mānaṃ pūjaṃ vā Pitā vā putta-kāraṇā Yasmā ca saṅgahā ete Samavekkhanti paṇḍitā Tasmā mahattaṃ papponti Pāsaṃsā ca bhavanti teti.

Generosity, kind words, beneficial action, And treating all consistently, in line with what each deserves: These bonds of fellowship (function) in the world like the linchpin in a moving cart. Now, if these bonds of fellowship were lacking, A mother would not receive the honor & respect owed by her child, Nor would a father receive what his child owes him. But because the wise show regard for these bonds of fellowship, They achieve greatness and are praised.

Note: These verses are from the Sangaha-vatthu Sutta (Discourse on the Bonds of Fellowship), Anguttara Nikaya IV.32.

VIII "Kāle dadanti sapaññā..."

Kāle dadanti sapaññā Vadaññū vīta-maccharā Kālena dinnaṃ ariyesu Uju-bhūtesu tādisu Vippasanna-manā tassa Vipulā hoti dakkhiṇā Ye tattha anumodanti Veyyāvaccaṃ karonti vā Na tena dakkhiṇā onā Tepi puññassa bhāgino Tasmā dade appaṭivāna-citto Yattha dinnaṃ mahapphalaṃ Puññāni para-lokasmiṃ Patiṭṭhā honti pāṇinanti.

Those with discernment, responsive, free from stinginess, give in the proper season. Having given in the proper season With hearts inspired by the Noble Ones — straightened, Such — Their offering bears an abundance. Those who rejoice in that gift, or give assistance, They too have a share of the merit, and the offering is not depleted by that. Therefore, with an unhesitant mind, one should give where the gift bears great fruit. Merit is what establishes living beings in the next life.

Note: These verses are from the Kala-dana Sutta (Discourse on Seasonable Gifts), Anguttara Nikaya V.36. They are often chanted when large groups of people organize a donation for a special occasion, such as a kathina.

IX "Ratanattayānubhāvena..."

Ratanattayānubhāvena Ratanattaya-tejasā Dukkha-roga-bhayā verā Sokā sattu c'upaddavā Anekā antarāyāpi Vinassantu asesato Jaya-siddhi dhanaṃ lābhaṃ Sotthi bhāgyaṃ sukhaṃ balaṃ Siri āyu ca vaṇṇo ca Bhogaṃ vuḍḍhī ca yasavā Sata-vassā ca āyū ca Jīva-siddhī bhavantu te.

Through the power of the Triple Gem, through the radiant energy of the Triple Gem, May suffering, disease, danger, animosity, sorrow, adversity, misfortune — obstacles without number — vanish without a trace. Triumph, success, wealth, & gain, Safety, luck, happiness, strength, Glory, long life, & beauty, Fortune, increase, & status, A lifespan of 100 years, And success in your livelihood: May they be yours.

Note: This selection is frequently chanted when a gift is being dedicated to the Sangha as a whole (Sangha-dana). The same is true of the following selection, which is one of the few pieces that Dhammayut monks will chant in Sanyoga style.

X "Sabba-buddhānubhāvena..."

Sabba-buddhānubhāvena sabba-dhammānubhāvena sabba-saṅghānubhāvena buddha-ratanaṃ dhamma-ratanaṃ saṅgha-ratanaṃ tiṇṇaṃ ratanānaṃ ānubhāvena caturāsītisahassa-dhammakkhandhānubhāvena piṭakatyānubhāvena jinasāvakānubhāvena:

Sabbe te rogā sabbe te bhayā sabbe te antarāyā sabbe te upaddavā sabbe te dunnimittā sabbe te avamaṅgalā vinassantu.

Āyu-vaḍḍhako dhana-vaḍḍhako siri-vaḍḍhako yasa-vaḍḍhako bala-vaḍḍhako vaṇṇa-vaḍḍhako sukha-vaḍḍhako hotu sabbadā.

Dukkha-roga-bhayā verā Sokā sattu c'upaddavā Anekā antarāyāpi Vinassantu ca tejasā Jaya-siddhi dhanaṃ lābhaṃ Sotthi bhāgyaṃ sukhaṃ balaṃ Siri āyu ca vaṇṇo ca Bhogaṃ vuḍḍhī ca yasavā Sata-vassā ca āyū ca Jīva-siddhī bhavantu te. Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā Sabba-buddhānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te. Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā Sabba-dhammānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te. Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā Sabba-saṅghānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te.

Through the power of all the Buddhas, the power of all the Dhamma, the power of all the Sangha, the power of the Triple Gem — the gem of the Buddha, the gem of the Dhamma, the gem of the Sangha — the power of the 84,000 Dhamma aggregates, the power of the Tripitaka, the power of the Victor's disciples:

May all your diseases, all your fears, all your obstacles, all your dangers, all your bad visions, all your bad omens be destroyed.

May there always be an increase of long life, wealth, glory, status, strength, beauty, & happiness.

May suffering, disease, danger, animosity, sorrow, adversity, misfortune — obstacles without number — vanish through (the Triple Gem's) radiant energy. Triumph, success, wealth, & gain, Safety, luck, happiness, strength, Glory,long life, & beauty, Fortune, increase, & status, A lifespan of 100 years, And success in your livelihood: May they be yours. May there be every good blessing, may the devas protect you, Through the power of all the Buddhas (Dhamma, Sangha) may you always be well.

XI "So attha-laddho sukhito..."

So attha-laddho sukhito Viruḷho buddha-sāsane Arogo sukhito hohi Saha sabbehi ñātibhi. Sā attha-laddhā sukhitā Viruḷhā buddha-sāsane Arogā sukhitā hohi Saha sabbehi ñātibhi. Te attha-laddhā sukhitā Viruḷhā buddha-sāsane Arogā sukhitā hotha Saha sabbehi ñātibhi.

May he gain his aims, be happy, and flourish in the Buddha's teachings. May you, together with all your relatives, be happy and free from disease. May she gain her aims, be happy… May they gain their aims, be happy…

Note: The above verses are frequently chanted after an ordination, or when a lay person has undertaken the practice of the eight precepts or has taken the five preepts for the first time. If one man has ordained or taken the precepts, chant only the two lines beginning “So attha-laddho…” three times. If one woman, chant only the two lines beginning “Sa attha-laddha…” three times. If more than one person, chant only the two lines beginning “Te attha-laddha…” three times.

XII "Yasmi.m padese kappeti..."

Yasmiṃ padese kappeti Vasaṃ paṇḍita-jātiyo Sīlavant'ettha bhojetvā Saññate brahma-cārino Yā tattha devatā āsuṃ Tāsaṃ dakkhiṇam-ādise Tā pūjitā pūjayanti Mānitā mānayanti naṃ Tato naṃ anukampanti Mātā puttaṃ va orasaṃ Devatā'nukampito poso Sadā bhadrāni passati.

In whatever place a wise person makes his dwelling, — there providing food for the virtuous, the restrained, leaders of the holy life — He should dedicate that offering to the devas there. They, receiving honor, will honor him; Being respected, will show him respect. As a result, they will feel sympathy for him, like that of a mother for her child. A person with whom the devas sympathize always sees things go auspiciously.

Note: These verses are from the Maha-parinibbana Suttanta (Great Discourse on the Total Unbinding), Digha Nikaya 16. They are frequently chanted when the donor is making merit on the occasion of his/her birthday or a house-warming.

XIII "Bhavatu sabba-ma"ngala.m..."

Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā Sabba-buddhānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te. Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā Sabba-dhammānubhāvena Sadā sotthī bhavantu te. Bhavatu sabba-maṅgalaṃ Rakkhantu sabba-devatā Sabba-saṅghānubhāvena Sadā sotthī, bhavantu te.

May there be every good blessing, may the devas protect you, Through the power of all the Buddhas (Dhamma, Sangha) may you always be well.

Note: These verses are always chanted to conclude the anumodana.

After the Patimokkha

Sacca-kiriyā gāthā

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ buddhassa bhagavato pubba-bhāga-namakāraṃ karoma se:

Now let us chant the preliminary passage in homage to the Awakened One, the Blessed One:

(ALL):

[Namo tassa] bhagavato arahato sammā-sambuddhassa. (Three times.)

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Rightly Self-awakened One.

(LEADER):

Handa mayaṃ sacca-kiriyā gāthāyo bhaṇāma se:

(ALL):

[N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ] Buddho me saraṇaṃ varaṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi me hotu sabbadā.

I have no other refuge, The Buddha is my foremost refuge. Through the speaking of this truth, may I be blessed always.

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ Dhammo me saraṇaṃ varaṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi me hotu sabbadā.

I have no other refuge, The Dhamma is my foremost refuge. Through the speaking of this truth, may I be blessed always.

N'atthi me saraṇaṃ aññaṃ Saṅgho me saraṇaṃ varaṃ Etena sacca-vajjena Sotthi me hotu sabbadā.

I have no other refuge, The Saṅgha is my foremost refuge. Through the speaking of this truth, may I be blessed always.

Sīluddesa-pāṭha

[Bhāsitam-idaṃ] tena Bhagavatā jānatā passatā arahatā sammā-sambuddhena: “Sampanna-sīlā bhikkhave viharatha sampanna-pāṭimokkhā. Pāṭimokkha-saṃvara-saṃvutā viharatha ācāra-gocara-sampannā. Aṇumattesu vajjesu bhaya-dassāvī samādāya sikkhatha sikkhāpadesūti.”

Tasmā tih'amhehi sikkhitabbaṃ: “Sampanna-sīlā viharissāma sampanna-pāṭimokkhā. Pāṭimokkha-saṃvara-saṃvutā viharissāma ācāra-gocara-sampannā. Aṇumattesu vajjesu bhaya-dassāvī samādāya sikkhissāma sikkhāpadesūti.” Evañhi no sikkhitabbaṃ.

This was said by the Blessed One, the One who Knows, the One who Sees, the Worthy One Rightly Self-awakened: “Live consummate in virtue, monks, and consummate in the Patimokkha. Live restrained with the restraint of the Patimokkha, consummate in your behavior & sphere of activity Train yourselves, having undertaken the training rules, seeing danger in the slightest faults”

Therefore we should train ourselves: “We will live consummate in virtue, consummate in the Patimokkha. We will live restrained with the restraint of the Patimokkha, consummate in our behavior & sphere of activity. We will train ourselves, having undertaken the training rules, seeing danger in the slightest faults.” That's how we should train ourselves.

Tāyana-gāthā

[Chinda sotaṃ] parakkamma Kāme panūda brāhmaṇa Nappahāya muni kāme N'ekattam-upapajjati

Having striven, brahman, cut the stream. Expel sensual passions. Without abandoning sensual passions a sage encounters no oneness of mind.

Kayirā ce kayirāthenaṃ Daḷhamenaṃ parakkame Sithilo hi paribbājo Bhiyyo ākirate rajaṃ Akataṃ dukkaṭaṃ seyyo Pacchā tappati dukkaṭaṃ Katañca sukataṃ seyyo Yaṃ katvā nānutappati

If something's to be done, then work at it firmly, for a slack going-forth kicks up all the more dust. It's better to leave a misdeed undone. A misdeed burns you afterward. Better that a good deed be done that, when you've done it, you don't regret.

Kuso yathā duggahito Hattham'evānukantati Sāmaññaṃ dupparāmatthaṃ Nirayāyūpakaḍḍhati Yaṅkiñci sithilaṃ kammaṃ Saṅkiliṭṭhañca yaṃ vataṃ Saṅkassaraṃ brahma-cariyaṃ Na taṃ hoti, mahapphalanti.

Just as sharp-bladed grass, if wrongly held, wounds the very hand that holds it — the contemplative life, if wrongly grasped, drags you down to hell. Any slack act, or defiled observance, or fraudulent life of chastity bears no great fruit.

Ovāda-pāṭimokkha Gāthā

Uddiṭṭhaṃ kho tena Bhagavatā jānatā passatā arahatā sammā-sambuddhena: Ovāda-pāṭimokkhaṃ tīhi gāthāhi.

This was summarized by the Blessed One, the One who Knows, the One who Sees, the Worthy One Rightly Self-awakened: the Patimokkha Exhortation in three verses:

Khantī paramaṃ tapo tītikkhā Nibbānaṃ paramaṃ vadanti buddhā, Na hi pabbajito parūpaghātī Samaṇo hoti paraṃ viheṭhayanto

Patient forbearance is the foremost austerity. Liberation is foremost: that's what the Buddhas say. He is no monk who injures another; nor a contemplative, he who mistreats another.

Sabba-pāpassa akaraṇaṃ, Kusalassūpasampadā, Sacitta-pariyodapanaṃ: Etaṃ buddhāna-sāsanaṃ.

The non-doing of any evil, The performance of what's skillful, The cleansing of one's own mind: This is the Buddhas' teaching.

Anūpavādo anūpaghāto Pāṭimokkhe ca saṃvaro Mattaññutā ca bhattasmiṃ Pantañca sayan'āsanaṃ. Adhicitte ca āyogo: Etaṃ buddhāna-sāsananti.

Not disparaging, not injuring, Restraint in line with the monastic code, Moderation in food, Dwelling in seclusion, Commitment to the heightened mind: This is the Buddhas' teaching.

Meditation

Breath Meditation: Seven Steps

There are seven basic steps:

1. Start out with three or seven long in-&-out breaths, thinking bud- with the in-breath, and dho with the out. Keep the meditation syllable as long as the breath.

2. Be clearly aware of each in-&-out breath.

3. Observe the breath as it goes in & out, noticing whether it's comfortable or uncomfortable, broad or narrow, obstructed or free-flowing, fast or slow, short or long, warm or cool. If the breath doesn't feel comfortable, change it until it does. For instance, if breathing in long & out long is uncomfortable, try breathing in short & out short. As soon as you find that your breathing feels comfortable, let this comfortable breath sensation spread to the different parts of the body.

To begin with, inhale the breath sensation at the base of the skull and let it flow all the way down the spine. Then, if you are male, let it spread down your right leg to the sole of your foot, to the ends of your toes, and out into the air. Inhale the breath sensation at the base of the skull again and let it spread down your spine, down your left leg to the ends of your toes, and out into the air. (If you are female, begin with the left side first, because the male & female nervous systems are different.)

Then let the breath from the base of the skull spread down over both shoulders, past your elbows & wrists, to the tips of your fingers, and out into the air.

Let the breath at the base of the throat spread down the central nerve at the front of the body, past the lungs & liver, all the way down to the bladder & colon.

Inhale the breath right at the middle of the chest and let it go all the way down to your intestines.

Let all these breath sensations spread so that they connect & flow together, and you'll feel a greatly improved sense of well-being.

4. Learn four ways of adjusting the breath:

a. in long & out long, b. in long & out short, c. in short & out long, d. in short & out short.

Breathe whichever way is most comfortable for you. Or, better yet, learn to breathe comfortably all four ways, because your physical condition & your breath are always changing.

5. Become acquainted with the bases or focal points for the mind — the resting spots of the breath — and center your awareness on whichever one seems most comfortable. A few of these bases are:

a. the tip of the nose, b. the middle of the head, c. the palate, d. the base of the throat, e. the breastbone (the tip of the sternum), f. the navel (or a point just above it).

If you suffer from frequent headaches or nervous problems, don't focus on any spot above the base of the throat. And don't try to force the breath or put yourself into a trance. Breathe freely & naturally. Let the mind be at ease with the breath — but not to the point where it slips away.

6. Spread your awareness — your sense of conscious feeling — throughout the entire body.

7. Unite the breath sensations throughout the body, letting them flow together comfortably, keeping your awareness as broad as possible. Once you are fully aware of the aspects of the breath you already know in your body, you'll come to know all sorts of other aspects as well. The breath, by its nature, has many facets: breath sensations flowing in the nerves, those flowing around & about the nerves, those spreading from the nerves to every pore. Beneficial breath sensations & harmful ones are mixed together by their very nature.

To summarize: (a) for the sake of improving the energy already existing in every part of your body, so that you can contend with such things as disease & pain; and (b) for the sake of clarifying the knowledge already within you, so that it can become a basis for the skills leading to release & purity of heart — you should always bear these seven steps in mind, because they are absolutely basic to every aspect of breath meditation.

— Phra Ajaan Lee Dhammadharo


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en/lib/authors/dhammayut/chanting.txt · Last modified: 2023/02/06 05:07 by Johann