ධම්මපදට්ඨකථා (Dhammapada Commentary — Sri Lankan Palm-Leaf MS)

In accordance with this ancient paraphrase sannaya a traditional word-for-word translation or commentary marked by meaning, the virtues of the Buddha are praised while showing how the Bodhisattva fulfilled the ten perfections paramitas ten virtues leading to enlightenment in previous lifetimes. Furthermore, he points out the path to Nirvana with great compassion for beings while preaching all manner of Dhamma. The manner in which the True Dhamma is maintained in the world while providing advice and instructions to monks is described here. This great service done for the existence of the Sasana dispensation will be of great help even to beings born in the future. Furthermore, it is emphasized here that the terrifying nature of this Samsara, which moves from birth to birth, can be realized only by a person who possesses wisdom.

The multitude of virtues of our Buddha, who showed the path to Nirvana by preaching Dhamma to gods and humans with great compassion for all beings, is praised here. Having eradicated all kinds of defilements, he attained supreme perfect enlightenment. The Dhamma he preached exists for the good of the whole world. This ancient paraphrase was prepared according to the interpretations made by great individuals who lived in the past. By well-understanding the matters contained here, good results can be obtained. This noble Dhamma is helpful in freeing oneself from all kinds of suffering and creating the wealth of Nirvana. Thus, this service done to keep the True Dhamma safe even for the future is immense.

The advantages that can be achieved by living a life endowed with good qualities are shown here. Especially faith and wisdom are considered primary here. The Dhamma itself provides protection to the person who walks in the Dhamma. Therefore, it is good to engage in meritorious deeds at all times. Furthermore, this Dhamma will be a great light to beings born in the future. This helps to eradicate all kinds of unwholesome deeds and to find a place in the Sasana of the perfectly enlightened Buddha. As a reward for this meritorious act done in this way, may the path to Nirvana open. May all beings find relief in Nirvana. It is worth paying attention to the points shown secondarily as well.

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This noble Dhamma must be read with silence and mindfulness. Dhamma is the only remedy for calming all kinds of defilements that arise in the minds of beings. One must constantly strive to end the suffering of existence and see Nirvana. Understanding the instability of the world is the characteristic of a wise person. The relief that can be achieved by always walking in the Dhamma is immense. The great ones who lived in the past also walked this path and attained the bliss of Nirvana. Therefore, we too must follow that path. Wishing happiness for all beings in this way, this work was completed. May the whole world be relieved by the power of Dhamma.

This Dhamma must be protected for as long as one lives. This service done to bring happiness to beings is immense. Even in the midst of all kinds of obstacles, protecting the Dhamma is the responsibility of Buddhists. Making beings who wander in Samsara realize the value of this is a difficult task. However, it is easy for a person who has Dhamma-knowledge. One must constantly focus on eradicating unwholesome deeds and accumulating wholesome ones. By the grace of the meritorious deeds done in this way, may the path to Nirvana open. Guidance required for living a good life is contained here. May all beings be happy. Success can be achieved by acting with wisdom and vigor.

Doing such work for the longevity of the Buddha Sasana is valuable. Past kings also made great sacrifices to protect the Sasana. Following that, it is everyone's duty to maintain the Dhamma in the present. This Dhamma, which points out the path to Nirvana that grants all kinds of happiness and wealth, must be safe at all times. May this meritorious deed written in this way be for the happiness of all beings fairly. May this be the cause to achieve relief in the bliss of Nirvana. May it exist for the good of the whole world. May this Dhamma, written while providing for the advancement of the Sasana, be an inheritance for the future generation.