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

The Path of Reflection, the Cycle of Existence, and the Nature of Wisdom

The Path of Reflection, the cycle of existence, the nature of the mind, and the realization of the truth lead to the ending of suffering. The Pravartana Sutra The Discourse on the Setting in Motion (of the Wheel of Dhamma)—the True Dhamma preached by the Blessed One, who was pure in both lineages referring to the purity of both parental lines, clearly sets forth the meaning of the path. This Dhamma exists for the benefit and happiness of the world, dispelling defilements and illuminating the path to Nirvana. The respect and faith owed to the monks are well analyzed here. The rewards of taking refuge in the Triple Gem, which is the ultimate benefactor, are also mentioned.

Mogallana Maudgalyayana, a chief disciple of the Buddha, who was foremost in the world and possessed of great virtue, was also full of wisdom.

--- For the sake of the glory of merit ---

The instructions mentioned here are highly valuable, and by following them, goodness in this world and the next is attained. It is important to preserve this scholarly knowledge, passed down from the past, for future generations. At the end of the preaching of the True Dhamma, it is prayed that all beings may be happy.

This teaching, which is pure in its lineage, should be well understood. The one who walks in the Dhamma is protected by the Dhamma itself. This is the noble guidance of the Buddha. The advice He gave to liberate the beings of the world from suffering is contained herein.

Furthermore, the matters mentioned in this book are described in a way that is both profound and simple. Various similes and metaphors are used for the convenience of the listeners. The importance of taming the mind and the difficulty involved therein are well indicated. How to overcome obstacles in the journey toward Nirvana is also described here.

Possessing complete morality shila virtuous conduct is the first step to entering the path of liberation. Fear and agitation are dispelled by establishing unshakable faith in the Triple Gem. May all those who hear this noble True Dhamma attain goodness in this life and the deathless bliss of Nirvana!

The content here is very clear, and it is written in simple language. The main purpose here is the development of the wisdom of the listeners. May the Gem of the Dhamma shine in the world forever!

The Nature of Contentment, Sweetness, Mindfulness, and the Radiance of Wisdom

The nature of contentment, sweetness, the holding of mindfulness, and the radiance of wisdom are expressed. This sermon, which soothes the mind, exists for the benefit and happiness of all. May this Dhamma, which is like the nectar amrita deathless/immortal water that cools the suffering of existence, be planted in every heart.

Living in this world with wisdom is a noble thing. The mind is purified by engaging in meritorious deeds. The various similes mentioned here help to understand the depth of the Dhamma.

--- The Noble Dhamma ---

For the sake of understanding, it is essential to focus the mind. For the being suffering from various defilements, this Dhamma is a great medicine. It guides one to dispel unwholesome thoughts arising in the mind and to cultivate wholesome deeds.

By listening to the Dhamma with devotion and faith, one attains great fruit and great benefit. By correctly understanding the content herein, liberation can be attained.

This noble sermon ends by spreading the coolness of loving-kindness in every heart. May all beings in the world be free from suffering, be healthy, and be happy! Sadhu! Sadhu! Sadhu!

--- For the sake of progress ---

The end.
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