Dhammapada 2
Experience is led by mind, with mind foremost, made by mind
Experience is led by mind, with mind foremost, made by mind. If you speak or act with a clear mind, happiness follows you like a shadow that never leaves.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Manopubbaṅgamā dhammā,
manoseṭṭhā manomayā;
Manasā ce pasannena,
bhāsati vā karoti vā;
Tato naṁ sukhamanveti,
chāyāva anapāyinī.
In plain words
A clear, trusting mind matters to the way you speak and act. The verse describes happiness accompanying such actions as closely as a shadow follows a person.
Key words
- pasanna
- clear, settled, trusting — More than simply being in a pleasant mood.
The story behind the verse
The story of Maṭṭhakuṇḍalī (Maṭṭhakuṇḍalīvatthu)
Maṭṭhakuṇḍalī is a young man whose father is too stingy to arrange proper treatment when he becomes ill. Near death, he sees the Buddha and turns toward him with confidence. The commentary says he is reborn among the gods. He later appears to his grieving father and explains the importance of that moment of trust.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
What would speaking from a clearer intention look like today?
Try it today
Pause before one reply and choose a sincere intention.
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.