Dhammapada 204
Health is the greatest gain
Health is the greatest gain; contentment is the greatest wealth. Trust is the greatest kinship; Nibbāna is the greatest happiness.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Ārogyaparamā lābhā,
Santuṭṭhiparamaṁ dhanaṁ;
Vissāsaparamā ñāti,
Nibbānaṁ paramaṁ sukhaṁ.
In plain words
Health is the greatest gain, contentment the greatest wealth, trust the closest kinship, and Nibbāna the greatest happiness. Traditionally, Nibbāna is read as liberation.
Key words
- santuṭṭhi
- contentment — Being satisfied, rather than accumulating more wealth.
- nibbāna
- Nibbāna, liberation — The ending of the bondage of craving and suffering.
The story behind the verse
On moderation in eating
In the commentary, King Pasenadi came to the Buddha after a large meal, and he was uncomfortable and drowsy. The Buddha taught him about moderation in eating, and the king could not retain the instruction himself. A young relative learned it and repeated it for him at mealtimes, and the king gradually reduced his excessive portions. He later reported greater ease and clearer spirits, and the Buddha taught the verse praising health, contentment, trust, and Nibbāna.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
What do you already have that contentment might let you value?
Try it today
Name one sufficient thing in your life before considering an optional purchase.
Practise it with
Shared joy (muditā)
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.