Dhammapada 205
Having drunk in the taste of seclusion and the taste of peace, you are free of distress and…
Having drunk in the taste of seclusion and the taste of peace, you are free of distress and wrongdoing, drinking in the taste of joy in the Dhamma.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Pavivekarasaṁ pitvā,
rasaṁ upasamassa ca;
Niddaro hoti nippāpo,
dhammapītirasaṁ pivaṁ.
In plain words
Seclusion, peace, and joy in the teaching are described as tastes someone drinks in. The verse depicts freedom from distress and wrongdoing through this way of living, rather than treating a quiet break alone as liberation.
Key words
- paviveka
- seclusion — A contemplative withdrawal, joined here with peace and the teaching.
The story behind the verse
By righteousness men honor the Buddha
In the commentary, the Buddha announced that his final passing was near. Many monks were anxious and remained around him, and a monk named Tissa resolved to attain liberation while the Buddha was still living. He practiced alone rather than joining the worried groups, and the other monks mistook his withdrawal for a lack of affection. They brought the matter to the Buddha, and the Buddha praised Tissa and explained that living the teaching was a true form of honor.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
What might you notice in a little chosen solitude?
Try it today
Spend one quiet minute with a verse away from conversation.
Practise it with
Shared joy (muditā)
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.