Dhammapada 216

From craving comes sorrow

From craving comes sorrow; from craving comes fear. For one freed from craving, there is no sorrow—where could fear come from?

Translated from the Pāli by Banya

In plain words

Craving is identified as a source of sorrow and fear. The verse describes complete release from craving, rather than saying that briefly setting aside a wish ends all sorrow.

Key words

taṇhā

craving — A thirst that binds, distinct from willingness to do good.

The story behind the verse

Set not your heart on worldly possessions

In the commentary, a brahmin was cultivating a field. The Buddha spoke with him during the work, and the brahmin promised to share the crop if it prospered. When the crop was nearly ready, a severe storm destroyed it, and the loss left him so distressed that he stayed in bed and refused food. The Buddha visited and spoke to him about desire and sorrow, and the commentary says the brahmin reached the first stage of awakening after hearing the teaching.

Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).

Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.