Dhammapada 227

This is ancient, Atula, not something just of today

This is ancient, Atula, not something just of today. They blame one who sits silent; they blame one who speaks much; they blame even one who speaks in moderation. There is no one in the world who is not blamed.

Translated from the Pāli by Banya

In plain words

Atula is told that people find fault with silence, long speech, and even measured speech. Being blamed is an old human pattern, so no speaking style can secure universal approval.

Key words

anindita

not blamed — The verse denies that anyone entirely escapes blame.

The story behind the verse

The story of the lay follower Atula (Atulaupāsakavatthu)

Atula and his companions visit monks to hear teaching. Revata's silence displeases them, Sāriputta's detailed teaching seems too long, and Ānanda's shorter teaching seems insufficient. They bring their complaints to the Buddha. He explains that people blame the silent, the talkative, and even those who speak moderately.

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

Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.