Dhammapada 24
The reputation of one who is energetic and mindful, pure in deeds and thoughtful in action…
The reputation of one who is energetic and mindful, pure in deeds and thoughtful in action, restrained, living rightly, and heedful, keeps growing.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Uṭṭhānavato satīmato,
Sucikammassa nisammakārino;
Saññatassa dhammajīvino,
Appamattassa yasobhivaḍḍhati.
In plain words
This verse praises effort joined with attention, clean conduct, and thinking before acting. It says the reputation of someone who lives this way grows; it makes no additional promise of wealth or success.
Key words
- nisammakārin
- thoughtful in action — Someone who considers an action before carrying it out.
The story behind the verse
The voice of a rich man
In the commentary, a plague struck Rājagaha, and Kumbhaghosaka’s dying parents told him to flee and later recover their buried wealth. He lived away for years, then returned and found the treasure intact, and Because no one recognized him, he feared trouble if he openly spent the fortune. He earned a living by taking work instead, and the king heard his voice and thought it belonged to a wealthy man. A woman working for the king lodged with him and contrived to reveal his wealth, and when the truth emerged, the king praised his judgment and confirmed his inheritance.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
What would you like your everyday conduct to say about you?
Try it today
Think through one consequence before making a small commitment.
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.