Dhammapada 328
If you find a prudent companion to travel with, wise and living well, then, overcoming all dangers…
If you find a prudent companion to travel with, wise and living well, then, overcoming all dangers, go with them, glad and mindful.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Sace labhetha nipakaṁ sahāyaṁ,
Saddhiṁ caraṁ sādhuvihāridhīraṁ;
Abhibhuyya sabbāni parissayāni,
Careyya tenattamano satīmā.
In plain words
If you find a sensible, wise companion who lives well, the verse encourages traveling with them gladly and attentively. It presents good company as part of facing the dangers along the way.
Key words
- nipaka
- prudent, discerning — The companion is valued for judgment and conduct.
The story behind the verse
An elephant waits upon the Buddha
In the commentary, after a quarrel among the monks at Kosambī, the Buddha lived in the forest. An elephant who had left his own herd attended him there, and the elephant brought water and performed practical services. Ānanda came with monks to visit the Buddha, and the monks wondered whether living away from people had been difficult. The Buddha explained the care the elephant had provided, and he taught about traveling with a prudent companion who lives well, and about solitude when no such companion is found.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
What makes someone a good companion for the path you are taking?
Try it today
Share one small constructive activity with a trusted companion.
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.