Dhammapada 33
The mind quivers and flits about, hard to guard, hard to restrain
The mind quivers and flits about, hard to guard, hard to restrain. The wise straighten it as an arrow-maker straightens an arrow shaft.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Phandanaṁ capalaṁ cittaṁ,
dūrakkhaṁ dunnivārayaṁ;
Ujuṁ karoti medhāvī,
usukārova tejanaṁ.
In plain words
The mind can dart about and resist being guided. Training it takes deliberate care, like a craftsperson making an arrow shaft straight.
Key words
- citta
- mind — The changing mind being trained, not a fixed inner essence.
The story behind the verse
Elder Meghiya
Meghiya leaves the Buddha to meditate in a mango grove despite being asked to remain until another monk arrives. Disturbing thoughts prevent his practice, and he returns. The Buddha admonishes him about being led by his thoughts and teaches the image of an arrow-maker straightening a shaft. Burlingame abbreviates the wider Meghiya account, so this retelling keeps to the events printed here.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
Where does your attention keep darting today?
Try it today
Return your attention to the same simple task once when it wanders.
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.