Dhammapada 6

Others do not understand: 'Here we are coming to an end

Others do not understand: 'Here we are coming to an end.' Those who understand this find that quarrels settle.

Translated from the Pāli by Banya

In plain words

On the reading used here, remembering that our lives will end changes how we quarrel. The key Pāli verb is uncertain, so this mortality reading is a choice rather than the only possible meaning.

Key words

yamāmase

we come to an end — A mortality reading is adopted; a restraint reading is also possible.

The story behind the verse

The story of the monks of Kosambī (Kosambakavatthu)

Monks at Kosambī divide into opposing groups over a disciplinary dispute. They continue quarreling despite the Buddha's attempts to reconcile them, and he withdraws from their company. Lay supporters then refuse to support the quarrel through their offerings. The monks eventually seek reconciliation and the Buddha's guidance.

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

Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.