Dhammapada 79
One who finds joy in the Dhamma sleeps at ease, with a very clear mind
One who finds joy in the Dhamma sleeps at ease, with a very clear mind. The wise always delight in the Dhamma revealed by the noble ones.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Dhammapīti sukhaṁ seti,
vippasannena cetasā;
Ariyappavedite dhamme,
sadā ramati paṇḍito.
In plain words
Someone who finds joy in the Dhamma rests at ease with a clear mind. The wise continually delight in the Dhamma proclaimed by the noble ones.
Key words
- dhammapīti
- joy in the Dhamma — The compound may also suggest drinking in the teaching.
The story behind the verse
Kappina the Great, Elder
In the commentary, King Kappina heard that the Buddha, the teaching, and the community had appeared in the world. He left with his companions to seek the Buddha, and Queen Anojā and her companions also set out. The commentary describes their river crossings through acts of truth, and they heard the teaching and entered religious life. Kappina frequently expressed his happiness, and when monks thought he meant the pleasure of ruling, the Buddha explained that he meant the happiness of Nibbāna.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
What part of the teaching draws your interest today?
Try it today
Read one verse slowly and stay with its meaning for a minute.
Practise it with
Shared joy (muditā)
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.