Dhammapada 81
As a solid rock is not shaken by the wind, so the wise are not shaken by blame or praise
As a solid rock is not shaken by the wind, so the wise are not shaken by blame or praise.
Translated from the Pāli by Banya
Pāli
Selo yathā ekaghano,
vātena na samīrati;
Evaṁ nindāpasaṁsāsu,
na samiñjanti paṇḍitā.
In plain words
Just as a solid rock is not shaken by the wind, the wise are not shaken by praise or blame.
Key words
- nindāpasaṁsā
- blame and praise — Both unfavorable and favorable judgments enter the comparison.
The story behind the verse
The story of the elder Lakuṇḍaka Bhaddiya (Lakuṇḍakabhaddiyattheravatthu)
Lakuṇḍaka Bhaddiya is a monk of very small stature. Other monks tease him, but he does not respond with anger. They ask the Buddha about his composure. The Buddha says he is liberated and compares such steadiness to a rock unmoved by wind.
Retold by Banya from the traditional commentary, after E. W. Burlingame, Buddhist Legends (1921).
To reflect on
How do praise and blame influence a choice you are making?
Try it today
Pause before changing one decision solely because of praise or blame.
Practise it with
Equanimity (upekkhā)
Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.