Dhammapada 82

As a deep lake is clear and unclouded, so the wise become clear after hearing the teachings

As a deep lake is clear and unclouded, so the wise become clear after hearing the teachings.

Translated from the Pāli by Banya

In plain words

Hearing the teachings can bring clarity to the wise. A deep, clear lake gives a picture of a mind no longer clouded in that way.

Key words

dhammāni

the teachings — Hearing makes this a teaching sense, unlike experience in verses 1–2.

The story behind the verse

After the storm, calm

In the commentary, Kāṇā stayed with her mother, who prepared food for her return to her husband. Monks repeatedly received the prepared food as offerings, and Kāṇā’s return was delayed, and her husband took another wife. She became angry with the monks, and the Buddha visited and discussed the gifts with her. Her anger settled as she heard the teaching, and the king later helped her, and she married into another household.

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

Explanation by Banya. Traditional readings vary.