Dhp 331-3 Māravatthu
The Good Things in Life
The Buddha is reflecting on whether it is possible for Kings to rule the world with justice. Māra, finding this out, comes to the wrong conclusion, and tries to tempt him. The Buddha explains what is truly good.
63. Atthamhi jātamhi sukhā sahāyā,
Tuṭṭhī sukhā yā itarītarena,
Puññaṁ sukhaṁ jīvitasaṅkhayamhi,
Sabbassa dukkhassa sukhaṁ pahāṇaṁ.
Having able companions is good,
Being content with anything is good,
At the end of one’s life merit is good,
Abandoning all suffering is good.
64. Sukhā matteyyatā loke, atho petteyyatā sukhā,
Sukhā sāmaññatā loke, atho brahmaññatā sukhā.
Filial piety for one’s Mother is good,
And filial piety for one’s Father is good,
Respect for ascetics is also good,
Respect for purified brāhmans is good.
65. Sukhaṁ yāva jarā sīlaṁ, sukhā saddhā patiṭṭhitā,
Sukho paññāya paṭilābho, pāpānaṁ akaraṇaṁ sukhaṁ.
Maintaining virtue till old age is good,
The establishing of faith is good,
The acquisition of wisdom is good,
Doing nothing wicked is also good.
Bhante, Once again today I am thanking you for bringing this to my attention. I was not aware of your photodharma pages before. The truth in the words is apparent.
Also, thanks for the recitation in Pali, it is most helpful to hear, especially so, as I am able listen and it helps with my own pronunciation of the words, I can read out aloud along with you.
With Metta
Mark.
Thanks for your kind words, Mark, and good to hear these translations are useful to people.