THE TEACHER.
XLVIII.
THE DHAMMAPADA.
This is the Dhammapada, the path of religion pursued by those who are followers of the Buddha: 1
Creatures from mind their character derive; mind-marshalled are they, mind-made. Mind is the source either of bliss or of corruption. 2
By oneself evil is done; by oneself one suffers; by oneself evil is left undone; by oneself one is purified. Purity and impurity belong to oneself, no one can purify another. 3 You yourself must make an effort. The Tathāgatas are only preachers. The thoughtful who enter the way are freed from the bondage of Māra. 4
He who does not rouse himself when it is time to rise; who, though young and strong, is full of sloth; whose will and thoughts are weak; that lazy and idle man will never find the way to enlightenment. 5
If a man hold himself dear, let him watch himself carefully; the truth guards him who guards himself. 6