A Great Discourse on Blessings
A Great Discourse on Blessings (adapted from Mangala Sutta by Gunaratana Mahathera) At one time the Exalted One was living in Jeta Grove. A certain deity of astounding beauty approached the Exalted One and said: “Many deities and humans have pondered on blessings. Tell me the blessings supreme.”
The Buddha replied:
“To associate not with the foolish, To be with the wise,
To honor the worthy ones This is a blessing supreme. To reside in a suitable location, To have good past deeds done, To set oneself in the right direction This is a blessing supreme. To be well caring of mother, of father, To look after wife and children, To engage in a harmless occupation, This is a blessing supreme. Outstanding behavior, blameless action, Open hands to all relatives And selfless giving,
This is a blessing supreme. To cease and abstain from evil, To avoid intoxicants,
To be diligent in virtuous practices, This is a blessing supreme. To be reverent and humble, Content and grateful,
To hear the Dharma at the right time, This is a blessing supreme. To be patient and obedient, To visit with spiritual people, To discuss the Dharma at the right time, This is a blessing supreme. To live austerely and purely, To see the noble truths, And to realize nirvana, This is the blessing supreme. A mind unshaken
By the worldly states,
Sorrowless, stainless, and secure, This is the blessing supreme. Those who have fulfilled all these Are everywhere invincible; They find well-being everywhere, Theirs is the blessing supreme.
