Deep Commentary

This verse was taught by the Buddha at Jetavana Monastery, relating to a fisherman named Cao Quí (High Noble). "One day, the Buddha observed that this fisherman was capable of attaining enlightenment. So after alms round near the northern gate of Savatthi, he and the Sangha returned past where this man was. At that moment, the fisherman was fishing. Seeing the Buddha and the monks, Cao Quí threw down his fishing rod and stood still. The World-Honored One stopped not far away, turned back and asked the names of Venerable Sariputta and the others: 'What is your name?' 'I am Sariputta, Lord.' 'I am Moggallana, Lord.' The fisherman thought: 'The Buddha is asking everyone's name; surely he will ask mine.' The Buddha knew his thought, turned and asked: 'Layman, what is your name?' 'Lord, my name is Cao Quí.' The Buddha said: 'Layman, one who takes the life of others cannot be called 'Noble.' A noble one is he who never harms anyone.' On that occasion, the Buddha spoke this verse." (Excerpt from The Dhammapada Story Collection, Volume III, Vien Chieu, p. 98)