That monk who has control over his tongue, is moderate in speech, unassuming and who explains the Teaching in both letter and spirit – whatever he says is pleasing.
That monk who has control over his tongue, is moderate in speech, unassuming and who explains the Teaching in both letter and spirit – whatever he says is pleasing.
Deep Commentary
This Dhammapada verse was taught by the Buddha at Jetavana Monastery, concerning Bhikkhu Kokalika. Kokalika, out of malice, slandered the Buddha's two chief disciples, Venerables Sāriputta and Moggallāna, and as a result was reborn in hell. Other bhikkhus discussed his failure to guard his speech. The Buddha told them this was not the first time Kokalika had fallen into hell due to unguarded speech. He then told the story of a talkative turtle. Two geese befriended a turtle and offered to carry it to a beautiful golden cave. They had the turtle bite a stick firmly while they flew. The geese warned it not to open its mouth no matter what. While flying over a field, herd boys shouted and laughed. The turtle became angry, opened its mouth to retort, and fell to the ground, shattering. The Buddha concluded: 'Bhikkhus, a bhikkhu must control his speech, live silently, without conceit, and be free from defilements.'
This verse emphasizes the importance of right speech for a monk. It highlights that a monk who masters their tongue, speaks moderately, remains humble, and explains the Dhamma accurately, will have their words well-received and pleasing to others.
The story of Bhikkhu Kokalika and the talkative turtle illustrates the severe consequences of uncontrolled speech. Kokalika's slander led to his rebirth in hell, just as the turtle's inability to control its urge to speak led to its demise. This serves as a powerful reminder that mindful speech is crucial for spiritual progress and harmonious interactions.
How does the idea of "control over one's tongue" resonate with your own daily interactions?
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