Deep Commentary

This Dhammapada verse was taught by the Buddha at Jetavana Monastery, concerning Elder Dhammarama. When the Buddha announced that he would enter Nibbana in four months, many bhikkhus wept. Those who had not yet attained stream-entry could not control their emotions. Even the arahants, though not outwardly moved, felt sorrow. Bhikkhu Dhammarama, however, left the Sangha to a quiet place to contemplate the Dhamma, paying no attention to others and not waiting on the Buddha. Other bhikkhus reported this. When questioned, he replied that he wished to attain arahantship before the Blessed One's final passing. The Buddha praised him and told the bhikkhus: 'Each of you should show reverence to me as Dhammarama has done. Not with flowers or offerings, but only those who practice the teaching truly respect me.' Then he spoke this verse. Upon hearing it, Dhammarama attained arahantship, and the assembly also benefited. (End of story summary). Cultivating sublime conduct and strictly upholding the precepts is the right way of life for a renunciant. To dwell in the bliss of the true Dhamma, one must constantly develop morality, concentration, and wisdom, or mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom. By contemplating the Dhamma and reflecting on oneself according to the Buddha's instructions, one sees clearly the cause of suffering and the peace of Nibbana. The Noble Eightfold Path is the essential path for constant reflection. By practicing and thoroughly investigating it, liberation is no longer distant. The Buddha taught that a renunciant must equip themselves with a firm and enduring mind to overcome all difficulties and not fall away. The story of Dhammarama illustrates this: instead of grieving, he sought solitude to eradicate defilements before the Buddha's passing. Through diligent meditation, he soon attained arahantship. He paid no heed to praise or blame from others, focusing solely on his aspiration. This is true gratitude to the Buddha for his great teaching.