Deep Commentary

The Buddha spoke these verses at Jetavana Monastery regarding King Pasenadi of Kosala. After suffering three successive defeats in battle against King Ajatasattu, King Pasenadi fell into a deep depression, neglecting his health and duties. Upon hearing of the King’s distress, the Buddha remarked that both victory and defeat are sources of suffering—the victor earns enmity, while the defeated lives in misery. He taught that true peace is found only by transcending the dualistic struggle of winning and losing, which is rooted in the ego. By relinquishing the desire for victory and the fear of defeat, one attains lasting tranquility.