Deep Commentary

The Buddha delivered this verse at the Bamboo Grove Monastery concerning Devadatta. Ananda reported that Devadatta intended to divide the Sangha and lead his own independent order. Hearing this, the Buddha stated that good deeds are easy for good people but difficult for the evil, whereas evil deeds are easy for the evil but difficult for the good.

In a world where unwholesome actions are prevalent, achieving true peace requires inner transformation. Spiritual traditions agree that worldly peace begins with personal cultivation, specifically transforming the deluded and unwholesome mind. Devadatta's attempt to harm the Buddha and split the Sangha originated from such delusion, inevitably leading to his own downfall.

Doing evil is as effortless as sliding down a slope, while doing good is as strenuous as climbing a mountain. Life is fleeting, yet people often act out of selfishness, forgetting that material wealth cannot be taken beyond the grave. True spiritual practice involves doing good without attachment to outcomes or reputation—embodying the Bodhisattva path. By upholding ethical precepts and contributing to society, one builds a joyful, regret-free life, finding true happiness in bringing benefit to oneself and others.