Only rarely is there a man in this world who, restrained by modesty, avoids reproach, as a tho roughbred horse avoids the whip.
Only rarely is there a man in this world who, restrained by modesty, avoids reproach, as a thoroughbred horse avoids the whip.
Deep Commentary
The Buddha taught this verse at the Jeta Grove concerning the Elder Pilotika. Formerly a ragged beggar, he was ordained by Venerable Ananda. One day, returning to the tree where he had left his old rags, he reflected: "Why seek what is lost? What is the use?" Through this deep contemplation, he attained Arahantship. The Buddha confirmed his attainment, highlighting the importance of meditation. Without contemplation, practice is like cooking without salt. The verse also emphasizes the two wholesome mental factors: moral shame (hiri) and moral dread (ottappa). They differentiate humans from animals by preventing shameless and reckless actions. A person with moral conscience stops unwholesome thoughts before they manifest into harmful actions, avoiding suffering like a good horse avoiding the whip.
This verse from the Dhammapada highlights the rarity of individuals who, guided by a sense of moral shame (hiri) and moral dread (ottappa), skillfully avoid blameworthy actions. Just as a well-trained horse instinctively shies away from the whip, a person with a developed moral conscience prevents unwholesome thoughts from manifesting into harmful deeds. This inner restraint protects them from suffering and reproach, setting them apart from those who act recklessly. It emphasizes the profound importance of cultivating these wholesome mental factors in our practice.
What does this verse inspire you to reflect on regarding your own actions and intentions?
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