The Numerical Discourses

Chapter 12: The Single Entry Path

2. Spitefulness

1. Thus I have heard: One time, the Buddha was staying at Anāthapiṇḍada’s Park in Jeta’s Grove of Śrāvastī.

2. It was then that the Bhagavān addressed the monks, “I don’t see a single thing here that so quickly wears something away as spitefulness does the religious life. Therefore, monks, you should cultivate kindness and acceptance. Be kind in your physical conduct, kind in your verbal conduct, and kind in your mental conduct. Thus, monks, you should train yourselves.”

3. When the monks who heard what the Buddha taught, they rejoiced and approved.

Translator: Charles Patton

Last Revised: 29 June 2023