Dhammapada, Chapter 13 summary
Chapter 13 of 26 · 2 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 13, the speaker urges people to reject wrongdoing, practice virtue, and see the world as fleeting rather than cling to its attractions. The teaching contrasts foolish attachment with wise conduct and places the first step toward holiness above earthly rule, heaven, and power over all worlds.
What happens
- The speaker rejects thoughtless living, false teaching, and worldly attachment, urging active virtue instead.
- Images of a bubble, a mirage, and a glittering chariot distinguish wise perception from foolish attachment.
- People who become clear-minded or counter evil with good brighten the world like a moon emerging from clouds.
- Few escape the world's darkness, while the wise overcome Mara and his followers.
- The speaker warns against lying and ungenerous conduct, then ranks the first step toward holiness above every form of rule.
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