Dhammapada, Chapter 19 summary
Chapter 19 of 26 · 2 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 19, the verses define justice and spiritual standing through fair judgment, wisdom, restraint, and compassion rather than force, speech, age, or appearance. They end by warning the Bhikshu that discipline, learning, trance, and solitude do not justify confidence while desire remains.
What happens
- Justice requires distinguishing right from wrong and guiding others through fairness rather than force.
- Learning and devotion to the law depend on patience and practice, not abundant speech.
- Age, attractive appearance, and a shaved head do not establish wisdom, respectability, or spiritual discipline.
- A true Bhikshu follows the whole law, while a Muni weighs choices and avoids evil.
- Nobility requires compassion toward living beings, and the final warning makes ending desire essential to confidence.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Dhammapada, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
The closing warning makes the removal of desire decisive. It prevents religious practices and accomplishments from becoming grounds for premature confidence.
Quick check
What makes someone an Ariya according to this unit?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Dhammapada, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
