Dhammapada
AI-drafted · awaiting admin review
A short, much-loved collection of 423 verses of the Buddha on the mind, ethics and the path to freedom.
| Tradition | Buddhist |
|---|---|
| Type | Scripture |
| Language | Pali |
| Period | Part of the Pali Canon; teachings of the Buddha passed down orally (c. 5th century BCE onwards) |
| Composed or compiled by | Sayings of the Buddha |
What it contains
- 26 chapters, such as on the mind, the fool, the wise and happiness.
- Opens with the teaching that the mind is the forerunner of all actions.
- Hatred is never ended by hatred, but by non-hatred alone.
- Part of the Khuddaka Nikaya of the Sutta Pitaka.
Significance
It is one of the most translated Buddhist texts and an introduction to the Buddha's teaching for many readers.