Daily Reading ~ December 3

Hoa Vo Uu (Buddha Dharma Education Association)
Venerable Shravasti Dhammika

The Buddha’s Words of Wisdom

How can someone who has gone down
To a swift-flowing river,
And who gets carried away by the current
Help others to cross?

 

In the same way, how can one who has not learned the Dhamma,
Not listened to the explanations of the wise,
And who is himself ignorant and filled with doubt
Help others to realize it?

 

 Just as one who has embarked on a sturdy boat
Well-equipped with oars and rudder
Could help many others to cross
Because of his skill, thoughtfulness and experience,

 

In the same way, one who is wise
And who has developed himself,
Who is learned and stable, understanding Dhamma himself,
Could make others realize it, if they listen carefully.

 

 Therefore, one should consort with the good men
Who are wise and learned,
Understanding the meaning,
Following the path and knowing the Dhamma,
And then one will attain happiness.