The Sutta Nipata
The "Sutta Collection"
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Sutta Nipata II.3
Hiri Sutta
On Friendship
Translated from the Pali by John D. Ireland.
Read an alternate translation by Thanissaro
Bhikkhu
"One who, overstepping and despising a sense of shame,
says, 'I am your friend,' but does not take upon himself any tasks he is capable
of doing, is to be recognized as no friend. One who speaks amiably to his
companions, but whose actions do not conform to it, him the wise know for
certain as a talker not a doer. He is no friend who, anticipating conflict, is
always alert in looking out for weaknesses. [1] But
he on whom one can rely, like a child sleeping on its mother's breast, is truly
a friend who cannot be parted from one by others.
"One who bears the human burden of responsibility, with
it fruits and blessings in mind, he cultivates a cause [2]
of joy and happiness worthy of praise. Having tasted the flavor of solitude and
peace one is free from fear and wrong-doings imbibing the rapture of
Dhamma."
-- vv. 253-257
Notes
1. Such a person dislikes to be
reproved, and when an occasion for this occurs he would wish to have a weapon
with which to retaliate, and therefore, he takes note of one's weaknesses.
[Go back]
2. According to the Commentary, this
joy-producing cause is strenuous effort (viriya).
[Go back]
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Contents
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III | Ch IV|
ChV
