Pilot entry: source checked; awaiting review by readers from this tradition.
Original source · Historical tradition
Dhammapada (Khuddaka Nikaya, Pali Canon): Dhammapada verse 183, Buddhavagga (Chapter 14, 'The Buddha', vv. 179–196)
“Not to do any evil; to embrace the good; to purify one’s mind: this is the instruction of the Buddhas.”Translation: Bhikkhu Sujato (SuttaCentral, public domain dedication)
The verse sums up the Buddhas' teaching in three parts: refrain from all wrongdoing, cultivate what is wholesome, and purify one's own mind.
Read the full passage at the source (an equivalent, reliable source; the originally listed link was unavailable).
Edition: Translation by Bhikkhu Sujato, published by SuttaCentral and dedicated to the public domain.
Historical context
Historical context
The Dhammapada is a collection of verses in Pali preserved in the Theravada canon; parallel collections exist in other Indic languages (e.g. the Gandhari Dharmapada and the Sanskrit Udanavarga). Its material is traditionally attributed to the Buddha (c. 5th century BCE); the anthology was likely compiled over the following centuries, and dating is uncertain.
Interpretations differ
Within the tradition
Often called the heart or summary of the Buddhist teaching (sometimes linked with the Ovada Patimokkha). Theravada commentaries map the three lines onto ethics, cultivation and mental purification. Mahayana and other schools cite it widely too, with their own framings.
Respect and care
Cultural protocol
We present this verse as a teaching to reflect on, not as a slogan, and we treat images of the Buddha with respect.
21 EFFECTS contemporary reflection · Transformation
A practice inspired by this text
This practice is a 21 EFFECTS reflection. It is not the tradition’s own teaching or its only meaning, and you do not need to share its beliefs to use it.
- Name one harmful action you will refrain from today.
- Name one good action you will do today.
- In the evening, record the action you did in integrity, not only how you felt.
What did I actually do today, not merely feel, that was good?
Does this speak to you?
Saved sources accompany your journey days as an extra reflection. Private, on this device only.
Further research
Go to the source
Dhammapada (Khuddaka Nikaya, Pali Canon): Dhammapada verse 183, Buddhavagga (Chapter 14, 'The Buddha', vv. 179–196). Read the passage in full, in context, and with teachers from the tradition where possible. Spotted an error? Send a correction.