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Discourse On Happiness

The document is a translation of the Buddha's discourse on what brings the greatest happiness. The Buddha outlines various behaviors and mindsets that lead to happiness, such as associating with wise people, living in a good environment, being skillful in one's work, serving one's parents and family, avoiding unwholesome actions, and realizing Nirvana.

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131 views3 pages

Discourse On Happiness

The document is a translation of the Buddha's discourse on what brings the greatest happiness. The Buddha outlines various behaviors and mindsets that lead to happiness, such as associating with wise people, living in a good environment, being skillful in one's work, serving one's parents and family, avoiding unwholesome actions, and realizing Nirvana.

Uploaded by

DannyPasenadi
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Discourse on Happiness

Mahamangala Sutta, Sutta Nipāta 1

I heard these words of the Buddha one time when the Lord was living in the
vicinity of Savatthi at the Anathapindika Monastery in the Jeta Grove. Late at
night, a deva appeared whose light and beauty made the whole Jeta Grove
shine radiantly. After paying respects to the Buddha, the deva asked him a
question in the form of a verse:

“Many gods and men are eager to know


what are the greatest blessings
which bring about a peaceful and happy life.
Please, Tathagata, will you teach us?”

(This is the Buddha’s answer):

“Not to be associated with the foolish ones,


to live in the company of wise people,
honoring those who are worth honoring —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To live in a good environment,


to have planted good seeds,
and to realize that you are on the right path —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To have a chance to learn and grow,


to be skillful in your profession or craft,
practicing the precepts and loving speech —
this is the greatest happiness.
“To be able to serve and support your parents,
to cherish your own family,
to have a vocation that brings you joy —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To live honestly, generous in giving,


to offer support to relatives and friends,
living a life of blameless conduct —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To avoid unwholesome actions,


not caught by alcoholism or drugs,
and to be diligent in doing good things —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To be humble and polite in manner,


to be grateful and content with a simple life,
not missing the occasion to learn the Dharma —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To persevere and be open to change,


to have regular contact with monks and nuns,
and to fully participate in Dharma discussions —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To live diligently and attentively,


to perceive the Noble Truths,
and to realize Nirvana —
this is the greatest happiness.

“To live in the world


with your heart undisturbed by the world,
with all sorrows ended, dwelling in peace —
this is the greatest happiness.

“For he or she who accomplishes this,


unvanquished wherever she goes,
always he is safe and happy —
happiness lives within oneself.”

Translated by Thich Nhat Hanh from Mahamangala Sutta, Sutta Nipāta 1.

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