Dhammapada 19-20

If he recites many teachings, but
     â€” heedless man —
doesn’t do what they say,
like a cowherd counting the cattle of
     others,
he has no share in the contemplative life.

If he recites next to nothing
but follows the Dhamma
in line with the Dhamma;
    abandoning passion,
      aversion, delusion;
    alert,
    his mind well-released,
      not clinging
    either here or hereafter:
he has his share in the contemplative life.

Thanissaro Bhikkhu

Entry Filed under: Bhikkhu, ThanissaroSpirit

2 Comments Add your own

  • 1. Blue Heron  |  July 7th, 2007 at 8:13 am

    Lao-tse said it:
    Who knows
    doesn’t talk.
    Who talks
    doesn’t know.
    Closing the openings,
    shutting doors …

  • 2. Scott Leslie  |  July 7th, 2007 at 11:08 am

    I am a cowherd, but I am off to tend my own herd.

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