12.1 Sīlava#
One should train just in virtue,
For in this world, when virtue is
Cultivated and well-trained,
It provides all success.
Desiring three kinds of happiness—
Praise, prosperity,
And to delight in heaven after passing away—
The wise should protect virtue.
The well-behaved have many friends,
Because of their self-restraint.
But one without virtue, of bad conduct,
Drives away their friends.
A person of bad behavior has
Ill-repute and infamy.
A person of virtue always has
A good reputation, fame, and praise.
Virtue is the starting point and foundation;
The mother at the head
Of all good qualities:
Therefore you should purify virtue.
Virtue is a boundary and a restraint,
An enjoyment for the mind;
The place where all the Buddhas cross over:
Therefore you should purify virtue.
Virtue is the matchless power;
Virtue is the ultimate weapon;
Virtue is the best ornament;
Virtue is a marvellous coat of armour.
Virtue is a mighty bridge;
Virtue is the unsurpassed scent;
Virtue is the best perfume,
That floats in all directions.
Virtue is the best provision;
Virtue is the unsurpassed supply for a journey;
Virtue is the best vehicle,
That takes you in all directions.
In this life they’re criticized;
After passing away they’re unhappy in a lower realm;
A fool is unhappy everywhere,
Because they are not endowed with virtues.
In this life they’re famous;
After passing away they’re happy in heaven;
A person with understanding is happy everywhere,
Because they are endowed with virtues.
Virtue is best in this life,
But a person with understanding is supreme
Among humans and gods,
Conquering with virtue and understanding.