Dhammapada Reflection Verses 87-88

Dear Dharma friends

Sukhihontu.

There are many translations of the Dhammapada from Pali to English which is quite trying especially to the new initiates. And with 423 verses, most have just floundered along the way. So it is not surprising that devotees have organised study groups to learn the sublime wisdom of the Dhammapada.

Recently, I chanced upon a freer rendering of this Buddhist classic which is authored by Ajahn Munindo, a New Zealand born, which I feel is most suitable for our community. As the Dhammapada is not meant to be read like a book, I will post 1 verse each on New moon and Full moon days respectively with the corresponding reflections from Ajahn Munindo.

I hope you will find it as useful and inspiring as it is for me.

Metta Mudita, Kevin

Dhammapada Verses 87-88
With an image of liberation as the goal 
the wise abandon darkness and cherish light,
leave petty security behind 
and seek freedom from attachment.
To pursue such release is difficult and rare,
yet the wise will seek it,
detaching themselves from obstructions,
purifying heart and mind.


Reflection
The Buddha offers images that illustrate the goal,
uplifting and supporting us in our effort to let go
of that which obstructs and limits us. If we hold 
too tightly to the images, we may lose perspective
on the here and now element of the journey;
instead of actually doing the practice, we are 
imagining it. If we fail to give right emphasis to
the goal, we may become lost in the distraction
of sense objects - agreeable and disagreeable. The
pursuit of true freedom is difficult but consider 
how much suffering comes if we don't practise.
With wise reflections we find we can endure the 
dark and difficult times. When the light returns,
we cherish it and discover how to love truth more fully.
Ajahn Munindo