A Collection of Buddhist Wisdom Verses - Ancient Buddhist Texts

9: Gratefulness
Jā 308 Javasakuṇajātakaṁ
Abandoning an Ingrate
A bird helps a lion by removing a bone stuck in
its throat, but when asked to requite he haughtily
refuses.
183. Akataññum-akattāraṁ, katass' appaṭikārakaṁ,
Yasmiṁ kataññutā natthi, niratthā tassa sevanā.
An ingrate who does not requite
Whatever has been done for him,
There is no point mixing with those
In whom gratitude is not found.
184. Yassa sammukhaciṇṇena mittadhammo na labbhati,
Anusūyam-anakkosaṁ, saṇikaṁ tamhā apakkame.
From that one in whom friendliness
Is habitually lacking,
Without jealousy or insult,
He should gently, quickly depart.
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