A Collection of Buddhist Wisdom Verses - Ancient Buddhist Texts

1: Virtue
AN 5.58 Licchavikumārakasuttaṁ
A Wise Man's Duties
The Buddha explains the five duties which, when
fulfilled, lead to prosperity and not to decline.
11. Mātāpitukiccakaro, puttadārahito sadā,
Anto janassa atthāya, yo cassa upajīvino.
Waiting on Mother and Father,
Caring for his wife and children,
Looking after those in his house
And those who live in dependence.
12. Ubhinnaṁ yeva atthāya, vadaññū hoti sīlavā,
Ñātīnaṁ pubbapetānaṁ, diṭṭhadhamme ca jīvitaṁ.
Seeking the welfare of them all
The virtuous one is bountiful
Both to those who have departed
And to those who are still alive.
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