A Collection of Buddhist Wisdom Verses - Ancient Buddhist Texts

17: Wealth
Jā 345 Gajakumbhajātakaṁ
Acting at the Right Time and Speed
A King is very slothful so the Bodhisatta shows
him a tortoise and explains its characteristics.
The King understands the lesson and reforms his
ways.
325. Yo dandhakāle tarati, taraṇīye ca dandhati,
Sukkhapaṇṇaṁ va akkamma, atthaṁ bhañjati attano.
Being quick when he should take care,
Taking care when he should be quick,
He will destroy his own welfare
Like a leaf trodden under foot.
326. Yo dandhakāle dandheti, taraṇīye ca tārayi,
Sasīva rattiṁ vibhajaṁ, tassattho paripūrati.
Taking care when he should take care,
Being quick when he should be quick,
He will fulfil his own welfare
Like the moon that will soon be full.
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