A Collection of Buddhist Wisdom Verses - Ancient Buddhist Texts

21: Desires
Jā 228 Kāmanītajātakaṁ
Wisdom is the only Cure for Greed
A King receives Sakka (the Bodhisatta) disguised
as a young brāhman, who promises to help him
conquer three cities. But the King is so mean he
doesn't even offer him lodging. In the morning the
brāhman is nowhere to be found and the King
falls sick thinking of his loss. Sakka preaches to
him as the only way to cure his illness of greed.
402. Kaṇhāhi daṭṭhassa karonti heke,
Amanussavaddhassa karonti Paṇḍitā.
Na kāmanītassa karoti koci,
Okkantasukkassa hi kā tikicchā
Some there are who can cure the cobra's bite,
And the Wise can cure possession by ghosts.
But no one can cure one led by desire,
What treatment can there be for the impure
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