In this episode we look at what it means to be an “Upholder of the Dharma” according to Buddha, and how we can, in a practical way, be one. In particular, we try to lessen the harm we do.

 

One does not uphold the Dharma

    Only because one speaks a lot.

Having heard even a little,

    If one perceives the Dharma with one’s own body

And is never negligent of the Dharma,

    Then one is indeed an upholder of the Dharma. (Verse 259)

--Buddha, The Dhammapada

 

Doing no harm, 

Practice what’s skillful, 

Purify one’s mind: 

This is the teaching of the buddhas.

--Buddha, The Dhammapada

References

Buddha. The Dhammapada: The Buddha’s Path of Wisdom. Translated by Acharya Buddharakkhita. Buddhist Publication Society Kandy, 1985. pp. 48.

 

The Story of Ekudana the Arahat.The Dhammapada: Verse and Stories, Translated by Daw Mya Tin, M.A. Edited by Editorial Committee, Burma Tipitaka Association Rangoon, Burma, 1986. Courtesy of Nibbana.com. For free distribution only, as a gift of dhamma. https://www.tipitaka.net/tipitaka/dhp/verseload.php?verse=259