English
Thus have I heard – On one occasion the Blessed One was dwelling at Sāvatthī, in Jeta's Grove, Anāthapiṇḍika's Park. Then a certain deity, in the deep of night, with resplendent beauty, illuminating the entire Jeta's Grove, approached the Blessed One; having approached and paid homage to the Blessed One, she stood to one side. Standing to one side, that deity addressed the Blessed One with a verse – Many gods and humans, have pondered blessings; desiring welfare, declare the highest blessing. Not associating with fools, associating with the wise; honoring those worthy of honor, this is the highest blessing. Dwelling in a suitable land, having made merit in the past; and setting oneself on the right course, this is the highest blessing. Great learning and skill, a well-trained discipline; and speech that is well-spoken, this is the highest blessing. Support of mother and father, cherishing wife and children; and unconfused occupations, this is the highest blessing. Generosity and righteous conduct, supporting relatives; and blameless actions, this is the highest blessing. Ceasing and abstaining from evil, restraint from intoxicating drinks; and diligence in righteous things, this is the highest blessing. Reverence and humility, contentment and gratitude; and hearing the Dhamma at the right time, this is the highest blessing. Patience and easy-to-correctness, seeing ascetics; and discussing the Dhamma at the right time, this is the highest blessing. Austerity and the holy life, seeing the Noble Truths; and realizing Nibbāna, this is the highest blessing. For one whose mind is not stirred, when touched by worldly conditions; sorrowless, stainless, secure, this is the highest blessing. Having done such things, everywhere undefeated; everywhere They go to well-being, That is for them the highest blessing. The Discourse on Blessings is concluded.