1

Gray hair does not make an elder; one can grow old and still be immature. A true elder is truthful, virtuous, gentle, self-controlled and pure in mind.

2

Of paths the Eightfold is the best; of truths

the Nobles Four are the best; of mental states Detachment is

the best; of human being the Illumined

one is the best.

3

Now is the time to wake up

when you are young and

strong. Those who wait and waver with a

weak will and a divided mind, will never find

the way to pure wisdom.

4

Cut down the whole

forest of selfish desires and not just one tree and you will

be on your way to liberation.

5

Death comes and carries off a man absorbed in his

family and possession as the

monsoon flood sweeps away a

sleeping village.

6

Neither children nor

parents can rescue one

whom death has seized.

Remember this and follow

without delay the path that

leads to ‘Nirvana’.

7

It is hard to leave the world and harder to live in it, painful to live with the worldly and painful to be a wanderer. Reach the goal; and you will wander and suffer no more.

8

Those who are good and pure

in conduct are honored

wherever they go. The wise

and virtuous persons shine like

snow covered peaks, above

the rest of the world, even

when seen from a distance.

9

Sitting alone, sleeping alone, and going about alone vanquish the

ego by yourself alone. Abiding joy will be yours when all selfish

desires end.

10

THE GLORY OF THE WORLD IS LIKE A FLOWER; IT STAND IN

FULL BLOOM IN THE MORNING AND FADES IN THE HEAT OF

THE DAY.

11

All human beings are subject to attachment and thirst for pleasure. Driven by this thirst they run about frightened like a hunted hare, suffering more and more.

12

A person driven by fierce craving is like a spider caught in his own web.

13

He is supremely wise who is free from compulsive urges and attachment.

14

Adultery leads to four things: fear of being caught and punished, a bad reputation, a feeling of guilt, and suffering in hell. Against these the pleasure of a frightened man in the arms of a frightened woman are small and short-lived. Therefore do not commit adultery.

15

Only a trained elephant goes to the battlefield; only a trained elephant carries the king. Best among men are those who have trained their mind to endure harsh words patiently.

16

Pull yourself out of bad ways as an elephant raises itself out of the mud.