Thus have I heard: On one occasion the Exalted One was dwelling at the
monastery of Anathapindika, in Jeta’s grove, near Savatthi. Now when the
night was far spent a certain deity, whose surpassing radiance illuminated
the entire Jeta Grove, came to the presence of the Exalted One. After
drawing near, he respectfully saluted Him and stood at one side. Standing
thus, he addressed the Exalted One in verse:
Many deities and men wishing to know what is good, have pondered on the
blessings and auspicious signs of luck. Tell me what is the highest
blessing?
What is the best protection?
The Blessed Buddha responded: Not to associate with fools, but only with the wise. To honour only those who
are worthy of honour. This is the highest blessing & also the best protection.
To live in a suitable place, to have done merits in the past, and to set oneself
on the right path. This is the highest blessing and also the best
protection.
Great learning, good skills, a highly trained
discipline, and a pleasant speech.
This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
The support of father and mother, the cherishing of wife and children, and
a peaceful job. This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
Generosity, pure morality, the helping of
relatives, and blameless behaviour.
This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
To avoid all evil action, to abstain from
intoxicants, and firmness in virtue.
This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
Reverence, humility, contentment, gratitude &
hearing the Dhamma in time.
This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
Patience, respect, sight of calm recluses and
suitable conversation in time.
This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
Self-control, living the Noble life, realising
the Noble Truths and Nibbāna.
This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
The be unmoved by the 8 worldly conditions
# sorrowless, stainless, & safe.
This is the highest blessing and also the best protection.
Having fulfilled all these requirements,
everywhere they are undefeated,
everywhere they go in safety, fearing nothing, cooled, calmed and serene...
These are the highest blessings and also the best protections!
#: Gain and loss, fame
and disrespect, praise and blame, happiness & sorrow.
Source:
Sutta Nipāta Sn 258-269 in BPS
Wheel no 54 (Edited
Excerpt):
The Mirror of the Dhamma. A Manual of
Buddhist
Devotional Texts.
By Nārada Thera and Bhikkhu Kassapa. Revised By Bhikkhu Khantipālo: http://www.bps.lk/wh054-u.html
