Maha Mangala Sutta - Discourse on Blessings

Maha Mangala Sutta

Discourse on Blessings

Thus I have heard…

On one occasion, the Buddha was living near Savatthi, in Jetavana, 
at Anathapindika's monastery.

At that time, when the night was far advanced, a certain deity, whose surpassing radiance illuminated the whole of Jetavana, approached the Buddha, respectfully saluted him, and stood beside him.

Standing thus, he addressed the Buddha:

Many deities and men longing for happiness have pondered on the question 
of blessings.

Pray tell me, what are the highest blessings?”

The Buddha thus replied:

Not to associate with the foolish, but to associate with the wise, 
and to honour those worthy of honour… this is the highest blessing.

To reside in a suitable locality, to have performed meritorious actions in the past, 
and to set oneself in the right direction… this is the highest blessing.

Vast learning, skill in handicrafts, well grounded in discipline, and pleasant speech… this is the highest blessing.

To support one's father and mother; to cherish one's wife and children, 
and to be engaged in peaceful occupations… this is the highest blessing.

Liberality (open-mindedness), righteous conduct, rendering assistance to relatives, 
and performance of blameless deeds… this is the highest blessing.

To cease and abstain from evil, to abstain from intoxicants,  
and to be diligent in performing righteous acts… this is the highest blessing.

Reverence, humility, contentment, gratitude, and the timely hearing of the Dhamma… this is the highest blessing.

Patience, obedience, going to meet the Samanas (holy men), and timely discussions of the Dhamma… this is the highest blessing.

Self-control, chastity, comprehension of the Noble Truths,  
and the realization of Nibbana… this is the highest blessing.

Nurturing the mind that is not touched by the continual vicissitudes (unwelcomed or unexpected changes) of life, the mind that is free from sorrow, stainless, and secure… 
 this is the highest blessing.

Those who have fulfilled the conditions for such blessings are victorious everywhere, and attain happiness everywhere. To them… these are the highest blessings."

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