Exploring the Path - Pāli Course

These renowned verses uttered by the Venerable Dhammika shall stir the reader to get established and progress on the Noble Eightfold Path. They open the chapter on right view (sammādiṭṭhi) which, in general, is listed as the first constituent of the eight. It is said that when sammādiṭṭhi precedes as a ‘forerunner’ like the dawn precedes the sun then all the other constituents will originate in their correct (sammā) quality.⁶ Thus one proceeds earnestly and sincerely with determined endeavour based on right understanding. According to one’s capacity then one truly ‘will not be going downward’. Even if — as will be natural for most — one may fall into a trap making mistakes, one should always get back up with a strong determination to advance and the volition to improve in spite of all hindrances. This is called ‘Growth in the Noble One’s Discipline’ (vuddhi ariyassa vinaye).⁷

The verses from the Samuddakasutta as presented in this lesson will hold true to everyone.

They were uttered by holy saints who tried to devote their life to their spiritual quests, but at times were disturbed by external uproar and tumult. On one occasion these seers, living in huts at the seashore, asked Vepacitti to grant them a pledge of safety so they would not be disturbed in their spiritual quest by the war. He refused, and because of that refusal the seers cursed Vepacitti with the verses shared in this lesson.

Vepacitti was previously known as Sambara, one of the chiefs of the Asuras — those powerful and violent titans, who often were at war with the Devas trying to reconquer the access to the Tavatiṃsa world from where they had once fallen down inebriated. Hence forth they had to dwell at the feet of mount Meru.⁸ In the same night that Sambara declined the request of the seers, he suddenly woke up in fear due to nightmares. From then onwards, his mind remained confused (‘mind deranged’ — cittam vepati) and was hence known by the name Vepacitti.

It is the disposition of each person to decide what path to take in life. What perspective does one want to develop? Is it a zeal for material gains regardless of means or an aspiration for spiritual achievements — or for both — or simply to drift along in life without purpose?

Irrespective of the personal circumstances or material background, a person may fall downwards from brightness towards darkness or maintain the respective position one finds oneself or move upwards from darkness into brightness.

Those who sincerely decide to follow the upright path as laid out by the Buddha — by being straightforward and honestly accepting mistakes with the dedication to learn from them and improving not only one’s actions, but one’s verbal behaviour by purifying one’s intention — will quickly realise that the auspicious and supportive words, spoken by the Enlightened One to the Venerable Dhammiko, are true for everyone.

May all be inspired to practice the efficacious Dhamma uprightly!