Exploring the Path - Pāli Course

3.6.13   How to Live in Harmony and True Democracy?¹

Thus has been heard by me: At one time the Bhagavā was staying at Vesāliyaṃ at the Sārandada cave. Here a number of Licchavī approached the Bhagavā. Having approached him, they greeted him respectfully and sat down at one side. Having sat down at one side, the Bhagavā addressed the Licchavī with the following words: “Licchavī, I will teach you seven principles of non-decline. Listen carefully and attentive, I will speak!” “Well, Bhante,” replied the Licchavī to the Bhagavā. Then the Bhagavā spoke thus:

“Now, Licchavī, what are these seven principles of non-decline?

As long, Licchavī, as the Vajjans will hold regular and frequent assemblies, it can be expected Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.

As long, Licchavī, as the Vajjans will assemble in harmony, depart in harmony and carry on their affairs in harmony, it can be expected, Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.

As long, Licchavī, as the Vajjans will not proclaim what has not been announced yet and will not derive from what has been proclaimed, but proceed in accordance in the ancient Vajjan tradition as authorised, it can be expected, Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.

As long, Licchavī, as the Vajjans will keep in honour their elders, pay respect, venerate and revere them, and believe in their advice, it can be expected Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.

As long, Licchavī, as no women or any young girls are abducted and forced to live in another’s house, it can be expected Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.

As long, Licchavī, as the Vajjans keep in honour the Vajjan shrines in vicinity and those further away, pay respect to them, venerate and revere them and arrange righteous oblations as provided and given before, it can be expected Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.

As long, Licchavī, as the Vajjans provide suitable and necessary protection, guard and support for the Arahants – ‘let those Arahants, who are not yet dwelling amongst us come in future and those Arahants, who already are dwelling here, may they live comfortable!’ – it can be expected Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.

As long, Licchavī, as these seven principles of non-decline will be maintained by the Vajjans, as long as these seven principles of non-decline will remain obvious amongst the Vajjans, it can be expected Licchavī, of the Vajjans to prosper and not to decline.”

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