Buddhism

Chapter2— Earnestness

◆ About this chapter

Chapter Two of the Dhammapada, titled Earnestness, delineates the critical distinction between active spiritual diligence and spiritual lethargy within the broader framework of the Buddha's ethical teachings. The text posits that earnestness constitutes the sole viable path to liberation, contrasting it sharply with a state of thoughtlessness that equates to spiritual death. Situated early in the collection, this chapter serves as a foundational exhortation to lay readers regarding the necessity of mindful effort in the cultivation of virtue.

Translation:

About this translation

King James Version (1611)

1611 · Public domain

The most influential English translation ever made. Sometimes archaic, but the standard PD English text.

Translators commissioned by King James I of England, 1604–1611

Earnestness is the path of immortality, thoughtlessness the path of death. Those who are in earnest do not die, those who are thoughtless are as if dead already.The Watcher

This chapter appears in 1 cross-tradition parallel

Comparative studies that quote one or more verses from this chapter alongside passages from other traditions.

The Watcherv21

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Chapter Discussion

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