Companionship topic
Featured Discourses
ITI 78 Dhātusosaṁsandana sutta - The Coming Together of Elements Impact of associating with a simile
Beings come together and associate with other beings according to their disposition. Therefore, one should avoid associating with those that are lazy and keep company with the wise.
ITI 92 Saṅghāṭikaṇṇa sutta - Corner of Robe role of mental qualities in companionship
The Buddha teaches that one could be far from him despite being physically close, and one could be near to him despite being physically far. When one sees the Dhamma, one sees the Buddha.
SNP 2.3 Hiri sutta - Conscience discerning between good and bad companionship
Verses describing the characteristics of a false friend—one who disregards conscience and speaks without sincerity—contrasted with a true friend whose loyalty is unbreakable and whose actions reflect inner integrity. It further speaks to the joy and peace found in virtuous conduct, seclusion, and the realization of the Dhamma.
More Discourses
In The Path of Dhamma (Dhammapada)
DhammaPada verses 60-75 describe the traits and consequences for an immature person. They suffer from delusion, cling to false views of self and possessions, perform harmful actions, seek status without wisdom, and long for recognition. In contrast, the wise avoid their company and pursue seclusion and true understanding of the Dhamma.
DhammaPada verses 76-89 share on associating with a wise person, characteristics of such a person, the importance of joy in the Dhamma, the benefits of renunciation, and the qualities of a well cultivated mind.
DhammaPada verses 197-208 describe the happiness of those who live without hatred, affliction, and anxiety. It includes poetic verses on happiness and Nibbāna, and emphasizes seeing, dwelling, and association with the wise, Noble Ones.
Dhammapada verses 320–333 highlight self-discipline, wisdom, and perseverance through the imagery of elephants. They highlight inner mastery over strength, the value of solitude over company of immature persons, and the importance of taming one’s mind. Honoring parents, cultivating virtue, and letting go of suffering lead to true ease.
Dhammapada verses 360–382 depict the ideal bhikkhu as one who restrains the senses, body, speech, and mind, leading to freedom from suffering. Emphasis is placed on mindfulness, inner joy, collectedness, and self-reliance. Through discipline and reflection, the bhikkhu advances towards the peace of Nibbāna, shining like the moon freed from clouds.
In As It Was Said (Itivuttaka)
The Buddha shares the three unwholesome thoughts - 1) concerning one’s reputation, 2) concerning acquisitions, respect, and popularity, and 3) associated with inappropriate concern for others.
In Middle Length Discourses (Majjhima Nikāya)
The young brahmin Subha questions the Buddha about whether householders or renunciants are superior and what brings the greatest merit. The Buddha explains that he evaluates actions with discernment, and then teaches the path to companionship with Brahmā through cultivation of the qualities of loving-kindness, compassion, appreciative joy, and equanimity.