Self-control ☀️ bright

12 discourses
Synonyms: self-restraint, self-mastery Pāli term: saṃvara, saññata, saṃvuta Related Qualities:

In The Path of Dhamma (Dhammapada)

DhammaPada verses 21-32 share the distinct path and outcomes of diligence and negligence. On seeing this clearly, the wise guard diligence like the most important wealth. One devoted to diligence burns away all fetters, is incapable of decline, and is near to Nibbāna.

DhammaPada verses 33-43 share about the nature of the mind, the drawbacks of an untamed mind, and the benefits of protecting and restraining the mind. Those who restrain the mind will be freed from the shackles of death. Not even one's own mother, father, or any other relatives can do as much good as a rightly oriented mind can.

Dhammapada verses 100-115 share the importance of one teaching that brings peace, the benefits of self-conquest, the value of honoring the awakened, and the importance of rousing of energy and recognizing impermanence.

Dhammapada verses 221-234 emphasize abandoning anger, conceit, and mental defilements while cultivating restraint in body, speech, and mind. The verses highlight overcoming harmful actions by giving and speaking truth, the inevitability of criticism, and the value of moral discipline. Those intent on Nibbāna, ever watchful, and well-restrained are beyond reproach and honored even by the gods.

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.

Dhammapada verses 383–423 redefine 'Brāhmaṇa' (sage) by inner attainment, not birth or appearance. Through effort, a true sage cuts craving, understands reality, and realizes Nibbāna. Fearless, detached, pure, and restrained, they embody non-violence and patience. Free from defilements and attachments, having overcome suffering and rebirth, the sage achieves the ultimate goal, radiating wisdom and peace.

In As It Was Said (Itivuttaka)

The Buddha describes the further training guideline on how to practice the Dhamma while walking, standing, sitting, and lying down for bhikkhus who are virtuous, and accomplished in the moral code of conduct.

In Middle Length Discourses (Majjhima Nikāya)

The Buddha explains the difference between cultivation and lack of cultivation with regard to body and mind, and recounts his own journey to full awakening.

In Linked Discourses (Saṃyutta Nikāya)

Even if protected by an entire army, one who engages in misconduct is unprotected. But one who engages in good conduct protects themselves, even without external protection.

In Numerical Discourses (Aṅguttara Nikāya)

Short teachings contrasting the untamed and the tamed mind.

In Inspired Utterances (Udāna)

The Buddha expresses an inspired utterance about the qualities of a person who falls under the sway of Māra and of one who overcomes all bad destinations.

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