Dhammapada

The Dhammapada is a collection of Buddhist verses preserved in the Pali Canon, traditionally understood as teachings of the Buddha. Its chapters gather concise sayings around subjects such as heedfulness, anger, friendship, the mind, and the conduct of a wise person. Images drawn from paths, flowers, water, and everyday work make the teachings concrete and memorable. Contrasts between careless and attentive action give many verses their structure. Recitation, translation, and commentary have carried the collection widely, giving it a continuing place in Buddhist ethical instruction and literary culture.