Sāriputtasutta – Snp 4.16
1 Pali Verse:
“Na me diṭṭho ito pubbe,
(iccāyasmā sāriputto)
Na suto uda kassaci;
Evaṁ vagguvado satthā,
Tusitā gaṇimāgato.”
English Translation:
“I have never seen nor heard before
A teacher so eloquent in speech,
Who has come from the Tusita heaven,
Bringing the supreme wisdom.”
Application for a Householder:
A householder should reflect:
Who am I learning from?
Am I filling my mind with wisdom or with useless distractions?
Example for Awakening:
Imagine a person who wakes up and immediately checks their phone—news, social media, gossip. Their mind is filled with anxiety and comparisons.Now imagine another person who, first thing in the morning, reads the words of the Buddha, reflects for a few minutes, and sets a peaceful intention for the day.Which person will have a more balanced and happy life?
Takeaway:
A householder should seek wisdom, just as Sāriputta saw something unique in the Buddha. Choose your sources of knowledge carefully—what you consume shapes your mind.
2. Pali Verse:
“Sadevakassa lokassa,
yathā dissati cakkhumā;
Sabbaṁ tamaṁ vinodetvā,
ekova ratimajjhagā.”
English Translation:
“The one with the divine eye sees the entire world,
Along with the gods and men;
Dispelling all darkness,
He alone has attained true bliss.”
Application for a Householder:
The Buddha sees reality clearly, but do we?
Are we still clinging to illusions—thinking wealth, status, or relationships will bring permanent happiness?
Example for Awakening:
A businessman works day and night, sacrificing family, health, and peace just to accumulate wealth. One day, he sees an old friend—a simple schoolteacher—who is content and happy despite earning much less. The businessman suddenly realizes his mistake—he was chasing shadows while missing the real joy in the present moment.
Takeaway:
Develop the “divine eye” of wisdom—see things as they truly are. Happiness is not in possessions, but in contentment.
3. Pali Verse:
“Taṁ buddhaṁ asitaṁ tādiṁ,
akuhaṁ gaṇimāgataṁ;
Bahūnamidha baddhānaṁ,
atthi pañhena āgamaṁ.”
English Translation:
“That Buddha, serene and unwavering,
The unconquered one, who has come as a leader,
For the many who are bound,
There is hope in his teachings.”
Application for a Householder:
The Buddha overcame suffering, and so can we.
Many people are “bound” by stress, desires, and fear—but there is hope in the Dhamma.
Example for Awakening:
A person struggling with depression and anxiety comes across the Buddha’s teachings. They start practicing meditation, mindfulness, and kindness. Slowly, their attachment to suffering weakens—they become lighter, freer, and more at peace.
Takeaway: No matter how lost you feel, there is always a path forward—if you walk it with wisdom.
4. Pali Verse:
“Bhikkhuno vijigucchato,
bhajato rittamāsanaṁ;
Rukkhamūlaṁ susānaṁ vā,
pabbatānaṁ guhāsu vā.”
English Translation:
“For the monk who seeks solitude,
Who chooses an empty seat,
The root of a tree, a charnel ground,
Or a cave in the mountains.”
Application for a Householder:
Even in a busy life, seek solitude—moments for self-reflection.
Example for Awakening:
A woman constantly juggles work, family, and responsibilities. One day, she decides to spend 10 minutes alone every morning—just sitting in silence.At first, it feels strange, but over time, she realizes something profound—in silence, she finds clarity.
Takeaway: You don’t need to live in a cave, but you do need to create space for silence and mindfulness in your daily life.
5. Pali Verse:
“Uccāvacesu sayanesu,
kīvanto tattha bheravā;
Yehi bhikkhu na vedheyya,
nigghose sayanāsane.”
English Translation:
“In high and low resting places,
What fears may arise?
The monk should not tremble,
Even in a silent resting place.”
Application for a Householder:
Fear is a creation of the mind—learn to let go.
No matter where you sleep (in a mansion or on the floor), peace comes from within.
Example for Awakening:
A person is afraid of losing their job, aging, or being alone. But then they reflect:
“Everything in life is temporary. Why live in fear? I will make peace with change.”
Suddenly, their heart feels lighter.
Takeaway:
Train yourself not to tremble at uncertainties. Inner peace is independent of external circumstances.
6. Pali Verse:
“Kyāssa byappathayo assu,
kyāssassu idha gocarā;
Kāni sīlabbatānāssu,
pahitattassa bhikkhuno.”
English Translation:
“What should his thoughts be?
Where should he seek alms?
What conduct should he follow?
How should a dedicated monk live?”
Application for a Householder:
Ask yourself: What do I truly seek in life?
Are my thoughts leading me to peace or suffering?
Example for Awakening:
A man spends his life chasing money, luxury, and social status. But one day, he asks himself:
“Even with all this, why am I still unsatisfied?”
This question shakes his entire mindset. He realizes that real fulfillment doesn’t come from external things, but from wisdom and self-awareness.
Takeaway:
Don’t just live on autopilot—regularly question: What am I truly seeking in life?
7. Pali Verse:
“Kaṁ so sikkhaṁ samādāya,
ekodi nipako sato;
Kammāro rajatasseva,
niddhame malamattano.”
English Translation:
“What training should he undertake?
How should he become one-pointed and wise?
Like a silversmith refining silver,
He should purify himself.”
Application for a Householder:
Self-improvement is a lifelong process, not a one-time event.
Patience is key—just like a silversmith purifies metal slowly, you must purify your mind step by step.
Example for Awakening:
A woman struggles with anger. She starts practicing mindfulness, but still loses her temper sometimes.Instead of giving up, she remembers this verse—change happens gradually. Every time she fails, she reflects, learns, and tries again. Over the years, her anger fades, and she becomes more patient.
Takeaway:
Be patient with your transformation. Even a small improvement every day leads to a huge difference in the long run.
8. Pali Verse:
“Vijigucchamānassa yadidaṁ phāsu,
(sāriputtāti bhagavā)
Rittāsanaṁ sayanaṁ sevato ce;
Sambodhikāmassa yathānudhammaṁ,
Taṁ te pavakkhāmi yathā pajānaṁ.”
English Translation:
“For one who seeks peace,
(Thus said the Buddha to Sāriputta)
An empty seat, a quiet resting place,
Is fitting for one aspiring for enlightenment.
I shall now explain the true path.”
Application for a Householder:
Peace is found in simplicity, not in luxury.
The less distraction, the clearer your mind becomes.
Example for Awakening:
A businessman constantly feels exhausted—his phone keeps buzzing, his schedule is packed, and his mind is restless.One day, he takes a short solo retreat—no phone, no meetings, just silence.He experiences a deep sense of peace for the first time in years. He realizes that he was drowning in distractions and needed moments of stillness.
Takeaway:
Even in daily life, schedule time for silence and stillness—it will bring clarity and inner peace.
9. Pali Verse:
“Pañcannaṁ dhīro bhayānaṁ na bhāye,
Bhikkhu sato sapariyantacārī;
Ḍaṁsādhipātānaṁ sarīsapānaṁ,
Manussaphassānaṁ catuppadānaṁ.”
English Translation:
“A wise monk fears not five things:
Mosquitoes, snakes, human contact,
Wild animals, and external discomforts.”
Application for a Householder:
Fear limits us—most fears are mental creations, not real dangers.
Face life with courage instead of running away.
Example for Awakening:
A man hates change—he stays in a job he dislikes, avoids challenges, and fears failure.One day, he decides:
“Fear is just in my mind. I will embrace change.”
He leaves his toxic job, starts a meaningful career, and feels alive again.
Takeaway:
Most fears are illusions—step beyond them, and life opens up in new ways.
10. Pali Verse:
“Paradhammikānampi na santaseyya,
Disvāpi tesaṁ bahubheravāni;
Athāparāni abhisambhaveyya,
Parissayāni kusalānuesī.”
English Translation:
“A wise person does not fear other religions or beliefs,
Even when faced with many fears.
Instead, he remains calm and overcomes challenges,
Always seeking wisdom.”
Application for a Householder:
Respect all beliefs but stay rooted in your wisdom.
Don’t let other people’s opinions shake your peace.
Example for Awakening:
A woman starts practicing some kind of meditation to begin with. Her friends mock her, saying, “That’s not real spirituality!”Instead of arguing, she smiles and continues—because she knows that true wisdom is found within, not in debates. It is better to experience rather than just studying and arguing
Takeaway:
Seek truth, not approval. Let go of the need to prove yourself to others.
11. Pali Verse:
“Ātaṅkaphassena khudāya phuṭṭho,
Sītaṁ athuṇhaṁ adhivāsayeyya;
So tehi phuṭṭho bahudhā anoko,
Viriyaṁ parakkammadaḷhaṁ kareyya.”
English Translation:
“When struck by sickness or hunger,
Or affected by heat and cold,
One should endure with patience,
And strengthen oneself with effort.”
Application for a Householder:
Life is filled with unavoidable discomforts—sickness, hunger, extreme weather, stress.
A wise person does not complain but develops endurance and resilience.
Example for Awakening:
A man loses his job and starts feeling helpless and defeated. Instead of sinking into self-pity, he reflects on this verse and decides:
“Challenges are part of life. I will not complain but act wisely and find a solution.”
He shifts his mindset and soon finds a better job.
Takeaway:
“Suffering is not optional, but how we respond to it is.”
12. Pali Verse:
“Theyyaṁ na kāre na musā bhaṇeyya,
Mettāya phasse tasathāvarāni;
Yadāvilattaṁ manaso vijaññā,
Kaṇhassa pakkhoti vinodayeyya.”
English Translation:
“One should not steal nor speak falsehood,
One should touch all beings with kindness,
If one notices the mind is disturbed,
One should remove the root of defilement.”
Application for a Householder:
The foundation of a peaceful life is honesty and kindness.
Greed and deception always lead to mental suffering.
Example for Awakening:
A businessman lies to gain extra profit. But he feels restless and anxious.One day, he decides to run his business with absolute honesty. At first, it’s difficult, but eventually, he gains trust and true inner peace.
Takeaway:
Short-term gains from dishonesty lead to long-term suffering. Integrity brings peace.
13. Pali Verse:
“Kodhātimānassa vasaṁ na gacche,
Mūlampi tesaṁ palikhañña tiṭṭhe;
Athappiyaṁ vā pana appiyaṁ vā,
Addhā bhavanto abhisambhaveyya.”
English Translation:
“One should not be controlled by anger or pride,
But instead uproot them from their root,
Whether facing pleasant or unpleasant situations,
One should remain steady and unmoved.”
Application for a Householder:
Anger and pride are the biggest destroyers of relationships and inner peace.
A wise person remains stable in both success and failure.
Example for Awakening:
A man gets into an argument and insults his friend. Later, he realizes his mistake and decides:
“Next time, I will pause and breathe before reacting.”
Over time, he develops patience and wisdom.
Takeaway:
Don’t let emotions control your actions—be mindful, and respond wisely.
14. Pali Verse:
“Paññaṁ purakkhatvā kalyāṇapīti,
Vikkhambhaye tāni parissayāni;
Aratiṁ sahetha sayanamhi pante,
Caturo sahetha paridevadhamme.”
English Translation:
“With wisdom as one’s guide,
One should overcome obstacles joyfully,
One should endure solitude peacefully,
And overcome the four types of lamentation.”
Application for a Householder:
When facing difficulties, use wisdom, not worry.
Loneliness can be turned into an opportunity for self-growth.
Example for Awakening:
A widow feels lost and lonely after her husband passes away. Instead of sinking into depression, she practices meditation and reflection.Over time, she finds peace within herself.
Takeaway:
Loneliness can become wisdom if you turn inward instead of seeking external distractions.
15. Pali Verse:
“Kiṁsū asissāmi kuva vā asissaṁ,
Dukkhaṁ vata settha kvajja sessaṁ;
Ete vitakke paridevaneyye,
Vinayetha sekho aniketacārī.”
English Translation:
“Should I eat this or that?
Should I sleep in comfort or hardship?
Such worries lead only to suffering,
A wise person abandons them and remains unattached.”
Application for a Householder:
Most of our stress comes from overthinking trivial things.
Let go of unnecessary worries—life will flow better.
Example for Awakening:
A woman stresses daily about what to wear, what to eat, and what others think of her. One day, she realizes:
“These worries are stealing my peace. I will focus on what truly matters.”
Takeaway:
Simplify life, let go of unnecessary stress, and focus on real happiness.
16. Pali Verse:
“Annañca laddhā vasanañca kāle,
Mattaṁ so jaññā idha tosanatthaṁ;
So tesu gutto yatacāri gāme,
Rusitopi vācaṁ pharusaṁ na vajjā.”
English Translation:
“Having received food and clothing,
One should know moderation and contentment,
One should be restrained in behavior,
And not speak harshly even when provoked.”
Application for a Householder:
Greed for more never ends—contentment is key.
Self-control in speech prevents many conflicts.
Example for Awakening:
A man buys new clothes every week to feel good. One day, he realizes:
“I am never satisfied—I always want more. Let me practice contentment.”
He stops chasing materialism and feels lighter and happier.
Takeaway:
More possessions don’t bring peace—gratitude does.
All possessions including relationships are hard to maintain and they eventually go away
17. Pali Verse:
“Okkhittacakkhu na ca pādalolo,
Jhānānuyutto bahujāgarassa;
Upekkhamārabbha samāhitatto,
Takkāsayaṁ kukkucciyūpachinde.”
English Translation:
“One should lower their gaze [ for meditation ] and not be restless,
Engage in deep meditation and remain wakeful, [ by keeping the eyes half shut ]
Cultivate equanimity and concentration,
And remove doubt and mental agitation.”
Application for a Householder:
Avoid distractions and develop deep focus.
Train the mind to be calm, not restless.
Example for Awakening:
A man mindlessly scrolls on his phone for hours. He realizes:
“My mind is always distracted. Let me practice focusing fully on one task at a time.”
After practicing mindfulness, he becomes more productive and at peace.
Takeaway:
A distracted mind is an unhappy mind—train yourself to focus and be present.
18. Pali Verse:
“Cudito vacībhi satimābhinande,
Sabrahmacārīsu khilaṁ pabhinde;
Vācaṁ pamuñce kusalaṁ nātivelaṁ,
Janavādadhammāya na cetayeyya.”
English Translation:
“When criticized, a mindful person does not retaliate,
He removes resentment towards fellow practitioners,
He speaks only kind and meaningful words,
And does not get disturbed by public opinion.”
Application for a Householder:
Many people react immediately when insulted—but a wise person remains calm and collected.
Do not hold grudges—anger is a poison that harms only yourself.
Do not live for public approval—wisdom is more important than popularity.
Example for Awakening:
A man is publicly insulted by his coworker. Instead of retaliating, he calmly responds:
“I see that you’re upset, let’s discuss this peacefully.”
Later, the coworker regrets his actions and apologizes. The man wins respect for his wisdom and patience.Takeaway:
When insulted, pause and stay silent—a calm response is more powerful than a thousand angry words.
19. Pali Verse:
“Athāparaṁ pañca rajāni loke,
Yesaṁ satīmā vinayāya sikkhe;
Rūpesu saddesu atho rasesu,
Gandhesu phassesu sahetha rāgaṁ.”
English Translation:
“There are five defilements in this world,
Which a mindful person should train to abandon:
Craving for forms, sounds, tastes,
Smells, and bodily touches.”
Application for a Householder:
Sense pleasures are temporary—if you chase them, you will never be satisfied.
True happiness comes from detachment, not indulgence.
Example for Awakening:
A man comes up with a beautiful looking woman as shown above which is just an image. He falls in love with this image and starts to dream of having such a woman in his life. As he starts dreaming about it, all the senses start to get overworked on this and he is constantly anxious to get such a girl or woman in his life and become uncontrollable.
One day he reflects upon this impermanent nature of the body and how it deteriorates and gets disgusted of the five senses or strands of sensuality. He starts to reflect thus:
“This temporary pleasure is harming me—I will practice moderation and self-control.”
He regains health and feels happier because he is no longer controlled by cravings.
Takeaway:
Pleasure is like saltwater—the more you drink, the thirstier you become. Learn to let go.
20. Pali Verse:
“Etesu dhammesu vineyya chandaṁ,
Bhikkhu satimā suvimuttacitto;
Kālena so sammā dhammaṁ parivīmaṁsamāno,
Ekodibhūto vihane tamaṁ so”ti.
English Translation:
“In these things, having abandoned craving,
A mindful person, with a well-liberated mind,
By reflecting on the Dhamma at the right time,
Becomes unified and removes all darkness.”
Application for a Householder:
Dhamma reflection brings clarity and freedom.
A person who regularly reflects on impermanence is less attached to problems.
Example for Awakening:
A woman constantly worries about money and relationships. One day, she starts reading and contemplating the Dhamma. Over time, her mind changes—she realizes that everything is temporary, and peace comes from within.
Takeaway:
Reflect on the truth of life daily, which is arising and passing away without a stop —you will become free from suffering.