Rev. Aaron Pyne (tortuga.com)
On one occasion a deva asked the Buddha to explain the causes of the downfall, or moral decline, of beings. In reply, the Buddha first gave a summary: "One who loves Dharma progresses, whereas one who hates it declines." Then he named ten specific dangers to avoid:
- the company and teachings of the vicious
- excessive sleep and talk
- being irritable
- not supporting aged parents if one has the resources to do so
- lying to a monastic or Dharma teacher
- being stingy
- being conceited about birth, wealth, or community
- running around with many lovers
- drinking, gambling, and cheating
- marrying someone many years younger than oneself.
The Buddha concluded, "Reflecting thoroughly on those causes of downfall in the world, a wise person, endowed with insight, enjoys bliss in a happy state." Meditation on this negative subject makes wisdom grow, through avoidance, while encouraging insight and bringing pure happiness (Sutta Nipata, vv. 91-115).
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