Full Moon – Faith in Harmlessness

Neither for one’s own sake
nor on behalf of another
does a wise person do harm –
not for the sake of family, fortune or gain.
Such a one is rightly called
just, virtuous and wise.

DHAMMAPADA v. 84

Having faith in this principle does not mean we never feel inclined to cause harm. It might, however, mean that when such inclinations arise there is a better chance we will be honest about them. Having the principle established in our hearts has the potential to protect us from habits of heedless reactivity. If the impulse to cause harm does arise, faith in this true principle can support our accurately feeling what we feel, without becoming totally lost in the two extremes of conditioned behaviour: one, denying the impulse and pushing it down into unawareness; or two, acting out. The middle way is the way that leads to living truly responsibly.

(This post is also available to view at dhammakatha.org)