法句譬喻經 35.p2

35.p2

“Stem the stream and pass over, without desire as a Brahman! Understanding the end of all that is made (or, of all modes of conduct), this is truly named (the life of a) Brahmachārin. In (or, by means of) the two laws of nothingness, pure and spotless passing over the gulf, casting off all the bonds of desire, this is to be a Brahmachārin (indeed). It is not by his clan, or his platted hair, that a man is called a Brahman, but he who walks truthfully and righteously, he is indeed rightly called a good man (Bhadra). What avails the platted hair, O fool! the garment of grass, what good? Within there is no quittance of desire, then what advantage the outward denial of self? Put away lust, hatred, delusion, sloth and all its evil consequences, as the snake puts off its skin, this is to be a Brahmachārin indeed. Separate yourself from all worldly associations—let the mouth speak no foul words—thoroughly investigate the eight paths (Ashtānga mārga), this is to be a Brahmachārin indeed. To have cast off all thoughts of family affection, to have given up all desire after home, and all the bonds of personal preference loosed, this is to be a Brahmachārin indeed. He who has given up all thoughts about this world or the next, and places no reliance on either—this man is a Brahmachārin indeed. He who understands his own previous history, and has come to an end of all future chance of birth or death, him I call a Brahmachārin. He who is perfect in knowledge, is a Brahmachārin.”