經律異相 41.12

41.12

"At the birth of a son, the heart rejoices; / for the son one gathers wealth and goods. / One takes a wife for him in marriage, / and oneself renounces home and family. / A boorish child of field and home / turns his back on and betrays his father. / In human form, yet with a rākṣasa's heart, / he casts aside his elder father. / When an old horse is no longer of use, / they deprive it of its flour and barley. / The son is young while the father is old; / from house to house he walks begging for food. / This staff is the most excellent of all; / it is not like a son who discards love and affection. / For me, it fends off vicious oxen; / in perilous places, it keeps me safe. / It can drive away ferocious dogs; / it supports me as I walk in dark places. / It avoids deep pits and dry wells, / grasses, trees, thorns, and briars. / Relying on the power of the staff, / I stand firm and do not fall."