法苑珠林 53.41

53.41

雖誦千章　句義不正　不如一要
聞可滅意　雖誦千言　不義何益
不如一義　聞行可度　雖多誦經
不解何益　解一法句　行可得道

Though one recites a thousand chapters, / If the phrases and meanings are not correct, / They are not as good as a single essential point: / Hearing it, one can extinguish the mind. / Though one recites a thousand words, / If they are not righteous, what is the benefit? / They are not as good as a single righteous phrase: / Hearing and practicing it, one can cross over. / Though one recites scriptures extensively, / If one does not understand, what is the benefit? / Understanding a single phrase of the Dharma: / Practicing it, one can attain the Way.