The Candle
Thus I have heard: One time, the Budha was staying at
Anaathapindidas Ashrama in Jetavana of Shraavastii.
At that time, the Bhagavaan spoke to the bhikshus:
“I shall now expound the Dharma of the luminous lamp and also the practice that leads to the path through the lamp.
Listen carefully! Listen carefully and reflect upon it well.”
The bhikshus replied, “Yes, Bhagavaan!”
At that time, the Bhagavaan spoke to the bhikshus:
“What is called the luminous lamp?
It is the complete eradication of greed, hatred, and delusion.
And what is the practice that leads to the path through the lamp?
It is the Noble Eightfold Path:
Right view,
Right intention,
Right speech,
Right action,
Right livelihood,
Right effort,
Right mindfulness,
and right concentration.
This is called the practice that leads to the path through the lamp.
I have now expounded the luminous lamp and the practice that leads to the path through it—this is what the Tathaagata should teach.
Now the discourse is complete.
Diligently reflect upon and recite it, do not be negligent.
For those who do not practice now, regret will be of no use later.”
When the bhikshus heard what the Buddha said, they followed it with joy.