Great Discourse on Blessings

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"At one time the Exalted One was living in Jeta Grove.
A certain deity of astounding beauty approached the Exalted One and said:

'Many deities and humans
have pondered on blessings.
Tell me the blessings supreme.'

The Buddha replied:

'To associate not with the foolish,
to be with the wise,
       to honor the worthy ones
this is a blessing supreme.

To reside in a suitable location,
to have good past deeds done,
to set oneself in the right direction
this is a blessing supreme.

To be well spoken, highly trained,
well educated, skilled in handicraft,
and highly disciplined,
this is a blessing supreme.

To be well caring of mother, of father,
to look after wife and children,
to engage in a harmless occupation,
this is a blessing supreme.

Outstanding behavior, blameless action,
open hands to all relatives
and selfless giving,
this is a blessing supreme.

To cease and abstain from evil,
to avoid intoxicants,
to be diligent in virtuous practices,
this is a blessing supreme.

To be reverent and humble,
content and grateful,
to hear the Dharma at the right time,
this is a blessing supreme.

To be patient and obedient,
to visit with spiritual people,
to discuss the Dharma at the right
time,
this is a blessing supreme.

To live austerely and purely,
to see the noble truths,
and to realize nirvana,
this is the blessing supreme.

A mind unshaken when touched
by the worldly states,
sorrowless, stainless, and secure,
this is the blessing supreme.

Those who have fulfilled all these
are everywhere invincible;
they find well-being everywhere,
theirs is the blessing supreme.'"

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