Snp. 2.8 — Dhamma Nāvā Sutta

Snp. 2.8

Dhamma Nāvā Sutta

“The Boat of Dhamma”

316. “When you finally find that one teacher who can teach you the Dhamma, then make sure you respect him, while trusting and worshipping him, just like the Devas worship and respect Indra, the King of the Devas.

“Thus, by wisely and fully trusting such a teacher, and paying him his due respect, he may reveal to you the Dhamma that is Incomparable.

317. “And if such a respectful and dedicated student intently enters and follows the Path of living according to the Dhamma that is taught to him, then he certainly grows in wisdom. As a result, his capacity for understanding the most subtle aspects of the Dhamma constantly develops, so long as he closely pays attention to what is being taught by such a teacher.

318. “However, if on the other hand, the student spends his valuable time associating with the fool, who is drenched in contention and jealousy, then they certainly will fail altogether in becoming wise, let alone gain any genuine or subtle understanding of the Dhamma. As a result, one

simply drowns in his doubts, as he continues his certain path towards death and further misery.

319. “For, how could someone who while he himself is being carried away, tossed, and smashed around; caught in the torrent of swiftly rushing and powerful floodwaters, be able to help others cross to the other side of the flood, safely?

320. “In just the same way, for the person who has failed to follow the Path and thus failed in understanding the Dhamma properly, while being caught in the mire of doubts and delusion; someone who has never paid any serious attention to nor learned from truly accomplished teachers, and therefore, never having gained any wisdom in the Dhamma himself, how could he be able to teach others to overcome their own doubts?

321. “But, when one has confidently stepped foot into a sturdy and reliable boat, one that is equipped with an efficient set of oars and rudder close at hand, then such a person would certainly be able to help many others too, cross the flood along with him, due to his skillfulness in navigating the boat and understanding of how to move through the floodwaters successfully, and to the other side.

322. “In just the same manner, the one who is quite knowledgeable and well-trained; having thoroughly developed himself, to the point where he has become unshakable in the Dhamma, can in fact, help and support others on their journey, so long as they are willing to listen carefully and heed his teachings, with trust and purity of heart.

323. “Therefore, associating with Superior Beings, who are your true spiritual friends, while having the right knowledge and training, is itself an absolute must, indeed!

“And by following along the Path, according to the instructions given by wise and noble friends, while cherishing and understanding the deep Dhamma they share, you too will come to experience true happiness and contentment, which only the Dhamma can bring to the heart.”

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