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Snp. 2.4 Maṅgala Sutta “Discourse on The Greatest of Blessings” I have personally heard this. At one time, The Blessed One was living at the monastery offered by the householder Anāthapiṇḍika, within Jeta's Park, in the City of Sāvatthī. Then, when it was around midnight, a certain young Deva illuminated the entire Jeta's Park, as he approached The Blessed One, and after worshipping and paying homage to Him, stood to one side. Now, while standing there respectfully with hands together in anjalī, the youthful Deva addressed The Blessed One, and asked the following question in verse: 258. “Many Devas and humans alike, have longed for the attaining of the Greatest of Blessings, struggle as they did to describe what the meaning is of that truly auspicious state of wellbeing. “Kindly speak to us by declaring the greatest of blessings.” 259. “Neither befriend nor associate with the fool; instead associate and become friends with the wise. For in doing so, you will come to identify and therefore revere and respect those truly deserving of respect and honor. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 260. “To be able to live in a suitable place, while having already done many meritorious deeds in the past; being intent with strong resolution to work on developing yourself in the Practice, while still alive. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 261. “Having already gained much in learning, along with knowing a profitable craft with which to earn a good living; being disciplined and trained to be hard-working and smart, while also eloquent and a master of the well-spoken word. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 262. “Taking care of one’s own mother and father, while going to them and tending to their needs; showing kindness through action towards children and wife, demonstrating genuine care for loved ones, without losing oneself or becoming agitated, in order to achieve professional success. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 263. “Making heartfelt offerings and the giving of gifts, while living with virtuous behavior according to the Dhamma; valuing relationships by showing compassion to others through blameless actions. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 264. “Having completely stopped from doing any harm, while fully abandoning any kind of evil actions; refraining from taking any substances that alter or intoxicate the mind, while staying heedful and diligent in cultivating a character that is anchored on the Dhamma. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 265. “Being respectful and living with genuine humility and a sense of contentment throughout, permeating with gratitude, while finding the suitable time to be listening to the Dhamma, and with an open heart. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 266. “Being patiently obedient and remaining soft, while going to see recluses and listening to their words of advice and admonishment; having a Dhamma discussion at the right time, for the right reason, and with the right people. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 267. “Practicing with dedication, while leading the chaste and celibate Holy Life relentlessly; realizing, by seeing for oneself the Noble Truths, and thus finally attaining Full Awakening, that is Nibbāna. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 268 “Even though touched by the fluctuating events of life, nevertheless, remaining steadfast with a heart that is not shaken nor agitated; with no more trembling, he no longer sorrows nor grieves, for he is not attached, and thus stays without any blemishes; being fully appeased and finally, safe and secure. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 269. “Having accomplished and tasted all these things, such individuals remain unvanquished and undefeatable everywhere, for no matter where they go, they fully enjoy safety that is untouchable, and security that is unmatched. Now, this is the greatest and most sublime blessing.”