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Snp 2.4 Maṅgala Sutta (Greatest of Blessings) Snp. 2.4

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Sn 2.4 
Sutta Nipāta 
Cūḷa Vagga 
 
Maṅgala Sutta 
“Greatest of Blessings” 
 
Translated by Bhikkhu Candana 
 
Copyright © Bhikkhu Candana 2023 
 
 
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 in Anjali, 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 is the meaning of the 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 become agitated in order to achieve professional 
success. Now, this is the greatest of blessings.

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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. “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, 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 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 being touched by the changing events of life, nevertheless, remaining 
steadfast with a heart that is not shaken nor agitated. With no more trembling, he no longer 
sorrows or grieves, for he is not attached, and thus stays without any stains, fully appeased and 
finally safe and secure. Now, this is the greatest of blessings. 
 
269. “By having accomplished and tasted all these things, such individuals remained 
unvanquished, and undefeatable everywhere, for everywhere they go, they fully enjoy safety that 
is untouchable, security unmatched. Now, this, is their greatest and most sublime blessing.” 
 
 
 
Sādhu 
Sādhu 
 Sādhu

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