THE WAY OF THE BODHISATTVA

SHANTIDEVA

CHAPTER 5 - VIGILANT INTROSPECTION

(5.47) And when you feel the wish to move about,

Or even to express yourself in speech,

First examine what is in your mind.

For steadfast ones should act accordingly.

(5.48) When the urge arises in the mind

To feelings of desire or angry hate,

Do not act! Be silent, do not speak!

And like a log of wood be sure to stay.

(5.49) And when your mind is wild or filled with mockery,

Or filled with pride and haughty arrogance,

Or when you would expose another's secret guilt,

To bring up old dissensions or to act deceitfully,

(5.50) Or when you want to fish for praise,

Or criticize and spoil another's name,

Or use harsh language, sparring for a fight,

It's then that like a log you should remain.

(5.51) And when you yearn for wealth, attention, fame,

A circle of retainers serving you,

And when you look for honors, recognition,

It's then that like a log you should remain.

(5.52) And when you are inclined to overlook another's need

And want to get the best thing for yourself,

And when you feel the urge to speak,

It's then that like a log you should remain.

(5.53) Impatience, indolence, faintheartedness,

And likewise arrogance and careless speech,

Attachment to your side - when these arise,

It's then that like a log you should remain.

(5.54) Examine thus yourself from every side.

Take note of your defilements and your pointless efforts.

For thus the heroes on the Bodhisattva path

Seize firmly on such faults with proper remedies.

The Way of the Bodhisattva, Shantideva, Trans. Padmakara Translation Group, Shambhala Publications, Boston, 2008, p. 112-113.