Oracles

DHAMMAPADA I45 IV FLOWERS O who shall overcome this earth, the world of God’s and Yama’s power ? Who find the well taught Path as skill of herbist finds the proper flower ? The seeker shall subdue this earth, the world of God’s and Yama’s power ; The seeker find that Path as skill of herbist finds the proper flower. Like unto foam this body whoso sees, its mirage-nature comprehends aright, Breaking dread Mara’s flower-pointed shaft he goes, Death’s monarch shall not meet his sight. Like one who strayeth gathering flowers, is he who Pleasure lusteth on ; As the flood whelms the sleeping village, so Death snaps him—he is gone. Like one who strayeth gathering flowers is he whose thoughts to Pleasure clings ; While yet unsatisfied with lusts, there conquereth him the Iron King. As the bee gathers nectar, hurts not the flower’s colour, its sweet smell In no wise injureth, so let the Sage within his hamlet dwell.