Chapter 8: The Thousands

One meaningful word is superior to a thousand senseless words, as hearing a word of sense brings inner peace.

A single meaningful verse is better than a thousand senseless verses, producing tranquility in the hearer.

A single word of the law is more valuable than a hundred meaningless verses, as it brings quietness to the listener.

Conquering oneself is far superior to defeating thousands of enemies in battle.

A person who has conquered themselves cannot be defeated by gods, celestial beings, or Mara, as their victory is absolute and maintained through constant self-restraint.

A single moment of homage paid to a person of true knowledge is more valuable than a hundred years of monthly sacrifices.

One moment of homage to a person grounded in true knowledge is superior to a hundred years of fire worship in the forest.

Respect shown to the righteous is worth more than all material sacrifices and oblations made over an entire year.

One who consistently greets and reveres the elderly will increase in four qualities: life, beauty, happiness, and power.

One day lived virtuously and mindfully is superior to a hundred years lived in vice and lack of restraint.

One day lived with wisdom and reflection is better than a hundred years lived in ignorance and lack of restraint.

One day of firm strength and effort is superior to a hundred years of idleness and weakness.

One day lived with understanding of beginning and end is greater than a hundred years lived without seeing these realities.

One day lived recognizing the immortal realm (Nirvana) is superior to a hundred years without such insight.

One day lived in understanding of the highest law (dharma) is greater than a hundred years lived without such knowledge.