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Milarepa
Klesas
of the Devas
Some
devas invited Milarepa to preach the Dharma in Heaven but he cautioned
them saying, "You must know that Heaven is far from dependable; it
is not eternal, and one should not rely on it. To be born in heaven is
not necessarily a wonderful thing." The Devas of Heaven said, "In
ignorant beings like us, the Klesas always follow the mind. Pray give
a teaching with which we can correct this fault, so that we may depend
upon it and practise it frequently."
In response
to their request, Milarepa sang:
Should you,
oh faithful lady Devas, intend to practise the Dharma often,
Inwardly you should practise concentration and contemplation
The renunciation of external affairs is your adornment.
Oh, bear in mind this remedy for external involvement!
With self-composure and mindfulness, you should remain serene.
Glory is the equanimity of your mind and speech!
Glory is the resignation from many actions!
Should you
meet disagreeable conditions,
Disturbing to your mind,
Keep watch upon yourself and be alert;
Keep warning yourself:
"The danger of anger is on its way".
When you
meet with enticing wealth,
Keep watch upon yourself and be alert,
Keep a check upon yourself:
"The danger of craving is on its way".
Should hurtful, insulting words come to your ears,
Keep watch upon yourself and be alert,
And so remind yourself:
"Hurtful sounds are but delusions of the ear".
When you
associate with your friends,
Watch carefully and warn yourself:
"Let out jealousy in my heart arise!"
When you
are plied with services and offerings.
Be alert and warn yourself:
"Let me beware lest pride should spring up in my heart!"
At all times,
in every way, keep watch upon yourself.
At all times try to conquer evil thoughts within you!
Whatever you may meet in your daily doings,
You should contemplate its void and illusory nature.
Were even
one hundred saints and scholars gathered here,
More than this they could not say
May you all be happy and prosperous!
May you all, with joyful hearts,
Devote yourselves to the practice of the Dharma!
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