Milarepa - His Teachings

Milarepa

The Yogi of Gu Tang

A yogi of Gu Tang who had great faith in the Jetsun, requested meditation instructions. After these had been given he said : 'To help ignorant men like us, pray now, instruct us in the practice of the Six Paramitas.'

Milarepa sang in reply :

Property and wealth are like dew on grass;
Knowing this, gladly should one give them away. (charity)

It is most precious to be born a leisured and worthy human being,
Knowing this, one should with care observe the precepts
As if protecting one's own eyes. (moral discipline)

Anger is the cause of falling to the Realms Below;
Knowing this, one should refrain from wrath,
Even at the risk of life. (patience).

Benefit to oneself and to others
Can never be achieved through sloth;
Strive, therefore, to do good deeds. (diligence)

A perturbed, wandering mind
Never sees the truth of Mahayana;
Practise, therefore, concentration. (meditation)

The Buddha cannot be found through searching;
So contemplate your own mind. (wisdom)

Until the autumn mists dissolve into the sky,
Strive on with faith and determination.