Sīla­va

One should train just in virtue,
For in this world, when virtue is
Cultivated and well-trained,
It provides all success.
Desiring three kinds of happiness—
Praise, prosperity,
And to delight in heaven after passing away—
The wise should protect virtue.
The well-behaved have many friends,
Because of their self-restraint.
But one without virtue, of bad conduct,
Drives away their friends.
A person of bad behavior has
Ill-repute and infamy.
A person of virtue always has
A good reputation, fame, and praise.
Virtue is the starting point and foundation;
The mother at the head
Of all good qualities:
Therefore you should purify virtue.
Virtue is a boundary and a restraint,
An enjoyment for the mind;
The place where all the Buddhas cross over:
Therefore you should purify virtue.
Virtue is the matchless power;
Virtue is the ultimate weapon;
Virtue is the best ornament;
Virtue is a marvellous coat of armour.
Virtue is a mighty bridge;
Virtue is the unsurpassed scent;
Virtue is the best perfume,
That floats in all directions.
Virtue is the best provision;
Virtue is the unsurpassed supply for a journey;
Virtue is the best vehicle,
That takes you in all directions.
In this life they’re criticized;
After passing away they’re unhappy in a lower realm;
A fool is unhappy everywhere,
Because they are not endowed with virtues.
In this life they’re famous;
After passing away they’re happy in heaven;
A person with understanding is happy everywhere,
Because they are endowed with virtues.
Virtue is best in this life,
But person with understanding is supreme
Among humans and gods,
Conquering with virtue and understanding.