DHAMMAPADA 
I4I 
 
For this course done or that to run :  surely in Priesthood 
such an one hath earned a share. 
 
II 
 
EARNESTNESS 
 
Amata’s path is Earnestness, Dispersion Death’s disciples 
tread : 
The earnest never die, the vain are even as already dead. 
 
Who understand, have travelled far on concentration’s 
path, delight 
In concentration, have their joy, knowing the Noble Ones 
aright. 
 
In meditation firmly fixed, by constant strenuous effort high, 
They to Nirvana come at last, the incomparable security. 
 
Whose mind is strenuous and reflects ; whose deeds are 
circumspect and pure, 
His thoughts aye fixed on Law, the fame of that con-centred 
shall endure. 
 
By Earnestness, by centred thought, by self restraint, by 
suffering long, 
Let the wise man an island build against the fatal current 
strong. 
 
Fools follow after vanity, those men of evil wisdom’s sect ; 
But the wise man doth earnestness, a precious talisman, 
protect.