DHAMMAPADA 
I45 
 
IV 
 
FLOWERS 
 
O who shall overcome this earth, the world of God’s and 
Yama’s power ? 
Who find the well taught Path as skill of herbist finds the 
proper flower ? 
 
The seeker shall subdue this earth, the world of God’s and 
Yama’s power ; 
The seeker find that Path as skill of herbist finds the proper 
flower. 
 
Like unto foam this body whoso sees, its mirage-nature 
comprehends aright, 
Breaking dread Mara’s flower-pointed shaft he goes, 
Death’s monarch shall not meet his sight. 
 
Like one who strayeth gathering flowers, is he who Pleasure 
lusteth on ; 
As the flood whelms the sleeping village, so Death snaps 
him—he is gone. 
 
Like one who strayeth gathering flowers is he whose 
thoughts to Pleasure clings ; 
While yet unsatisfied with lusts, there conquereth him the 
Iron King. 
 
As the bee gathers nectar, hurts not the flower’s colour, 
its sweet smell 
In no wise injureth, so let the Sage within his hamlet dwell.