Discourse on Happiness

"Discourse on Happiness", translated by Thich Nhat Hanh, read by Brother Duc Khiem.

When people went to the Buddha and asked how to live a happy life, the Buddha shared this teaching on what a wholesome way of living might mean. By doing the following, the Buddha said, one will water the seeds of happiness: by associating with the wise, by choosing a good environment, by continuing to learn and honing one’s skills, by caring for one’s family and friends, by not consuming intoxicants and avoiding unwholesome actions, by practising generosity, humility, contentment and gratitude, by staying contact with monastics and participating in Dharma discussions, by practicing with the Four Noble Truths, and dwelling in peace, not overcome by sorrows.

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I heard these words of the Buddha one time when the Lord was living in the vicinity of Savatthi at the Anathapindika Monastery in the Jeta Grove. Late at night, a deva appeared whose light and beauty made the whole Jeta Grove shine radiantly. After paying respects to the Buddha, the deva asked him a question in the form of a verse:

“Many gods and men are eager to know

what are the greatest blessings

which bring about a peaceful and happy life.

Please, Tathagata, will you teach us?”

(This is the Buddha’s answer):

“Not to be associated with the foolish ones,

to live in the company of wise people,

honoring those who are worth honoring -

this is the greatest happiness.

To live in a good environment,

to have planted good seeds,

and to realize that you are on the right path -

this is the greatest happiness.

To have a chance to learn and grow,

to be skillful in your profession or craft,

practicing the precepts and loving speech -

this is the greatest happiness.

To be able to serve and support your parents,

to cherish your own family,

to have a vocation that brings you joy -

this is the greatest happiness.

To live honestly, generous in giving,

to offer support to relatives and friends,

living a life of blameless conduct -

this is the greatest happiness.

To avoid unwholesome actions,

not caught by alcoholism or drugs,

and to be diligent in doing good things -

this is the greatest happiness.

To be humble and polite in manner,

to be grateful and content with a simple life,

not missing the occasion to learn the Dharma -

this is the greatest happiness.

To persevere and be open to change,

to have regular contact with monks and nuns,

and to fully participate in Dharma discussions -

this is the greatest happiness.

To live diligently and attentively,

to perceive the Noble Truths,

and to realize Nirvana -

this is the greatest happiness.

To live in the world

with your heart undisturbed by the world,

with all sorrows ended, dwelling in peace -

this is the greatest happiness.

For he or she who accomplishes this,

unvanquished wherever she goes,

always he is safe and happy -

happiness lives within oneself.”

Mahamangala Sutta, Sutta Nipata 1