The old sages were self-restrained, penitent; having abandoned the objects of the five senses, they studied their own welfare.

Excerpt

The old sages were self-restrained, penitent; having abandoned the objects of the five senses, they studied their own welfare. There were no cattle for the Brahmaṇas, nor gold, nor corn, (but) the riches and corn of meditation were for them, and they kept watch over the best treasure. What was prepared for them and placed as food at the door, they thought was to be given to those that seek for what has been prepared by faith.

Source Sutta-Nipâta, Cûlavagga, v. 282-285 · 📖 Read the full passage

✨ To meditate on today

According to the Sutta-Nipâta, the old sages (the Brahmaṇas, men devoted to the spiritual life) owned nothing, but meditation was their wealth, and what was offered to them they gave away in turn. Today, take ten minutes of calm as a true treasure, then share with someone something you have received: a meal, a book, a little of your time.

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