225 Buddha Quotes on Life, Love, Karma & Happiness

 

Meaningful Buddha Quotes on Life, Love, Karma, Peace, And Happiness

 

“One may conquer a thousand men in the battle a thousand times, yet he indeed is the greatest victor who conquers himself. It is far better to conquer yourself than others because then the victory is yours. No one could turn that triumph back into defeat, Not even angels, spirits, demons, or the creator.”

– Gautama Buddha, Dhammapada:103-105

Best Buddha Quotes on Love And Life

Meaningful Buddha Quotes on Life, Love, Karma & Happiness: Gautama Buddha, or Mahatma Buddha is considered as one of the greatest spiritual masters, philosophers, and thinkers of all time. His timeless wisdom is still guiding millions of people throughout the world even after 2500 years. His other names include Siddhārtha (His childhood name), Siddhattha Gotama, and Shakyamuni. He was born in the Lumbini Park at Kapilavatthu (Nepal) in 563 BCE.

His father was King Suddhodana of the aristocratic Sākya clan and his mother was Queen Mahā Māyā. Buddha means “Awakened One” or “Enlightened One. Thus Buddha is not a personal name, but a title for those who have attained bodhi (awakening, enlightenment). Buddha’s Wisdom is broad as the ocean and His Spirit is full of great Compassion. Buddha has no form but manifests Himself in Exquisiteness and leads us with His whole heart of Compassion.

Buddha’s Teachings are compiled by his disciples in Tipitaka. The word Tipitaka means three Baskets. They are the Basket of Discipline (Vinaya Pitaka), the Basket of Discourses (Sutta Pitaka), and the Basket of Ultimate Doctrine (Abhidhamma Pitaka). These wise sayings of the Buddha uttered some 2,500 years ago, still retain their original force and freshness even in this enlightened twentieth century.

Gautama Buddha And His Noble Teachings

The Internet is full of fake Buddha quotes yet correct sayings of Buddha are not available on any Quote Website due to which there is a huge confusion among people. We have tried for the first time to categorize the correct teachings of Buddha. Each quote is accompanied by its source. There are more than 5000 suttas in Tipitaks ascribed to Buddha but only the most popular of them are being given here. You are kindly requested to help promote this page as a reliable source so that genuine Buddha Quotes can reach every person.

To understand the exceptionally high standard of morality the Buddha expects from His ideal followers, one must carefully read the Dhammapada, Sigālovāda Sutta, Vyāgghapajja Sutta, Mangala Sutta, Mettā Sutta, Parābhava Sutta, Vasala Sutta, Dhammika Sutta, etc. “The Dhammapada” is the best-known and most widely esteemed text in the Pali Tipitaka, the sacred scriptures of Theravada Buddhism.

According to the Theravada Buddhist tradition, each verse in the “Dhammapada” was originally spoken by the Buddha in response to a particular episode. Here are 225 meaningful Buddha quotes that will improve your life in an incredible way. All these are genuine quotations from the early Buddhist scriptures however most of the quotes have been taken from Dhammapada, Sutta Nipata, and Mitta Sutta.

Gautama Buddha Quote on Who is The Greatest Victor

 

Not to associate with the foolish, but to associate with the wise, and to honor those who are worthy of honor — this is the greatest blessing. To reside in a suitable locality, to have done meritorious actions in the past, and to set oneself on the right course — this is the greatest blessing. To have much learning, to be skillful in handicraft, well-trained in discipline, and to be of good speech — this is the greatest blessing. To support mother and father, to cherish wife and children, and to be engaged in peaceful occupation — this is the greatest blessing. To be generous in giving, to be righteous in conduct, to help one’s relatives, and to be blameless in action — this is the greatest blessing. To loathe more evil and abstain from it, to refrain from intoxicants, and to be steadfast in virtue — this is the greatest blessing. To be respectful, humble, contented, and grateful; and to listen to the Dhamma on due occasions — this is the greatest blessing. To be patient and obedient, to associate with monks and to have religious discussions on due occasions — this is the greatest blessing. Self-restraint, a holy and chaste life, the perception of the Noble Truths, and the realization of Nibbana — this is the greatest blessing. A mind unruffled by the vagaries of fortune, from sorrow freed, from defilements cleansed, from fear liberated — this is the greatest blessing. Those who thus abide, ever remain invincible, in happiness established. These are the greatest blessings.

– Buddha, Mangala Sutta

Inspiring Quote From Buddha on Greatest Blessing

Do not believe in anything simply because you have heard it. Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations. Do not believe in anything because it is spoken and rumored by many. Do not believe in anything simply because it is found written in your religious books. Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders. But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and all then accept it and live up to it.

– Buddha, Kàlàma Sutta (Anguttara Nikaya)

Gautama Buddha Quote on Do Not Believe Anything

Not by observing silence does one become a sage, if he is foolish and ignorant. But that man is wise who, as if holding a balance scale weighs good and bad and selects only what is noble. Weighing what is right and wrong, he shuns evil. For this, he is a sage. He is capable of weighing both worlds through his sagely wisdom.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:268-269

Seek no intimacy with the beloved and also not with the unloved, for not to see the beloved and to see the unloved, both are painful. Therefore hold nothing dear, for separation from the dear is painful. There are no bonds for those who have nothing beloved or unloved.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:210-211

Hard is it to be born a man; Hard is the life of mortals. Hard is it to gain the opportunity of hearing the Sublime Truth, and Hard, indeed, is to encounter the arising of the enlightened people (Buddhas).

– Buddha, Dhammapada:182

Gautama Buddha Quote For Enlightened People

One who destroys life, utters lies, takes what is not given, commits adultery (goes to another man’s wife), and is addicted to intoxicating drinks — such a man digs up his own root even in this world.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:246-247

Gautama Buddha Quote About Life Journey

The sweet smell of flowers and the fragrance of sandal never goes against the wind. But the fragrance of the deeds and virtues of a person blows against the wind and spreads in all directions.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:54

Gautama Buddha Quote on Fragrance of Virtues

There is no fire like lust. There is no crime like hatred. There is no pain like the aggregates of existence. And there is no bliss higher than the supreme peace (of Nirvana).

– Buddha, Dhammapada:202

Gautama Buddha Quote on Changing Yourself

Look at a bubble. How impermanent is it? Look at a mirage. What an illusion! If you look at the world in this way, even the king of death will not see you.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:170

Meaningful Gautama Buddha Quote on Self

Neither in the sky, nor in the middle of the ocean, nor in the cave of the mountain, nowhere in the world is there a place where one could escape death.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:128

Gautama Buddha Quote on Death With Image

Blind is the world; here only a few possess the insight to see reality properly. Only a few, like birds escaping from the net, go to the realms of bliss.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:174

Buddha Inspirational Quote on Blind is The World

All tremble at violence; all fear death. Because life is dear to all. Putting oneself in the place of another, one should not kill nor cause another to kill.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:129-130

Gautama Buddha Quote on Kindness & Sympathy

One who always honors and respects the wise and elderly people, gets these four blessings: long life, beauty, happiness, and power.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:109

Gautama Buddha Quote on Honoring Elderly People

Just as a cowherd drives the cattle to pasture with a staff, in the same way, old age, and death drive the life span of beings.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:135

Who can blame such a one, as worthy as a coin of pure gold? Even the gods praise him; By Brahma, too, is he praised.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:230

Gautama Buddha Quote on A Virtuous Person

There are those who do not realize that one day we all must die. But those who do realize this settle their quarrels.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:6

Gautama Buddha Quote on Change With Picture

Of all the fragrances — sandalwood, lavender, water-lily, and jasmine — the fragrance of virtue is the sweetest.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:55

Gautama Buddha Quote on Superiority of Character

The man of little learning grows old like a bull. He grows only in bulk, but, his wisdom does not grow.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:152

Famous Gautama Buddha Quote on Wisdom

 

Gautama Buddha Quotes on Truth And Knowledge With Images

Better it is to live one day virtuous and meditative than to live a hundred years immoral and uncontrolled. Better it is to live one day wise and meditative than to live a hundred years foolish and uncontrolled. Better it is to live one day strenuous and resolute than to live a hundred years sluggish and dissipated. Better it is to live one day seeing the rise and fall of things than to live a hundred years without ever seeing the rise and fall of things. Better it is to live one day seeing the Deathless than to live a hundred years without ever seeing the Deathless. Better it is to live one day seeing the Supreme Truth than to live a hundred years without ever seeing the Supreme Truth.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:110-115

Motivational Gautama Buddha Quote on Life

Your life has come to an end now; You have reached the presence of the king of death (Yama). No resting place is there for you on the way, yet you have made no provision for the journey! Make an island unto yourself! Strive hard and become wise! Rid of impurities and cleansed of stains, you will not enter the cycle of birth and death anymore.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:237-238

Real Buddha Quote on Cycle of Birth & Death

When an ignorant person commits an evil deed, it does not immediately yield bad results, just like fresh milk, that does not turn sour all at once. But that sin remains concealed like the fire covered with ashes and continues to follow and burn the doer of sins.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:71

Popular Gautama Buddha Quote on Karma

There never was, there never will be, nor is there now, a person who is wholly blamed or wholly praised. But the man whom the wise praise, after observing him day after day, is one of flawless character, wise, and endowed with knowledge and virtue.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:228-229

Short Gautama Buddha Quote on Praise & Blame

Indeed, this is an ancient practice, not one only of today: They blame those who remain silent, they blame those who speak much, they blame those who speak in moderation. There is none in the world who is not blamed.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:227

Buddha Quote on Who is Not Blamed In The World

Come! Behold this world, which is like a decorated royal chariot. Only the fools are fully engrossed in this world, but the wise, who are aware of reality, have no attachment to it.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:171

Gautama Buddha Quote on Knowledge

Even gorgeous royal chariots wear out, and indeed this body too wears out. But the experience of truth never decays; thus the noble souls make it known to the good people.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:151

Gautama Buddha Quote on Experience of Truth

The liar goes to the state of woe; also he who, having done wrong, says, “I did not do it.” Both evil-doers, on departing, share the same destiny in the other world.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:306

Speak the truth. Do not get angry. When asked, give even if you only have a little. By these three means can one reach the presence of the gods.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:224

Gautama Buddha Quote on Speaking Truth

People hold dear him who embodies virtue and insight, who is principled, has realized the truth, and who himself does what he ought to be doing.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:217

Having savored the taste of solitude and peace of Nibbana, pain-free and stainless he becomes, drinking deep the taste of the bliss of the Truth.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:205

Long is the night to him who is sleepless; long is the league to him who is tired; long is life to the foolish who does not know the sublime Truth.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:60

Gautama Buddha Quote on Foolish People

Swans fly on the path of the sun; men pass through the air by psychic powers; the wise conquer death with his armies and leave the world.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:175

Conquer the angry one by silence; Conquer the wicked by goodness; Conquer the miser by generosity, and Conquer the liar by truth.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:223

For a liar who has violated the law of truthfulness has abandoned all hopes of the next world. There is no evil that he cannot commit.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:176

Evil never finds the path of the truly virtuous, who abide in heedfulness and are freed by perfect knowledge.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:57

To his own ruin, the fool gains knowledge, for it cleaves his head and destroys his innate goodness.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:72

Ardently do today what must be done. Who knows? Tomorrow, death comes.

– Buddha, Bhaddekaratta Sutta

 

Best Gautama Buddha Quotes On Foolishness And Wisdom

From endearment springs grief, from endearment springs fear. For one who is wholly free from endearment there is no grief, whence then fear? From affection springs grief, from affection springs fear. For one who is wholly free from affection there is no grief, whence then fear? From desire springs grief, from desire springs fear. For one who is wholly free from desire there is no grief, whence then fear? From lust springs grief, from lust springs fear. For one who is wholly free from lust there is no grief; whence then fear? From craving springs grief, from craving springs fear. For one who is wholly free from craving, there is no grief; whence then fear?

– Buddha, Dhammapada:212-216

A fool, even if he kept the company of a wise person intimately throughout all his life, will not become aware of the nature of experience, just as a spoon will not know the taste of the soup. But if a wise person associates with a wise man, even for one moment, he will quickly comprehend the Truth, just as the tongue tastes the flavor of the the soup.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:64-65

Easy is life for the shameless one who is impudent as a crow, is backbiting and forward, arrogant and corrupt. But difficult is life for the person who is modest, sensitive, detached, and inhibited, who always seeks purity, who is not slick and impudent, and who is leading a pure life and is full of insight.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:244-245

Unchastity is the taint in a woman; niggardliness is the taint in a giver. Taints, indeed, are all evil deeds, because of the destruction they cause, both in this world and the next. But of all taints, ignorance is the worst taint. Destroy this one taint and become stainless!

– Buddha, Dhammapada:242-243

The noble are not attached to anything whatsoever in the world. The virtuous do not prattle with a yearning for pleasures. The wise show no elation or depression when touched by happiness or sorrow.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:83

The idler who does not exert himself when he should, who though young and strong is full of sloth, with a mind full of vain thoughts — such an indolent man does not find the path to wisdom.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:280

When you are ever ablaze with the flames of passion, why this laughter, why this jubilation? When you are shrouded in the darkness of ignorance, why do you not seek the light of Wisdom?

– Buddha, Dhammapada:146

Wisdom springs from meditation; without meditation, wisdom wanes. Having known these two paths of progress and decline, let a man so conduct himself that his wisdom may increase.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:282

Better than sole sovereignty over the earth, better than going to heaven, better even than lordship over all the worlds is the achievement of enlightened wisdom (that leads to Nirvana).

– Buddha, Dhammapada:178

There is no more worldly existence for the wise one who, like the earth, resents nothing, who is firm as a high pillar and as pure as a deep pool free from mud.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:95

One by one, little by little, moment by moment, a wise man gradually removes the stain of his own evil deeds, just like a smith removes the dross from silver.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:239

The wise and good person who reproaches and warns, and prevents a person from wrong-doing, is loved by the virtuous and disliked by the wickeds.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:77

When the fool commits evil deeds, he does not realize their evil nature. The witless man is tormented by his own deeds, like one burnt by fire.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:136

Irrigators channel the rivers; fletchers straighten the arrows; carpenters shape the wood; and the wise master themselves.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:80, 145

The wise are controlled in bodily action, controlled in speech, and controlled in thought. They are truly well-controlled.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:234

A fool who knows his foolishness is wise at least to that extent, but a fool who thinks himself wise is a fool indeed.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:63

One is not wise because one speaks much. He who is peaceable, friendly, and fearless is called a wise person.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:258

Just as a solid rock is not shaken by the storm, even so, the wise are not affected by praise or blame.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:81

On hearing the Teachings, the wise become perfectly purified, like an ocean deep, clear, and still.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:82

 

Motivational Buddha Quotes on Happiness And Health

These things are welcome, agreeable, pleasant, & hard to obtain in the world: Long life is welcome, agreeable, pleasant, & hard to obtain in the world. Beauty is welcome, agreeable, pleasant, & hard to obtain in the world. Happiness is welcome, agreeable, pleasant, & hard to obtain in the world. Status is welcome, agreeable, pleasant, & hard to obtain in the world. But these things can’t be obtained by just prayers or wishes. If they were to be obtained like this, who here would lack them? So it’s not fitting for the wise people who desire long life to pray for it or to delight in doing so. Instead, he should follow the path of practice leading to long life. Only then he will attain a long life…

– Buddha, (Ittha Sutta, AN 5.43)

Suffering leads to Confidence; Confidence to Rapture; Rapture to Joy; Joy to Tranquillity; Tranquillity to Happiness; Happiness to Concentration; Concentration to Knowledge and Vision of things as they truly are; the Knowledge and Vision of things as they truly are to Repulsion; Repulsion to Non-attachment; Non-attachment to Deliverance; Deliverance to the Extinction of Passions (Arabantship).

– Buddha, Samyutta Nikāya, Vol. II

One who, while himself seeking happiness, oppresses with violence other beings who also desire happiness, will not attain happiness even in their next birth. But one who does not hurt or torture others or give pain to others will find happiness in the next life too.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:131-132

All that man experiences springs out of his thoughts. If his thoughts are good, his words and deeds will also be good. If a person speaks or acts with a pure mind, happiness always follows him like his never-departing shadow.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:2

All that we experience begins with thought. Our words and deeds spring from thought. If a person speaks or acts with an evil thought, suffering follows him as the wheels of a cart follow the hoofs of the ox that draws it.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:1

Health is the most precious gain. Contentment is the greatest wealth. A trustworthy person is the best kinsman. And Nirvana is the greatest joy.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:204

He who sits alone, sleeps alone, and walks alone, who is strenuous and subdues himself alone, will find delight in the solitude of the forest.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:305

If by renouncing a lesser happiness one may realize a greater happiness, let the wise man renounce the lesser, having regard for the greater.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:290

Hunger is the worst disease, conditioned things the worst suffering. Knowing this as it really is, the wise realize Nirvana, the highest bliss.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:203

Arise! Do not be heedless! Lead a righteous life; lead not a base life. The righteous person lives happily both in this world and in the next.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:168

He who is full of faith and virtue, who also possesses fame and wealth — he is respected everywhere, in whatever land he travels.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:303

One should train in three deeds of merit—generosity, a balanced life, and developing a loving mind—that yield long-lasting happiness.

– Buddha, Itivuttika

The wise ones, ever meditative and steadfastly persevering, alone experience Nirvana, the supreme release from all bondages.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:23

Good is it to see the Noble Ones; to live with them is ever blissful. One will always be happy by not encountering fools.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:206

Entangled in the web of anger, he who seeks his own happiness by inflicting pain on others, is never freed from hatred.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:291

The good shine from afar, like the Himalayan mountains. But the wicked are unseen, like arrows shot in the night.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:304

Those who discern the wrong as wrong and the right as right — upholding right views, go to realms of bliss.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:319

I will not look at another’s bowl intent on finding fault: a training to be observed.

– Buddha, Vinaya Pitaka

It is in the nature of things that joy arises in a person free from remorse.

– Buddha, Cetana Sutta (Anguttara Nikaya)

 

Meaningful Buddha Quotes on Good Karma To Inspire

The evil-doer suffers here and hereafter; he suffers in both worlds. The thought, “Evil have I done,” torments him even after death, and he suffers even more when gone to realms of woe. But the doer of good delights here and hereafter; he delights in both worlds. The thought, “Good have I done,” delights him, and he delights even more when gone to realms of bliss.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:17-18

Now you are like a withered, yellowed dried leaf. The first breath of wind will make you fall. Death’s messengers await you. You stand on the eve of your departure, yet you have made no provision for your journey! Make an island for yourself! Strive hard and become wise! Rid of impurities and cleansed of stain, you shall enter the heavenly realm of the Noble Ones.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:235-236

Those who have gone beyond mundane apperception, who have transcended all obstacles and passed beyond the reach of sorrow and lamentation, deserve to be worshipped. He who reveres such peaceful and fearless ones, the merit earned by such a person none can analyze by any measure.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:195-196

The evil-doer grieves here and hereafter; he grieves in both worlds. He laments and is afflicted, recollecting his own impure deeds. But he who has done good deeds rejoices here and hereafter; he rejoices in both worlds. He rejoices and exults, recollecting his own pure deeds.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:15-16

The man who is without blind faith, who understands the Uncreated (Nirvana), who has severed all links, destroyed all causes (for karma, good and evil), and thrown out all desires — he, indeed, is the most excellent of men.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:97

If there is no wound on the hand, one may carry even poison in it. As poison does not affect one who is free from wounds. In the same way, for him, who does no evil, there is no fear of ill.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:124

By oneself alone is evil done; by oneself is one defiled. By oneself alone is evil avoided; by oneself is one purified. Purity and impurity both depend on oneself; no one can purify another.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:165

Just as a trader with a small escort and great wealth would avoid a perilous route, or just as one desiring to live avoids poison, in the same way, one must totally shun evil.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:123

It may be ill with the doer of good as long as the good ripens not. But when it does ripen, then the doer of good sees the pleasant results of his good deeds.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:120

Just as the rust springing from iron consumes the iron itself, in the same way, evil deeds springing out of a sinner destroy the sinner himself.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:240

Let none find fault with others; let none see the omissions and commissions of others. But let one see one’s own acts, done and undone.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:50

Easy to do are things that are bad and harmful to oneself. But exceedingly difficult to do are things that are good and beneficial.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:163

Rare in the world is that person who is restrained by modesty. Like a well-bred horse who avoids the whip, he avoids disgrace.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:143

Faint is the fragrance of lavender and sandal, but excellent is the fragrance of the virtuous, wafting even amongst the gods.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:56

He, who by good deeds covers the evil he has done, illuminates this world as the moon freed from clouds.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:173

To avoid all evil, to cultivate good, and to cleanse one’s mind — this is the teaching of the Buddha.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:183

Evil things are difficult to control. Let not greed and wickedness drag you to protracted misery.

– Buddha, Dhammapada: 248

Understanding is the heartwood of well-spoken words.

– Buddha, Kimsila Sutta

 

Short Gautama Buddha Quotes on Spirituality & Salvation

As a mighty flood sweeps away the sleeping village, death seizes and carries away the man of a distracted mind, who is intoxicated with the possessions. For him who is assailed by death, there is no protection by kinsmen. No one in this world can shield a person from the grip of death — nor his father, nor his sons, nor his relatives. Realizing this blatant fact, the wise man, who is restrained and disciplined, hastens to clear the path leading to Nirvana.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:287-289

The cankers only increase for those who are arrogant and heedless, who leave undone what should be done and do what should not be done. But the cankers cease for those mindful and clearly comprehending ones who always earnestly practice mindfulness of the body, who do not resort to what should not be done, and steadfastly pursue what should be done.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:292-293

Behold this body — a painted image, a mass of sores propped up by many kinds of bones, infirm, full of hankering — of which nothing is lasting or stable! This body is fully worn out. It is truly a nest of disease, and fragile. Out of its nine orifices, foul matter oozes constantly. It breaks apart easily. Death puts an end to it.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:147-148

These dove-colored bones are like gourds that lie scattered about in autumn. Having seen them, how can one seek delight? This body is built of bones, plastered with flesh and blood. Inside this citadel are deposited decay, death, pride, and jealousy.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:149-150

He who can curb his wrath as soon as it arises, as a timely antidote will check the snake’s venom that so quickly spreads — such a monk gives up the here and the beyond, just as a serpent sheds its worn-out skin.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

See them, floundering in their sense of mine, like fish in the puddles of a dried-up stream — and, seeing this, live with no mine, not forming attachment for states of becoming.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

Victory begets enmity; the defeated person dwells in pain. But the person whose mind is calm and tranquil lives happily, as he has risen above both victory and defeat.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:201

We will develop and cultivate the liberation of mind by loving kindness, make it our vehicle, make it our basis, stabilize it, exercise ourselves in it, and fully perfect it.

– Buddha, Samyutta Nikaya

One’s own self is the protector of oneself; who else could the protector be? With oneself fully controlled, one gains a mastery that is hard to gain.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:160

Excellent are well-trained mules, thoroughbred Sindhu horses, and noble tusker elephants. But better still is the man who has subdued himself.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:322

One should do what one teaches others to do; if one would train others, one should be well controlled oneself. Difficult, indeed, is self-control.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:159

Those who are ever vigilant, who discipline themselves day and night, and are ever intent upon Nirvana — their defilements fade away.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:226

As a water bead on a lotus leaf, as water on a red lily, does not adhere, so the sage does not adhere to the seen, the heard, or the sensed.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata (Jara Sutta)

Do not indulge in heedlessness. Avoid craving for sensual pleasures. Only the mindful and meditative attain great happiness.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:27

The world is afflicted by death and decay. But the wise do not grieve, having realized the nature of the world.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

Soon, this body, without consciousness, discarded like a decayed worthless log of wood, will lie on the earth.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:41

Follow not the vulgar way; live not in heedlessness; hold not false views; linger not long in worldly existence.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:167

The Enlightened One is deep, boundless, and hard to fathom, like the ocean.

– Buddha, Saṃyutta Nikāya:44.1

Resolutely train yourself to attain peace.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata (Utthana Sutta)

 

Gautama Buddha Quotes on Love And Other Emotions

Happy indeed we live, friendly amidst the hostile. Amidst hostile men, we dwell free from hatred. Happy indeed we live, friendly amidst the afflicted by cravings. Amidst afflicted men, we dwell free from affliction. Happy indeed we live, free from avarice amidst the avaricious. Amidst the avaricious men, we dwell free from avarice. Happy indeed we live, we who possess nothing. Feeding on joy we live, like the Radiant Gods of heaven.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:197-200

When a person, after a long absence, returns home safely from afar, his friends, relatives, and well-wishers welcome him back. As kinsmen welcome a dear one on arrival, even so, his own good deeds will welcome the doer of good who has gone from this world to the next world.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:219-220

Truly, the extreme misers do not reach the heavenly realms; nor, indeed, do fools praise generosity. But the wise man rejoices in giving, and through appreciation, they share in the merit gained by others and go to heaven.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:177

Like a beautiful flower full of color but without fragrance, even so, fruitless are the fair words of one who does not practice them, but one who practices what he preaches, his words are effective and they are honored.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:51-52

The calmed say that what is well-spoken is best; second, that one should say what is right, not unrighteous; third, what’s pleasing, not displeasing; fourth, what is true, not false.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

If you find no one who is better than, or at least equal to yourself, it is better to walk alone rather than keep company with immature. With fools, there is no companionship.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:61

Enduring patience is the highest austerity. “Nirvana is supreme,” say the Buddhas. He is not a true saint who harms another, nor a true renunciate who oppresses others.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:184

Do not associate with evil companions. Do not seek the company of wicked persons. Associate with good friends; seek the fellowship of noble superior people.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:78

Just as the mother protects her only child even at the risk of her own life; even so let one cultivate boundless thoughts of loving-kindness towards all beings.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipāta (Karaniya Metta Sutta)

The one in whom no longer exists the craving and thirst that perpetuate becoming; how could you track that Awakened one, trackless, and of limitless range?

– Buddha, Dhammapada:180

Wealth destroys only the foolish, but it cannot destroy those who are in quest of the Beyond. By craving for wealth the fool ruins himself as well as others.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:355

In this world, good it is to serve one’s mother, good it is to serve one’s father, good it is to serve the monks, and good it is to serve the holy men.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:332

Good is virtue until life’s end, good is faith that is steadfast, good is the acquisition of wisdom, and good is the avoidance of evil.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:333

Radiate boundless love towards the entire world — above, below, and across — unhindered, without ill will, without enmity.

– Buddha, Metta Sutta

Speak only endearing speech, a speech that is welcomed. Speech, when it brings no evil to others, is a pleasant thing.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

Rare, Indeed is the Buddha; He is not born everywhere. Where such a wise man is born, that clan thrives happily.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:193

Those who cling to perceptions and views wander the world offending people.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata (Magandiya Suta)

 

Gautama Buddha Quotes on Mindfulness And Virtues

Let a man guard himself against irritability in bodily action; let him be controlled in deed. Abandoning bodily misconduct, let him practice good conduct in deed. Let a man guard himself against irritability in speech; let him be controlled in speech. Abandoning verbal misconduct, let him practice good conduct in speech. Let a man guard himself against irritability in thought; let him be controlled in mind. Abandoning mental misconduct, let him practice good conduct in thought.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:231-233

People give according to their faith or regard. If one becomes discontented with the food and drink given by others, one will never attain tranquility of mind – either by day or by night. But he in who this discontent is fully destroyed, uprooted, and extinct, he attains absorption, both by day and by night.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:249-250

Just as a storm cannot prevail against a rocky mountain, evil can never overpower the man who lives meditating on the impurities, who is controlled in his senses, moderate in eating and filled with faith and earnest effort.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:8

Just as rain breaks through an ill-thatched house, passion penetrates an undisciplined mind. But just as rain does not break through a well-thatched house, so passion never penetrates a well-disciplined mind.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:13-14

Just as a storm throws down a weak tree, so does evil overpower the man who lives for the pursuit of pleasures, who is uncontrolled in his senses, immoderate in eating, indolent, and dissipated.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:7

One who delights in mindfulness and looks with fear at heedlessness advances like fire, burning all fetters, small and large. He will never fall as he is close to ultimate bliss (Nirvana).

– Buddha, Dhammapada:31-32

Non-repetition is the bane of scriptures; Neglect is the bane of a home; Slovenliness is the bane of personal appearance, and Heedlessness is the bane of a guard.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:241

As from a great heap of flowers, many garlands can be made, in the same way, those who are born into this world should perform wholesome, and virtuous deeds.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:53

Mindfulness (Sanity) is the path to deathlessness. Insanity is the path to death. Those who are sane do not die. Those who are insane are already dead.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:21

Dwelling in the cave (of the heart), the mind, without form, wanders far and alone. Those who subdue this mind are liberated from the bonds of death.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:37

Just as a fletcher straightens an arrow shaft, even so, the discerning man straightens his mind — so fickle and unsteady, so difficult to guard.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:33

When making an effort to abandon the realm of Evil, the mind begins to quiver like a fish taken out of the water and thrown on land.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:34

Mindful among the heedless, wide-awake among the sleepy, the wise man advances like a swift horse leaving behind a weak jade.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:29

By effort and mindfulness, discipline, and self-mastery, the wise person builds for himself an island which no flood can overwhelm.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:25

Ever grows the glory of him who is energetic, mindful, and pure in conduct, discerning and self-controlled, righteous and heedful.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:24

Clearly understanding this excellence of mindfulness, the wise exult therein and enjoy the resort of the Noble Ones.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:22

The foolish and ignorant indulge in heedlessness, but the wise one cherishes his mindfulness like a great treasure.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:26

All experiences are preceded by the mind, having the mind as their master, created by the mind.

– Buddha, Dhammapada

Meditate… do not delay, lest you later regret it.

– Buddha, Sallekha Sutta

 

Popular Gautama Buddha Quotes on Peace And Patience

Indeed, he who moves in the company of fools grieves for longing. Association with fools is ever painful, like the partnership with an enemy. But association with the wise is happy, like meeting one’s own kinsmen. Therefore, follow the Noble One, who is steadfast, wise, learned, dutiful and devout. One should follow only such a man, who is truly good and discerning, even as the moon follows the path of the stars.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:207-208

The faults of others are clearly observed, but one’s own faults are difficult to see. Like chaff one winnows the faults of others, but hides one’s own, like the bird-hunter who conceals himself with leaves and twigs. He who seeks another’s faults, who is ever censorious — his cankers grow. He is far from the destruction of the cankers.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:252-253

Better than a thousand useless words is one useful word, hearing which one attains peace. Better than a thousand useless verses is one insightful verse, hearing which one attains peace. Better than reciting a hundred meaningless verses is the reciting of one verse of Dhamma, hearing which one attains peace.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:100-102

Your worst enemy or a hater cannot harm you as much as your own undisciplined mind. But once mastered, No one can help you as much as your own disciplined mind, Not even your father, mother, or any other relative.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:42-43

Let a man be watchful of speech, well controlled in mind, and refrain from committing sins physically. Let him purify these three courses of action, and win the noble eight-fold path realized by the sages.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:281

He whose senses are subdued, like horses well trained by a charioteer, he whose pride is destroyed and who is free from the cankers, – even the gods, are pleased by such a steadfast one.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:94

In the past, this mind wandered as it liked, wherever it liked, and at its own pleasure. Now I will control my mind wisely, as a mahout controls with his goad an elephant in a rut.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:326

The mind is exceedingly subtle and is difficult to be controlled. It attaches to whatever target it wishes. The wise guard the mind. A disciplined mind brings happiness.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:35

There is no fear for the awakened one whose mind is not dampened by passion, nor affected by hatred, and who has gone beyond both good and evil.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:39

The mindful ones exert themselves. They are not attached to any abode; like swans that abandon the lake, they leave home after home behind.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:91

The fever of passion exists not for him who has completed the journey, who is sorrowless and wholly set free, and who has destroyed all ties.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:90

Delight in mindfulness! Guard well your mind! Draw yourself out of this bog of evil, even as an elephant draws himself out of the mud.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:327

Better it is to live alone; there is no fellowship with a fool. Live alone and do no evil; be carefree like an elephant in the elephant forest.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:330

Wisdom never becomes perfect in one whose mind is not steadfast, who knows not the good teaching, and whose faith wavers.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:38

Calm is his mind, calm is his speech, and calm is his deed, who, truly knowing, is wholly freed, perfectly tranquil, and wise.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:96

No component thing is eternal, and there is no agitation in the enlightened people (Buddha).

– Buddha, Dhammapada:255

A wise person should be urgently moved On occasions that make for urgency.

– Buddha, Itivuttika

There is no fear for one whose mind is not filled with desires.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:39

 

Amazing Buddha Quotes On How To Improve Yourself

“All conditioned things are transient” — when one sees this with wisdom, one turns away from suffering. This is the path to purification. “All conditioned things are unsatisfactory” — when one sees this with wisdom, one turns away from suffering. This is the path to purification. “All things are not-self” — when one sees this with wisdom, one turns away from suffering. This is the path to purification.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:277-279

Insatiable are sensual desires. Carnal desires will not be satisfied even with the rain of gold coins. For sensual pleasures give little satisfaction and much pain. Having understood this, the wise man finds no delight even in heavenly pleasures. The disciple of the Supreme Buddha delights in the destruction of cravings.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:186-187

Like a well-bred horse duly disciplined by the whip, you shall be persistent and filled with spiritual yearning. By faith and moral purity, by effort and meditation, by investigation of the truth, by being rich in knowledge and virtue, and by being mindful, destroy this unlimited suffering.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:144

Should a person commit evil, let him not do it again and again. Let him not find pleasure therein, for painful is the accumulation of evil. Should a person do good, let him do it again and again. Let him find pleasure therein, for blissful is the accumulation of good.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:117-118

To refrain from finding fault with others, to refrain from hurting others, to be trained in the highest forms of discipline and conduct; to be moderate in eating food; to take delight in solitude; and to engage in meditation — this is the teaching of the Buddhas.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:185

Cut off your affection in the manner of a man who plucks with his hand an autumn lotus. Cultivate only the path to peace, Nirvana, as made known by the Exalted One.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:285

A tamed elephant is led into a crowd, and the king mounts a tamed elephant. The greatest among men is the disciplined one who endures the harsh words of the people.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:321

He who has been deluded in the past becomes a disillusioned person if he corrects his thinking. Such a person illuminates this world like the moon freed from clouds.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:172

As an elephant on the battlefield withstands arrows shot from bows all around, even so, shall I endure abuse. The unvirtuous, indeed, are the majority in the world.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:320

He who has reached the goal, is fearless, free from craving, passionless, and has plucked out the thorns of existence — for him this is the last body.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:351

Never speak harsh words. If you do, you will also be replied to in the same vein. Indeed, angry speech hurts, and retaliation may overtake you.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:133

Abandon anger. Renounce pride fully. Get rid of all clingings. Suffering never befalls him who clings not to mind and body and is detached.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:221

One should first establish oneself in what is proper; then only should one instruct others. Thus the wise man will not be reproached.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:158

If a man going down into a river, swollen and swiftly flowing, is carried away by the current — how can he help others across?

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

He who checks rising anger as a charioteer checks a rolling chariot, him I call a true charioteer. Others only hold the reins.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:222

Those harmless sages, perpetually restrained in body, go to the Deathless State, where, having gone, they grieve no more.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:225

If like a broken gong, you silence yourself, you have approached Nirvana, for vindictiveness is no longer in you.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:134

Whatever has the nature of arising has the nature of ceasing.

– Buddha, Kimsuka Sutta

 

Famous Gautama Buddha Quotes on Friendship For You

And what is meant by admirable friendship? There is the case where a layperson, in whatever town or village he may dwell, spends time with householders or householders’ sons, young or old, who are advanced in virtue. He talks with them, and engages them in discussions. He emulates consummate conviction in those who are consummate in conviction, consummate virtue in those who are consummate in virtue, consummate generosity in those who are consummate in generosity, and consummate discernment in those who are consummate in discernment. This is called admirable friendship.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

If you come upon a wise and prudent friend who leads a virtuous life, you must, overcoming all dangers, keep his company joyously and mindfully. But if you could not find the company of a wise and prudent friend who leads a good life, then, like a king who leaves behind a conquered kingdom, or like a lone elephant in the elephant forest, you should go your way alone.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:328-329

I will speak at the right time, not at the wrong time. I will speak truthfully, not falsely. I will speak gently, not harshly. I will speak beneficially, not harmfully. I will speak lovingly, not from secret hate.

– Buddha, Dhammapada

I do not perceive another single factor so helpful as spiritual friendship for a monk who is a learner, who has not attained perfection but lives aspiring for supreme security from bondage.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

Good are friends when the need arises; good is contentment with just what one has; good is merit when life is at an end, and good is the abandoning of all sufferings.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:331

An astute person understands, these four friends for what they are and carefully looks after them, like a mother who hold the child at her breast.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

Recognize these four good-hearted friends: the helper, the friend in good times and bad, the counselor, and the one who’s compassionate.

– Buddha, Sigālovāda Sutta

When you have spiritual friends, spiritual companions, and spiritual associates, you live supported by one thing—diligence in skillful qualities.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

A friend gives what is hard to give, and does what’s hard to do. They put up with your harsh words, and with things hard to endure.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

Like someone pointing to a hidden treasure is the wise person who sees your faults and points them out. Associate with such a sage.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:76

As the dawn is the forerunner of the sunrise, so spiritual friendship is the forerunner of the arising of the factors of enlightenment.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

One with good friends, easy to admonish, reverential and respectful, can’t decline and has drawn near to Nirvāṇa.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

By relying upon me as a good friend … beings are freed from sorrow, lamentation, pain, displeasure, and despair.

– Buddha, Upaḍḍhasutta:45.3

One who has spiritual friends abandons what is unwholesome and develops what is wholesome.

– Buddha, Itivuttika

You should train like this: ‘I will have good friends, companions, and associates.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

A monk with good friends, companions, and associates can expect to be wise.

– Buddha, Mitta Sutta

Good friends, companions, and associates are the whole of the spiritual life.

– Buddha, Upaḍḍhasutta:45.2

A true friend is one who stands by you in need.

– Buddha, Sigālovāda Sutta

 

Inspiring Buddha Quotes on Bad Karma With Pictures

Those who attempt to conquer hatred by hatred are like warriors who take weapons to overcome others who bear arms. This does not end hatred but gives it room to grow. But, ancient wisdom has advocated a different timeless strategy to overcome hatred. This eternal wisdom is to meet hatred with non-hatred. The method of trying to conquer hatred through hatred never succeeds in overcoming hatred. But, the method of overcoming hatred through love is eternally effective. That is why that method is described as eternal wisdom.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:5

He who inflicts violence on those who are harmless, and offends those who are inoffensive, will soon come upon one of these ten states: Severe pain, Disaster, Physical injury, Serious illness, Mental disorder, Trouble from the government, Grave charges, Loss of relatives, Loss of wealth, or Houses destroyed by ravaging fire; upon death that wicked person will be reborn in hell.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:137-140

Those who consider the unessential to be essential, and see the essential as unessential, dwelling in wrong thoughts, never arrive at the essential. But those who know the essential to be essential and the unessential to be unessential, dwelling in the right thoughts, do arrive at the essential.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:11-12

He is indeed virtuous, wise, and righteous who neither for his own sake nor for the sake of another does any wrong. Who does not crave for sons, wealth, or kingdom, and does not desire success by unjust means.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:84

Those, who in youth have not led a spiritual life, or have failed to acquire wealth, in old age, languish like old cranes in the pond without fish or lie sighing over the past, like worn-out arrows shot from a bow.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:155-156

One who loves himself should guard himself diligently. Let the wise man keep vigil during any of the three stages of life – namely childhood, youth, or old age. The best safeguard is the acquisition of virtue.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:157

Let go of the past, let go of the future, let go of the present, and cross over to the farther shore of existence. With mind wholly liberated, you will not again undergo birth and death.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:348

Neither in the sky nor in mid-ocean, nor by entering into the mountain clefts, nowhere in the world is there a place where one may escape from the results of his evil deeds.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:127

Just as a single creeper strangles the tree on which it grows, even so, a man who is extremely wicked harms himself as only an enemy might wish.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:162

An evil deed is better left undone, for such a deed torments one afterward. But a good deed is better done, doing which one repents not later.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:314

After death, some are born in the womb; the wicked are born in hell; the devout go to heaven but the stainless achieve total Nirvana.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:126

So long as an evil deed has not ripened, the fool thinks it as sweet as honey. But when the evil deed ripens, the fool comes to grief.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:69

Like fine dust thrown against the wind, evil falls back upon that fool who offends an inoffensive, pure, and guiltless man.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:125

The evil a fool does by himself, born of himself and produced by himself, grinds him as a diamond grinds a hard gem.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:161

Fools of little wit are enemies unto themselves as they move about doing evil deeds, the fruits of which are bitter.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:66

Hasten to do good. Guard your mind against evil. He who is slow in doing good, his mind delights in evil.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:116

One is not called noble who harms living beings. By not harming living beings one is called noble.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:270

Both formerly and now, it is only suffering that I describe, and the cessation of suffering.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

In whom there is no sympathy for living beings: know him as an outcast.

– Buddha, Sutta Nipata

It’s a good thing to be satisfied with what one has.

– Buddha, Dhammapada:331

They do not mourn for the past,
They do not yearn for the future,
They live on the present;
Therefore they are of good complexion.

– Buddha, Arañña Sutta, Samyutta Nikaya

The Buddha has passed away, but the sublime Teaching, which He expounded during His long and successful ministry and which He unreservedly bequeathed to humanity, still exists in its pristine purity. Although the Master has left no written records of His Teachings, His disciples preserved them, by committing to memory and transmitting them orally from generation to generation. We hope you have surely enjoyed these beautiful and meaningful Buddha quotes on life, love, and happiness.

To read more Buddha quotes on karma, peace, and mind please read 125 Buddhism quotes for enlightenment. And please don’t forget to share these authentic Buddha quotes with your friends and followers on your favorite social media platform so that everyone could have access to the genuine teachings of Buddha.

“There is no fire like lust. There is no grip like hatred. There is no trap like delusion. And there is no torrent like craving…”

– Gautama Buddha, Dhammapada: 251

References:
1. Walshe, Maurice (1995), The Long Discourses of the Buddha. A Translation of the Digha Nikaya, Boston: Wisdom Publications
2. Schumann, Hans Wolfgang (2003), The Historical Buddha: The Times, Life, and Teachings of the Founder of Buddhism
3. Fausböll, V. (1878), Buddhist birth-stories (Jataka tales), Translated by T.W. Rhys Davids
4. Muller, F. Max (2001), The Dhammapada and Sutta-nipata, Routledge (UK)
5. Williams, Paul (2002). Buddhist Thought. Routledge
6. Mangala Sutta: Blessings Translated from the Pali by Narada Thera © 1994
7. Dhammapada Translated from Pali from Acharya Buddharakkita
8. The Dhammapada Translated by Ven. W.S Thero
9. Teachings of Buddha in Sutta Nipata
10. A Guide To Buddhism
11. The Teachings of Buddha
12. The Karaniya Metta Sutta
13. The Sutta Nipāta
14. Sutta Central

Originally Published On: 07 January 2018

About The Author

12Shares
error: Content is protected !!
Scroll to Top