This booklet contains a collection of short discourses delivered by the Buddha and a passage from the Path of Purification (Visuddhimagga), each preceded by a brief introduction by the translator. The unifying theme of these pieces may be called a positive response in dealing with provocative people and situations. The texts set forth practical techniques taught by the Buddha for overcoming resentment, hatred, and other such pollutants, and for cultivating such elevating mental qualities as good will, amity, and compassion. For anyone intent on spiritual development these practical instructions will help to cleanse the mind and to unfold its great hidden potentials.

Ven. Acharya Buddharakkhita, a Buddhist monk of Indian nationality, is the founder of the Mah?? Bodhi Society centre in Bangalore. Presently, he is spending time in solitary meditation, teaching monks and writing Dhamma books. His translation, THE DHAMMAPADA: The Buddha’s Path of Wisdom, is published by the Buddhist Publication Society.