A True Person

“Mendicants, a true person is born in a family for the benefit, welfare, and happiness of the people.

For the benefit, welfare, and happiness of mother and father;

children and partners;

bondservants, workers, and staff;

friends and colleagues;

and ascetics and brahmins.

It’s like a great rain cloud, which nourishes all the crops for the benefit, welfare, and happiness of the people.

In the same way, a true person is born in a family for the benefit, welfare, and happiness of the people. …

The gods protect one who is guarded by principle,

who uses their wealth for the welfare of the many.

One who is learned, <j>with precepts and observances intact,

and steady in principle, doesn’t lose their reputation.

Firm in principle, accomplished in ethical conduct,

truthful, conscientious;

like a pendant of Black Plum River gold,

who is worthy to criticize them?

Even the gods praise them,

and by the Divinity, too, they’re praised.”