Dispassion is the best of mental states. . . .

All that we are is the result of what we have thought; what we think we become.

He who never thinks of anything as 'mine' does not feel the lack of anything: he is never worried by a sense of loss.

I know what I gave them; I don't know what they received.

One may desire a spurious respect and precedence among one's fellow monks, and the veneration of outsiders. "Both monks and laity should think it was my doing. They should accept my authority in all matters great or small." This is a fool's way of thinking. His self-seeking and conceit just increase.

The good renounce everything. The pure don't babble about sensual desires. Whether touched by pleasure or pain, the wise show no change of temper.

Like a beautiful flower, full of colour, but without scent, are wise words when spoken, but fruitless these words are when not carried out by the speaker.