Verse 305

Dhammapada Verse 305

The Story of the Thera Who Stayed Alone

Thera Ekavihari did not mix much with other bhikkhus, but usually stayed by himself. All alone, he would sleep or lie down, or stand, or walk. Other bhikkhus thought ill of Ekavihari and told the Buddha about him. But the Buddha did not blame him; instead he said, "Yes, indeed, my son has done well; for, a bhikkhu should stay in solitude and seclusion".

Then the Buddha spoke in verse as follows:

Ekasanam ekaseyyam
eko caramatandito
eko damayamattanam
vanante ramito siya.

Verse 305: He who sits alone, lies down alone, walks¹ alone, in diligent practice, and alone tames himself should find delight in living in the forest.

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1. All these postures are connected with the cultivation of Insight Development. (The Commentary)