One day, when everyone was listening attentively to the Buddha's discourse in Jetvana Vihara, the Buddha said: " There are four kinds of commendable conduct which the wise are happy to abide by but are rejected by the deluded.

1. Respect the parents and teachers, and make offerings to them to ensure they are not in lack of anything.
2. Value all things and be kind enough to refrain from killing.
3. Donate generously to help the poor and needy.
4. Be thankful to be born in the age of the Buddha, and follow the holy teaching in cultivation of the Way.

If these four kinds of conduct can be practised without fail, the path to purity and magnanimity will be in sight."

The Buddha further remarked: " There are two more things to learn. Whether in public or alone, remember to observe clearly your own mind to prevent it from torpor. When in recluse, practise meditation to purify your thoughts; and when in public, learn to discuss the Dharma.

In addition, there are two kinds of donation. Offering of food is food donation; and speaking on the wondrous and profound meaning of the Dharma is Dharma donation. Of all forms of giving, Dharma donation is the most important and the best. This is why you should be conscious of taking propagation of the Dharma as your personal duty. To be a true cultivator is to benefit others as well as yourself."

All his followers who heard this gladly accepted it with faith.

 

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