Page:Gospel of Buddha.djvu/30

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the thirsty, and there is hope for the despairing. There is light for those in darkness, and there is inexhaustible blessing for the upright 5

Heal your wounds, ye wounded, and eat your fill, ye hungry. Rest, ye weary, and ye who are thirsty quench your thirst. Look up to the light, ye that sit in darkness; be full of good cheer, ye that are forlorn. 6

Trust in truth, ye that love the truth, for the kingdom of righteousness is founded upon earth. The darkness of error is dispelled by the light of truth. We can see our way and take firm and certain steps. 7

The Buddha, our Lord, has revealed the truth.8

The truth cures our diseases and redeems us from perdition; the truth strengthens us in life and in death; the truth alone can conquer the evils of error.9

Rejoice at the glad tidings!10.

II.

SAMSĀRA AND NIRVĀNA.

Look about and contemplate life!1

Everything is transient and nothing endures. There is birth and death, growth and decay; there is combination and separation.2

The glory of the world is like a flower: it stands in full bloom in the morning and fades in the heat of the day.3

Wherever you outlook, there is a rushing and a struggling, and an eager pursuit of pleasure. There is a panic flight from pain and death, and hot are the flames of burning desires. The world is vanity fair, full of changes and transformations. All is Samsara.4

Is there nothing permanent in the world? Is there in the universal turmoil no resting-place where our troubled heart can find peace? Is there nothing everlasting?5

2