The Buddha explains the three bases of sectarian views that when closely examined, culminate in inaction. He then shares the Dhamma that is irrefutable, undefiled, blameless, and not disapproved of by the wise.

In reply to the headman Asibandhakaputta’s question about whether the Buddha could cause all beings to be reborn in heaven, the Buddha explains that destiny after death depends on one’s own deeds, not on others’ prayers or rituals. Using similes of a boulder sinking and ghee rising in water, he shows that virtue uplifts, while evil conduct leads to downfall.

The Buddha explains to the brahmin householders of Sālā the causes of rebirth in states of loss or in good destinations, emphasizing the importance of ethical and wholesome conduct. He outlines ten kinds of misconduct and ten kinds of wholesome conduct, illustrating how these actions lead to different outcomes after death.

Prompted by a misquotation of the Buddha regarding mental versus physical and verbal actions, the Buddha clarifies the nature of kamma and its results. He explains, through a framework of four paradoxical cases, how actions may lead to unexpected outcomes based on prior deeds or conditions at death.

Three kinds of children - 1) one who surpasses their parents, 2) one who follows in their footsteps, and 3) one who falls below them.

The venerable Nandaka teaches Sāḷha and his friend about how to independently verify the unwholesome and wholesome mental qualities.

Indulging in 1) excessive sleep, 2) consuming intoxicants, and 3) sexual intercourse gives no satiation.

Dhammapada verses 235-255 emphasize on the urgency of striving swiftly, not being negligent, discerning gradually, stains of various qualities. A contrast is drawn on the lives of one who is shameless and one with a sense of right and wrong, on finding the faults of others and one’s own, and on the path of the Tathāgatas.

Dhammapada verses 306–319 warn of the suffering that follows false speech, misconduct, and wrong view. The verses highlight the danger of negligence, hypocrisy, and slack effort in spiritual practice. Those who cultivate right view, ethical conduct, and firm effort attain a good destination, while those who embrace wrong views and harmful actions fall into misery.