An early collection of sixteen suttas, often in sets of eight verses, this chapter critiques clinging to views and fruitless arguments. The Attadaṇḍa Sutta ties the Buddha’s renunciation to life’s suffering. Direct and unadorned, it emphasizes clarity, detachment, and the path to peace.
Aṭṭhakavagga - The Chapter of Eights
In this teaching, the Buddha succinctly shares the allure and the drawbacks of desiring sensual pleasures.
Eight verses on overcoming the mire of delusion by avoiding attachment to sensory pleasures, discerning their causes, and practicing for being free of 'mine'.
The Buddha explains the nature of a corrupted mind and the consequences of holding onto views in these verses.
The Buddha describes some of the wrong views on attaining purity as well as the the state of an Arahant in these verses.
The Buddha advises against engaging in views deemed the ultimate, as it leads to disputes and clinging to views and doesn't lead to the ending of suffering.
The Buddha explains the nature of ageing and the impermanence of life in these verses, as well as the state of an Arahant.
The Buddha advises Tissa Metteyya on the dangers of engaging in sexual activity and the benefits of solitary conduct.
The Buddha advises Pasūra on the futility of engaging in debates and the dangers of becoming conceited.
The Buddha refused Māgaṇḍiya's offer of his daughter, rejecting worldly desires. He taught that true peace arises not from clinging to views, observances, or status, but from letting go of all attachments. Like a lotus unstained by water, the sage remains free, calm, and detached amidst the world.
The Buddha shares in poignant terms his observations on the agitation all beings experience which led to his urgency to awaken. He then shares on the path to awakening and describes the dwelling of an awakened being.