38 Blessings Explained in the Maṅgala Sutta by Bhante Dr. G. Chandima Skip to main content

38 Blessings Explained in the Maṅgala Sutta by Bhante Dr. G. Chandima




  1. Not to associate with fools – Avoid people who drag you down, like those who drink too much or live irresponsibly.
  2. To associate with the wise – Be around people who inspire you to grow spiritually. Good company is essential for a good life.
  3. To pay respects where they are due – Honor the Buddha, your teachers, and elders. This is a blessing and an opportunity not to be missed.
  4. To reside in a suitable location – Live in a peaceful place with a supportive society and economy, free from fear and need.
  5. To have previously done meritorious deeds – Enjoy the good results of past virtuous actions, but continue making good deeds now.
  6. To be heading in the right direction – If you are growing spiritually, developing wisdom and compassion, you are blessed.
  7. To have much learning – Be well-educated and knowledgeable, especially in the teachings of the Dhamma, which is invaluable.
  8. To be skilled and knowledgeable – Use your skills and talents to improve your life and the lives of others.
  9. To be restrained by a moral code – Follow ethical principles for peace and happiness.
  10. To have beautiful speech – Speak truthfully, kindly, and helpfully, so others are uplifted by your words.
  11. To be a support for your parents – Caring for your parents is a blessing. Repay their kindness and show gratitude. 
  12.  To cherish your wife/husband and child – A happy family life is a true blessing.
  13.  To cherish your children
  14. To make one's livelihood without difficulty – Earn a living with ease through a wholesome and satisfying occupation.
  15. To make gifts – Giving to others brings joy to both the giver and the receiver. Cultivate a generous spirit.
  16. To live in accord with the Dhamma – To have the chance to hear and practice the teachings of the Buddha is a rare and precious blessing.
  17. To cherish one's relatives – Having supportive relationships with family and close friends is a blessing.
  18. To do blameless actions – Live your life in a way that is above reproach. Be honest and without regret.
  19. To cease and abstain from evil – Develop an instinct to avoid harmful actions, like avoiding a hot iron.
  20. To refrain from intoxicants – Stay away from substances that cloud your mind and judgment.
  21. Not to be heedless of the Dhamma – Live mindfully and with compassion. Pay attention to the details of life and the teachings.
  22. To be respectful – Treat others with respect and honor. Show respect for the Buddha nature in everyone.
  23. To be humble – Avoid pride, for humility brings true strength and fulfillment.
  24. To be content – Be satisfied with what you have. Contentment is a powerful and peaceful attitude.
  25. To have gratitude – Be grateful for the help and kindness you've received in life. Recognize that you are not alone in your journey.
  26. To hear the Dhamma at the right time – The teachings that come to you at just the right moment are a rare and precious gift.
  27. To have patience – Patience helps you avoid unnecessary suffering. It's a true blessing.
  28. To be easy to admonish – Be open to guidance and willing to learn from others.
  29. The sight of monks – Seeing monks, who dedicate their lives to the spiritual path, serves as a reminder of the deeper aspects of life.
  30. To discuss the Dhamma at a suitable time – Engaging in meaningful conversations about the Dhamma with others is a valuable and enriching experience.
  31. To practice austerities – Regular meditation and spiritual practice, including retreats, help you grow spiritually.
  32. To lead the Holy Life – Follow the Eightfold Path and live a life dedicated to seeking Liberation from suffering.
  33. Seeing the Noble Truths – Experiencing a deep understanding of the Four Noble Truths beyond just intellectual knowledge.
  34. The realization of Nibbana – Achieving the ultimate peace and freedom from suffering, a treasure beyond measure.
  35. A mind unshaken by contact with the world – Being in the world but remaining unaffected by its distractions and challenges.
  36. Sorrowlessness – Living beyond suffering, untouched by sorrow.
  37. Stainlessness – Being free from negative emotions and impurities of the mind.
  38. Secure – Once you have found the truth, it is something that cannot be lost. You are at peace.

These are the highest blessings, leading to an unconquered, peaceful life. By accomplishing these, you can live with serenity and joy. These are the supreme blessings of life, as described in the Maṅgala Sutta from the Sutta Nipata.

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