Discussion on Anger as a Chapter in the Dhammapada

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Theravada Buddhist tradition suggests that Buddha spoke the verses in Dhammapada to address particular episodes. The chapter ‘Anger’ captured my attention in the Dhammapada. Anger is depicted as this powerful component of human life that needs careful managing, failure to which an individual suffers adverse consequences. There are various actions that one can indulge in to help free themselves from anger. This discussion will cover some of the lessons I have learned through the analysis of this powerful verse.

This verse tackles anger and all issues surrounding it. By reading this verse, I have learned that anger is a form of human bondage that limits individuals from expressing their true selves. People who have chosen to hold on to their anger are usually blinded by it and cannot see the joy of being free from it. Since anger is an emotion, it tampers how we think, and the only way it can be permanently eliminated is through non-anger actions. Using the exact opposite of the activity helps counterattack it. For instance, one can choose to tell the truth to overcome lies. Through kindness and goodness, it is possible to overcome wickedness. It is a matter of taking the initiative, and even though it is the hard way, the outcome is undeniably the best feeling one could ever have.

I have learned that no man is perfect, and working towards perfection is not an easy task. Individuals who are perceived as good and is praised in society have always portrayed flawless character. They are wise and are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge to get to be excellent. This flawlessness, however, does not happen overnight. An individual starts from admitting their flaws and being willing to change it. Through a series of practices and commitment, individuals gradually mold themselves into the person they want to be, and eventually, they achieve that goal.

It is therefore essential to guard our minds against irritability as it triggers anger. We should be ready to abandon our misconduct and adopt good conduct. To overcome anger, we need to identify the actions in our lives that are termed as misconduct and walk our way up against them until we are people of good conduct. This initiative is only possible if a person stays true to the course and owns the desire to experience a change in their lives. This way, they have a motivating factor that pushes them towards achieving a life of good conduct. A life of good behavior allows a person to lead a peaceful life in society because they won’t interfere with anyone’s personal space by simply being themselves. It is in did a fulfilling life.

Irritation can take many forms. It can come through our thoughts, our actions, and our speech. It is essential to recognize these irritations in their forms. This verse has taught me that refraining from all forms of irritations puts everything into perspective and enables one to have a clear headspace. This element automatically translates to the good mental health of an individual.

References

Buddharakkhita, A. (1996). Kodhavagga: Anger. Accesstoinsight.org. Retrieved 25 October 2021, from https://www.accesstoinsight.org/tipitaka/kn/dhp/dhp.17.budd.html.