We take too much for granted. Far too much. The common one liner reminds us to ‘count our blessings.’ Perhaps people referred to the same invitation 2500 yeafrs ago. It looks like the Buddha took it seriously. He made a list of 38 blessings he experienced.

We have become prone to the influence of the rich and powerful in this world, such as heads of state and billionaires. Such influencers come and go. All fur coat and no knickers, to coin an appropriate response. They appear successful during their short time on Earth. We forget them and move on finding it hard to remember anything significant they said during their lifetime, let alone after they die.

The voice of the truly successful last centuries, such as the Buddha. The words resonate with us generation after generation.

Take a slow read through the list of 38 blessings. Fools refers to those blinded due to clinging to their own views and notion of self-importance.

You may not be able to tick all the boxes. Remember your great blessings and cultivate the ones you do not experience.

38 Great Blessings (Sn 2.4)

Associating with the Wise and Respecting Others

Not associating with fools
Associating with the wise
Respect for those who are worthy of respect.

2. Abiding in a Supportive Environment

Residing in a suitable locality
Having done meritorious actions in the past.
Setting one’s mind on the right course.

3. Developing Skills and Character

In knowledge and learning
Being skilful in a trade or craft
Being well-trained in ethics (non-violence, non-exploitation, non-abuse).
Being of calm/clear speech/communication.

4. Fulfilling Social and Family Duties

Care for one’s parents
Cherishing wife, husband, partner and children
Engaging in peaceful, blameless livelihood (for the benefit of all)
Supporting one’s relatives.

5. Living a Virtuous Way of Life

Giving and donating to others
Conducting oneself according to the Dharma (applied ethics, mindfulness/meditation and wisdom)
Acting blamelessly
Abstaining from evil (desire to cause suffering to others)
Abstaining from intoxicants leading to carelessness
Being steadfast and diligent in Dharma practice,

6. Cultivating Inner Qualities

Being respectful
Being humble
Being content
Being grateful.

7. Engaging in Spiritual Cultivation

Hearing and being receptive to the Dhamma.
Being patient and humble when corrected
Associating with the Sangha of Practitioners
Discussing the Dhamma at the proper time
Practicing moderation in every area of life
Living a spiritual life.

8. Realizing the Deepest Truths

Finding insights into the Four Noble Truths*
Realizing the ultimate peace of Nirvana (absence of suffering, absence of greed, aggression and confusion).
Knowing an unshaken, sorrowless daily life and freedom from unresolved issues.

*1. There is suffering in this world

2. Suffering arises due to causes and conditions

3. There is seeing and knowing the end of all suffering (bodily pain may arise.

Knowing the path for the ending of suffering.

4. There are ways to develop to end suffering.

May all beings know the fullness of blessings

May all beings meditate on the blessings

May all beings live a liberated way of life.

www.thebuddhawallah.org

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Christopher Titmuss - The Buddha Wallah

The Buddha's List of 38 Great Blessings. Can…