264. One who wishes to attain Nibbāna should avoid evil friends, associate with noble people and follow their advice.
265. Just as one climbing onto a small piece of wood would sink in the great ocean, so, even a virtuous person’s good qualities deteriorate if he associates with a lazy person. Therefore one should avoid lazy and unenergetic people.
266. One should associate with noble people who live alone, practice the Dhamma as a top priority; practice Jhānas, and continually put forth energy.
These verses were said by Arahant Vimala.
