399. If one is heedless in practicing the Dhamma, one’s craving grows rapidly like a māluvā creeper that spirals around a big tree. He is like a monkey: desiring fruit, a monkey jumps from one tree to another. In the same way, this person journeys from one existence to another.
400. The evil craving that has invaded the whole world can overcome anybody. Then their grief grows like a bīrana grass shrub.
401. But, if one can overcome this evil craving that is hard to overcome, one’s grief falls like a drop of water from a lotus leaf.
402. Now you have all gathered here. I will tell you a very good thing. The one who seeks the roots of bīrana grass uproots the bīrana shrub along with its roots. In just that same way, uproot craving with its roots. Just as a fast stream carries a bamboo twig, may Māra not destroy you again and again.
403. Do the word of the Buddha. Don’t miss this precious moment. Those who miss this opportunity suffer, falling into hell.
404. Indeed, being heedless in practicing the Dhamma is a defilement in one’s life. A defiled life is created from heedlessness. Therefore by heedfulness and true knowledge, one should pluck out one’s own dart of craving.
These verses were said by Arahant Māluṅkyaputta.
