Atta Dipa

Atta Dipa

ATTA DIPA VIHARATHA ATTA SARANA ANANNA SARANA DHAMMA DIPA DHAMMA SARANA ANANNA SARANA

You are the light! Dwell.
You are the refuge.
Have no other as your refuge.
Light of the Dharma.
Refuge of the Dharma.
Have no other as your refuge.

These words were given by the Buddha to his cousin and student Ananda right before his death. Panicked and weeping, Ananda perceived he had lost his opportunity to awaken with the Buddha’s death. Ananda thought, “Who will lead and teach me?” The Buddha’s reply, his medicine, is beautiful and compassionate. Even upon his last moments, the Buddha comforted and empowered those around him. You are the light! These words are still spoken everyday by countless members of the Maha Sangha. These words still pacify and inspire countless students of the way. I invite you to not only speak these words but, to pass through the gate left by the Buddha, and KNOW, you are the light!