The Blessed One addressed the Venerable Rāhula thus: “Rāhula, just as an overturned vessel retains not even a drop of water within it — so too, Rāhula, one who lies knowingly and deliberately retains not the slightest vestige of goodness. It is precisely as with the overturned vessel — not a drop remains.”
“Therefore, Rāhula, hold this firmly in mind: do not speak falsehood, even in jest or playful amusement.”
Heed this well, dear ones. Even in light-hearted play — even in the harmless teasing of companions for the sake of laughter and merriment — let it not be done. For even such conduct carries with it the weight of kamma and its inevitable ripening.
October 27th, 2019
