Pv 3Stinky Mouth
Pāli / Sanskrit:Pūtimukhapetavatthu
A ghost explains the danger of using harsh speech.
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– Khuddaka Nikāya
– Petavatthu
– The Snake Chapter
3. Stinky Mouth
Narada Bhante:
Your body is as beautiful as an angel and you are floating in the sky. But your mouth is being eaten by worms and is very smelly. What have you done in your previous life?
Ghost:
I was an evil monk and insulted others using bad words. I pretended to be a good monk. I did not control what I said to others. However, I did not do any evil actions with my body. Because of this, my body is beautiful but my mouth is full of worms.
You have seen this with your own eyes, Narada Bhante. The wise and compassionate Buddhas have taught about wholesome things. I say the same to you. Never tell lies or break friendships with divisive speech. Then you will be reborn in heaven and enjoy every happiness you desire.
Translated by: Ven. Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thera
According to Ven. Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thera's translation from the Pali.
Stories of Ghosts from the Petavatthu © 2018 Mahamegha Publications.
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