The best of the paths is the Eightfold [Path];
The best of the truths is the Four [Noble Truths].
The best of qualities is dispassion;
And the best among god’s and humans
Is the one with eyes to see.
This is the path
For purifying one’s vision; there is no other.
Follow it,
You’ll bewilder Mara
Follow it,
You’ll put an end to suffering
This is the path I have proclaimed,
Having pulled out the arrows.
Text from The Dhammapada, translation by Gil Fronsdil, Shambhala Publications, 2005; page 71
Images: Tawny Owl, by Flickpicpete, CC by-ND 2.0 and Wild Spaces, by Rennett Stowe, CC by 2.0 both from Flickr.com