For Whom Do We Commit Evil? Wisdom Lessons from the Dana Sutta

Through the story of the Brahmin Dana, Venerable Sariputta teaches that there is no justification for acting unlawfully, even for the sake of family or loved ones. True wisdom lies in seeing far ahead and acting in accordance with the Dharma. If you are suffering because you feel compelled to do wrong to provide for your family, listen closely to this story. Long ago, a Brahmin named Dana lived a life of indulgence for many years. When he fell gravely ill, he experienced immense pain and distress. Venerable Sariputta visited him and asked: "If one commits crimes for the sake of parents, spouse, children, or friends, can anyone save them?" The answer found in this sutta invites deep reflection.

### Venerable Sariputta – Foremost in Wisdom

Within the Sangha, Venerable Sariputta was honored by the Buddha as foremost in wisdom. However, his wisdom was not merely about being learned or knowledgeable; it was the skillful art of teaching through questioning. He did not force others to believe but gently guided them to discover the truth themselves. In times of difficulty or complex situations, he always knew how to arrange matters harmoniously. This is true wisdom: looking forward and backward, understanding the capacity of each individual.

### No One Justifies Unlawful Actions

Venerable Sariputta asked Mr. Dana: "What do you think, Dana? If someone acts unlawfully and unrighteously for the sake of their parents, and after death falls into hell, can their parents save them?" Mr. Dana replied: "No." The Venerable then asked the same question regarding spouses, children, servants, close friends, ancestors, deities, kings, and even oneself. The result was always hopeless.

"Even if they plead their case, or if their parents plead on their behalf, they will still be thrown into hell by the guardians of the underworld."

We often tell ourselves: "I am doing wrong for my family, for my children, out of responsibility." But when karmic retribution arrives, no one can bear our burden for us. Each person must take responsibility for their own actions. Do not deceive yourself by justifying unrighteousness.

### Acting Righteously Is Always Better

Venerable Sariputta then asked: "Is it better to act unlawfully for the sake of parents, or to act righteously and lawfully for their sake?" Mr. Dana answered: "The one who acts righteously is better." The Venerable continued until Mr. Dana realized that regardless of whom we care for, we can support them while keeping ourselves pure.

"Practicing the Dharma rightly and practicing righteousness is always superior to practicing unlawfully and unrighteously."

Therefore, loving someone while doing wrong only harms them. Love and help them through righteous actions. That is love accompanied by wisdom.

### Wisdom Means Seeing Several Steps Ahead

Afterward, Mr. Dana’s illness worsened. At this time, Venerable Sariputta did not speak of sickness but asked: "Which is better, hell or the animal realm?" Mr. Dana answered step by step: the animal realm is better than hell, hungry ghosts are better than animals, humans are better than hungry ghosts... The Venerable guided him from lower realms up to the heavenly realms, eventually teaching about the path to rebirth in the Brahma world. The Buddha later commented: "Although there are higher realms, Sariputta established the Brahmin in the lower Brahma realm." This shows that Sariputta understood what the listener was attached to and taught accordingly. That is wisdom: seeing far, understanding others' levels, and teaching what they need to hear.

"Sariputta, the Brahmin Dana has passed away and been reborn in the Brahma world."

### Loving-Kindness, Compassion, Joy, and Equanimity – The Path to Heaven

Venerable Sariputta taught about the four immeasurables: Loving-kindness is unconditional love; Compassion is feeling sorrow for the suffering of sentient beings; Sympathetic Joy is rejoicing in the happiness of others; and Equanimity is forgiving the mistakes of others. Extend these minds in all directions, free from hatred and anger. These practices bring peace of mind and lead to favorable rebirths.

### Support One Another, Avoid Jealousy

The Buddha praised Venerables Sariputta and Moggallana, entrusting them with leadership of the Sangha despite their having ordained later than many others. This demonstrates that enlightened beings do not cling to seniority or age. They evaluate based on ability and virtue. The lesson for us is clear: do not view succession among monks as a competition. Instead, support those with virtue and talent so that the Buddha's teachings may spread widely.

Wisdom is not something luxurious or distant. It is stepping back to see clearly and looking ahead to choose the right path. Every day, in every situation, ask yourself: Is this action lawful or unlawful? Do not do wrong because you love someone. Live with compassion, joy, equanimity, and wisdom like Venerable Sariputta. You will find your heart light and your life more meaningful.