An evil deed done does not curdle immediately like fresh milk; it follows the fool burning, like a fire covered with ashes.

Sajju khīraṃva muccati — like fresh milk: freshly drawn milk does not curdle immediately. So too karma: harmful action does not produce immediate consequences. This delay deceives the fool.

Bhasmacchannova pāvako — like fire covered with ashes: one of the most powerful images in the Dhammapada. Fire under ashes appears extinguished, but its heat persists. Any inadvertent contact reveals it is alive.

Ḍahantaṃ bālamanveti — follows the fool burning: unripe karma follows the fool like that hidden fire. When conditions are right, the fire returns to full activity.

The image of fire under ashes is also psychologically relevant: unprocessed traumas, unacknowledged guilts, unexamined patterns are that fire that can burn again unexpectedly. Contemplative practice is the process of seeing that fire and working with it consciously.