For one who always observes others’ faults, always finding fault, the taints increase. Such a one is far from the destruction of taints.

Paravajjānupassissa — for one who observes others’ faults: para-vajja-anupassī is one who continuously observes (anupassati) the faults (vajja) of others (para). It is a compulsive practice of moral vigilance directed outward.

Niccaṃ ujjhānasaññino — always finding fault: ujjhāna-saññī is one with the perception of fault, always in critical mode. This mental disposition is itself an āsava (taint).

Āsavā tassa vaḍḍhanti — their taints increase: paradoxically important — one who criticizes others to “improve the world” is actually increasing their own impurities. Vigilance of others’ faults fuels pride, aversion, and the illusion of the observer’s own purity.

Ārā so āsavakkhayā — such a one is far from the destruction of taints: ārā is far, distant. The practice of criticizing others not only does not purify but distances from the goal. This is one of the most common traps on the spiritual path: substituting self-observation for surveillance of others.