Pakiṇṇakavagga · Miscellany · Gāthā 299

Pabbajitānaṃ samaṇānaṃ, sīlabbataparamāyināṃ; vadāma brāhmaṇoti tamha, tena brāhmaṇoti vuccati.

Pabbajitānaṃ samaṇānaṃ, sīlabbataparamāyināṃ; vadāma brāhmaṇoti tamha, tena brāhmaṇoti vuccati.

Of renunciants and monks who observe precepts and vows, we say: one is a brahmin whom we call a brahmin.

This verse from the Pakiṇṇakavagga (Miscellany) continues the exploration of the Buddhist path. The emphasis is on ethical practice (sīla) as foundation and on the profound transformation of character that defines the true brahmin — one who has transcended identifications and lives without causing harm.