Pakiṇṇakavagga · Miscellany · Gāthā 300
Na tena brāhmaṇoti, yassutā hoti sīlabbataparamo; yaṃ kiñci vā saha tena, sabbametaṃ no brāhmaṇoti.
Na tena brāhmaṇoti, yassutā hoti sīlabbataparamo; yaṃ kiñci vā saha tena, sabbametaṃ no brāhmaṇoti.
Not by that is one a brahmin, nor by much learning, nor by observing precepts and vows; all that together does not make one 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.