Theragāthā 154

Verses of the Senior Monks 2.34

The Book of the Twos

Chapter Four

Isidinna

1 I’ve seen lay disciples

who have memorized discourses,

saying, “Sensual pleasures are impermanent”.

But they’re obsessed with jeweled earrings,

concerned for their partners and children.

2 To be honest, they don’t know Dhamma,

even though they say

“Sensual pleasures are impermanent”.

They don’t have the power to cut their lust,

so they cling to children, wives, and wealth.