The Dhammapada: A Translator's Guide

This is the first translation of the Dhammapada that gives the original Pali with a word-for-word meaning and grammatical explanation. The basic purpose in so doing is to provide an opportunity to the readers to learn the etymology and meaning of each word. Such a presentation would also offer an opportunity to them to appreciate and enjoy something of the original language, which is very profound and concise. Below each verse, transliteration of Devanagari words is given in readable English to show the readers how the words are pronounced, so that, if they desire, they can appreciate the sound of the original language. Besides, this will further help in better understanding the verses. In making the translation that appears below each verse, the author's objective has been to stick as closely as possible to literal meanings.