People Who Should be Avoided

The Buddha gave this advice in a Sutta called Offensive.

AN 3.27 - Offensive

Looked on with Disgust and Avoided

  • Unethical, bad qualities, filthy
  • Underhanded, not an ascetic or spiritual practitioner (claims to be one – rotten and depraved)
    Following this person you can get a bad reputation

Looked on with Equanimity and Avoided

  • Irritable and bad-tempered
  • Light criticism results in them blowing up
  • Displays annoyance, hatred, and bitterness
    There is a risk this person could harm you, physically or mentally

I originally read it in this book, on page 55.
The Buddha’s Teachings on Social and Communal Harmony - Edited and introduced by Bhikkhu Bodhi

v1.0 - Last edit 14-November-2021
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