[572] Bhikkhus, when the mind (citta) is restless, that is the proper occasion for developing the awakening factor (bojjhaṅga) of tranquility (passaddhi), the proper occasion for developing the awakening factor of concentration (samādhi), the proper occasion for developing the awakening factor of equanimity (upekkhā). For what reason? Because, bhikkhus, the mind is restless, and it is easy to calm it with these things. Suppose, bhikkhus, a man wishing to extinguish a great mass of fire were to throw wet grass upon it, throw wet cow dung upon it, throw wet timber upon it, spray it with water and wind, and scatter dust over it — would that man be able to extinguish that great mass of fire?
"Yes, venerable sir."
Even so, bhikkhus, when the mind is restless, that is the proper occasion for developing the awakening factor of tranquility, the proper occasion for developing the awakening factor of concentration, the proper occasion for developing the awakening factor of equanimity. For what reason? Because, bhikkhus, the mind is restless, and it is easy to calm it with these things.
But mindfulness (sati), bhikkhus, I declare to be useful everywhere.
English translation from the Pali (Siam Raṭṭha edition) — under review, not for citation.