[238] 1. This was said by the Blessed One, said by the Arahant — so I have heard:
"Bhikkhus, there are these three bases of meritorious action (puññakiriyāvatthu). What three? The basis of meritorious action consisting in giving (dānamaya), the basis of meritorious action consisting in virtue (sīlamaya), and the basis of meritorious action consisting in mental development (bhāvanāmaya). These, bhikkhus, are the three bases of meritorious action."
The Blessed One spoke this matter. In that connection, this is said:
"One should train in merit alone,
far-reaching and supreme, yielding happiness:
let one develop giving, even conduct (samacariyā),
and a mind (citta) of loving-kindness (mettā).
Having developed these three things,
these sources of happiness,
the wise one is reborn
in an untroubled, happy world."
This matter too was spoken by the Blessed One — so I have heard.
The first.
English translation from the Pali (Siam Raṭṭha edition) — under review, not for citation.