The Buddha commented that ultimately, both worldly victory and defeat are unsatisfactory.

While the world is gripped in suspense on the outcome of the fiercely-fought U.S. Presidential Elections, it is opportune for us to reflect on the timeless truth of the Buddha’s teaching:

Jayam veram pasavati; dukkham seti parājito.  Upasanto sukham seti, hitvā jayaparājayam

“Victory breeds hatred; the defeated lives in pain.  The peaceful one lives happily, having given up victory and defeat.” – Dhammapada verse 201.

The Buddha said this after a king lamented that he had been thrice defeated in battle.  The Buddha commented on the unsatisfactory consequences of both defeat and victory, and described how a noble person has gone beyond the desire for worldly victories.