Canonical Reference: Dhp 276 Verified Source

“You yourself must make the effort; the Buddhas are only teachers who point the way. Those who enter the path and meditate are freed from the bonds of delusion.”

Canonical Pali Original: Tumhehi kiccamātappaṃ, akkhātāro tathāgatā; Paṭipannā pamokkhanti, jhāyino mārabandhanā.

— Gautam Buddha
The Awakened One, Founder of Dhamma
Historical Setting & Context:

Pali Canon: Dhammapada 20.276 establishing personal responsibility and individual agency in ethical liberation.