Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Perfectly Enlightened One
In the Minor Collection
The Book of Stories about Divine Mansions
1.
Women's Mansions
1.
The Chapter on Thrones
1.
The Story of the First Chair Mansion
1.
Adorned, wearing garlands, beautifully clothed, you shine like lightning upon a cloud peak.
2.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
3.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
4.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
5.
I paid respect, I made a salutation with joined palms, and according to my ability I gave a gift.
6.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
7.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The First Chair Mansion is first.
2.
The Story of the Second Chair Mansion
8.
Adorned, wearing garlands, beautifully clothed, you shine like lightning upon a cloud peak.
9.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
10.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
11.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
12.
I paid respect, I made a salutation with joined palms, and according to my ability I gave a gift.
13.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
14.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Second Chair Mansion is second.
3.
The Story of the Third Chair Mansion
15.
Adorned, wearing garlands, beautifully clothed, you shine like lightning upon a cloud peak.
16.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
17.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
18.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
19.
When I was a human being among human beings, in a former birth in the human world.
20.
To him I gave a chair, devoted, with my own hands.
21.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
22.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Third Chair Mansion is third.
4.
The Story of the Fourth Chair Mansion
23.
Adorned, wearing garlands, beautifully clothed, you shine like lightning upon a cloud peak.
24.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
25.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
26.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
27.
When I was a human being among human beings, in a former birth in the human world.
28.
To him I gave a chair, devoted, with my own hands.
29.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
30.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Fourth Chair Mansion is fourth.
5.
The Story of the Elephant Mansion
31.
Beautiful, powerful, endowed with speed, it moves through the sky.
32.
With limbs strewn over with lotus pollen, wearing a garland of golden lotuses.
33.
Standing firm, pleasantly without jolting, measured in pace goes the elephant.
34.
Their resounding is heard, like a five-part musical ensemble.
35.
You outshine the great assembly of nymphs in beauty.
36.
Or else of salutation with joined palms? Tell me this when asked."
37.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
38.
I gave a seat strewn with flowers, spread with cloth.
39.
Sprinkled over with petals, devoted, with my own hands.
40.
Honour and respect, and I am esteemed by the gods.
41.
Would rejoice thus, just as I do, O Nanda.
42.
A seat should be given, to those bearing their final bodies."
The Elephant Mansion is fifth.
6.
The Story of the First Boat Mansion
43.
You plunge into the pond, you pluck a lotus with your hand.
44.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
45.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
46.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
47.
Having seen monks thirsty and weary, having risen, I gave water to drink.
48.
For him there are rivers with cool water, abundant with garlands, with many white lotuses.
49.
Mango trees and sal trees and tilaka trees and rose-apple trees, uddālaka trees and trumpet-flower trees in bloom.
50.
This is the result of that action here, those who have made merit obtain such.
51.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
52.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The First Boat Mansion is sixth.
7.
The Story of the Second Boat Mansion
53.
You plunge into the pond, you pluck a lotus with your hand.
54.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
55.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
56.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
57.
Having seen a monk thirsty and weary, having risen, I gave water to drink.
58.
For him there are rivers with cool water, abundant with garlands, with many white lotuses.
59.
Mango trees and sal trees and tilaka trees and rose-apple trees, uddālaka trees and trumpet-flower trees in bloom.
60.
This is the result of that action here, those who have made merit obtain such.
61.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
62.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Second Boat Mansion is seventh.
8.
The Story of the Third Boat Mansion
63.
You plunge into the pond, you pluck a lotus with your hand.
64.
Shining brightly they illuminate, all around the four directions.
65.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
66.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
67.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
68.
Having seen monks thirsty and weary, having risen, I gave water to drink.
69.
For him there are rivers with cool water, abundant with garlands, with many white lotuses.
70.
Mango trees and sal trees and tilaka trees and rose-apple trees, uddālaka trees and trumpet-flower trees in bloom.
71.
This is the result of that action here, those who have made merit obtain such.
72.
Shining brightly they illuminate, all around the four directions.
73.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
74.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions;
This is the fruit of that action of mine, for my benefit the Buddha drank the water."
The Third Boat Mansion is eighth.
9.
The Story of the Lamp Mansion
75.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
76.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
77.
By what from all your limbs, do all directions shine forth.
78.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
79.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
80.
In the darkness of a very dark night, at the time for lighting, I gave a lamp.
81.
There arises a mansion of radiant light, with abundant garlands and many white lotuses.
82.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
83.
By that from all my limbs, all directions shine forth.
84.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Lamp Mansion is ninth.
10.
The Story of the Sesame Offering Mansion
85.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
86.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
87.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
88.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
89.
90.
Having approached, I gave a gift, unwillingly, an offering of sesame seeds;
To the Buddha worthy of offerings, devoted, with my own hands.
91.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
92.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Sesame Offering Mansion is tenth.
11.
The Story of the First Devoted Wife Mansion
93.
This mansion strewn with flowers, charming, variegated, frequented by men and women.
94.
And these nymphs of yours all around, dance and sing and delight.
95.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
96.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
97.
Guarding my husband as a mother guards her son, even when angry I did not speak harshly.
98.
With a confident mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
99.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
100.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The First Devoted Wife Mansion is eleventh.
12.
The Story of the Second Devoted Wife Mansion
101.
There you dwell, goddess of great majesty, displaying supernormal powers high and low;
And these nymphs of yours all around, dance and sing and delight.
102.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
103.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
104.
I was abstaining from killing living beings, I avoided what is not given in the world.
105.
With a confident mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
106.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
107.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Second Devoted Wife Mansion is twelfth.
13.
The Story of the First Daughter-in-Law's Mansion
108.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
109.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
110.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
111.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
112.
113.
To him I gave a cake, devoted, with my own hands;
Having given half of my portion, I rejoice in the Nandana grove.
114.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
115.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The First Daughter-in-law Mansion is thirteenth.
14.
The Story of the Second Daughter-in-Law's Mansion
116.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
117.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
118.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
119.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
120.
121.
To him I gave a share, devoted, with my own hands;
Having given a lump of barley-gruel, I rejoice in the Nandana grove.
122.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
123.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Second Daughter-in-law Mansion is fourteenth.
15.
The Story of Uttarā's Mansion
124.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
125.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
126.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
127.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
128.
Not prone to wrath, obedient to my husband's will, on the Observance day I was always diligent.
129.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
130.
Through self-control and sharing, I dwell in this mansion.
131.
And from theft and from sexual misconduct, and far from drinking intoxicants.
132.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, the famous Gotama.
133.
I experience my own merit, happy and free from affliction.
134.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
135.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
136. "And, venerable sir, in my name pay respect with your head at the Blessed One's feet - 'Venerable sir, the female lay follower named Uttarā pays respect with her head at the Blessed One's feet.' But this is not wonderful, venerable sir, that the Blessed One would declare me in a certain fruit of asceticism, the Blessed One declared me in the fruit of once-returning."
The Uttarā Mansion is fifteenth.
16.
The Story of Sirimā's Mansion
137.
Five hundred chariots are created for you, the horses urged by charioteers follow you.
138.
I ask you, of excellent form, of superior appearance, from which class did you approach the Blessed One?
139.
From that class, a nymph of sensual appearance, has come here to venerate the Blessed One.
140.
By what do you dwell with boundless glory, delicately nurtured in happiness;
And your supernormal power is unsurpassed, moving through the sky,
And your beauty shines in the ten directions.
141.
Having passed away from where, have you gone to a fortunate world, O deity?
Or whose instruction are you obedient to?
Tell me, if you are a disciple of the Buddha."
142.
I was supremely well trained in dancing and singing, they knew me as Sirimā in Rājagaha.
143.
The unconditioned, the eternal cessation of suffering, and this path - straight, direct, and safe.
144.
I was supremely well restrained in morality, established in the Teaching taught by the Buddha, the excellent among men.
145.
Right there I attained the concentration of serenity, that very thing was my supreme certainty of the path.
146.
Free from doubt, honoured by many people, I experience no small enjoyment and delight.
147.
A seer of the Dhamma, established in the first fruit, a stream-enterer, and there is no unfortunate realm for me.
148.
To venerate the safe assembly of ascetics, respectfully, of the glorious King of the Teaching.
149.
The cutter of craving, delighting in the wholesome, the guide, I pay homage to the one compassionate for the supreme welfare."
The Sirimā Mansion is sixteenth.
17.
The Story of the Hairdresser's Mansion
150.
Covered all around with golden trees, this is my abode, arisen from the result of action.
151.
You have arrived, glorious one, illuminating you stand, first deity.
152.
Just so you, shining brightly with fame, outshine this company of nymphs.
153.
Like Brahmā, the gods of the Thirty-three together with Indra, we all are not satisfied by seeing you."
154.
There is a city named Bārāṇasī in the east of Kāsi, there I was formerly a hairdresser.
155.
With unbroken training rules, having attained the fruit, fixed in the teaching of enlightenment, free from illness."
156.
With a mind devoted to the Buddha and the Teaching, gone to the Community with certainty, free from doubt;
With unbroken training rules, having attained the fruit, fixed in the teaching of enlightenment, free from illness."
The Hairdresser Mansion is seventeenth.
The Chapter on the Chair is concluded as first.
Its summary:
Husband - two, Daughter-in-law, Uttarā, Sirimā, Hairdresser;
By that the chapter is called.
2.
The Chapter on the Cittalatā Grove
1.
The Story of the Female Slave's Mansion
157.
She wandered all around, attended by a group of women;
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
158.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
159.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
160.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
161.
162.
For me there was exertion, in the instruction of that Such One.
163.
Of the five training rules, the path is safe and secure.
164.
See the fruit of effort, how this woman has attained it.
165.
Sixty thousand musical instruments awaken delight in me.
166.
Pokkharo and Suphasso, and Vīṇāmokkhā are the women.
167.
Alambusā and Missakesī, Puṇḍarīkā and Dāruṇī.
168.
These and others are the best, the awakeners among the nymphs.
169.
'Come, let us dance, let us sing, come, let us delight you.'
170.
Sorrowless, delightful, charming, the great forest of the Thirty-three.
171.
But happiness for those who have made merit, both here and in the hereafter.
172.
For those who have made merit rejoice, in heaven endowed with wealth."
The Slave Woman Mansion is first.
2.
The Story of Lakhumā's Mansion
173.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
174.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
175.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
176.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
177.
There, for those going about, for the disciples, the great sages.
178.
I gave to the upright, with a clear mind.
179.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
180.
Through self-control and sharing, I dwell in this mansion.
181.
And from theft and from sexual misconduct, and far from drinking intoxicants.
182.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, the famous Gotama.
183.
The Lakhumā Mansion is second.
3.
The Story of the Rice-Scum Donor's Mansion
185.
A poor, wretched woman, leaning against another's house.
186.
She, having abandoned the human body, to which direction has she gone?"
187.
A poor, wretched woman, leaning against another's house.
188.
She, having abandoned the human body, free, has passed away from here.
189.
There that woman is happy, the giver of rice-gruel rejoices."
190.
By a gift brought from others, the offering has indeed succeeded.
191.
A woman beautiful in all her limbs, and of surpassing appearance to her husband;
Is not worth a sixteenth fraction of this gift of rice-water.
192.
A hundred thousand maidens, adorned with jewelled earrings;
Are not worth a sixteenth fraction of this gift of rice-water.
193.
Mātaṅgas with golden trappings, adorned with golden ornaments;
Is not worth a sixteenth fraction of this gift of rice-water.
194.
It is not worth a sixteenth fraction of this gift of rice-water."
The Rice-scum Giver Mansion is third.
4.
The Story of the Caṇḍālī Woman's Mansion
195.
Out of compassion for her, the seventh sage stood still.
196.
Quickly pay respect with joined palms, your life is limited."
197.
The caṇḍālī woman paid homage to the feet of the famous Gotama.
198.
Paying homage to the self-enlightened one, the light-bringer in the darkness.
199.
Having attained divine power, having approached, I pay homage to you, O hero of great majesty."
200.
Surrounded by a company of nymphs, who are you, O beautiful deity, that you pay homage to me?"
201.
I paid homage to the feet of the Worthy One, the famous Gotama.
202.
To a mansion auspicious in every way, I was reborn in Nandana.
203.
Among them I am the noble, the foremost, in beauty, glory, and lifespan.
204.
I have come to pay homage to the compassionate sage in the world, venerable sir."
205.
Having paid homage at the feet of the Worthy One, disappeared right there.
The Caṇḍālī Mansion is fourth.
5.
The Story of the Virtuous Woman's Mansion
206.
Of various colours, surrounded by filaments.
207.
These trees are not found in other realms, O wise one.
208.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
209.
Accomplished in faith and morality, always delighting in sharing.
210.
I gave to the upright, with a clear mind.
211.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
212.
Through self-control and sharing, I dwell in this mansion.
213.
And from theft and from sexual misconduct, and far from drinking intoxicants.
214.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, dwelling in heedfulness.
Self-radiant, I wander about in Nandana.
215.
Having made my dwelling, having made merit, passed away from there, self-radiant, I wander about in Nandana.
216.
Having made my dwelling, having made merit, passed away from there, self-radiant, I wander about in Nandana."
The Fortunate Woman Mansion is fifth.
6.
The Story of Soṇadinnā's Mansion
217.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
218.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
219.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
220.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
221.
Accomplished in faith and morality, always delighting in sharing.
222.
I gave to the upright, with a clear mind.
223.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
224.
Through self-control and sharing, I dwell in this mansion.
225.
And from theft and from sexual misconduct, and far from drinking intoxicants.
226.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, the famous Gotama.
227.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Soṇadinnā Mansion is sixth.
7.
The Story of Uposathā's Mansion
229.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
230.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
232.
233.
Accomplished in faith and morality, always delighting in sharing.
234.
I gave to the upright, with a clear mind.
235.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
236.
Through self-control and sharing, I dwell in this mansion.
237.
And from theft and from sexual misconduct, and far from drinking intoxicants.
238.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, the famous Gotama.
239.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
241.
Having directed my mind there, I was reborn in Nandana.
242.
Having directed my mind to the inferior, I am one who regrets afterwards."
243.
O deity, being asked, explain, if you know of your life span."
244.
Having stayed here, great sage, having passed away from here, I will go;
To the company of human beings."
245.
A stream-enterer, you have attained distinction, your unfortunate realms have been abandoned."
The Uposathā Mansion is seventh.
8.
The Story of Niddā's Mansion
246.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
247.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
249.
250.
Accomplished in faith and morality, always delighting in sharing.
251.
I gave to the upright, with a clear mind.
252.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
253.
Through self-control and sharing, I dwell in this mansion.
254.
And from theft and from sexual misconduct, and far from drinking intoxicants.
255.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, the famous Gotama.
256.
The Niddā Mansion is eighth.
9.
The Story of Suniddā's Mansion
258.
259.
261.
262.
Accomplished in faith and morality, always delighting in sharing.
266.
267.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, the famous Gotama.
268.
The Suniddā Mansion is ninth.
10.
The Story of the First Alms Giver's Mansion
270.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
271.
273.
274.
275.
To him I gave almsfood, devoted, with my own hands.
276.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
The First Alms Giver Mansion is tenth.
11.
The Story of the Second Alms Giver's Mansion
278.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
279.
281.
282.
283.
To him I gave almsfood, devoted, with my own hands.
284.
The Second Alms Giver Mansion is eleventh.
The Chapter on the Cittalatā is concluded as second.
Its summary:
Caṇḍālī Woman and Bhadditthī, Soṇadinnā and Uposathā;
Niddā and Suniddā, and two Alms Givers;
By that the chapter is called.
The first recitation section is concluded.
3.
The Chapter on the Coral Tree
1.
The Story of the Lofty Mansion
286.
Women dance and sing, young gods adorned.
287.
These golden mansions are yours, O beautiful one.
288.
Well-born, you are great, you rejoice in the company of gods;
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
289.
I was a daughter-in-law in an immoral family, among the faithless and miserly.
290.
To you walking for almsfood, I gave a cake.
291.
To him I gave a cake, devoted, with my own hands.'
292.
You did not wish to ask me, "I am giving to the ascetic."'
293.
She cut my shoulder, she killed me, I was not able to live long.
294.
I was reborn in the company of the gods of the Thirty-three.
295.
The Uḷāra Mansion is first.
2.
The Story of the Sugar-Cane Giver's Mansion
296.
In splendour and beauty, in glory and radiance, like Brahmā among the gods in the Thirty-three heaven with Indra.
297.
Decorated, wearer of the finest garments, who are you, O beautiful deity, that you pay homage to me?
298.
Was it a gift well practised or self-control in morality, by what have you, one of fame, been reborn in a fortunate realm?
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
299.
Then I gave you a piece of sugar-cane, with a confident mind, with incomparable joy.
300.
It was not discarded, nor was it eaten by me; to a peaceful monk I myself gave it.
301.
Having taken a chair, she gave me a blow; passed away from there, deceased, I am a deity.
302.
Together with the gods I enjoy myself, I rejoice in the five types of sensual pleasure.
303.
Protected by the lord of gods, guarded by the Thirty-three, endowed with the five types of sensual pleasure.
304.
Together with the gods I enjoy myself, I rejoice in the five types of sensual pleasure.
305.
Protected by the lord of gods, guarded by the Thirty-three, like the thousand-eyed one in the Nandana grove.
306.
Then I gave you a piece of sugar-cane, with a confident mind, with incomparable joy."
The Sugar-cane Giver's Mansion is second.
3.
The Story of the Divan Mansion
307.
There you dwell, goddess of great majesty, displaying supernormal powers high and low.
308.
You have attained divine power, O one of great majesty, when you were a human being, what merit did you make?
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
309.
Not prone to wrath, obedient to my husband's will, on the Observance day I was diligent.
310.
By day and by night, agreeable in conduct, I was formerly virtuous.
311.
Abstaining from intoxicants and I did not speak falsehood, one who fulfils the training rules.
312.
And the special fortnight, with a gladdened mind, I.
313.
And having taken upon myself this noble, wholesome, yielding happiness, endowed with the eight excellent factors,
A beautiful woman, obedient to my husband, I was formerly a female disciple of the Fortunate One.
314.
Upon the collapse of the body, in the future life, having attained divine power, I have come to a fortunate world.
315.
Self-luminous, the company of gods delight me, who have come to the heavenly mansion with a long lifespan."
The Divan Mansion is third.
4.
The Story of the Creeper Mansion
316.
Sutā and the daughter of King Vessavaṇa, Rājīmatī shone with virtuous qualities.
317.
Those deities, having bathed there and delighted, having danced and sung, Sutā spoke to Latā.
318.
With copper-red eyes like darkness, beautiful as the sky, long-lived one, by what was your fame made?
319.
Skilled in dancing, singing and music, tell us, you who are asked by men and women."
320.
Not prone to wrath, obedient to my husband's will, on the Observance day I was diligent.
321.
Together with my brother-in-law, together with my parents-in-law, together with the servants, I pleased him; thereby my fame was made.
322.
Life and beauty and happiness and strength, I experience no small enjoyment and delight.
323.
Husbands indeed are distinguished for us women, and the destination of those, and the excellent deities.
324.
Having all practised the duty towards our husbands, we shall obtain what this Latā speaks of."
325.
Having forcibly killed other quadrupeds, the meat-eater devours the small deer.
326.
Having killed wrath, having overcome avarice, she rejoices in heaven, a practiser of the teaching."
The Creeper Mansion is fourth.
5.
The Guttila Mansion
1. The Story of the Mansion of the Giver of the Best Cloth
327.
He challenges me on the stage, 'Be my refuge, Kosiya.'"
328.
The pupil will not defeat you, you, teacher, will defeat the pupil."
329.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
330.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
331.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
332.
Asked a question, she explained of which action this is the fruit.
333.
Thus a giver of what is dear and pleasing, she obtains, having approached, a divine state.
334.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
335.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
336.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
(The following four mansions should be expanded as with the Cloth-Giver's Mansion.)
2. The Story of the Mansion of the Giver of the Best Flower (1)
337.
338.
339.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
340.
341.
Thus a giver of what is dear and pleasing, she obtains, having approached, a divine state.
342.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
343.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
3. The Story of the Mansion of the Giver of the Best Scent (2)
345.
346.
347.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
348.
349.
Thus a giver of what is dear and pleasing, she obtains, having approached, a divine state.
350.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
351.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
4. The Story of the Mansion of the Giver of the Best Fruit (3)
353.
354.
355.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
356.
357.
Thus a giver of what is dear and pleasing, she obtains, having approached, a divine state.
358.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
359.
5. The Story of the Mansion of the Giver of the Best Flavour (4)
361.
362.
363.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
364.
365.
Thus a giver of what is dear and pleasing, she obtains, having approached, a divine state.
366.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
367.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
6. The Story of the Mansion of the Giver of the Five-Finger Scent-Mark
369.
370.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
372.
373.
Thus a giver of what is dear and pleasing, she obtains, having approached, a divine state.
374.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
375.
(The following four mansions should be expanded as with the Scented Five-Finger-Mark Giver's Mansion.)
7. The Story of the Mansion of One Observance (1)
377.
380.
381.
Having heard the Teaching from them, I observed one Observance.
382.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
383.
8. The Story of the Mansion of the Water Giver (2)
385.
388.
389.
Thus a giver of what is dear and pleasing, she obtains, having approached, a divine state.
390.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
391.
9. The Story of the Mansion of Attendance (3)
393.
396.
397.
Without envy I attended on them, diligent through my own morality.
398.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
399.
10. The Story of the Mansion of the Woman Worker (4)
401.
404.
405.
Free from anger, not arrogant, sharing my own portion.
406.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
407.
11. The Story of the Mansion of the Milk-Rice Giver
409.
410.
412.
413.
Having done such an action, having been reborn in a fortunate realm, I rejoice.
414.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
415.
(The following twenty-five mansions should be expanded as with the Milk-Rice Giver's Mansion.)
12. The Story of the Mansion of the Molasses Giver (1)
417.
420.
421.
13. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Piece of Sugar-cane (2)
429.
14. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Timbarūsaka Fruit (3)
437.
15. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Cucumber (4)
445.
16. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Cucumber (5)
453.
17. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Creeper Fruit (6)
461.
18. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Sweet Lovi-lovi (7)
469.
19. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Hand-warming (8)
477.
20. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Handful of Vegetables (9)
485.
21. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Handful of Flowers (10)
493.
22. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Radish (11)
501.
23. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Handful of Margosa (12)
506.
24. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Mango Rice-gruel (13)
517.
25. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Trough-washing (14)
525.
26. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Waistband (15)
533.
27. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Shoulder Strap (16)
541.
28. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Strap (17)
546.
29. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Fan (18)
557.
30. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Palm-leaf Fan (19)
565.
31. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Peacock Feather (20)
573.
32. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of an Umbrella (21)
581.
33. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Sandals (22)
586.
34. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Cake (23)
597.
35. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Sweet-meat (24)
605.
36. The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of a Slice (25)
613.
614.
Among a thousand nymphs I am the noble one, see the result of merits.
615.
617.
That I saw the deities, nymphs of sensual appearance.
618.
By giving, by righteous conduct, by self-control and by taming;
I will go there, where having gone one does not grieve."
The Guttila Mansion is the fifth.
6.
The Story of the Daddalla Mansion
619.
You outshine all the gods of the Thirty-three in beauty.
620.
From which class have you come, that you address me by name?"
621.
I was a co-wife of yours, and also your younger sister.
622.
I was reborn in the company of the gods who delight in creation."
623.
Among whom you will proclaim your birth, Subhaddā.
624.
By what kind of giving, O one of good conduct, O one of fame.
625.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
626.
To the Community worthy of offerings, devoted, with my own hands.
627.
629.
With food and drink, devoted, with my own hands.
630.
How have you, having given less, reached great distinction;
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
631.
Him I invited with a meal, Revata as the eighth with himself.
632.
Said to me 'Give to the Community,' and I did his word.
633.
What was given by you to individuals, that is not of great fruit for you."
634.
I, having gone to human existence, bountiful, free from avarice;
I will give gifts to the Community, diligent, again and again."
635.
She outshines all the gods of the Thirty-three in beauty?"
636.
She was a co-wife of mine, and also my younger sister;
Having given gifts to the Community, she who has made merit shines."
637.
Because in the immeasurable Community, you established the offering.
638.
The result of sharing, where what is given is of great fruit.
639.
Making merit leading to acquisition, where what is given is of great fruit.
640.
The result of sharing, where what is given is of great fruit.
641.
This is the Community, upright, concentrated in wisdom and morality.
642.
Making merit leading to acquisition, what is given to the Community is of great fruit.
643.
For these are the foremost disciples of the Hero among Men, light-bringers who proclaim the Dhamma.
644.
That offering given to the Community, established, rich in result, praised by the knowers of the world.
645.
Having removed the stain of stinginess with its root, blameless, they go to the heavenly state."
The Daddalla Mansion is the sixth.
7.
The Story of the Pesavatī Mansion
646.
A mansion well-fashioned, furnished with an arched gateway, strewn with gold dust, this beautiful palace.
647.
So too this mansion of yours blazes, like fire with its crest of smoke at night in the heights of the sky.
648.
Resounding with lutes, drums, and cymbals, this prosperous city of Indra is like yours.
649.
Sal trees in bloom, flowering asoka trees - this place is frequented by the fragrance of various tree-tops.
650.
With water like a net of jewels, O famous one, a delightful pond is present for you.
651.
Human, non-human, and divine, all have arisen in your dwelling.
652.
And how you have attained this mansion, tell that word by word, O one with long eyelashes."
653.
Traversed by divine water-birds and royal swans, resounding with birds, ducks, and cuckoos.
654.
And how I have attained this mansion, that I will declare to you, listen, venerable sir.
655.
There I was formerly a daughter-in-law, they knew me there as Pesavatī.
656.
Skilled in the meaning and the Teaching, esteemed, honoured by gods and humans, quenched, immeasurable.
657.
Having abandoned the human body, gone to the realm of the deities, here I dwell in this state."
The Pesavatī Mansion is the seventh.
8.
The Story of the Mallikā Mansion
658.
With lovely yellow upper robes, you shine even without adornment.
659.
Covered with a golden net, wearing garlands of various jewels?
660.
Made of emerald together with ruby, variegated with gems like pigeon eyes.
661.
Their sound is heard, lovely in form, like a five-part musical ensemble being played.
662.
With elements of various colours, it shines as if well arranged.
663.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
664.
When Gotama, the immeasurable, had attained final Nibbāna, with a confident mind I placed it upon him.
665.
Free from sorrow, happy, rejoicing and free from affliction."
The Mallikā Mansion is the eighth.
9.
The Story of the Large-Eyed Woman's Mansion
666.
You wander all around, attended by a group of women.
667.
All with their vehicles and chariots, become variegated having come here.
668.
No variegation is seen on your body, by what is your form such as this;
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
669.
And supernormal power and might, hear that, first of givers.
670.
Accomplished in faith and morality, always delighting in sharing.
671.
I gave to the upright, with a clear mind.
672.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
673.
Through self-control and sharing, I dwell in this mansion.
674.
And from theft and from sexual misconduct, and far from drinking intoxicants.
675.
A female lay follower of the One with Vision, the famous Gotama.
676.
All of them I placed upon the Blessed One's stupa.
677.
I placed upon the stupa, devoted, with my own hands.
678.
And supernormal power and might, the garland which I placed upon it.
679.
But my hope, lord of gods, is that I may become a once-returner."
The Visālakkhī Mansion is the ninth.
10.
The Story of the Coral Tree Mansion
680.
Weaving a divine garland, singing, you rejoice.
681.
Divine sounds emanate, pleasant to hear, delightful.
682.
Divine odours blow forth, sweet-smelling, delightful.
683.
Their resounding is heard, like a five-part musical ensemble.
684.
Their resounding is heard, like a five-part musical ensemble.
685.
The odour blows forth in all directions, like the mañjūsaka tree.
686.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
687.
A garland of asoka flowers I offered to the Buddha.
688.
Free from sorrow, happy, rejoicing and free from affliction."
The Pāricchattaka Mansion is the tenth.
The Pāricchattaka Chapter is concluded as third.
Its summary:
Daddalla, Pesā, Mallikā, Visālakkhī, Pāricchattaka;
By that the chapter is called.
4.
The Chapter on the Crimson Mansion
1.
The Story of the Crimson Mansion
689.
You delight in the five-part music, well played.
690.
You plunge into the Sāla grove, flowering at all times.
691.
That very one releases flowers, having bent down, the best of trees.
692.
The odour blows forth in all directions, like the mañjūsaka tree.
693.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
694.
Having seen the Buddha seated, I scattered sal flowers upon him.
695.
Offered to the Buddha, devoted, with my own hands.
696.
Free from sorrow, happy, rejoicing and free from affliction."
The Mañjiṭṭhaka Mansion is the first.
2.
The Story of the Mansion of the Luminous One
697.
Of great supernormal power, with body beautiful as sandalwood, who are you, O beautiful deity, that you pay homage to me?
698.
Where you sit shining, like the king of gods in the Nandana grove.
699.
Do you experience in the world of gods? O deity, being asked, explain,
Of what action is this the fruit?"
700.
This is the result of that action, I experience in the world of gods.
701.
I did not hear the Teaching, well expounded by the King of the Teaching.
702.
Encourage them in the teachings', well expounded by the King of the Teaching.
703.
They outshine me in life span, in fame, and in splendour.
704.
Other gods are of greater power than me."
The Pabhassara Mansion is the second.
3.
The Story of the Mansion of the Serpent
705.
Having ascended the excellent elephant, well-harnessed, she came here through the sky, in mid-air.
706.
And on the lotuses groups of musical instruments burst forth, and these captivating ones dance.
707.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
708.
Having paid homage to his feet, I sat down on the ground, and delighted, I made a salutation with joined palms.
709.
The unconditioned, the eternal cessation of suffering, and the path he taught, from which I understood;
710.
I am one of Sakka's consorts, known by the name Yasuttarā, renowned in all directions."
The Nāga Mansion is the third.
4.
The Story of the Mansion of Alomā
711.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
712.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
714.
715.
Gave dry food made with flour, devoted, with my own hands.
716.
Having seen Alomā happy, who would not make merit?
717.
The Aloma Mansion is the fourth.
5.
The Story of the Mansion of the Female Donor of Rice-gruel
719.
720.
722.
723.
Gave jujube-cooked rice-gruel, flavoured with oil.
724.
I gave to the upright one, with a clear mind.
725.
A woman beautiful in all her limbs, and of surpassing appearance to her husband;
Is not worth a sixteenth fraction of a single gift of rice-gruel.
726.
A hundred thousand maidens, adorned with jewelled earrings;
Are not worth a sixteenth fraction of a single gift of rice-gruel.
727.
Mātaṅgas with golden trappings, adorned with golden ornaments;
Are not worth a sixteenth fraction of a single gift of rice-gruel.
728.
It is not worth a sixteenth fraction of a single gift of rice-gruel."
The Mansion of the Female Donor of Rice-gruel is the fifth.
6.
The Story of the Mansion of the Monastery
729.
730.
Divine sounds emanate, pleasant to hear, delightful.
731.
Divine odours blow forth, sweet-smelling, delightful.
732.
Their resounding is heard, like a five-part musical ensemble.
733.
Their resounding is heard, like a five-part musical ensemble.
734.
The odour blows forth in all directions, like the mañjūsaka tree.
735.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
736.
Devoted to that, I gave thanks, having seen the dwelling and this dear one of mine.
737.
Sixteen yojanas all around, it goes through the sky by my supernormal power.
738.
Shining brightly they illuminate, all around for a hundred yojanas.
739.
With clear water, very pure, spread with golden sand.
740.
They emit fragrance, delightful, stirred by the wind.
741.
Grown within the dwelling, various trees not planted.
742.
Even one who might see me in a dream, that man too would be delighted.
743.
Arisen through my actions, it is fitting to make merit."
744.
And that woman who gave the gift, tell me her destination - where was she reborn?"
745.
She who understood the Dhamma gave that gift, and was reborn among the gods who delight in creation.
746.
As to what you ask 'where was she reborn?', that I have explained to you not otherwise."
747.
And listen to the Teaching with devoted minds, rare is the human birth that has been obtained.
748.
Give gifts to the Community with your wealth, where offerings become rich in result.
749.
They are worthy of offerings, disciples of the Fortunate One, gifts given to them are of great fruit.
750.
This is the Community, upright, concentrated in wisdom and morality.
751.
Making merit leading to acquisition, what is given to the Community is of great fruit.
752.
For these are the foremost disciples of the Hero among Men, light-bringers who proclaim the Dhamma.
753.
That offering given to the Community, established, rich in result, praised by the knowers of the world.
754.
Having removed the stain of stinginess with its root, blameless, they go to the heavenly state."
The Monastery Mansion is the sixth.
The second recitation section is concluded.
7.
The Story of the Mansion of the Four Women
755.
758.
759.
In the lofty Esikā, in the noble city of Paṇṇakata, the charming.
760.
762.
765.
766.
In the lofty Esikā, in the noble city of Paṇṇakata, the charming.
767.
769.
772.
773.
To a monk walking for almsfood, in the lofty Esikā;
In the noble city of Paṇṇakata, the charming.
774.
776.
779.
780.
To a monk walking for almsfood, in the lofty Esikā;
In the noble city of Paṇṇakata, the charming.
781.
The Four Women Mansion is the seventh.
8.
The Story of the Mansion of the Mango
783.
Resounding with various musical instruments, proclaimed by a company of nymphs.
784.
Surrounded all around by trees with cloth as fruits.
785.
787.
788.
I had a dwelling built for the Community, surrounded by mango trees.
789.
Having covered it with mango trees, having made the fruits into cloth.
790.
I dedicated it to the Community, devoted, with my own hands.
791.
Resounding with various musical instruments, proclaimed by a company of nymphs.
792.
Surrounded all around by trees with cloth as fruits.
793.
The Mango Mansion is the eighth.
9.
The Story of the Mansion of the Yellow One
795.
With limbs anointed with yellow sandalwood, wearing a garland of yellow water lilies.
796.
With golden umbrella and golden chariot, golden horse and golden fan.
797.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
798.
Four flowers of that, I brought to the monument.
799.
I did not look at its path, being mindful with my mind gone there.
800.
If I had accumulated that, surely there would be more than this.
801.
Having abandoned the human body, I have come to your companionship."
802.
Converting the Thirty-three, said this to Mātali.
803.
Even a little gift given, the merit becomes of great fruit.
804.
Or towards the Tathāgata, the Self-enlightened One, or towards his disciples.
805.
The relics of the Tathāgata, the accumulation of merit is happiness.
806.
Because of mental aspiration indeed, beings go to a good destination.
807.
Having made offerings there, donors go to heaven."
The Yellow Mansion is the ninth.
10.
The Story of the Mansion of the Sugar-cane
808.
In splendour and beauty, in glory and radiance, like Brahmā among the gods in the Thirty-three heaven with Indra.
809.
Decorated, wearer of the finest garments, who are you, O beautiful deity, that you pay homage to me?
810.
Was it a gift well practised or self-control in morality, by what have you, one of fame, been reborn in a fortunate realm?
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
811.
Then I gave you a piece of sugar-cane, with a confident mind, with incomparable joy;
812.
It was not discarded, nor was it eaten by me; to a peaceful monk I myself gave it.
813.
Having taken a clod, she gave me a blow; passed away from there, deceased, I am a deity.
814.
Together with the gods I enjoy myself, I rejoice in the five types of sensual pleasure.
815.
Protected by the lord of gods, guarded by the Thirty-three, endowed with the five types of sensual pleasure.
816.
Together with the gods I enjoy myself, I rejoice in the five types of sensual pleasure.
817.
Protected by the lord of gods, guarded by the Thirty-three, like the thousand-eyed one in the Nandana grove.
818.
Then I gave you a piece of sugar-cane, with a confident mind, with incomparable joy."
The Sugarcane Mansion is the tenth.
11.
The Story of the Mansion of the Salutation
819.
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
820.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
822.
823.
Having paid homage to their feet, I inspired my mind with faith, and delighted, I made a salutation with joined palms.
824.
The Homage Mansion is the eleventh.
12.
The Story of the Mansion of Rajjumālā
826.
Having taken up hands and feet, you dance to well-played music.
827.
Divine sounds emanate, pleasant to hear, delightful.
828.
Divine odours blow forth, sweet-smelling, delightful.
829.
Their resounding is heard, like a five-part musical ensemble.
830.
Their resounding is heard, like a five-part musical ensemble.
831.
The odour blows forth in all directions, like the mañjūsaka tree.
832.
O deity, being asked, explain, of what action is this the fruit?"
833.
Of little merit, unlucky, they knew me as Rajjumālā.
834.
Having taken a pot and gone out, I went as if to fetch water.
835.
Right here I shall die, what use is life to me?
836.
Then I looked around in all directions, 'Who now might be dwelling in the forest?'
837.
Seated at the root of a tree, meditating, fearless from any quarter.
838.
'Who now might be dwelling in the forest, a human being or a deity?'
839.
Having seen him, my mind became confident, this one is not just anyone.
840.
Beneficial to the whole world, this one will become a Buddha.
841.
Rare is he to see, like the flower of the udumbara tree.
842.
Said to me 'Rajjumālā, go for refuge to the Tathāgata.'
843.
Smooth and soft and pleasant, dispelling all sorrow.
844.
Beneficial to the whole world, the Tathāgata instructed me.
845.
The cessation of suffering and the path, the straight way grounded upon the Deathless."
846.
Attained the Deathless, peace, Nibbāna, the imperishable state.
847.
With faith born from the root, a legitimate daughter of the Buddha.
848.
I wear a divine garland, I drink the gentle honey.
849.
Āḷambo, Gaggaro, Bhīmo, Sādhuvādī and Saṃsayo.
850.
Nandā and Sunandā, Soṇadinnā and Sucimhitā.
851.
Eṇīphassā and Suphassā, Subhaddā and Muduvādinī.
852.
Those deities, having approached me at the proper time, address me.
853.
This is not for those who have not made merit, this is only for those who have made merit.
854.
Happiness for those who have not made merit, there is not here nor in the hereafter.
855.
For those who desire companionship with them, much wholesome should be done;
For those who have made merit rejoice, in heaven endowed with wealth.
856.
Worthy of offerings from human beings, the source of fields of merit;
Having made offerings there, donors rejoice in heaven."
The Rope-Garland Mansion is the twelfth.
The Crimson Chapter is concluded as fourth.
Its summary:
Monastery, Four Pillars, Yellow, Sugarcane, Homage, Rope-garland and;
By that the chapter is called.
The Women's Mansions are complete.
2.
Men's Mansions
5.
The Chapter of the Great Chariot
1.
The Story of the Mansion of the Frog Deity
857.
With surpassing beauty, illuminating all directions?"
858.
While listening to your teaching, a cowherd killed me.
859.
And see my splendour, see my beauty and my effulgence.
860.
They have attained the unshakeable state, where having gone they do not grieve."
The Frog God's Son Mansion is the first.
2.
The Story of the Mansion of Revatī
861.
Relatives, friends and companions delight in his arrival.
862.
Merits receive him, like relatives a dear one who has arrived.
863.
We shall lead you where the ill-fated groan, those doomed to hell, afflicted with suffering."
864.
Having seized Revatā by each arm, they departed to the presence of the host of gods.
865.
Whose is this mansion thronged with people, shining like the rays of the sun?
866.
It appears with a colour like the sun, who rejoices in the mansion, having attained heaven?"
867.
His is this mansion thronged with people, shining like the rays of the sun.
868.
It appears with a colour like the sun, he rejoices in the mansion, having attained heaven."
869.
I shall delight in my husband's mansion, having given gifts, I do not wish for hell even to see it."
870.
For a stingy one, an irritator, of bad character, does not obtain the company of those who have gone to heaven."
871.
What is this foul-smelling excrement, what is this that blows towards me?"
872.
Where for thousands of years, you will be cooked, Revatā."
873.
By what was the Saṃsavaka obtained, deep, of the height of a hundred men?"
874.
You deceived them with lying, that evil was done by you.
875.
There for thousands of years, you will be cooked, Revatā.
876.
And also flocks of ravens, having come together, having assembled, eat while she is trembling."
877.
By giving, by righteous conduct, by self-control and by taming;
Which having done they are happy, and do not feel remorse afterwards."
878.
You will experience the result of actions done by yourself."
879.
'Give gifts to those who have laid down the rod, clothing, sleeping place, food and drink;
For a stingy one, an irritator, of bad character, does not obtain the company of those who have gone to heaven.'
880.
Bountiful, accomplished in morality, I will do much wholesome;
By giving, by righteous conduct, by self-control and by taming.
881.
And drinking halls and wells, with a clear mind.
882.
And the extra holiday, well endowed with the eight factors.
883.
And I shall not be negligent in giving, this has been seen by me myself."
884.
They threw her into the terrible hell, feet upward, head downward.
885.
And having deceived my husband with falsehood, I am being cooked in a hell of terrible form."
The Revatī Mansion is the second.
3.
The Story of the Young Man with the Umbrella's Mansion
886.
Gone beyond, endowed with power and energy, go to that Fortunate One for the purpose of refuge.
887.
Sweet is this, well-practised, well-divided, go to this teaching for the purpose of refuge.
888.
And the eight individuals who see the Teaching, go to this Community for the purpose of refuge.
889.
As does this incomparable great radiance - who are you who has come from the celestial realm to the earth?"
890.
Even as it makes night like day, the pure, spotless, beautiful mansion.
891.
Covered with a stainless, pure golden net, it shines in the sky just like the sun.
892.
With skin resembling slender gold, full like the sky with stars.
893.
Released by the wind, they waft fragrance, spread with gold, covered with gold.
894.
And how you have attained this mansion, tell that word by word, come now, being asked."
895.
Having heard the teaching of your excellent jewel, Chatta said 'I will do it.'"
896.
'No,' I said at first, venerable sir, but afterwards I did just as you said.
897.
For the wise have not praised one unrestrained towards living beings;
'No,' I said at first, venerable sir,
But afterwards I did just as you said.
898.
'No,' I said at first, venerable sir, but afterwards I did just as you said.
899.
'No,' I said at first, venerable sir, but afterwards I did just as you said;
900.
For the wise have not praised lying;
'No,' I said at first, venerable sir, but afterwards I did just as you said.
901.
'No,' I said at first, venerable sir, but afterwards I did just as you said.
902.
I went along the crossroad amidst thieves, they killed me there on account of wealth.
903.
By that good conduct and action, I arose in the celestial abode, one who possesses sensual pleasures as desired.
904.
Blazing as it were with fame, looking on, many of inferior deeds envy me.
905.
And those who constantly hear your Teaching, I imagine they experience the Deathless, the secure.
906.
See Chatta, through having done merit, illuminates the earth just like the sun.
907.
We, having again obtained human state, practising, may we dwell as moral ones.
908.
I have approached the one of true name, have compassion, let us hear the teaching again."
909.
They do not again go to lying in a womb, for having attained final nibbāna, they have become cooled."
The Umbrella Young Man Mansion is the third.
4.
The Story of the Crab Curry Donor's Mansion
910.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
911.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
912.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
913.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
914.
Asked a question, he explained of which action this is the fruit.
915.
Made of gold, the ten-footed one shines beautifully.
916.
And there arise for me pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
917.
By that I am of such radiant power, and my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Crab-Curry-Giver Mansion is the fourth.
(The following five mansions should be expanded as with the Crab-Curry-Giver's Mansion.)
5.
The Story of the Gatekeeper's Mansion
918.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
919.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
920.
922.
Asked a question, he explained of which action this is the fruit.
923.
To this extent one of meritorious action will remain, endowed with divine sensual pleasures.
924.
The Gatekeeper Mansion is the fifth.
6.
The First Story of the To Be Done Mansion
926.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
927.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
928.
And your beauty illuminates all directions?"
930.
931.
Among the Buddhas who have come to the right path, where what is given is of great fruit.
932.
Having gladdened my mind there, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa heaven.
933.
The First Duty Mansion is the sixth.
7.
The Second Story of the To Be Done Mansion
935.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
936.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
937.
939.
940.
Among the monks who have come to the right path, where what is given is of great fruit.
941.
Having gladdened my mind there, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa heaven.
942.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Second Duty Mansion is the seventh.
8.
The First Story of the Needle Mansion
944.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
945.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
946.
948.
949.
And whatever one would give, that itself is better;
A needle given, the needle itself is better.
950.
The First Needle Mansion is the eighth.
9.
The Second Story of the Needle Mansion
952.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
953.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
954.
956.
957.
958.
To him I gave a needle, devoted, with my own hands.
959.
The Second Needle Mansion is the ninth.
10.
The First Story of the Elephant Mansion
961.
Having ascended the excellent elephant, well-harnessed, she came here through the sky, in mid-air.
962.
And on the lotuses groups of musical instruments play, and these captivating ones dance.
963.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
964.
Asked a question, he explained of which action this is the fruit.
965.
I placed upon the stupa, devoted, with my own hands.
966.
The First Elephant Mansion is the tenth.
11.
The Second Story of the Elephant Mansion
968.
He wandered from forest to forest, attended by a group of women;
Illuminating all directions, like the healing star.
969.
971.
Asked a question, he explained of which action this is the fruit.
972.
I was abstaining from killing living beings, I avoided what is not given in the world.
973.
With a gladdened mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
974.
The Second Elephant Mansion is the eleventh.
12.
The Third Story of the Elephant Mansion
976.
With the sound of musical instruments being struck, is honoured in the sky?"
977.
Not knowing you, we ask, how may we know you?'
978.
Of those gods named Sudhammā, I am one of them."
979.
Having done what action as a human, is one reborn in Sudhamma?"
980.
Having given one of the three, is reborn in Sudhamma."
The Third Elephant Mansion is the twelfth.
13.
The Story of the Small Chariot Mansion
981.
Are you a warrior, a prince, or a fierce forest-dweller?"
982.
I tell you my name, monk, the wise know me as Sujāta.
983.
I did not see that deer, but having seen you, I stood here."
984.
Having taken water from here, wash your feet."
985.
Prince, having drunk from it, sit down upon the rug."
986.
Faultless, full of meaning, lovely, having considered, you speak what is beneficial.
987.
Having listened to your way of speaking, may we practise the path of beneficial teaching."
988.
And abstinence from theft and from sexual misconduct, and from drinking intoxicants.
989.
Praiseworthy in this very life, these qualities are to be praised."
990.
Prince, understand this, free yourself."
991.
Or by what true knowledge, might I become free from ageing and death?"
992.
Where having gone a mortal might become, O prince, free from ageing and death.
993.
Those with abundant wealth and grain, they too are not free from ageing and death.
994.
They too reached the exhaustion of life, demolished, though equal to eternity.
995.
These and others by birth, they too are not free from ageing and death.
996.
These and others by true knowledge, they too are not free from ageing and death.
997.
They too in time abandon the body, those austere ascetics.
998.
They lay down this body, with the utter elimination of merit and demerit."
999.
I am convinced by what is well spoken, and may you be my refuge."
1000.
The son of the Sakyans, the great hero, to whom I have gone for refuge."
1001.
I too will go to see the Victor, the matchless one."
1002.
There was a remarkable man, but he has attained final Nibbāna."
1003.
I would go a thousand yojanas to attend upon him.
1004.
I go for refuge to the great hero, even though he is quenched.
1005.
And to the Community of the king of men, I go for refuge.
1006.
I abstain from intoxicants and do not speak falsehood, and I am satisfied with my own wife."
1007.
So is the appearance of this great chariot of yours, extending seven yojanas all around.
1008.
Lines of lapis lazuli, well-fashioned, adorn the gold and silver.
1009.
Yoked with gold and silver, these horses shine, swift as thought.
1010.
I ask you, O glorious one, skilled one, how was this lofty one obtained by you?"
1011.
And you, out of compassion for me, established me in self-restraint.
1012.
Venerate this, Sujāta, it will be for your benefit."
1013.
Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in Nandana.
1014.
I delight in dancing and singing, honoured by the nymphs."
The Small Chariot Mansion is the thirteenth.
14.
The Story of the Great Chariot Mansion
1015.
Proceeding towards the pleasure ground, like Vāsava, the first of givers, lord of beings.
1016.
With well-formed clusters, completed by master craftsmen, it shines like the moon on the fifteenth day.
1017.
With delightful sound and beautiful voice, it shines with arms holding chowrie whisks.
1018.
And these wheel-hubs, variegated with a hundred stripes, with a hundred spokes, shine forth like lightning.
1019.
Their sound is heard, lovely in form, like a five-part musical ensemble being played.
1020.
Exceedingly well-joined with golden streaks, it shines exceedingly like lapis lazuli streaks.
1021.
Lofty, great, powerful, of great speed, knowing your mind, they move just so.
1022.
Bearing evenly, soft, not agitated, rejoicing, the finest of horses.
1023.
Their sound is heard, lovely in form, like a five-part musical ensemble being played.
1024.
The sweet sound of the assembly is heard, like gandhabba instruments in a variegated grove.
1025.
Covered with nets of lapis lazuli, with delicate skin, worshipped by gods, gandhabba deities, and foremost beings.
1026.
Well-born in family, with slender bodies and pure smiles, standing in the chariot with joined palms, they attended.
1027.
With rounded fingers, lovely-faced, beautiful to see, standing in the chariot with joined palms, they attended.
1028.
Devoted, they delighting in your mind, standing in the chariot with joined palms, they attended.
1029.
Devoted, they delighting in your mind, standing in the chariot with joined palms, they attended.
1030.
Devoted, they delighting in your mind, standing in the chariot with joined palms, they attended.
1031.
They illuminate all ten directions completely, like the radiant sun rising in autumn.
1032.
They emit a sound, pleasant, pure, beautiful, worthy to be heard by all the wise.
1033.
They delight that very lord of gods, like a lute with lotus-leaf arms.
1034.
As they are being played, exceedingly the nymphs, maidens trained on lotuses, whirl about.
1035.
Then here the nymphs dance, then here the excellent women illuminate both sides.
1036.
Among these many lovely lutes, of delightful form, stirring joy in the heart.
1037.
What Observance did you observe, what righteous conduct, what religious duty did you delight in?
1038.
This supernormal power of yours is vast, by which you outshine the assembly of gods exceedingly.
1039.
Or else of salutation with joined palms? Tell me this when asked."
1040.
Asked a question, he explained of which action this is the fruit.
1041.
Opening the door to the Deathless, the god above gods, with the marks of a hundred merits.
1042.
Having seen him, I quickly became pure-minded, having seen him indeed, the one whose banner is well-spoken.
1043.
In my own dwelling strewn with flowers, I established that, with unattached mind.
1044.
Having satisfied the highest of two-footed beings, I rejoice in the celestial city in heaven after heaven.
1045.
Having abandoned the human body, like Indra I rejoice in the celestial city.
1046.
Food and drink, abundant and well-prepared, should be established in one with an unattached mind.
1047.
He has reached the supreme offering among those worthy of offerings, for those seeking merit with abundant fruit."
The Great Chariot Mansion is the fourteenth.
The Great Chariot Chapter is concluded as fifth.
Its summary:
Two Karaṇīya, two Sūci, three Nāga and two Chariots;
The first chapter on Men is called.
The third recitation section is concluded.
6.
The Chapter on Pāyāsi
1.
The First Story of the Householder's Mansion
1048.
So too this mansion of yours stands illuminating in mid-air.
1049.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1050.
Asked a question, he explained of which action this is the fruit.
1051.
With confident minds, we gave food and drink, attentively we gave an abundant gift.
1052.
The First Householder Mansion is the first.
2.
The Second Story of the Householder's Mansion
1054.
So too this mansion of yours stands illuminating in mid-air.
1055.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1056.
1057.
With confident minds, we gave food and drink, attentively we gave an abundant gift.
1058.
The Second Householder Mansion is the second.
3.
The Story of the Fruit Donor's Mansion
1060.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
1061.
Sixty-four trained maidens of good dispositions, and divine maidens dwelling among the deities, lofty;
They dance and sing and delight.
1062.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1063.
1064.
He indeed rejoices, gone to heaven in the celestial abode, and experiences the extensive fruit of merit.
1065.
1066.
Or by one aspiring for divine pleasures, or by one wishing for good fortune among humans.
1067.
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Fruit-Giver Mansion is the third.
4.
The Story of the First Dwelling Donor's Mansion
1069.
So too this mansion of yours stands illuminating in mid-air.
1070.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1071.
1072.
With confident minds, we gave food and drink, attentively we gave an abundant gift.
1073.
The First Dwelling-Giver Mansion is the fourth.
5.
The Story of the Second Dwelling Donor's Mansion
1075.
(As with the former mansion, so should it be expanded.)
1079.
The Second Dwelling-Donor's Mansion is the fifth.
6.
The Story of the Almsfood Donor's Mansion
1081.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
1082.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1083.
1084.
I supplied one day's almsfood, I then made him endowed with a meal.
1085.
The Almsfood-Donor's Mansion is the sixth.
7.
The Story of the Barley Keeper's Mansion
1087.
1089.
1090.
I saw a stainless monk, with a clear and untroubled mind.
1091.
Having given a lump of barley-gruel, I rejoice in the Nandana grove.
1092.
The Barley-Keeper's Mansion is the seventh.
8.
The Story of the First Kuṇḍalī's Mansion
1094.
Wearing bracelets on his hands, famous, in a divine mansion, just like the moon.
1095.
And divine maidens dwelling among the deities, lofty, dance and sing and delight.
1096.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1097.
1098.
Accomplished in true knowledge and conduct, famous, very learned, having attained the elimination of craving;
With a gladdened mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
1099.
The First Kuṇḍalī Mansion is the eighth.
9.
The Story of the Second Kuṇḍalī's Mansion
1101.
Wearing bracelets on his hands, famous, in a divine mansion, just like the moon.
1102.
And divine maidens dwelling among the deities, lofty, dance and sing and delight.
1103.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1104.
1105.
Accomplished in true knowledge and conduct, famous, very learned, virtuous, devoted;
With a gladdened mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
1106.
The Second Kuṇḍalī Mansion is the ninth.
10.
The Story of the (Uttara) Pāyāsi's Mansion
1108.
So too this mansion of yours stands illuminating in mid-air.
1109.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1110.
1111.
Having obtained wealth, I made a sharing, and those dear to me were moral ones;
With a gladdened mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
1112.
The (Uttara) Pāyāsi Mansion is the tenth.
The Chapter on Pāyāsi is concluded as sixth.
Its summary:
Barley-field Keeper and two, Earring Wearer, Pāyāsi;
The second chapter on Men is called.
7.
The Chapter on Sunikkhitta
1.
The Story of the Cittalatā Mansion
1114.
So too this mansion of yours stands illuminating in mid-air.
1115.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1116.
1117.
And I supported my aged mother and father, and those dear to me were moral ones;
With a gladdened mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
1118.
The Cittalatā Mansion is the first.
2.
The Story of the Nandana Mansion
1120.
So too this mansion of yours stands illuminating in mid-air.
1121.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1122.
1123.
And I supported my aged mother and father, and those dear to me were moral ones;
With a gladdened mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
1124.
The Nandana Mansion is the second.
3.
The Story of the Jewelled Pillar Mansion
1126.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
1127.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
1128.
1130.
1131.
And I planted park trees, and those dear to me were moral ones;
With a gladdened mind, I gave food and drink, attentively I gave an abundant gift.
1132.
The Jewelled-Pillar Mansion is the third.
4.
The Story of the Golden Mansion
1134.
Covered with a golden net, adorned with a network of tinkling bells.
1135.
On each and every facet, seven jewels were created.
1136.
With cat's-eye gems and pearls, and with rubies.
1137.
The groups of rafters are yellow, created, they support the pinnacle.
1138.
With inner chambers of various jewels, it shines like the sun.
1139.
Shining brightly they illuminate, all around the four directions.
1140.
You outshine in beauty, like the rising sun.
1141.
Or else of salutation with joined palms? Tell me this when asked."
1142.
1143.
Had a dwelling built for the Teacher, devoted, with my own hands.
1144.
I gave a dwelling to the Teacher, with a clear mind;
By that this was obtained by me, I exercise mastery in Nandana.
1145.
I delight in dancing and singing, honoured by the nymphs."
The Golden Mansion is the fourth.
5.
The Story of the Mansion of the Mango
1146.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
1147.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
1148.
1150.
1151.
A man, a hired servant of others, was watering the mango grove.
1152.
Weary in body, yet unwearied in mind.
1153.
'It would be good, venerable sir, if I could bathe you, which would bring me happiness.'
1154.
He sat down at the root of a tree, in the shade, wearing a single robe.
1155.
Bathed him at the root of a tree, in the shade, wearing a single robe.
1156.
Thus he pervades his whole body with joy.
1157.
Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in Nandana.
1158.
I delight in dancing and singing, honoured by the nymphs."
The Mango Mansion is the fifth.
6.
The Story of the Cowherd's Mansion
1159.
Wearing bracelets on his hands, famous, in a divine mansion, just like the moon.
1160.
Wearing bracelets on his hands, famous, in a divine mansion, just like the moon.
1161.
And divine maidens dwelling among the deities, lofty, dance and sing and delight.
1162.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1163.
1164.
Then an ascetic came near me, and the cows went to eat the beans.
1165.
And having wisely obtained the perception, 'I give, venerable sir,' I threw the bundle.
1166.
Then a black snake, greatly venomous, bit me on the foot as I was hurrying mindfully.
1167.
Ate the food made with flour out of compassion for me, passed away from there, deceased, I became a deity.
1168.
For by you, venerable sir, I was greatly shown compassion, out of gratitude I pay homage to you.
1169.
For by you, venerable sir, I was greatly shown compassion, out of gratitude I pay homage to you.
1170.
For by you, venerable sir, I was greatly shown compassion, out of gratitude I pay homage to you."
The Cowherd's Mansion is the sixth.
7.
The Story of the Kaṇḍaka Mansion
1171.
Goes round about on all sides, the moon, lord of the stars.
1172.
Outshines in beauty, like the rising radiant one.
1173.
With cat's-eye gems and pearls, and with rubies.
1174.
Pinnacle chambers beautiful and charming, your mansion is well built.
1175.
With clear water, very pure, spread with golden sand.
1176.
They emit fragrance, delightful, stirred by the wind.
1177.
Endowed with flowering trees and fruit trees - both.
1178.
Nymphs attend upon him seated, as upon a king of gods.
1179.
They delight you, the one of great supernormal power, you rejoice like one wielding power.
1180.
You delight, accomplished in pleasure, in dancing, singing, and well-played music.
1181.
Odours too are desired by you, and tangible objects delightful.
1182.
You outshine in beauty, like the rising sun.
1183.
Or else of salutation with joined palms? Tell me this when asked."
1184.
1185.
Was born together with the son of Suddhodana, I am Kaṇḍaka.
1186.
He, with soft hands, webbed and with copper-coloured nails.
1187.
'I shall help the world cross over, having attained the highest enlightenment.'
1188.
Elated in mind, glad at heart, I then wished for that.
1189.
Elated in mind, joyful, I would carry the highest of men.
1190.
Leaving me and Channa behind, without attachment he departed.
1191.
And as the great hero departed, weeping I looked on.
1192.
I contracted a grave illness, quickly my death came about.
1193.
Endowed with all types of sensual pleasure, divine, in the city of the gods.
1194.
By that very wholesome root, I shall experience the elimination of mental corruptions.
1195.
In my name too, pay respect to him with your head in homage.
1196.
Rare is the seeing of such Protectors of the World."
1197.
Having heard the word of the One with Vision, he purified the eye of the Teaching.
1198.
Having paid homage at the Teacher's feet, disappeared right there.
The Kaṇḍaka Mansion is the seventh.
8.
The Story of the Many-Coloured Mansion
1199.
Surrounded by a company of nymphs, well-created, you rejoice like a lord of beings.
1200.
And all the gods, the hosts of the Thirty-three, having come together, pay homage to you, like the gods to the moon;
And these nymphs of yours all around, dance and sing and delight.
1201.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1202.
1203.
I was a worldling without understanding, and I wandered forth for seven years.
1204.
I inspired my mind with faith at the stupa.
1205.
'Venerate the relic of one worthy of veneration, thus indeed you will go from here to heaven.'
1206.
I rejoice in the midst of the company of the Thirty-three, I have not reached even the exhaustion of that merit."
The Many-Coloured Mansion is the eighth.
9.
The Story of the Maṭṭhakuṇḍalī Mansion
1207.
Having raised your arms you weep, in the midst of the forest why are you afflicted?"
1208.
I cannot find a pair of wheels for it, by that suffering I give up life."
1209.
Tell me, good young man, I will provide a pair of wheels for you."
1210.
My chariot is made of gold, it shines with that pair of wheels."
1211.
I think you will die, for indeed you will not obtain the moon and sun."
1212.
The ghost who has died is not seen, who here among those crying is more foolish?"
1213.
Like a child crying for the moon, I longed for the ghost who has died."
1214.
Pouring down as if with water, he extinguished all my anguish.
1215.
He who, for me overcome with sorrow, dispelled my sorrow for my son.
1216.
I do not grieve, I do not weep, having heard you, young man."
1217.
Who are you, or whose son are you? How may we know you?"
1218.
I, having done wholesome action, have gone to the company of the Thirty-three."
1219.
Nor such Observance practice - by what action have you gone to the world of the gods?"
1220.
I saw the Buddha, free from defilement, who has crossed over uncertainty, the Fortunate One of superior wisdom.
1221.
I, having done that wholesome action, have gone to the company of the Thirty-three."
1222.
I too, with gladdened mind and devoted consciousness, go for refuge to the Buddha this very day."
1223.
Likewise undertake the five training rules, unbroken and complete.
1224.
Abstain from intoxicants and do not speak falsehood, and be satisfied with your own wife."
1225.
I will do your word, you are my teacher."
1226.
And to the Community of the king of men, I go for refuge.
1227.
I abstain from intoxicants and do not speak falsehood, and I am satisfied with my own wife."
The Maṭṭhakuṇḍalī Mansion is the ninth.
10.
The Story of the Serīsaka Mansion
1228.
And how the discussion went between them, listen all to that well-spoken exchange.
1229.
He, rejoicing in his own mansion, a non-human, addressed the humans."
1230.
In the midst of the sandy waste, difficult to traverse, humans with lost minds through fear of peril.
1231.
Apart from dust and sand, hot and harsh and cruel.
1232.
This is an ancient dwelling of the cruel, a piece of land as if accursed.
1233.
Have you entered suddenly, coming together, through greed, through fear, or else bewildered?"
1234.
We travel to the land of Sindhu and Sovīra, desiring wealth, aspiring for profit.
1235.
With this speed we all came, having set out on the path at night at the improper time.
1236.
In the midst of the sandy waste, difficult to traverse, we do not know the direction, bewildered in mind.
1237.
Hoping for life beyond that, having seen, we are delighted, glad, and elated."
1238.
And rivers and the difficult passes of mountains, you go to various directions on account of wealth.
1239.
Whatever you have heard or also seen, that is wonderful, let us hear it from you, dear ones."
1240.
Having seen all this surpassing human experience, we are delighted by one of superior beauty.
1241.
And these trees are endowed with perpetual fruit, odours blow forth exceedingly fragrant.
1242.
Made of emerald together with ruby, these pillars are radiant, free from illness.
1243.
Interspersed with jewels, combined with golden railings, and well covered with refined gold plates.
1244.
Firm and lovely and well-joined, exceedingly pleasing to contemplate, delightful.
1245.
Resounding with tambourines, drums, and musical instruments, you are honoured with praise and homage.
1246.
Inconceivable, possessed of all virtues, like King Vessavaṇa at Naḷinī.
1247.
The merchants, the caravan leaders, ask you, tell us what is your name, demon?"
1248.
I protect this region, obedient to King Vessavaṇa."
1249.
The merchants, the caravan leaders, ask you, how was this delightful thing obtained by you?"
1250.
Through my own actions, non-evil, through merit, this delightful thing was obtained by me."
1251.
The merchants, the caravan leaders, ask you, how was this mansion obtained by you?"
1252.
I held the view of nihilism, was miserly, of bad character, and was an annihilationist then.
1253.
He then spoke to me a talk on the Teaching, he dispelled my wriggling views.
1254.
I was abstaining from killing living beings, I avoided what is not given in the world;
I abstained from intoxicants and did not speak falsehood, and I was satisfied with my own wife.
1255.
Through those very actions, non-evil, through merit, this mansion was obtained by me."
1256.
Wherever the one of meritorious action goes, there he rejoices, one who possesses sensual pleasures as desired.
1257.
There goes the one of evil action, never is he freed from an unfortunate realm."
1258.
For this people and for you, young man, by what indeed was there displeasure?"
1259.
They pervade this mansion, by day and by night, having dispelled the darkness.
1260.
A human hundred years has passed, since I was reborn here in this realm.
1261.
Due to the exhaustion of life-span and the exhaustion of merit I shall pass away, by that very sorrow I have fainted."
1262.
But those who have been reborn in a brief state, they indeed would grieve, being of little merit."
1263.
And you, dear ones, protected by me, go safely wherever you wish."
1264.
With undertakings according to our promise, with generosity fulfilled, we shall make a grand Serīsa festival."
1265.
Avoid evil actions, and undertake the pursuit of the Dhamma.
1266.
Faithful and generous and well-behaved, discerning, contented, and wise.
1267.
One should not engage in divisive slander, and one should speak smooth and kindly speech.
1268.
That being supports his mother and father too, righteously, with noble conduct.
1269.
And he who, after the passing of his mother and father, inclined to renunciation, will live the holy life.
1270.
Such a one, a doer of well-done deeds, established in the Dhamma, how could he obtain suffering?
1271.
Without him you would have become ashes here, blind and confused, lost in the forest;
With one who is quick and swift, with another, happy indeed is the meeting with a good person."
1272.
What is his appellation and what then is his clan;
We too wish to see him, demon, for whose compassion you have come here;
Indeed it is a gain for him, for whom you have affection."
1273.
A lay follower who lives by comb and blade;
Know him, he is your servant,
Do not despise him, he is well-behaved."
1274.
But we did not know he was such;
We too shall honour him, demon,
Having heard your noble word."
1275.
Young, great, or else middling;
Let them all ascend the mansion,
Let the miserly see the fruit of merits."
1276.
Having put that barber in front there;
They all ascended the mansion,
Like the Masakkasāra of Vāsava.
1277.
They were abstaining from killing living beings, they avoided what is not given in the world;
They abstained from intoxicants and did not speak falsehood, and they were satisfied with their own wives.
1278.
The caravan departed, giving thanks, approved by the demon's supernormal power again and again.
1279.
With undertakings according to their efforts, with gains fulfilled, they returned to Pāṭaliputta unharmed.
1280.
Endowed with sons and wives;
Joyful, delighted, glad, elated,
They made a grand Serīsa festival;
They built a residential compound called Serīsaka.
1281.
Of great benefit is the association with the qualities of the Dhamma;
For the sake of one lay follower,
All beings became happy.
The Serīsaka Mansion is the tenth.
11.
The Story of the Sunikkhitta Mansion
1282.
Seven hundred lofty pinnacle chambers, with lapis lazuli pillars, spread with gold tiles, beautiful.
1283.
Divine flavours, the five types of sensual pleasure are here, and women dance, covered with gold.
1284.
And there arise for you pleasures, whatever are dear to the mind.
1285.
By what are you of such radiant power, and your beauty illuminates all directions?"
1286.
Asked a question, he explained of which action this is the fruit.
1287.
And I am of great supernormal power, of great might, endowed with divine sensual pleasures.
1288.
By that it succeeds for me here;
And there arise for me pleasures,
Whatever are dear to the mind.
1289.
What I did when I was a human being;
By that I am of such radiant power,
And my beauty illuminates all directions."
The Sunikkhitta Mansion is the eleventh.
The Sunikkhitta Chapter is concluded as seventh.
Its summary:
Many-coloured, Polished-earring, Serīsaka, Well-deposited;
The third chapter on Men is called.
The fourth recitation section is concluded.
The Vimānavatthu Pāḷi is concluded.