Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Perfectly Enlightened One
In the Minor Collection
Verses of the Elder Monks
Introductory Verses
Listen to the verses of those with developed selves, conveying meaning.
According to their inclinations, the wise ones dwelt untiringly.
Reviewing the end of what was done, they spoke this meaning.
1.
The Section of the Ones
1.
The First Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Subhūti
1.
My mind is well concentrated, liberated, I dwell ardent, rain, O sky."
Thus the Venerable Elder Subhūti spoke this verse.
2.
Verses of the Elder Mahākoṭṭhika
2.
He shakes off evil qualities, as the wind shakes leaves from a tree."
Thus the Venerable Elder Mahākoṭṭhika spoke this verse.
3.
Verses of the Elder Kaṅkhārevata
3.
They become givers of light, givers of vision, who remove the uncertainty of those who have come."
Thus the Venerable Elder Kaṅkhārevata spoke this verse.
4.
Verses of the Elder Puṇṇa
4.
The meaning that is great, profound, difficult to see, subtle, minute;
The wise attain it, the diligent, the discerning."
Thus the Venerable Elder Puṇṇa, son of Mantāṇī, spoke this verse.
5.
Verses of the Elder Dabba
5.
Victorious, free from fear indeed, wise, he attained final Nibbāna, of established self."
Thus the Venerable Elder Dabba spoke this verse.
6.
Verses of the Elder Sītavaniya
6.
Victorious, free from horripilation, guarding mindfulness of the body, resolute."
Thus the Venerable Elder Sītavaniyo spoke this verse.
7.
Verses of the Elder Bhalliya
7.
Victorious, free from fear indeed, tamed, he attained final Nibbāna, of established self."
Thus the Venerable Elder Bhalliya spoke this verse.
8.
Verses of the Elder Vīra
8.
Victorious, free from horripilation, a hero, he attained final Nibbāna, of established self."
Thus the Venerable Elder Vīra spoke this verse.
9.
Verses of the Elder Pilindavaccha
9.
Among the well-analysed teachings, I have approached that which is foremost."
Thus the Venerable Elder Pilindavaccha spoke this verse.
10.
Verses of the Elder Puṇṇamāsa
10.
Untainted by all phenomena, having known the rise and fall of the world."
Thus the Venerable Elder Puṇṇamāsa spoke this verse.
The first chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Mantāṇiputta and Dabba, and Sītavaniyo and Bhalliya;
Vīra and Pilindavaccha, and Puṇṇamāsa the dispeller of darkness.
2.
The Second Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Cūḷavaccha
11.
He would attain the peaceful state, the stilling of activities, happiness."
... The Elder Cūḷavaccha etc.
2.
Verses of the Elder Mahāvaccha
12.
Eating food for its purpose, one without lust here should await the time."
... The Elder Mahāvaccha etc.
3.
Verses of the Elder Vanavaccha
13.
Covered with red insects, those rocks delight me."
... The Elder Vanavaccha etc.
4.
Verses of the Novice Sivaka
14.
My body dwells in the village, my mind has gone to the forest;
Even lying down I go, there is no attachment for one who understands."
... The Novice Sivaka etc.
5.
Verses of the Elder Kuṇḍadhāna
15.
A monk who has gone beyond five attachments is called a crosser of the mental floods."
... The Elder Kuṇḍadhāna etc.
6.
Verses of the Elder Belaṭṭhasīsa
16.
Goes with little difficulty, so nights and days for me
Go with little difficulty, having attained spiritual happiness."
... The Elder Belaṭṭhasīsa etc.
7.
Verses of the Elder Dāsaka
17.
Like a great hog fed on fodder, the fool enters the womb again and again."
... The Elder Dāsaka etc.
8.
Verses of the Elder Siṅgālapitu
18.
With the perception of bones alone, he pervaded this earth;
I imagine he will quickly abandon sensual lust."
... The Elder Siṅgālapitā etc.
9.
Verses of the Elder Kula
19.
Carpenters straighten wood, the virtuous tame themselves."
... The Elder Kula etc.
10.
Verses of the Elder Ajita
20.
I shall lay down this body, fully aware and mindful."
... The Elder Ajita etc.
The second chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Kuṇḍadhāna and Belaṭṭhi, and Dāsaka and beyond that;
The Elder Siṅgālapitika, and Kula and Ajita - these are ten.
3.
The Third Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Nigrodha
21.
Where fear does not persist, by that path the monks go."
... The Elder Nigrodha etc.
2.
Verses of the Elder Cittaka
22.
They, delighted by the cool wind, awaken the one sleeping, meditating."
... The Elder Cittaka etc.
3.
Verses of the Elder Gosāla
23.
Meditating favourably on the rise and fall of the aggregates;
I shall return to the mountain slope, developing seclusion."
... The Elder Gosāla etc.
4.
Verses of the Elder Sugandha
24.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Sugandha etc.
5.
Verses of the Elder Nandiya
25.
Having assaulted such a monk, Dark One, you undergo suffering."
... The Elder Nandiya...
6.
Verses of the Elder Abhaya
26.
I penetrated indeed the subtle, as the tip of a hair with an arrow."
... The Elder Abhaya...
7.
Verses of the Elder Lomasakaṅgiya
27.
I shall push aside with my chest, developing seclusion."
... The Elder Lomasakaṅgiya...
8.
Verses of the Elder Jambugāmikaputta
28.
Are you emitting the odour consisting of morality, not like other people?"
... The Elder Jambugāmikaputta...
9.
Verses of the Elder Hārita
29.
Having made the mind straight, break ignorance, Hārita."
... The Elder Hārita...
10.
Verses of the Elder Uttiya
30.
Illness has arisen in me, this is not the time for me to be negligent."
... The Elder Uttiya...
The third chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Nandiya, Abhaya the elder, the elder Lomasakaṅgiya;
Jambugāmikaputta, and Hārita, Uttiyo the sage.
4.
The Fourth Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Gahvaratīriya
31.
Like an elephant at the head of battle, mindful, one should endure there."
... The Elder Gahvaratīriya...
2.
Verses of the Elder Suppiya
32.
I would exchange for the supreme peace, the unsurpassed freedom from bondage."
... The Elder Suppiya...
3.
Verses of the Elder Sopāka
33.
So towards all living beings, everywhere one should be caring."
... The Elder Sopāka...
4.
Verses of the Elder Posiya
34.
Having come from the forest to the village, from there he entered the house;
From there having risen he departed, without addressing them, Posiya."
... The Elder Posiya...
5.
Verses of the Elder Sāmaññakāni
35.
Whoever develops the noble eightfold path, straight and upright, for the attainment of the Deathless."
... The Elder Sāmaññakāni...
6.
Verses of the Elder Kumāputta
36.
Questioning about meaning, acting respectfully, this is asceticism for one who owns nothing."
... The Elder Kumāputta...
7.
Verses of the Elder Kumāputtasahāyaka
37.
And they fail in concentration, what will travelling the country do?
Therefore, having removed rivalry, one should meditate without being led."
... The Elder who was the friend of the Elder Kumāputta...
8.
Verses of the Elder Gavampati
38.
To him who has gone beyond all attachments, the great sage, the gods pay homage, the one who has gone beyond existence."
... The Elder Gavampati...
9.
Verses of the Elder Tissa
39.
For the abandoning of sensual lust, a mindful monk should wander forth."
... The Elder Tissa...
10.
The Verses of the Elder Vaḍḍhamāna
40.
For the abandoning of lust for existence, a mindful monk should wander forth."
... The Elder Vaḍḍhamāna...
The fourth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Sāmaññakāni, Kumāputta, Kumāputtasahāyaka;
Gavampati, the Elder Tissa, Vaḍḍhamāna of great fame.
5.
The Fifth Chapter
1.
The Verses of the Elder Sirivaḍḍha
41.
And gone to the mountain cave he meditates, the son of the incomparable such one."
... The Elder Sirivaḍḍha...
2.
The Verses of the Elder Khadiravaniya
42.
One like a hair-splitter has come to you."
... The Elder Khadiravaniyo...
3.
The Verses of the Elder Sumaṅgala
43.
From sickles by me, from ploughs by me, from small hoes by me.
Meditate, Sumaṅgala, meditate, Sumaṅgala, dwell diligent, Sumaṅgala."
... The Elder Sumaṅgala...
4.
The Verses of the Elder Sānu
44.
Seeing me living, mother, why do you weep for me, mother?"
... The Elder Sānu...
5.
The Verses of the Elder Ramaṇīyavihāri
45.
So too one accomplished in vision, a disciple of the perfectly Self-awakened One."
... The Elder Ramaṇīyavihārī...
6.
The Verses of the Elder Samiddhi
46.
Mindfulness and wisdom have been developed in me, and my mind is well concentrated;
Make whatever forms you wish, you will never disturb me."
... The Elder Samiddhi...
7.
The Verses of the Elder Ujjaya
47.
Dwelling in your teaching, I dwell without mental corruptions."
... The Elder Ujjaya...
8.
The Verses of the Elder Sañjaya
48.
I do not know of any thought, ignoble, connected with hate."
... The Elder Sañjaya...
9.
The Verses of the Elder Rāmaṇeyyaka
49.
My mind does not tremble at that, for I am delighted in solitude."
... The Elder Rāmaṇeyyaka...
10.
The Verses of the Elder Vimala
50.
Applied thoughts subside, my mind is well concentrated."
... The Elder Vimala...
The fifth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Ramaṇīyavihārī, and Samiddhi, Ujjaya, Sañjaya;
Rāmaṇeyya and that elder, Vimala and Raṇañjaha.
6.
The Sixth Chapter
1.
The Verses of the Elder Godhika
51.
My mind is well concentrated, so if you wish, rain, O sky."
... The Elder Godhika...
2.
The Verses of the Elder Subāhu
52.
My mind is well concentrated on the body, so if you wish, rain, O sky."
... The Elder Subāhu...
3.
Verses of the Elder Valli
53.
Therein I dwell diligent, so if you wish, rain, O sky."
... The Elder Valliyo...
4.
Verses of the Elder Uttiya
54.
Therein I dwell without a companion, so if you wish, rain, O sky."
... The Elder Uttiya...
5.
Verses of the Elder Añjanavaniya
55.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Añjanavaniyo...
6.
Verses of the Elder Kuṭivihāri
56.
Thus know, friend, your hut was not made in vain."
... The Elder Hut-dweller...
7.
Verses of the Second Elder Kuṭivihāri
57.
Discard the longing for a hut, monk, a new hut again is painful."
... The Second Elder Hut-dweller...
8.
Verses of the Elder Ramaṇīyakuṭika
58.
I have no need for maidens, those who have need, go there, women."
... The Elder Ramaṇīyakuṭika...
9.
Verses of the Elder Kosalavihāri
59.
Diligent and ardent, fully aware, mindful."
... The Elder Kosala-dweller...
10.
Verses of the Elder Sīvali
60.
Seeking true knowledge and liberation, I abandoned the underlying tendency to conceit."
... The Elder Sīvali...
The sixth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
The elder Añjanavaniyo, two hut-dwellers;
And Ramaṇīyakuṭika, Sīvalī named after Kosala.
7.
The Seventh Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Vappa
61.
The non-seeing one does not see the non-seeing one, nor does he see the seeing one."
... The Elder Vappa...
2.
Verses of the Elder Vajjiputta
62.
Many envy me, as those doomed to hell envy those going to heaven."
... The Elder Vajjiputta...
3.
Verses of the Elder Pakkha
63.
The function done, delighted in the delightful, through happiness, happiness is attained."
... The Elder Pakkha...
4.
Verses of the Elder Vimalakoṇḍañña
64.
The pride-abandoner, by the banner itself, overcame the great banner."
... The Elder Vimalakoṇḍañña...
5.
Verses of the Elder Ukkhepakatavaccha
65.
That he speaks to householders, well seated, with great gladness."
... The Elder Ukkhepakatavaccha...
6.
Verses of the Elder Meghiya
66.
Having heard his Teaching, I dwelt near him, mindful;
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Meghiya...
7.
Verses of the Elder Ekadhammasavanīya
67.
The cycle of birth and wandering is eliminated, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Ekadhammasavanīya...
8.
Verses of the Elder Ekudāniya
68.
Sorrows do not exist for such a one, who is at peace, always mindful."
... The Elder Ekudāniya...
9.
Verses of the Elder Channa
69.
I entered upon the path for the attainment of the Deathless, he is skilled in the path to freedom from bondage."
... The Elder Channa...
10.
Verses of the Elder Puṇṇa
70.
Among human beings and gods, victory comes from morality and wisdom."
... The Elder Puṇṇa...
The seventh chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Ukkhepakatavaccha and Meghiya, Ekadhammika;
Ekudāniya and Channa, the Elder Puṇṇa and Mahabbala.
8.
The Eighth Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Vacchapāla
71.
For one who has cultivated mature virtue, Nibbāna is indeed not difficult to attain."
... The Elder Vacchapāla...
2.
Verses of the Elder Ātuma
72.
So I, before a wife was brought, approve of me, I have gone forth now."
... The Elder Ātuma...
3.
Verses of the Elder Māṇava
73.
From there I, having gone forth, went forth into homelessness, having abandoned sensual pleasures that are delightful."
... The Elder Māṇava...
4.
Verses of the Elder Suyāmana
74.
Restlessness and sceptical doubt, all these are not found in him."
... The Elder Suyāmana...
5.
Verses of the Elder Susārada
75.
They make even a fool wise, therefore good is the meeting of the good."
... The Elder Susārada...
6.
Verses of the Elder Piyañjaha
76.
One should dwell among those not dwelling, among those delighting, one should not delight."
... The Elder Piyañjaha...
7.
Verses of the Elder Hatthāroha's Son
77.
That today I shall restrain wisely, like a goad-holder a furious elephant."
... The Elder Hatthārohaputta...
8.
Verses of the Elder Meṇḍasira
78.
For me who was born to suffering, the mass of suffering has failed."
... The Elder Meṇḍasira...
9.
Verses of the Elder Rakkhita
79.
All delusion has departed from me, I have become cool, quenched."
... The Elder Rakkhita...
10.
Verses of the Elder Ugga
80.
All this is exhausted, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Ugga...
The eighth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Suyāmana, Susārada, the elder Piyañjaha;
Ārohaputta, Meṇḍasira, Rakkhita, and the one named Ugga.
9.
The Ninth Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Samitigutta
81.
Right here that is to be experienced, no other site is found."
... The Elder Samitigutta...
2.
Verses of the Elder Kassapa
82.
Go there, dear son, do not be overcome by sorrow."
... The Elder Kassapa...
3.
Verses of the Elder Sīha
83.
Develop the wholesome mental state, quickly give up the body."
... The Elder Sīha...
4.
Verses of the Elder Nīta
84.
When indeed will the imprudent one make an end of suffering?"
... The Elder Nīta...
5.
Verses of the Elder Sunāga
85.
Meditating, prudent, mindful, one would attain spiritual happiness."
... The Elder Sunāga...
6.
Verses of the Elder Nāgita
86.
Thus the Blessed One instructs the Community, the Teacher himself shows as if in the palm of his hand."
... The Elder Nāgita...
7.
Verses of the Elder Paviṭṭha
87.
The cycle of birth and wandering is eliminated, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Paviṭṭha...
8.
Verses of the Elder Ajjuna
88.
Being carried along as if by a great flood, I penetrated the truths."
... The Elder Ajjuna...
9.
The Verses of the Elder Devasabha (the First)89.
Freed from mental floods and mental knots, all conceits destroyed."
... The Elder Devasabha...
10.
Verses of the Elder Sāmidatta
90.
The cycle of birth and wandering is eliminated, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Sāmidatta...
The ninth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Nīta, Sunāga, Nāgita, Paviṭṭha, Ajjuna the sage;
And the Elder Devasabha, Sāmidatta and Mahabbala.
10.
The Tenth Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Paripuṇṇaka
91.
The Teaching taught by Gotama, the Buddha, the one of unlimited vision."
... The Elder Paripuṇṇaka...
2.
Verses of the Elder Vijaya
92.
Emptiness and signless, deliverance is whose resort;
Like birds in space, his track is hard to trace."
... The Elder Vijaya...
3.
Verses of the Elder Eraka
93.
Whoever desires sensual pleasures, he desires suffering, Eraka;
Whoever does not desire sensual pleasures, he does not desire suffering, Eraka."
... The Elder Eraka...
4.
Verses of the Elder Mettaji
94.
By him who has attained the highest, the highest teaching was well expounded."
... The Elder Mettaji...
5.
Verses of the Elder Cakkhupāla
95.
Even lying down I will go, not with an evil companion."
... The Elder Cakkhupāla...
6.
Verses of the Elder Khaṇḍasumana
96.
Having enjoyed myself in the heavens, by the remainder I am quenched."
... The Elder Khaṇḍasumana...
7.
Verses of the Elder Tissa
97.
I took up a clay bowl - this is my second consecration."
... The Elder Tissa...
8.
Verses of the Elder Abhaya
98.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it;
For him mental corruptions increase, leading to the root of existence."
... The Elder Abhaya...
9.
Verses of the Elder Uttiya
99.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it;
For him mental corruptions increase, leading to the round of rebirths."
... The Elder Uttiya...
10.
The Verses of the Elder (the Second) Devasabha100.
Covered with the flowers of liberation, he will attain final nibbāna, free from mental corruptions."
... The Elder Devasabha...
The tenth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Cakkhupāla, Khaṇḍasumana, Tissa and Abhaya likewise;
Uttiyo and the one of great wisdom, the elder Devasabha too.
11.
The Eleventh Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Belaṭṭhānika
101.
Like a great hog fed on fodder, the fool enters the womb again and again."
... The Elder Belaṭṭhāniya...
2.
Verses of the Elder Setuccha
102.
Disturbed by gain and loss, they do not attain concentration."
... The Elder Setuccha...
3.
Verses of the Elder Bandhura
103.
Having drunk the highest, the best of flavours, I will not make intimacy with poison."
... The Elder Bandhura...
4.
Verses of the Elder Khitaka
104.
Like cotton set in motion by the wind, my body floats, as it were."
... The Elder Khitaka...
5.
Verses of the Elder Malitavambha
105.
But never should the discerning one dwell in a dwelling that is unbeneficial."
... The Elder Malitavambha...
6.
Verses of the Elder Suhemanta
106.
One who sees one factor is imprudent, and one who sees a hundred is wise."
... The Elder Suhemanta...
7.
Verses of the Elder Dhammasava
107.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Dhammasava...
8.
Verses of the Elder Dhammasava's Father
108.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Dhammasava's Father...
9.
Verses of the Elder Saṅgharakkhita
109.
Thus this one dwells with uncontrolled faculties, like a hind with young offspring in the forest."
... The Elder Saṅgharakkhita...
10.
Verses of the Elder Usabha
110.
For one desiring seclusion, perceiving the forest, it generates more fitness for Usabha."
... The Elder Usabha...
The eleventh chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Malitavambha, Suhemanta, Dhammasava, Dhammasava's father;
And the Elder Saṅgharakkhita, and Usabha the great sage.
12.
The Twelfth Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Jenta
111.
Difficult is our livelihood with whatsoever, it is proper to constantly contemplate impermanence."
... The Elder Jenta...
2.
Verses of the Elder Vacchagotta
112.
My own welfare has been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Vacchagotta...
3.
Verses of the Elder Vanavaccha
113.
Covered with water moss, those rocks delight me."
... The Elder Vanavaccha etc.
4.
Verses of the Elder Adhimutta
114.
For one greedy for bodily pleasure, whence comes the excellence of an ascetic?"
... The Elder Adhimutta...
5.
Verses of the Elder Mahānāma
115.
From the Nesādaka mountain, famous, a covering."
... The Elder Mahānāma...
6.
Verses of the Elder Pārāpariya
116.
Having vomited out the root of misery, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me."
... The Elder Pārāpariya...
7.
Verses of the Elder Yasa
117.
I attained the three true knowledges, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Yasa...
8.
Verses of the Elder Kimila
118.
Though I remain the same, not being separated, I remember myself as if another."
... The Elder Kimila...
9.
Verses of the Elder Vajjiputta
119.
Meditate, Gotama, and do not be negligent, what will this chatter do for you?"
... The Elder Vajjiputta...
10.
Verses of the Elder Isidatta
120.
The elimination of suffering has been attained, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me."
... The Elder Isidatta...
The twelfth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Adhimutta, Mahānāma, Pārāpariya and Yasa too;
Kimila and Vajjiputta, Isidatta of great fame.
The Book of Ones is concluded.
The summary therein:
In the Book of Ones alone, well-chanted by the great sages.
2.
The Section of the Twos
1.
The First Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Uttara
121.
Those aggregates arise, and pass away again and again.
122.
Escaped from all sensual pleasures, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me."
Thus the Venerable Elder Uttara spoke these verses.
2.
The Verses of the Elder Piṇḍola Bhāradvāja
123.
The body is sustained by nutriment, having seen thus, I practise the search.
124.
A subtle dart, difficult to remove, honour is hard to give up by a contemptible person."
Thus the Venerable Elder Piṇḍolabhāradvāja spoke these verses.
3.
Verses of the Elder Valli
125.
Goes around from door to door, shaking again and again.
126.
You have been restrained by wisdom, you will not go far."
... The Elder Valliyo...
4.
The Verses of the Elder Gaṅgātīriya
127.
My bowl is like a vessel for pouring on a corpse, and my robe is a rag robe.
128.
In the third rainy season, the mass of darkness was split open."
... The Elder Gaṅgātīriya...
5.
The Verses of the Elder Ajina
129.
'He is unknown,' the foolish despise him, not knowing.
130.
Even if he is of bad character, he is honoured by them."
... The Elder Ajina...
6.
The Verses of the Elder Meḷajina
131.
I directly know no uncertainty, in the Omniscient One, the Unconquered.
132.
In the path or in the practice, uncertainty is not found in me."
... The Elder Meḷajina...
7.
The Verses of the Elder Rādha
133.
So lust penetrates an undeveloped mind.
134.
So lust does not penetrate a well-developed mind.
... The Elder Rādha...
8.
The Verses of the Elder Surādha
135.
What is termed the net has been abandoned, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
136.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters."
... The Elder Surādha...
9.
The Verses of the Elder Gotama
137.
To those who must always be guarded, among whom truth is very difficult to find.
138.
Now we go to Nibbāna, where having gone one does not grieve."
... The Elder Gotama...
10.
The Verses of the Elder Vasabha
139.
He injures himself thoroughly, like a fowler with a decoy bird.
140.
In whom there are evil deeds, he is indeed dark, O husband of Sujā."
... The Elder Vasabha...
The first chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Ajina and Meḷajina, Rādha, Surādha, Gotama;
With Vasabha these are ten elder monks of great supernormal power.
2.
The Second Chapter
1.
The Verses of the Elder Mahācunda
141.
Through wisdom one knows the meaning, the meaning known brings happiness.
142.
If one should not find delight there, one should dwell in the Community, guarded in oneself, mindful."
... The Elder Mahācunda...
2.
The Verses of the Elder Jotidāsa
143.
Oppress human beings, people of harsh attack;
They too are scattered right there, for action does not perish.
144.
Of that very action he is the heir, whatever action he performs."
... The Elder Jotidāsa...
3.
The Verses of the Elder Heraññakāni
145.
The life span of mortals is exhausted, like water in small streams.
146.
Afterwards for him it is bitter, for the result of it is evil."
... The Elder Heraññakāni...
4.
The Verses of the Elder Somamitta
147.
Thus, having associated with the lazy, even one living well sinks;
Therefore one should avoid him, the lazy one of inferior energy.
148.
With those constantly putting forth strenuous energy, with the wise ones, one should live together."
... The Elder Somamitto...
5.
The Verses of the Elder Sabbamitta
149.
People are harassed by people, and people harass people.
150.
Having left people behind, going, having harassed many people."
... The Elder Sabbamitto...
6.
Verses of the Elder Mahākāḷa
151.
Having broken one arm and the other arm, having broken the head like a bowl of curds;
She sat down having joined them together.
152.
Therefore, one understanding should not create clinging, may I not lie again with a broken head."
... The Elder Mahākāḷa...
7.
Verses of the Elder Tissa
153.
An obtainer of food, drink, clothing and bedding.
154.
With little gain, not filled with desire, a mindful monk should wander forth."
... The Elder Tissa...
8.
Verses of the Elder Kimila
155.
Having abandoned no small wealth, delighting in what comes into the bowl through gleaning.
156.
They delight in delight in the Dhamma, having abandoned mundane delight."
... The Elder Kimila...
9.
Verses of the Elder Nanda
157.
I was agitated and fickle, distressed by sensual lust.
158.
Having proceeded wisely, I lifted up my mind from existence."
... The Elder Nanda...
10.
Verses of the Elder Sirimā
159.
In vain do others praise, for oneself is unconcentrated.
160.
In vain do others censure, for oneself is well concentrated."
... The Elder Sirimā...
The second chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Somamitto, Sabbamitto, Kāla, Tissa and Kimila;
Nanda and Sirimā too, ten elder monks of great supernormal power.
3.
The Third Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Uttara
161.
The factors of enlightenment have been developed by me, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me.
162.
Having developed the factors of enlightenment, I shall attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions."
... The Elder Uttara...
2.
Verses of the Elder Bhaddaji
163.
Across it measured sixteen in height, upwards they said a thousandfold.
164.
There the gandhabbas danced, six thousand in seven groups."
... The Elder Bhaddaji...
3.
Verses of the Elder Sobhita
165.
I recollected five hundred cosmic cycles as if one night.
166.
I recollected five hundred cosmic cycles as if one night."
... The Elder Sobhita...
4.
Verses of the Elder Valli
167.
I shall do it, I shall not fail, see my energy and endeavour.
168.
I shall know through wisdom, as the Ganges stream approaches the ocean."
... The Elder Valliyo...
5.
Verses of the Elder Vītasoka
169.
Then, having taken a mirror, I reviewed my body.
170.
All the rags have been cut off, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Vītasoka...
6.
Verses of the Elder Puṇṇamāsa
171.
Having taken up the mirror of the Teaching, the knowledge and vision of oneself.
172.
Internally and externally, the body was seen as hollow."
... The Elder Puṇṇamāsa...
7.
Verses of the Elder Nandaka
173.
Having gained more urgency, undaunted, he bears the burden.
174.
Remember me as a thoroughbred, a legitimate son of the Buddha."
... The Elder Nandaka...
8.
Verses of the Elder Bharata
175.
We shall roar the lion's roar in the presence of the Buddha, the foremost.
176.
That purpose has been attained by us, the destruction of all mental fetters."
... The Elder Bharata...
9.
Verses of the Elder Bhāradvāja
177.
Heroes victorious in battle, having conquered Māra with his army.
178.
And I am delighted, glad, having seen my son without mental corruptions."
... The Elder Bhāradvāja...
10.
Verses of the Elder Kaṇhadinna
179.
Having heard, I shall proceed upon the straight way grounded upon the Deathless.
180.
There has not been, nor will there be for me, nor is there at present found in me."
... The Elder Kaṇhadinna...
The third chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
And Vītasoka the elder, Puṇṇamāsa and Nandaka;
Bharata and Bhāradvāja, and Kaṇhadinna the great sage.
4.
The Fourth Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Migasira
181.
Being liberated I rose up, I transcended the sensual element.
182.
'Unshakable is my liberation' - through the destruction of all fetters."
... The Elder Migasira...
2.
Verses of the Elder Sivaka
183.
Seeking the house-builder, painful is birth again and again.
184.
All your ribs are broken, and the ridge-pole is shattered;
The mind has become boundless, right here it will be destroyed."
... The Elder Sivaka...
3.
Verses of the Elder Upavāṇa
185.
If there is hot water, give it for the sage, brahmin.
186.
Esteemed by those worthy of esteem, I wish to bring it for him."
... The Elder Upavāṇa...
4.
Verses of the Elder Isidinna
187.
Thoroughly infatuated with jewelled earrings, they have longing for sons and wives.
188.
And there is no power in them to cut off lust, therefore they remain attached to children, wife and wealth."
... The Elder Isidinna...
5.
Verses of the Elder Sambulakaccāna
189.
And I dwell alone in a frightful den;
For me dwelling alone in that frightful den,
There is no fear or trepidation or terror.
190.
There is no fear or trepidation or terror."
... The Elder Sambulakaccāna...
6.
Verses of the Elder Nitaka
191.
Dispassionate towards enticing things, not agitated by what provokes agitation;
For whom the mind is thus developed, from where will suffering come to him?
192.
Dispassionate towards enticing things, not agitated by what provokes agitation;
My mind is thus developed, from where will suffering come to me?"
... The Elder Nitaka...
7.
Verses of the Elder Soṇapoṭiriya
193.
This night is for keeping watch, by one who knows.
194.
Death in battle is better for me, than if I should live defeated."
... The Elder Soṇa Poṭiriya...
8.
Verses of the Elder Nisabha
195.
Having gone forth from home through faith, may one become one who makes an end of suffering.
196.
And I await the time, fully aware, mindful."
... The Elder Nisabha...
9.
Verses of the Elder Usabha
197.
Seated on the elephant's neck, I entered the village for almsfood.
198.
I, being bloated then, peaceful, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me."
... The Elder Usabha...
10.
Verses of the Elder Kappaṭakura
199.
In the pot of the Deathless, indifferent to the teaching, the path prepared to cultivate the meditative absorptions.
200.
For you, Kappaṭa, do not know the measure, nodding off in the midst of the Community."
... The Elder Kappaṭakura...
The fourth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Isidinna and Kaccāna, Nitaka and the great master;
Poṭiriyaputta, Nisabha, Usabha, and Kappaṭakura.
5.
The Fifth Chapter
1.
Verses of the Elder Kumārakassapa
201.
Where such a Teaching a disciple may realise."
202.
Of those this is the last, this is the final body;
The cycle of birth and death, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Kumārakassapa...
2.
Verses of the Elder Dhammapāla
203.
Awake he is indeed among those who sleep, his life is not in vain.
204.
The wise one should pursue, remembering the Buddhas' teaching."
... The Elder Dhammapāla...
3.
Verses of the Elder Brahmāli
205.
Who has abandoned conceit, who is without mental corruptions, even the gods envy such a one?"
206.
Who has abandoned conceit, who is without mental corruptions, even the gods envy me, such a one."
... The Elder Brahmāli...
4.
Verses of the Elder Mogharāja
207.
During the cold winter nights, monk, what will you do?"
208.
Covered with straw I lie down, like others who live happily."
... The Elder Mogharāja...
5.
Verses of the Elder Visākha, Son of Pañcāla
209.
One should not speak one's own praise in assemblies, unagitated, speaking with measure, of good conduct.
210.
For one who has cultivated mature virtue, Nibbāna is indeed not difficult to attain."
... The Elder Visākha, son of Pañcāla...
6.
Verses of the Elder Cūḷaka
211.
And this great earth is covered with beautiful grass, the sky with well-spread water, with beautiful clouds.
212.
The very pure and bright, the subtle, the very difficult to see, touch that highest, imperishable state."
... The Elder Cūḷaka...
7.
Verses of the Elder Anūpama
213.
By that very way you go, where the stake and the log are.
214.
The Teacher, rare to obtain, has been obtained by you, do not urge me towards what is not beneficial."
... The Elder Anūpama...
8.
Verses of the Elder Vajjita
215.
Not seeing the noble truths, a mentally blind worldling.
216.
All destinations have been cut off, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Vajjita...
9.
Verses of the Elder Sandhita
217.
One perception directed to the Buddha, I obtained, being mindful.
218.
Owing to that perception, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me."
... The Elder Sandhita...
The fifth chapter is concluded.
Its summary:
Mogharāja and Visākha, and Cūḷaka and Anūpama;
Vajjita, the Elder Sandhita, and Kilesarajavāhana.
The Book of Twos is concluded.
The summary therein:
Forty-nine elder monks, spoken by those skilled in method.
3.
The Section of the Threes
1.
Verses of the Elder Aṅgaṇika Bhāradvāja
219.
Not knowing the path of purity, I practised austere asceticism for immortality.
220.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
221.
I am a possessor of the threefold true knowledge, one who has bathed, I am a learned one, one who has attained the highest knowledge."
... The Elder Aṅgaṇikabhāradvāja...
2.
Verses of the Elder Paccaya
222.
Having entered my dwelling, there arose an aspiration of mind.
223.
Nor shall I lay down my side, while the dart of craving is not rooted out.
224.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Paccaya...
3.
Verses of the Elder Bākula
225.
He falls from a state of happiness, and afterwards he repents.
226.
One not doing but speaking - the wise fully understand him.
227.
Sorrowless, stainless, secure, where suffering ceases."
... The Elder Bākula...
4.
Verses of the Elder Dhaniya
228.
One should not despise what belongs to the monastic community, robe, drink and food.
229.
Like a snake in a rat's hole, one should resort to lodgings.
230.
One should be content with whatever there is, and should develop one thing."
... The Elder Dhaniya...
5.
Verses of the Elder Mātaṅgaputta
231.
Thus for those who abandon their work, moments pass by the young man.
232.
Doing a man's duties, he does not abandon happiness.
233.
I shall push aside with my chest, developing seclusion."
... The Elder Mātaṅgaputta...
6.
Verses of the Elder Khujjasobhita
234.
One of them, this venerable one, stands at the door, Khujjasobhita.
235.
One of them, this venerable one, stands at the door, stirred by the wind.
236.
By practising the holy life, thus this one thrives in happiness."
... The Elder Khujjasobhita...
7.
Verses of the Elder Vāraṇa
237.
From this world and from the next, from both a man falls to ruin.
238.
Such a person indeed generates much merit.
239.
And in sitting alone in a secret place, and in the appeasement of the mind."
... The Elder Vāraṇa...
8.
Verses of the Elder Vassika
240.
Righteous, accomplished in morality, is for the benefit of kinsmen.
241.
With love for relatives and kinsmen, having done service to the monks.
242.
My brothers and mother rejoice, those who desire sensual pleasures."
... The Elder Vassika...
9.
Verses of the Elder Yasoja
243.
Moderate in food and drink, a man of undepressed mind."
244.
Like an elephant at the head of battle, mindful, one should endure there.
245.
As a village, so are three; beyond that is uproar."
... The Elder Yasoja...
10.
Verses of the Elder Sāṭimattiya
246.
What is yours is yours alone, there is no misconduct of mine.
247.
They become attached and become detached, therein what does the sage lose?
248.
I shall walk for almsfood, I have strength in my legs."
... The Elder Sāṭimattiya...
11.
Verses of the Elder Upāli
249.
One should associate with good friends, those of pure livelihood, not lazy.
250.
A monk dwelling in the Community, being wise, should train in the monastic discipline.
251.
Skilled in what is allowable and not allowable, one should live without being led."
... The Elder Upāli...
12.
Verses of the Elder Uttarapāla
252.
The five types of sensual pleasure in the world, through confusion, made me fall.
253.
I was able to free myself from the snare of the King of Death.
254.
The cycle of birth and wandering is eliminated, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Uttarapāla...
13.
Verses of the Elder Abhibhūta
255.
I will teach you the Teaching, painful is birth again and again.
256.
Shake off the army of Death, as an elephant a hut made of reeds.
257.
Having abandoned the round of rebirths, will make an end of suffering."
... The Elder Abhibhūta...
14.
The Verses of the Elder Gotama
258.
In suffering too in the animal realm, in many ways indeed I dwelt for a long time.
259.
In the fine-material sphere elements, in the immaterial sphere elements, among those neither percipient nor non-percipient, and among the non-percipient I stood established.
260.
Having known that self-existence, mindful, I attained only peace."
... The Elder Gotama...
15.
Verses of the Elder Hārita
261.
He falls from a state of happiness, and afterwards he repents.
262.
One not doing but speaking - the wise fully understand him.
263.
Sorrowless, stainless, secure, where suffering ceases."
... The Elder Hārita...
16.
The Verses of the Elder Vimala
264.
And one should stand firm in his exhortation, aspiring for unshakeable happiness.
265.
Thus, having associated with the lazy, even one living well sinks;
Therefore one should avoid him, the lazy one of inferior energy.
266.
With those constantly putting forth strenuous energy, with the wise ones, one should live together."
... The Elder Vimala...
The Book of Threes is concluded.
The summary therein:
Dhaniya, Mātaṅgaputta, Sobhita, Vāraṇa the sage.
Uttarapāla, Abhibhūta, Gotama and also Hārita.
Forty-eight verses, sixteen elders have been proclaimed.
4.
The Section of the Fours
1.
Verses of the Elder Nāgasamāla
267.
In the middle of the highway, a woman, a dancing girl dances to music.
268.
Adorned, well-dressed, like a snare of Death laid out.
269.
Danger became manifest, disenchantment was established.
270.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Nāgasamāla...
2.
Verses of the Elder Bhagu
271.
Ascending the walking path, right there I fell to the ground.
272.
I walked up and down on the walking path, internally well concentrated.
273.
Danger became manifest, disenchantment was established.
274.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Bhagu...
3.
Verses of the Elder Sabhiya
275.
Those who understand this, thereby their quarrels are appeased.
276.
But those who understand the Teaching, are free from affliction among the afflicted.
277.
A suspicious holy life - that is not of great fruit.
278.
He is far from the Good Teaching, as the sky from the earth."
... The Elder Sabhiya...
4.
Verses of the Elder Nandaka
279.
Nine streams in your body, which flow always.
280.
Even in heaven they find no pleasure, how much less then in human pleasures.
281.
Such ones find pleasure there, in the snare cast by Māra.
282.
Such ones find no pleasure there, with strings cut, unfettered."
... The Elder Nandaka...
5.
Verses of the Elder Jambuka
283.
Eating a monthly meal, I plucked out my hair and beard.
284.
And I ate dry dung, and I did not consent to recitation.
285.
Floating along in the great flood, I came for refuge to the Buddha.
286.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Jambuka...
6.
Verses of the Elder Senaka
287.
Because I saw the Self-enlightened One, teaching the highest Teaching.
288.
The Victor of the world with its gods, of incomparable vision.
289.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, the Teacher, safe from every quarter.
290.
That Blessed One released, Senaka, from all mental knots."
... The Elder Senaka...
7.
Verses of the Elder Sambhūta
291.
Through unwise arrangement, the fool undergoes suffering.
292.
And he attains ill repute, and is hostile to friends.
293.
Through wise arrangement, the wise one attains happiness.
294.
And he attains fame and renown, and is not hostile to friends."
... The Elder Sambhūta...
8.
Verses of the Elder Rāhula
295.
In that I am the son of the Buddha, and in that I have vision regarding phenomena.
296.
I am a Worthy One, worthy of offerings, a possessor of the threefold true knowledge, one who sees the Deathless.
297.
Bound by the kinsman of the heedless, like fish in the mouth of a trap.
298.
Having uprooted craving with its root, I have become cool, quenched."
... The Elder Rāhula...
9.
Verses of the Elder Candana
299.
Having taken my son on her hip, my wife approached me.
300.
Adorned, well-dressed, like a snare of Death laid out.
301.
Danger became manifest, disenchantment was established.
302.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Candana...
10.
Verses of the Elder Dhammika
303.
This is the benefit when the Teaching is well practised, one who practises the Teaching does not go to an unfortunate realm.
304.
What is not the Teaching leads to hell, the Teaching causes one to reach a good destination.
305.
Established in the Teaching, the disciples of the excellent Fortunate One, the wise are led forth, going to the foremost excellent refuge.
306.
He whose wandering in the round of rebirths is ended, there is no possession for him,
Like the moon on a moonlit full-moon night."
... The Elder Dhammika...
11.
Verses of the Elder Sappaka
307.
Will fly away seeking an abode, then the river Ajakaraṇī delights me.
308.
Seek a shelter, not seeing a shelter, then the river Ajakaraṇī delights me.
309.
They adorn the river bank, behind my cave.
310.
Frogs with soft voices resound there;
'Today is not a time for separation from the mountain rivers,
The Ajakaraṇī is secure, safe, and delightful.'"
... The Elder Sappaka...
12.
Verses of the Elder Mudita
311.
From that I gained faith, with firm energy I strove.
312.
Let both my calves fall from the knee joints.
313.
Nor shall I lay down my side, while the dart of craving is not rooted out.
314.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Mudita...
The Book of Fours is concluded.
The summary therein:
Jambuka, the Elder Senaka, Sambhūta and Rāhula too.
The Elder Dhammika, the Elder Sappaka, and Mudita too, those three;
Fifty-two verses, all thirteen elders thus.
5.
The Book of the Fives
1.
Verses of the Elder Rājadatta
315.
Thrown aside in the cemetery, being eaten, pervaded with worms.
316.
Sensual lust appeared, like a blind man I was flowing.
317.
Mindful and fully aware, I sat down to one side.
318.
Danger became manifest, disenchantment was established.
319.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Rājadatta...
2.
Verses of the Elder Subhūta
320.
If while practising he would not attain, 'that is my mark of misfortune'.
321.
If one should give up all, one would be like a blind man, from not seeing what is even and uneven.
322.
One not doing but speaking - the wise fully understand him.
323.
So well-spoken words are fruitless for one who does not practise them.
324.
So well-spoken words are fruitful for one who practises them.
... The Elder Subhūta...
3.
Verses of the Elder Girimānanda
325.
Therein I dwell at peace, so if you wish, rain, O sky.
326.
Therein I dwell with peaceful mind, so if you wish, rain, O sky.
327.
328.
329.
so if you wish, rain, O sky."
... The Elder Girimānanda...
4.
Verses of the Elder Sumana
330.
Longing for the Deathless, what was to be done has been done by me.
331.
With purified knowledge, without uncertainty, I declare in your presence.
332.
My own welfare has been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
333.
All my mental corruptions are eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
334.
Your exhortation was not futile, I am a pupil who has been trained."
... The Elder Sumana...
5.
Verses of the Elder Vaḍḍha
335.
Having heard whose word, admonished by my mother;
Putting forth strenuous energy, resolute, I attained the highest enlightenment.
336.
Having conquered the army of the Destroyer, I dwell without mental corruptions.
337.
All without remainder have been cut off, and they will not arise again.
338.
'Surely without longing even towards me, craving is not found in you.'
339.
The cycle of birth and death, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Vaḍḍha...
6.
Verses of the Elder Nadīkassapa
340.
Having heard whose Teaching, I abandoned wrong view.
341.
Thinking 'This is purification,' a mentally blind worldling.
342.
I imagined impurity to be purity, mentally blind, a fool.
343.
I dedicate to the fire worthy of offerings, I pay homage to the Tathāgata.
344.
The cycle of birth and wandering is eliminated, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Nadīkassapa...
7.
Verses of the Elder Gayākassapa
345.
Descended into the water, at Gayā during the Gayā-Phaggu festival.
346.
That I now wash away here" - such was my view before.
347.
I wisely reviewed the meaning that is true and exact;
348.
Pure, heir of the Pure One, son of the Buddha, legitimate.
349.
I attained the three true knowledges, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... The Elder Gayākassapa...
8.
Verses of the Elder Vakkali
350.
In a miserable place with scarce alms-resort, monk, what will you do?"
351.
Even enduring rough conditions, I will dwell in the forest.
352.
And developing the factors of enlightenment, I will dwell in the forest.
353.
United, together, I will dwell in the forest.
354.
Not lazy, night and day, I will dwell in the forest."
... The Elder Vakkali...
9.
Verses of the Elder Vijitasena
355.
I will not urge you towards evil, O net of sensuality, born of the body.
356.
And you, wretched mind, again and again, having striven, will not behave delighting in evil.
357.
A strong man turns it back against its will, so I shall turn you back.
358.
So I shall tame you, established in the five powers.
359.
Restrained by the yoke of energy, you shall not go far from here, O mind."
... The Elder Vijitasena...
10.
Verses of the Elder Yasadatta
360.
He is far from the Good Teaching, as the earth from the sky.
361.
He falls away from the Good Teaching, like the moon in the dark fortnight.
362.
He dries up in the Good Teaching, like a fish in little water.
363.
He does not grow in the Good Teaching, like a rotten seed in a field.
364.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, having realised the unshakable;
Having attained the supreme peace, attains final nibbāna without mental corruptions."
... The Elder Yasadatta...
11.
Verses of the Elder Soṇakuṭikaṇṇa
365.
And that Blessed One was seen by me, and I dwelt together with him in the dwelling-place.
366.
The Teacher, skilled in dwelling, then entered the dwelling.
367.
Like a lion in a rocky cave, fear and dread abandoned.
368.
Soṇa spoke the Good Teaching, in the presence of the Buddha, the foremost.
369.
Having attained the supreme peace, he will attain final nibbāna, free from mental corruptions."
... The Elder Soṇa Kuṭikaṇṇa...
12.
Verses of the Elder Kosiya
370.
He is called devoted and wise, and having known, he would be distinguished in teachings.
371.
He is called steadfast and wise, and having known, he would be distinguished in teachings.
372.
He is called immovable and wise, and having known, he would be distinguished in teachings.
373.
Such a one is called wise, and having known, he would be distinguished in teachings.
374.
He is called one with the meaning within, a wise one, and having known, he would be distinguished in teachings."
... The Elder Kosiya...
The Book of Fives is concluded.
The summary therein:
Vaḍḍha and Kassapa the Elder, Gayākassapa and Vakkalī.
Sixty and five verses, and twelve elders herein.
6.
The Book of the Sixes
1.
Verses of the Elder Uruveḷakassapa
375.
I did not bow down for so long, deceived by jealousy and conceit.
376.
Then there was spiritual urgency for me, wonderful and terrifying.
377.
Having disregarded that then, I went forth in the Conqueror's Dispensation.
378.
Afterwards I abolished lust and hate, and delusion too.
379.
Possessing supernormal power, a knower of others' minds, and I attained the divine ear.
380.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters."
... The Elder Uruveḷakassapa...
2.
Verses of the Elder Tekicchakāri
381.
Yet I do not obtain almsfood, what shall I do?"
382.
Your body pervaded with rapture, you will be constantly elated.
383.
Your body pervaded with rapture, you will be constantly elated.
384.
Your body pervaded with rapture, you will be constantly elated.
385.
Do not be overcome by the cold and suffer hardship, enter the dwelling with bolts fastened.
386.
I shall not suffer hardship from the cold, dwelling unperturbed."
... The Elder Tekicchakārī...
3.
Verses of the Elder Mahānāga
387.
He falls away from the Good Teaching, like a fish in little water.
388.
He does not grow in the Good Teaching, like a rotten seed in a field.
389.
He is far from Nibbāna, in the Dispensation of the King of the Dhamma.
390.
He does not abandon the Good Teaching, like a fish in abundant water.
391.
He grows in the Good Teaching, like a good seed in a field.
392.
Nibbāna is near, in the Dispensation of the King of the Dhamma."
... The Elder Mahānāga...
4.
Verses of the Elder Kulla
393.
Thrown aside in the cemetery, being eaten, pervaded with worms.
394.
Oozing and dripping, delighted in by the foolish.
395.
I reviewed this body, hollow within and without.
396.
As below so above, as above so below.
397.
As before so after, as after so before.
398.
As for one with a fully focused mind, rightly seeing the Teaching with insight."
... The Elder Kulla...
5.
Verses of the Elder Mālukyaputta
399.
He floats from existence to existence, like a monkey in the forest desiring fruit.
400.
His sorrows increase, like bīraṇa grass rained upon.
401.
Sorrows fall from him, like a water drop from a lotus.
402.
Dig up the root of craving, as one desiring usīra digs up bīraṇa grass;
Let not Māra break you again and again, as a stream breaks a reed.
403.
For those who have missed the moment grieve, consigned to hell.
404.
By diligence, by true knowledge, one should draw out the dart from oneself."
... The Elder Mālukyaputta...
6.
Verses of the Elder Sappadāsa
405.
Not even for a mere finger-snap, did I attain peace of mind.
406.
Having raised my arms, weeping, I went out from the dwelling.
407.
For how could one like me, having rejected the training, meet death?
408.
The razor was brought up, to cut my own vein.
409.
Danger became manifest, disenchantment was established.
410.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
... Sappadāsa the elder...
7. Verses of the Elder Kāṭiyāna
411.
Let not the King of Death, friend of the heedless, conquer you, the lazy one, as if by deceit.
412.
So make a good island for yourself, for indeed no other shelter for you exists.
413.
Diligent in the former and latter parts of the night, devote yourself, make your exertion firm.
414.
Do not engage in play and delight, nor in sleep, meditate, Kātiyāna.
415.
Having attained the unsurpassed purification, you will attain final nibbāna like a flame by water.
416.
Even so you, not grasping, O kinsman of Indra, shake off Māra;
He, without lust for feelings, should await the time, become cool right here."
... Kātiyāna the elder...
8.
Verses of the Elder Migajāla
417.
Gone beyond all fetters, destroyer of the entire round of rebirths.
418.
Having cut off the slaughter-house, the root of poison, it causes one to reach peace.
419.
In the possession of consciousnesses, the striker with the thunderbolt of knowledge.
420.
Observing existence with knowledge as if it were a pit of embers.
421.
The noble eightfold path, alleviating suffering, secure.
422.
Of phenomena arisen through dependent origination, seeing according to the light of insight;
Going to great security, peaceful, auspicious at the final goal."
... Migajāla the elder...
9.
Verses of the Elder Jenta, the Son of the Royal Chaplain
423.
With form, beauty and appearance, intoxicated with vanity I wandered.
424.
A fool destroyed by arrogance, very stiff, with banner raised.
425.
I saluted no one, stubborn in pride, disrespectful.
426.
Shining like the sun, honoured by the community of monks.
427.
With my head I saluted the highest of all beings.
428.
The conceit 'I am' is cut off, all discriminations of conceit are destroyed."
... Jenta, the son of the royal chaplain, the elder...
10.
Verses of the Elder Sumana
429.
Having overcome by supernormal power, the serpent king of great supernormal power.
430.
I was bringing from there when, having seen me, the Teacher said this."
431.
Having taken a water-pot, internally well concentrated.
432.
The novice of Anuruddha, confident in supernormal power.
433.
Disciplined by Anuruddha, trained by one who has done his task.
434.
That novice Sumana wishes 'May they not know me'."
... The Elder Sumana...
11.
Verses of the Elder Nhātakamuni
435.
In a miserable place with scarce alms-resort, monk, what will you do?"
436.
Even enduring rough conditions, I will dwell in the forest.
437.
Accomplished in the fineness of meditative absorption, I shall dwell without mental corruptions.
438.
Repeatedly reviewing, I shall dwell without mental corruptions.
439.
All without remainder have been cut off, and they will not arise again.
440.
The elimination of suffering has been attained, there is now no more rebirth."
... Nhātakamuni the elder...
12.
Verses of the Elder Brahmadatta
441.
To one completely liberated through final knowledge, to one at peace, to such a one.
442.
Not becoming angry in return at one who is angry, one wins a battle hard to win.
443.
Knowing the other to be enraged, one who is mindful becomes calm.
444.
People think 'he is a fool' - those who are unskilled in the Teaching.
445.
If craving for flavour should arise, remember the simile of the son's flesh.
446.
Quickly restrain it with mindfulness, like a bad beast that eats corn."
... Brahmadatta the elder...
13.
Verses of the Elder Sirimaṇḍa
447.
Therefore open what is covered, thus it will not rain upon that.
448.
By the dart of craving is it overcome, by desire is it always fuming.
449.
Without shelter, it is always destroyed, like a thief who has received the rod.
450.
There is no power to confront them, there is no speed to flee.
451.
Whatever night one passes, by that much is one's life diminished.
452.
The final night approaches, this is not the time for you to be negligent."
... Sirimaṇḍa the elder...
14.
Verses of the Elder Sabbakāmi
453.
Full of various corpses, oozing here and there.
454.
Like a monkey by bird-lime, they afflict the worldling.
455.
These five types of sensual pleasure are seen in the form of a woman.
456.
They increase the terrible cemetery, they accumulate rebirth.
457.
He, mindful, overcomes this clinging in the world.
458.
Escaped from all sensual pleasures, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me."
... Sabbakāmī the elder...
The Chapter of Sixes is concluded.
The summary therein:
Mahānāga and Kulla, Mālukya and Sappadāsaka.
Nhātamuni, Brahmadatta, Sirimaṇḍa and Sabbakāmī;
Eighty-four verses, and fourteen elders herein.
7.
The Book of the Sevens
1.
Verses of the Elder Sundarasamudda
459.
With feet lacquered, having mounted sandals, the courtesan.
460.
She spoke to me with smooth and soft words, having first smiled."
461.
Enjoy human sensual pleasures, I give you wealth;
I promise you the truth, or I shall carry fire for you.
462.
Both of us shall go forth, a winning throw in both respects."
463.
Adorned, well-dressed, like a snare of Death laid out.
464.
465.
... Sundarasamudda the elder...
2.
Verses of the Elder Lakuṇḍakabhaddiya
466.
Having uprooted craving with its root, there the auspicious one meditates.
467.
But I at the root of a tree, delighted in the Buddha's Dispensation.
468.
I would take for the whole world, constant mindfulness of the body.
469.
Overcome by the power of desire and lust, those people do not know me.
470.
The fool obstructed all around, he indeed is carried away by sound.
471.
Seeing the fruit externally, he too is carried away by sound.
472.
One who sees without obstruction, he is not carried away by sound."
... Lakuṇḍakabhaddiya the elder...
3.
Verses of the Elder Bhadda
473.
Obtained through many ascetic practices and through prayers.
474.
Both father and mother, brought me near to the Buddha."
475.
We give him to you, O protector, as an attendant of the Conqueror."
476.
'Give the going forth to this one quickly, this one will be of good breed.'
477.
While the sun had not yet set, thereupon my mind was liberated.
478.
'Come, Bhadda,' he said to me, that was my full ordination.
479.
The three true knowledges have been attained, oh, the good nature of the Dhamma!"
... Bhadda the elder...
4.
Verses of the Elder Sopāka
480.
Having approached him there, I paid homage to the highest of men.
481.
I walked up and down following the stainless one, the highest of all beings.
482.
Fearless and unafraid, I answered the Teacher.
483.
Having looked at the Community of monks, he spoke this matter."
484.
Robes and almsfood, requisites and lodgings;
Rising up in respect and proper treatment, it is a gain for them," he said.
485.
Let this itself, Sopāka, be your full ordination."
486.
I bear my final body, oh, the good nature of the Dhamma!"
... The Elder Sopāka...
5.
Verses of the Elder Sarabhaṅga
487.
On account of that, 'Sarabhaṅga' was my name by convention.
488.
Training rules have been laid down for us, by Gotama of great fame.
489.
That disease was seen, by one obedient to the Super God.
490.
Kakusandha, Koṇāgamana, and Kassapa, by that same straight path Gotama went.
491.
By whom this Teaching was taught, by those such ones who have become the Teaching.
492.
Suffering, origin, path, cessation, the elimination of suffering.
493.
Upon the dissolution of this body, and the extinction of life;
There is no other rebirth, I am well liberated everywhere."
... Sarabhaṅga the elder...
The Chapter of Sevens is concluded.
The summary therein:
Bhadda the elder and Sopāka, Sarabhaṅga the great sage;
In the sevens five elders, thirty-five verses.
8.
The Book of the Eights
1.
Verses of the Elder Mahākaccāyana
494.
He who is zealous, greedy for flavours, neglects the benefit that brings happiness.
495.
A subtle dart, difficult to remove, honour is hard to give up by a contemptible person.
496.
One should not pursue that oneself, for mortals have action as their kinsman.
497.
As oneself knows him, so too the gods know him.
498.
Those who understand this, thereby their quarrels are appeased.
499.
But with the loss of wisdom, even one with wealth does not live.
500.
Yet the wise one should not reject all that is seen and heard.
501.
One with wisdom should be as if mute, one with strength as if weak;
Then when a matter has arisen, one should lie like one dead."
... The Elder Mahākaccāyana...
2.
Verses of the Elder Sirimitta
502.
Such a monk indeed, thus after death does not grieve.
503.
A monk with guarded doors always, thus after death does not grieve.
504.
That monk of good morality, thus after death does not grieve.
505.
That monk of good friends, thus after death does not grieve.
506.
That monk of good wisdom, thus after death does not grieve.
507.
And whose morality is good, dear to the noble ones, praised.
508.
They call him 'not poor', his life is not in vain.
509.
The wise one should pursue, remembering the Buddhas' teaching."
... The Elder Sirimitto...
3.
Verses of the Elder Mahāpanthaka
510.
Then there was spiritual urgency for me, having seen the highest of men.
511.
Such a Teacher he, having pleased, might fail.
512.
Having cut off hair and beard, I went forth into homelessness.
513.
Paying homage to the Self-enlightened One, I dwelt unconquered.
514.
I would not sit even for a moment, while the dart of craving is not rooted out.
515.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
516.
I am a Worthy One, worthy of offerings, free, without clinging.
517.
Having dried up all craving, he sat down cross-legged."
... The Elder Mahāpanthaka...
The Chapter of Eights is concluded.
The summary therein:
These in the Eights, twenty-four verses.
9.
The Book of the Nines
1.
Verses of the Elder Bhūta
518.
Having fully understood suffering, mindfully he meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
519.
Having abandoned craving, mindfully he meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
520.
Having seen it with wisdom, mindfully he meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
521.
He develops that which cuts the bondage of fetters, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
522.
And the monk, gone to a mountain slope, meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
523.
Seated, with gladdened mind he meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
524.
And the monk, gone to a mountain slope, meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
525.
Free from anguish, free from barrenness, he meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme.
526.
Having ended all mental corruptions, he meditates, from that he finds no delight more supreme."
... The Elder Bhūta...
The Chapter of Nines is concluded.
The summary therein:
In the Book of Nines, these verses too are nine.
10.
The Book of the Tens
1.
Verses of the Elder Kāḷudāyi
527.
They shine forth as if aflame, it is the right time, O great hero, partaker of essences.
528.
Having left behind the leaves, desiring fruit, it is time to depart from here, O hero.
529.
Let the Sākiyas and Koliyas see him crossing the Rohinī facing westward.
530.
With hope merchants go to the ocean, wealth-carriers;
By which hope I stand, may that hope of mine succeed.
531.
Again and again farmers plough the field, again and again grain comes to the country.
532.
Again and again donors, having given, again and again go to the heavenly state.
533.
I imagine the god of gods is able, for born from you is the sage of true name.
534.
She who carried the Bodhisatta in her womb, upon the body's collapse, rejoices in heaven.
535.
She rejoices in the five types of sensual pleasure, surrounded by those hosts of gods.
536.
You are my father's father, O Sakyan, by the Dhamma, Gotama, you are my grandfather."
... The Elder Kāḷudāyī...
2.
Verses of the Elder Ekavihāriya
537.
Exceedingly comfortable it is, for one dwelling alone in the forest.
538.
Comfortable for one dwelling alone, for the resolute monk.
539.
Alone, master of myself, quickly I shall enter the forest.
540.
Having bathed my limbs, I shall walk up and down alone.
541.
When shall I dwell, with obligations fulfilled, without mental corruptions.
542.
I myself shall accomplish it, no other is the doer for another.
543.
I will not depart from there, not having attained the elimination of mental corruptions.
544.
I shall break ignorance, seated on the mountain summit.
545.
Happy with the bliss of liberation, I shall delight in Giribbaja.
546.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Ekavihāriya...
3.
Verses of the Elder Mahākappina
547.
His ill-wishers or well-wishers, looking for a fault, do not see one.
548.
Gradually practised, as taught by the Buddha;
He illuminates this world, like the moon released from a cloud.
549.
Pierced through and uplifted, it illuminates all directions.
550.
But with the loss of wisdom, even one with wealth does not live.
551.
A man endowed with wisdom here, even amidst sufferings, finds happiness.
552.
Where one is born and dies, there what is marvellous?
553.
Those born, born again, die here - for such is the nature of living beings.
554.
Weeping for the dead brings neither fame nor worldly esteem, nor is it praised by ascetics and brahmins.
555.
His enemies become joyful, those seeking his welfare do not become happy.
556.
For those by whose power of wisdom the function is done, they cross like a full river by boat."
... The Elder Mahākappina...
4.
Verses of the Elder Cūḷapanthaka
557.
And my brother dismissed me, 'Go now, you, to your home.'
558.
Unhappy, I stood there, expectant in the Dispensation.
559.
Having taken me by the arm, he led me into the monastery.
560.
'Keep this pure, well determined, to one side.'
561.
I brought about concentration, for the attainment of the highest goal.
562.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
563.
Sat in the charming mango grove, until the announcement of the proper time.
564.
When the time was announced, I approached through the sky.
565.
Knowing me to be seated, then the Teacher accepted.
566.
A field of merit for human beings, he accepted the offering."
... The Elder Cūḷapanthaka...
5.
Verses of the Elder Kappa
567.
Like a festering cesspool, a great boil, a great wound.
568.
The body oozing with liquid, always flows with what is rotten.
569.
Wrapped in a jacket of skin, the putrid body is useless.
570.
Through the conjunction of many elements, it performs the postures.
571.
Having abandoned right here, a man goes wherever he wishes.
572.
The body is sinking in the mental floods, spread over by the net of underlying tendencies.
573.
Followed by the root of craving, covered by the covering of delusion.
574.
And success ends in failure, separation comes to pass.
575.
They increase the terrible cemetery, they take up rebirth.
576.
Having vomited out the root of becoming, those without mental corruptions will attain final nibbāna."
... The Elder Kappa...
6.
Verses of the Elder Upasena, Son of Vaṅganta
577.
A monk should resort to such lodging, for the sake of seclusion.
578.
From that having made a double robe, one should wear a coarse robe.
579.
A monk should walk for almsfood, with guarded doors, well-restrained.
580.
For one greedy for flavours, the mind does not delight in meditative absorption.
581.
Unassociated with householders, and with homeless ones, both.
582.
The wise one should not converse excessively in the midst of the Community.
583.
Restrained in the principal monastic code, and moderate in food.
584.
He should engage in tranquillity, and in insight at the proper time.
585.
And without reaching the end of suffering, the wise one should not come to trust.
586.
All mental corruptions are exhausted, and he attains final peace."
... The Elder Upasena Vaṅgantaputta...
7.
Verses of the Elder (Apara)-Gotama
587.
And whatever here would be proper for one who has entered asceticism.
588.
And the wish to hear from teachers, this is proper for an ascetic.
589.
And honouring the Community, this is proper for an ascetic.
590.
And the establishing of the mind, this is proper for an ascetic.
591.
And devotion to higher consciousness, this is proper for an ascetic.
592.
Should be resorted to by the sage, this is proper for an ascetic.
593.
Full realization of the truths, this is proper for an ascetic.
594.
And discontent with the world, this is proper for an ascetic.
595.
The noble eightfold path, this is proper for an ascetic.
596.
He should dwell free, this is proper for an ascetic."
... The Elder Gotama...
The Chapter of Tens is concluded.
The summary therein:
Cūḷapanthaka and Kappa, and Upasena and Gotama;
These seven elders in the tens, and seventy verses herein.
11.
The Book of the Elevens
1.
Verses of the Elder Saṃkicca
597.
The Verambha winds are delightful to you, for solitude is indeed for meditators.
598.
Perceptions draw me towards seclusion, connected with the perception of seclusion.
599.
It arouses mindfulness in me, regarding the body, based upon dispassion.
600.
That monk indeed sleeps happily, without expectation towards sensual pleasures.
601.
Covered with water moss, those rocks delight me.
602.
In remote lodgings, frequented by beasts of prey.
603.
I do not know of any thought, ignoble, connected with hate.
604.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
605.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
606.
And I await the time, like a hired servant earning his wages.
607.
And I await the time, fully aware, mindful."
... The Elder Saṃkicca...
The Chapter of Elevens is concluded.
The summary therein:
In the Chapter of Eleven, the verses are eleven too.
12.
The Book of the Twelves
1.
Verses of the Elder Sīlava
608.
For morality, when practised, brings all success.
609.
Praise and gain of joy, and after death, rejoicing in heaven.
610.
But the immoral one, practising evil, falls away from friends.
611.
Praise, fame and commendation, the moral one always obtains.
612.
The chief of all phenomena, therefore one should purify morality.
613.
And the ford of all Buddhas, therefore one should purify morality.
614.
Morality is the foremost ornament, morality is a marvellous armour.
615.
Morality is the foremost cosmetic, by which one's scent spreads in every direction.
616.
Morality is the best conveyance, by which one goes in every direction.
617.
Everywhere unhappy is the fool, unconcentrated in morality.
618.
Everywhere glad is the wise one, well concentrated in morality.
619.
Among human beings and gods, victory comes from morality and wisdom."
... The Elder Sīlava...
2.
Verses of the Elder Sunīta
620.
My work was lowly, I was a remover of withered flowers.
621.
Having made the mind humble, I paid homage to many people.
622.
The great hero entering the best city of the Magadhans.
623.
Out of compassion for me alone, the highest of men stood still.
624.
I requested the going forth from the highest of all beings.
625.
'Come, monk,' he said to me, that was my full ordination.
626.
I did the Teacher's word, as the Conqueror exhorted me.
627.
During the middle watch of the night, I purified the divine eye;
In the last watch of the night, I shattered the mass of darkness.
628.
Inda and Brahmā, having come, paid homage to me with joined palms.
629.
Whose mental corruptions are eliminated, you are worthy of offerings, dear sir.'
630.
Having manifested a smile, spoke this matter.
631.
By this one is a brahmin, this is the highest brahmin quality."
... Sunīta the Elder...
The Chapter of Twelves is concluded.
The summary therein:
In the Book of Twelves, twenty-four verses.
13.
The Book of the Thirteens
1.
Verses of the Elder Soṇa Koḷivisa
632.
He today is superior in the teachings, Soṇa, who has gone beyond suffering.
633.
A monk who has gone beyond five attachments is called a crosser of the mental floods."
634.
Morality, concentration, and wisdom do not go to fulfilment.
635.
For the arrogant and the heedless, their mental corruptions grow.
636.
They do not pursue what is not their function, acting continuously in their function;
For the mindful, for the fully aware, mental corruptions come to an end.
637.
Urge oneself by oneself, one should bring oneself to Nibbāna.
638.
Having made the simile of the lute for me, the one with vision taught the Teaching;
Having heard his word, I dwelt delighted in the Dispensation.
639.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
640.
For one inclined to non-ill-will, and to the elimination of clinging.
641.
Having seen the arising of the sense bases, the mind becomes rightly liberated.
642.
There is no adding to what has been done, nothing to be done is found.
643.
So forms, flavours, sounds, odours and contacts, all these.
644.
The mind is steady, detached, and he contemplates its passing away."
... Soṇa Koḷivisa the Elder...
The Chapter of Thirteens is concluded.
The summary therein:
In the Book of Thirteens, thirteen verses herein.
14.
The Book of the Fourteens
1.
Verses of the Elder Revata of the Acacia Forest
645.
I do not know of any thought, ignoble, connected with hate.
646.
I do not know of such a thought, in this long interval.
647.
Gradually practised, as taught by the Buddha.
648.
I develop a mind of friendliness, always delighting in non-ill-will.
649.
I develop the divine abiding, not practised by wretched persons.
650.
Is endowed with noble silence at that very moment.
651.
So a monk, through the elimination of delusion, does not tremble like a mountain.
652.
Even a hair-tip of evil appears like a cloud.
653.
So guard yourselves, let not the moment pass you by.
654.
And I await the time, like a hired servant earning his wages.
655.
656.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
657.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
658.
Come, I shall attain final Nibbāna, I am liberated everywhere."
... Khadiravaniya Revata the Elder...
2.
Verses of the Elder Godatta
659.
Though shaken by an excessive load, does not go beyond the yoke.
660.
They do not despise others, this is the noble teaching for living beings.
661.
Men undergo suffering, they grieve here, young men.
662.
By this dyad the foolish are destroyed, not seeing as it really is.
663.
They stand firm like a gate-post, they are neither elated nor depressed.
664.
Not in blame nor in praise, not for them in suffering nor in happiness.
665.
Everywhere happy are the wise, everywhere unconquered.
666.
Righteous loss is better, than if gain is not righteous.
667.
Disgrace among the wise is better, not fame among those of little wisdom.
668.
Reproach by the wise is better, than if there is praise by fools.
669.
The suffering of seclusion is better, than if happiness is born of sensual pleasure.
670.
Righteous death is better, than if one should live unrighteously.
671.
They wander in the world unattached, for them there is nothing dear or not dear.
672.
Having attained the supreme peace, they attain final nibbāna without mental corruptions."
... Godatta the Elder...
The Chapter of Fourteens is concluded.
The summary therein:
In the Book of Fourteens, twenty-eight verses.
15.
The Book of the Sixteens
1.
Verses of the Elder Aññāsi Koṇḍañña
673.
Dispassion is the Teaching taught, altogether by non-clinging.
674.
They churn, I imagine, the thought, beautiful, connected with lust.
675.
So thoughts are appeased, when one sees with wisdom.
676.
Then one becomes disenchanted with suffering, this is the path to purification.
677.
Then one becomes disenchanted with suffering, this is the path to purification.
678.
Then one becomes disenchanted with suffering, this is the path to purification.
679.
Having abandoned birth and death, complete in the holy life.
680.
Having cut off the barrenness and the snare, having broken through the rock hard to break;
One who has crossed over, gone beyond, a meditator, he is freed from Māra's bondage.
681.
Sinks down in the great flood, covered over by the wave.
682.
A good friend, wise, one may be one who makes an end of suffering.
683.
Moderate in food and drink, a man of undepressed mind.
684.
Like an elephant at the head of battle, mindful, one should endure there.
685.
686.
687.
688.
That purpose has been attained by me, what need have I of a co-resident?"
... Aññāsikoṇḍañña the Elder...
2.
Verses of the Elder Udāyi
689.
Dwelling on the Brahma path, delighting in the peace of mind.
690.
Even the gods pay homage to him, thus I have heard from the Worthy One.
691.
Delighting in renunciation from sensual pleasures, freed like gold from rock.
692.
Of all those bearing the name of elephant, he of true name is unsurpassed.
693.
Meekness and non-violence, these two are the feet of the elephant.
694.
The great elephant with faith as his trunk, with equanimity as his white tusks.
695.
The Teaching is the belly's residence, seclusion is his tail.
696.
Going, the elephant is concentrated, standing, the elephant is concentrated.
697.
Everywhere restrained is the elephant, this is the accomplishment of the elephant.
698.
Having obtained food and clothing, he avoids storage.
699.
Wherever he goes, he goes without attachment.
700.
It is not tainted by water, fragrant and delightful.
701.
He is not tainted by the world, as a lotus by water.
702.
And when the embers are stilled, he is called 'quenched'.
703.
The great elephants will understand, the elephant taught by an elephant.
704.
Abandoning the body, the elephant will attain final nibbāna, without mental corruptions."
... Udāyī the Elder...
The Chapter of Sixteens is concluded.
The summary therein:
In the Book of Sixteens, thirty-two verses thus.
16.
The Book of the Twenties
1.
Verses of the Elder Adhimutta
705.
For the remainder there is fear, they tremble and they wail.
706.
Why do you not lament, in such great peril?"
707.
All fears have been surpassed, for one whose mental fetters are eliminated indeed.
708.
There is no fear in death, just as in the laying down of a burden.
709.
There is no fear for me in death, as in the elimination of diseases.
710.
Existences have been seen as without gratification, like poison drunk and then vomited out.
711.
He is satisfied at the exhaustion of life, like one released from a place of execution.
712.
Freed as from a blazing house, he does not grieve at death.
713.
All this is without a lord, thus was said by the great sage.
714.
Does not grasp any existence, like a red-hot iron ball.
715.
Activities will disappear, what lamentation is there for that?
716.
For one seeing as it really is, there is no fear, headman.
717.
He, not finding selfish attachment, does not grieve thinking 'I have not'."
718.
This body will break up, and another will not come to be.
719.
On that account, there will be no hate or affection in me."
720.
Having put down their knives, the young men said this.
721.
Having come to whose teaching, is that freedom from sorrow obtained?"
722.
The greatly compassionate Teacher, the physician of the whole world.
723.
Having come to his teaching, that freedom from sorrow is obtained."
724.
Some desisted from that deed, and some delighted in the going forth.
725.
With elated minds, glad, with faculties developed, they attained the unconditioned state of Nibbāna.
...Adhimutta the Elder...
2.
Verses of the Elder Pārāpariya
726.
Sitting alone, secluded, a meditator.
727.
That one doing one's own function, should not vex anyone.
728.
Unguarded they are for harm, guarded they are for welfare.
729.
That one doing one's own function, should not vex anyone.
730.
Not seeing the danger, he is indeed not freed from suffering.
731.
Not seeing the danger, he is indeed not freed from suffering.
732.
He is not freed from suffering, infatuated with odours.
733.
Bound by craving for flavour, the heart does not understand.
734.
One lustful, because of lust, finds various suffering.
735.
From that, suffering follows him, from all these five.
736.
Made lovely by a skilled craftsman, adorned like a casket.
737.
Like a razor smeared with honey, licking it one does not understand.
738.
Filled with lust for a woman's odours, one finds various suffering.
739.
He who is able to make an obstruction to them is energetic.
740.
Even while delighting, he should do his function connected with the Teaching and welfare.
741.
Having thought 'that is not a function,' diligent and discerning.
742.
Having accepted that, one should practise it, for that indeed is the highest delight.
743.
Having killed, having slain, and having caused sorrow, whoever forcibly seizes from others.
744.
So too the skilled one destroys the faculties with the faculties themselves.
745.
Having killed five by five, the brahmin goes without trouble.
746.
In every respect completely, that man thrives in happiness."
...Pārāpariya the Elder...
3.
Verses of the Elder Telakāni
747.
I did not obtain tranquillity of mind, asking ascetics and brahmins.
748.
Whose teaching shall I accept, the cognition of ultimate reality?'
749.
Bound by Mahinda's snare, just as the titan Vepacitti.
750.
Who in the world, releasing my bond, will make known the highest enlightenment?
751.
Whose teaching shall I accept, the sweeping away of ageing and death?
752.
With a mind obstinate through wrath, torn apart by craving.
753.
See the strong one in the breast, if it remains having pierced through.
754.
Pierced by that I tremble, like a leaf stirred by the wind.
755.
The body with six sense bases of contact, where it always moves.
756.
Not with a different probe or knife, nor treated by another.
757.
Without harming all my limbs, will pull out the dart for me?
758.
To me who has fallen into the deep, may he show dry land and a hand.
759.
Spread with deceit, envy, vehemence, sloth and torpor.
760.
Thoughts dependent on lust carry along one of wrong view like great torrents.
761.
Who could restrain those streams, who indeed will cut that creeper?
762.
Let not the mind-made stream suddenly cut you down like a tree.
763.
The Teacher, a shelter, with wisdom as his weapon, attended by the community of sages.
764.
He gave to me who was being swept away, and said to me 'Do not fear'.
765.
That generation taking delight in identity, which formerly I had imagined.
766.
Not having fixed upon a self, I saw the highest ford.
767.
For the non-occurrence of these, he taught the highest path.
768.
The Buddha dispelled my mental knot, the one who washes away the poison of defilement."
...Telakāni the Elder...
4.
Verses of the Elder Raṭṭhapāla
769.
Afflicted, the object of many thoughts, for which there is no stable duration.
770.
Bones wrapped in skin, together with clothes it looks beautiful.
771.
Enough to delude a fool, but not one seeking the far shore.
772.
Enough to delude a fool, but not one seeking the far shore.
773.
Enough to delude a fool, but not one seeking the far shore.
774.
Having eaten the fodder, we go, while the deer trappers lament.
775.
Having eaten the fodder, we go, while the deer hunters grieve.
776.
Greedy, they make accumulation of wealth, and desire even more sensual pleasures.
777.
Unsatisfied with this side of the ocean, he would desire even the far side of the ocean.
778.
Being still deficient, they give up the body, there is no satisfaction with sensual pleasures in the world.
779.
Having wrapped him in cloth and carried him out, having prepared the pyre, they then burn him.
780.
For one who is dying there are no shelters, neither relatives nor friends nor companions.
781.
No wealth follows one who is dying, neither sons, nor wife, nor wealth, nor kingdom.
782.
The wise have said this life is very short, non-eternal, subject to change.
783.
But the fool, struck down by folly, lies, while the wise one does not tremble when touched by contact.
784.
For through not having concluded, in existence after existence, one does evil deeds through delusion.
785.
Another of little wisdom, believing in him, goes to the womb and to the other world.
786.
Thus people, after death, in the other world, of bad character, are destroyed by their own action.
787.
Having seen the danger in the types of sensual pleasure, therefore I have gone forth, O king.
788.
Having seen this too, I have gone forth, O king, unmistakable indeed is asceticism - it is better."
789.
My going forth is not in vain, I eat food free of debt.
790.
Suffering from conception in the womb, great fear in the hells.
791.
I, being pierced then, peaceful, have attained the elimination of mental corruptions.
792.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
793.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters."
... Raṭṭhapāla the Elder...
5.
Verses of the Elder Mālukyaputta
794.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it.
795.
Covetousness and harming, his mind is injured;
Thus for one accumulating suffering, Nibbāna is said to be far away.
796.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it.
797.
Covetousness and harming, his mind is injured;
Thus for one accumulating suffering, Nibbāna is said to be far away.
798.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it.
799.
Covetousness and harming, his mind is injured;
Thus for one accumulating suffering, Nibbāna is said to be far away.
800.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it.
801.
Covetousness and harming, his mind is injured;
Thus for one accumulating suffering, Nibbāna is said to be far away.
802.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it.
803.
Covetousness and harming, his mind is injured;
Thus for one accumulating suffering, Nibbāna is said to be far away.
804.
With a mind filled with lust one feels, and remains grasping it.
805.
Covetousness and harming, his mind is injured;
Thus for one accumulating suffering, Nibbāna is said to be far away.
806.
With dispassionate mind he feels, and does not remain holding to that.
807.
It is exhausted, not accumulated, thus he lives mindful;
Thus for one diminishing suffering, Nibbāna is said to be near.
808.
With dispassionate mind he feels, and does not remain holding to that.
809.
It is exhausted, not accumulated, thus he lives mindful;
Thus for one diminishing suffering, Nibbāna is said to be near.
810.
With dispassionate mind he feels, and does not remain holding to that.
811.
It is exhausted, not accumulated, thus he lives mindful;
Thus for one diminishing suffering, Nibbāna is said to be near.
812.
With dispassionate mind he feels, and does not remain holding to that.
813.
It is exhausted, not accumulated, thus he lives mindful;
Thus for one diminishing suffering, Nibbāna is said to be near.
814.
With dispassionate mind he feels, and does not remain holding to that.
815.
It is exhausted, not accumulated, thus he lives mindful;
Thus for one diminishing suffering, Nibbāna is said to be near.
816.
With dispassionate mind he feels, and does not remain holding to that.
817.
It is exhausted, not accumulated, thus he lives mindful;
Thus for one diminishing suffering, Nibbāna is said to be near."
... The Elder Mālukyaputta...
6.
Verses of the Elder Sela
818.
You are golden-coloured, Blessed One, with very white teeth, energetic.
819.
All those marks of a great man are in your body.
820.
In the midst of the Community of ascetics, you shine like the sun.
821.
What is the use of the ascetic life for you, of such excellent beauty?
822.
Ruler of the four quarters, victorious, lord of the rose-apple grove.
823.
As king of kings, lord of men, exercise kingship, Gotama."
824.
By righteousness I turn the wheel, the wheel that cannot be turned back."
825.
'By righteousness I turn the wheel,' thus you speak, Gotama.
826.
Who continues to turn for you the wheel of the Teaching that has been set in motion?"
827.
Sāriputta continues to turn it, born after the Tathāgata.
828.
What should be abandoned has been abandoned by me, therefore I am the Buddha, brahmin.
829.
Rare is the seeing of Fully Enlightened Ones repeatedly.
830.
I am that one, brahmin, the Buddha, the unsurpassed surgeon.
831.
Having brought all enemies under control, I rejoice, free from fear from any quarter."
832.
The surgeon, the great hero, roars like a lion in the forest.
833.
Who, having seen him, would not be pleased, even one of dark birth?
834.
Here I shall go forth, in the presence of the one of excellent wisdom."
835.
We too shall go forth, in the presence of the one of excellent wisdom."
836.
'We shall live the holy life, Blessed One, in your presence.'"
837.
Wherein the going forth is not fruitless, for the diligent one who trains."
838.
In seven nights, Blessed One, we have been tamed in your teaching.
839.
Having cut off the underlying tendencies, you who have crossed over help this generation to cross.
840.
Like a lion without clinging, fear and dread have been abandoned.
841.
Stretch out your feet, O hero, let the serpents pay homage to the Teacher."
... Sela the Elder...
7.
Verses of the Elder Bhaddiya, Son of Kāḷigodhā
842.
Cooked rice of fine rice was eaten, with pure meat as sauce.
843.
He meditates without clinging, Bhaddiya, the son of Godhā.
844.
He meditates without clinging, Bhaddiya, the son of Godhā.
845.
846.
847.
848.
849.
850.
851.
852.
853.
854.
855.
856.
857.
858.
859.
860.
861.
862.
I took up a clay bowl - this is my second consecration.
863.
Protected by sword-bearing guards, I dwelt in fear formerly.
864.
He meditates having entered the forest, Bhaddiya, the son of Godhā.
865.
I reached gradually the elimination of all fetters."
... Bhaddiya the son of Kāḷigodhā the Elder...
8.
Verses of the Elder Aṅgulimāla
866.
I ask you, ascetic, about this matter, 'How have you stopped while I have not stopped?'"
867.
But you are unrestrained towards living beings, therefore I have stopped while you have not stopped."
868.
I shall abandon a thousand evils, having heard your verse connected with the Teaching."
869.
The thief paid homage at the feet of the Fortunate One, and right there requested the going forth from the Buddha.
870.
Then said "Come, monk", that itself was his state of monkhood.
871.
He illuminates this world, like the moon released from a cloud.
872.
He illuminates this world, like the moon released from a cloud.
873.
He illuminates this world, like the moon released from a cloud.
874.
Let my enemies associate with those people, who, being peaceful, cause others to accept the Teaching.
875.
Hear the Teaching in due time, and act in accordance with it.
876.
Having attained the supreme peace, he would protect the timid and the firm.
877.
Carpenters straighten wood, the wise tame themselves.
878.
Without stick, without sword, I have been tamed by such a one.
879.
Today I am true to my name, I do not harm anyone whatsoever.
880.
Floating along in the great flood, I came for refuge to the Buddha.
881.
See my going for refuge, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
882.
Touched by the result of action, I eat food free of debt.
883.
But the wise one guards diligence as the foremost wealth.
884.
For the diligent one, meditating, attains the highest happiness.
885.
Among the well-analysed teachings, I have approached that which is foremost.
886.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
887.
There and there I stood, with an agitated mind then.
888.
Beyond Māra's reach, oh, compassionated by the Teacher.
889.
Today I am a son of the Fortunate One, the King of the Dhamma, the Teacher.
890.
Having killed the root of misery, the elimination of mental corruptions has been attained by me.
891.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted."
... Aṅgulimāla the Elder...
9.
Verses of the Elder Anuruddha
892.
Having given up the five types of sensual pleasure, let Anuruddha meditate.
893.
By that I did not attain purity, delighting in Māra's domain.
894.
Having transcended all floods, Anuruddha meditates.
895.
Having transcended these, Anuruddha meditates.
896.
He seeks rag-robes, Anuruddha, without mental corruptions.
897.
Rag-robes, the wise one, Anuruddha, without mental corruptions.
898.
For him these mental states are evil, subject to defilement.
899.
Devoted to solitude, delighted, constantly putting forth strenuous energy.
900.
And he is without mental corruptions, thus was said by the great sage.
901.
With a mind-made body, approached by supernormal power.
902.
The Buddha, delighting in the absence of obsession, taught the absence of obsession.
903.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
904.
Twenty-five years, since torpor was uprooted.
905.
Without longing, referring to peace, the one with vision has attained final Nibbāna.
906.
Like the extinguishing of a lamp, there was deliverance of the mind.
907.
No other mental states will arise, when the Fully Enlightened One has attained final Nibbāna.
908.
The cycle of birth and wandering is eliminated, there is now no more rebirth."
909.
A master in the power of supernormal abilities and in passing away and rebirth, that monk sees the deities at the proper time.
910.
I served the ascetic Upariṭṭha, the famous one.
911.
Endowed with dancing and singing, to be awakened by the sound of cymbals.
912.
Having gladdened my mind in him, I went forth into homelessness.
913.
Among the Tāvatiṃsa gods, I stood, born as Sakka.
914.
Ruler of the four quarters, victorious, lord of the rose-apple grove;
Without rod, without sword, by righteousness I instructed.
915.
I directly knew my former abode, while standing in the heavenly world then.
916.
Attained through the cessation of defilements, my divine eye became pure.
917.
The state here and the state elsewhere, established in the fivefold meditative absorption.
918.
919.
From below, at the bamboo thicket, I shall attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions."
... Anuruddha the Elder...
10.
Verses of the Elder Pārāpariya
920.
Sitting fully focused, secluded, a meditator.
921.
Was the conduct of the monks, in another way it now appears.
922.
They consumed just enough for that purpose, content with whatever they received.
923.
They consumed for the purpose of sustenance, without greed, not infatuated.
924.
They were not excessively zealous, as they were for the elimination of mental corruptions.
925.
Developing seclusion, they dwelt, devoted to that as their ultimate goal.
926.
Without defilement, not garrulous, reflecting on welfare, obedient to authority.
927.
Like a smooth stream of oil, was their deportment.
928.
Those elder monks are now quenched, few now are such ones.
929.
The Conqueror's Dispensation, endowed with all excellent aspects, falls apart.
930.
Those established for seclusion, and those who preserve the Good Teaching.
931.
They sport, I imagine, with fools, like demons with the mad.
932.
Men, when battle was proclaimed in the bases of mental defilements.
933.
Following wrong views, they think 'this is better'.
934.
Yet even for a ladle of almsfood, they indulge in improper conduct.
935.
When awake they engage in talk, talk that is censured by the Teacher.
936.
Not appeased internally, for the purpose of asceticism, one sits.
937.
They offer to householders, desiring more in return.
938.
And accomplished almsfood, mangoes and emblic myrobalans.
939.
Like a courtesan in adornment, like warriors in lordship.
940.
Through many schemes, they consume material gains.
941.
For the sake of livelihood, by means, they collect much wealth.
942.
They teach the Teaching to others, for material gain and not for benefit.
943.
Living off others' gains, shameless, they are not ashamed.
944.
They only wish for esteem, infatuated with material gain and honour.
945.
Either to touch what is untouched, or to protect what has been touched.
946.
Having established mindfulness, so should a sage wander in the village.
947.
Even though it is the latter time, one might experience the Deathless state.
948.
The brahmin attained final nibbāna, the sage with rebirth eliminated."
... The Elder Pārāpariya...
The Book of Twenties is concluded.
The summary therein:
Mālukya, Sela, Bhaddiya, Aṅgulimāla, the one with the divine eye.
The verses are two hundred, with forty-five more.
17.
The Book of the Thirties
1.
Verses of the Elder Phussa
949.
The sage of the Paṇḍara clan asked the one named Phussa.
950.
In the future time, tell me this when asked."
951.
Consider it attentively, I shall tell you of the future.
952.
Envious and having different views, they will be in the future.
953.
Light-minded, without respect for the Teaching, disrespectful towards one another.
954.
This well-taught Teaching, the foolish will defile.
955.
They will become powerful, garrulous, without learning.
956.
They will be weak, those with shame, disregarded.
957.
Female and male slaves, the imprudent will consent to in the future.
958.
Arrogant they will wander about, delighting in disputes, like quadrupeds.
959.
Deceitful, obstinate, prattlers, crafty, they will walk about as if noble ones.
960.
They will go about the streets, wrapped in ivory-coloured robes.
961.
They will loathe the ochre robe, being attached to white garments.
962.
Wearied by the deep forests, they will dwell near villages.
963.
Following their example, the unrestrained will associate with them.
964.
Even those wise ones who are well-behaved, they will not associate with them then.
965.
Some will wear the white emblem of the sectarians.
966.
And reflection on the orange robe, will not be among the monks.
967.
The reflection was greatly terrible, inconceivable for the elephant.
968.
At that very moment the elephant spoke verses connected with meaning."
969.
Devoid of self-control and truth, he does not deserve the ochre robe.
970.
Endowed with self-control and truth, he indeed deserves the ochre robe.
971.
With a wandering mind, devoid of virtue, he does not deserve the ochre robe.
972.
With pure mental thought, he indeed deserves the ochre robe.
973.
He deserves white garments, what will the ochre robe do for him?
974.
Will restrain those of such quality, with minds of friendliness, in the future.
975.
The imprudent will not listen, uncontrolled, acting as they please.
976.
Will not heed their preceptors, like an inferior horse the charioteer.
977.
For monks and nuns, when the last time has arrived.
978.
Be obedient, be kindly in speech, respectful towards one another.
979.
Putting forth strenuous energy, resolute, always of firm effort.
980.
Develop the eightfold path, touching the Deathless state."
... The Elder Phussa...
2.
Verses of the Elder Sāriputta
981.
Delighting internally, with concentrated mind, alone, content - him they call a monk.
982.
With belly unfilled, with measured food, a mindful monk should wander forth.
983.
Enough for comfortable abiding, for the resolute monk.
984.
Enough for comfortable abiding, for the resolute monk.
985.
Enough for comfortable abiding, for the resolute monk.
986.
Was not between the two, by what in the world what could he be?
987.
Of little learning, disrespectful, by what in the world what could he be?
988.
Devoted to serenity of mind, let him even stand on my head.
989.
He has failed to attain Nibbāna, the unsurpassed freedom from bondage.
990.
He has attained Nibbāna, the unsurpassed freedom from bondage.
991.
Wherever Worthy Ones dwell, that place is pleasant.
992.
Those without lust will delight there, they are not seekers of sensual pleasures.
993.
One who speaks reprovingly, intelligent - such a wise person one should associate with;
For one associating with such a person, it is better, not worse.
994.
For he is dear to the good, but disagreeable to the bad.
995.
While the Teaching was being taught, I, seeking benefit, applied my ear;
That hearing was not in vain for me, I am liberated, without mental corruptions.
996.
For the knowledge of others' minds, for supernormal power, for death and rebirth;
For the purification of the ear-element, no aspiration is found in me.
997.
The elder highest in wisdom, Upatissa meditates.
998.
Is endowed with noble silence at that very moment.
999.
So a monk, through the elimination of delusion, does not tremble like a mountain.
1000.
Even a hair-tip of evil appears like a cloud.
1001.
I shall lay down this body, fully aware, mindful.
1002.
And I await the time, like a hired servant earning his wages.
1003.
Proceed, do not perish, let not the moment pass you by.
1004.
So guard yourselves, let not the moment pass you by;
For those who have missed the moment grieve, consigned to hell.
1005.
He shakes off evil qualities, as the wind shakes leaves from a tree.
1006.
He shook off evil qualities, as the wind shakes leaves from a tree.
1007.
Of good morality, wise, one may be one who makes an end of suffering.
1008.
Having been good they become not good, having been not good they become good again.
1009.
Restlessness and sceptical doubt, these five are defilements of the mind.
1010.
Whose concentration does not waver, of one dwelling in diligence.
1011.
Delighting in the elimination of clinging, they call a good person."
1012.
Are not fit as similes for the Teacher's supreme liberation.
1013.
Like earth, water and fire, he does not find pleasure, he does not become corrupted.
1014.
Not dull, though appearing dull, he always walks about quenched.
1015.
1016.
Come, I shall attain final Nibbāna, I am liberated everywhere."
... The Elder Sāriputta...
3.
Verses of the Elder Ānanda
1017.
A wise one should not make friendship, evil is association with a contemptible person.
1018.
A wise one should make friendship, good is association with a good person.
1019.
1020.
1021.
1022.
1023.
1024.
With burden laid down, unbound, Gotama lies down to rest.
1025.
Bears his final body, one who has gone beyond birth and death.
1026.
On the path leading to Nibbāna, this Gotama stands.
1027.
Eighty-four thousand teachings are occurring for me.
1028.
His flesh increases, but his wisdom does not increase.
1029.
He appears to me just like a blind man holding a lamp.
1030.
That is the root of the holy life, therefore one should be a bearer of the Dhamma.
1031.
He grasps what is rightly taken, and investigates the meaning.
1032.
At the right time he strives, internally well concentrated.
1033.
Longing for knowledge of the Dhamma, one should associate with such a one.
1034.
The vision of the whole world, worthy of veneration, the very learned one.
1035.
A monk remembering the Teaching does not fall away from the Good Teaching.
1036.
For one greedy for bodily pleasure, whence comes the ease of an ascetic?
1037.
When the good friend has gone, it appears like darkness.
1038.
There is no friend such as this, like mindfulness of the body.
1039.
Today I meditate alone, like a bird in the rainy season.
1040.
Do not obstruct the listeners, let them see me at the right time.
1041.
The Teacher gives permission, the one with vision does not prevent them.
1042.
No perception of sensuality arose, see the excellence of the Teaching as Teaching.
1043.
No perception of hate arose, see the excellence of the Teaching as Teaching.
1044.
With bodily action through friendliness, like a shadow that does not depart.
1045.
With verbal action through friendliness, like a shadow that does not depart.
1046.
With mental action through friendliness, like a shadow that does not depart.
1047.
While the Teaching was being taught, knowledge arose in me.
1048.
And the final nibbāna of the Teacher, who was compassionate towards us.
1049.
When the Fully Enlightened One, endowed with all excellent qualities, attained final Nibbāna.
1050.
The vision of the whole world, Ānanda attained final Nibbāna.
1051.
The vision of the whole world, dispeller of darkness in the dark.
1052.
The elder who upholds the Good Teaching, Ānanda, the jewel-mine.
1053.
The heavy burden has been laid down, there is now no more rebirth."
... The Elder Ānanda...
The Book of Thirties is concluded.
The summary therein:
The verses therein are reckoned as one hundred and five more.
18.
The Book of the Forties
1.
Verses of the Elder Mahākassapa
1054.
The care of various people is painful, having seen thus, one should not approve of a group.
1055.
He who is zealous, greedy for flavours, neglects the benefit that brings happiness.
1056.
A subtle dart, difficult to remove, honour is hard to give up by a contemptible person.
1057.
A man who was a leper eating, I attended on him attentively.
1058.
As he was putting in the morsel, his finger fell off therein.
1059.
Whether eating or having eaten, no loathing is found in me.
1060.
Lodging is at the tree-root, and the robe is a rag robe;
For whom these are attained, he is indeed a man belonging to the four directions.
1061.
There the heir of that Buddha, fully aware, mindful;
Supported by the power of supernormal power, Kassapa ascends.
1062.
Meditates without clinging, fear and dread abandoned.
1063.
Meditates without clinging, quenched while others are burning.
1064.
Meditates without clinging, with obligations fulfilled, without mental corruptions.
1065.
Resounding with elephants, charming, those rocks delight me.
1066.
Covered with red insects, those rocks delight me.
1067.
Resounding with elephants, charming, those rocks delight me.
1068.
Resounding with peacocks, those rocks delight me.
1069.
Sufficient for me who wishes for welfare, for the resolute monk.
1070.
Sufficient for me who wishes for exertion, for the resolute such one.
1071.
Crowded with various flocks of birds, those rocks delight me.
1072.
Crowded with various flocks of birds, those rocks delight me.
1073.
Covered with water moss, those rocks delight me.
1074.
As for one with a fully focused mind, rightly seeing the Teaching with insight.
1075.
He who is zealous, greedy for flavours, neglects the benefit that brings happiness.
1076.
The body becomes troubled, becomes weary, afflicted he does not find serenity.
1077.
He walks about with stiffened neck, thinking 'I am better'.
1078.
The wise do not praise that man, whose mind is stiff with conceit.
1079.
Or 'I am inferior' or 'I am equal to him.'
1080.
Devoted to serenity of mind - the wise would praise such a one.
1081.
He is far from the Good Teaching, as the earth from the sky.
1082.
They have grown in the holy life, for them rebirth is eliminated.
1083.
Like a monkey in a lion's hide, he does not look beautiful in it.
1084.
He shines in a rag robe, like a lion in a mountain cave.
1085.
Ten thousand gods, all of them belonging to the company of Brahmās.
1086.
Paying homage to Sāriputta, they stand with joined palms.
1087.
We do not directly know that in dependence on which he meditates.
1088.
We who have come as hair-splitting archers do not directly know it.'
1089.
Having seen Sāriputta then, Kappina had a smile.
1090.
In the virtues of ascetic practice I am distinguished; no one equal to me is found.
1091.
The heavy burden has been laid down, there is now no more rebirth."
1092.
Gotama is immeasurable, like a spotless lotus flower;
By water, inclined to renunciation, escaped from the three existences.
1093.
Whose head is wisdom, of great knowledge, always walks about quenched."
... The Elder Mahākassapa...
The Book of Forties is concluded.
The summary therein:
The elder alone, verses eighty-four and two also.
19.
The Book of the Fifties
1.
Verses of the Elder Tālapuṭa
1094.
Seeing with insight all existence as impermanent, when indeed will this be for me?"
1095.
Having killed lust and hate and likewise delusion, dwell happily, gone to the wilds.
1096.
Free from fear, dwell alone in the forest - when indeed will that be?"
1097.
Having cut the creeper of craving, the producer of fear, the bringer of suffering, the follower of manifold things, when will that be when I shall dwell?"
1098.
Shall I forcibly crush Māra together with his army - when indeed will that be on the lion's seat?"
1099.
By those who see things as they really are, by those with conquered faculties, when indeed will that be for one who strives?"
1100.
Not afflict me in that mountain cave, when indeed will that be for one seeking one's own welfare?"
1101.
With concentrated mind, mindful, I shall approach, when indeed will that be for me through wisdom?"
1102.
As burning, endowed with serenity - when indeed will this be for me?"
1103.
And also when praised, on that account not be satisfied - when indeed will this be for me?
1104.
Both internal and external - when indeed will this be for me?"
1105.
Going on the path trodden by sages, when indeed will that be?"
1106.
Having risen for the attainment of the Deathless, I shall reflect - when indeed will this be?"
1107.
Not clinging, I would cross over by supernormal power, when indeed will that terrifying thing be?"
1108.
Abandoning every sign of the beautiful, engaged in meditative absorption - when indeed will that be?"
1109.
Will I be satisfied, having attained the teaching of the great sage, when indeed will that be?"
1110.
Now that I have gone forth, why, O mind, do you not apply yourself?
1111.
Roaring with the thunder of the great Indra's sound, they will delight you, the meditator in the forest.
1112.
Having abandoned all, I have come to this, yet even so you, mind, are not satisfied with me.
1113.
Seeing all this as unstable, I went forth, desiring the state of the Deathless.
1114.
'The mind is unsteady, resembling a monkey, thus it is very difficult to restrain by one not free from lust.'
1115.
They desire suffering, seekers of rebirth, led by the mind, cast into hell, rejected.
1116.
Give up longing for the body, do not fail,' thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1117.
And experience the three true knowledges in the Buddha's teaching,' thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1118.
The eightfold, the cleanser of all mental defilements,' thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1119.
Right here make an end of suffering," thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1120.
Keep in check the mental examinations of the mind," thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1121.
Engage in the word of the Teacher, the great sage,' thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1122.
Like the moon on a moonlit full-moon night,' thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1123.
Be one who remains sitting, always delighting in the austere practices,' thus you, O mind, formerly urged me.
1124.
You make this mind like that, in that you engage me in the impermanent, in the unstable.
1125.
For sensual pleasures are painful, bitter, of great peril, I shall live intent only upon Nibbāna.
1126.
And not because of livelihood did I go forth, and a promise was made by me to you, O mind.
1127.
Thus you, O mind, formerly urged me, now you go to former habits.
1128.
Agreeable types of sensual pleasure have been vomited out, what has been vomited out I do not endeavour to swallow back.
1129.
Arisen within, due to your ingratitude, in suffering long I have wandered, caused by you.
1130.
And we become merchants and workers at one time, or even divinity is owing to you alone.
1131.
And also we become animals at one time, or even ghosthood is owing to you alone.
1132.
You entice me as if with a madman, yet what, O mind, has been failed by me?"
1133.
That today I shall restrain wisely, like a goad-holder a furious elephant.
1134.
Plunge me, O mind, into the Conqueror's Dispensation, help me cross the great mental floods so very difficult to escape from.
1135.
I have gone forth in the Dispensation of the great sage, those like me are not bearers of destruction.
1136.
All impermanent, the three existences troubled - where gone, O mind, will you delight in happiness?
1137.
I will never touch the bellows with openings at both ends, shame on that which is full, flowing with nine streams.
1138.
In the forest sprinkled with fresh water by the rains, there, having gone to a cave-dwelling, you will delight.
1139.
Roaring with the thunder of sweet, charming sounds, they will delight you, the meditator in the forest.
1140.
In the space between mountains I shall lie down like a tree, that will be soft for me, resembling cotton.
1141.
I shall not drag it as one who is not lazy, like a bellows well-kneaded.
1142.
By energy I shall bring that under my control, like an intoxicated elephant by a skilled goad-holder.
1143.
I am able to proceed along the safe path, always frequented by those who guard the mind.
1144.
You, well guarded by me, well developed through mindfulness, will become independent in all existences.
1145.
Having seen the origin and the non-existence and the coming into being, you will become an heir of the foremost teacher.
1146.
Should you not associate with the compassionate great sage, the cutter of the bonds of fetters?
1147.
There on that unconfused mountain I shall delight, without doubt, O mind, you will be overcome.
1148.
The foolish, following Māra's control, delighting in existence, O mind, are your disciples."
... The Elder Tālapuṭa...
The Book of Fifties is concluded.
The summary therein:
The verses therein are fifty, and five more.
20.
The Book of the Sixties
1.
Verses of the Elder Mahāmoggallāna
1149.
We split the army of Death, internally well concentrated.
1150.
We shake off the army of Death, as an elephant a hut made of reeds.
1151.
We split the army of Death, internally well concentrated.
1152.
We shake off the army of Death, as an elephant a hut made of reeds.
1153.
Shame on you, full of foul odour, you cherish another's body.
1154.
Nine streams in your body, which flow always.
1155.
A monk avoids it, just as one desiring purity avoids excrement.
1156.
They would avoid it from afar, like a place of dung in the rainy season."
1157.
Here some sink down, like an old bull in the mud.
1158.
Or even with another dye, that would only result in vexation.
1159.
Do not assail one of evil mind, like a moth to a mass of fire.
1160.
Afflicted, the object of many thoughts, for which there is no stable duration.
1161.
Bones wrapped in skin, together with clothes it looks beautiful.
1162.
Enough to delude a fool, but not one seeking the far shore.
1163.
Enough to delude a fool, but not one seeking the far shore.
1164.
Enough to delude a fool, but not one seeking the far shore.
1165.
Having eaten the fodder, we go, while the deer trappers lament.
1166.
Having eaten the fodder, we go, while the deer hunters grieve.
1167.
When Sāriputta, accomplished in many ways, was quenched.
1168.
Having arisen, they cease; their appeasement is happiness.
1169.
Those who see the five aggregates as alien and not as self.
1170.
They penetrated the subtle, as the tip of a hair with an arrow.
1171.
For the abandoning of sensual lust, a mindful monk should wander forth.
1172.
For the abandoning of lust for existence, a mindful monk should wander forth."
1173.
I shook the Migāramātu mansion with my big toe.
1174.
Is Nibbāna to be attained, the release from all mental knots.
1175.
Bears his final body, having conquered Māra with his army.
1176.
Gone to the mountain cave he meditates, the son of the incomparable such one.
1177.
An heir of the Buddha, the foremost, honoured by Brahmā.
1178.
The heir of the Buddha, the foremost, pay respect, brahmin, to Kassapa.
1179.
A learned one, accomplished in the Vedas, among human beings again and again.
1180.
This is not worth a sixteenth fraction of the homage to him.
1181.
In forward and reverse order, then goes for almsfood.
1182.
Inspire your mind with faith, in the Worthy One, the Such;
Quickly pay respect with joined palms, lest your head be split asunder.
1183.
He runs after the wrong path, the crooked path going downward.
1184.
Sunk in material gain and honour, hollow goes Poṭṭhila.
1185.
Liberated on both sides, internally well concentrated.
1186.
Worthy of offerings from human beings, the unsurpassed field of merit.
1187.
Ten thousand gods, all Brahma's chaplains;
Paying homage to Moggallāna, they stand with joined palms.
1188.
Whose mental corruptions are eliminated, you are worthy of offerings, dear sir.'
1189.
Like a white lotus by water, he is not tainted by activities.
1190.
A master in the power of supernormal abilities and in passing away and rebirth, that monk sees the deities at the proper time.
1191.
Even a monk who has gone beyond, this would be his highest.
1192.
I am skilled in transformations, I have become a master of supernormal power.
1193.
The wise one, with concentrated faculties, cut off bondage, just as an elephant a rotten creeper.
1194.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
1195.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
1196.
Having assaulted the disciple Vidhura, and the brahmin Kakusandha.
1197.
Such was the hell, where Dussī was tormented;
Having assaulted the disciple Vidhura, and the brahmin Kakusandha.
1198.
Having assaulted such a monk, Dark One, you undergo suffering.
1199.
Lapis lazuli-coloured, beautiful, flaming, luminous;
Nymphs dance there, many of diverse colours.
1200.
1201.
Shook the Migāramātu mansion with his big toe.
1202.
1203.
Supported by the power of supernormal power, he stirred the deities.
1204.
1205.
'Friend, do you know the liberation through the elimination of craving?'
To him Sakka answered, when asked the question, according to truth.
1206.
1207.
'Do you still today, friend, have that view which you had before;
Do you see the radiance transcending in the Brahma world?'
1208.
'I do not have, sir, that view which I had before.
1209.
How could I today say, "I am permanent, I am eternal"?'
1210.
1211.
The forest of the Eastern Videhas, and the men who sleep on the ground.
1212.
Having assaulted such a monk, Dark One, you undergo suffering.
1213.
But a fool, having approached a blazing fire, is burnt by it.
1214.
You will burn yourself, like a fool touching fire.
1215.
What do you think, Evil One, does not my evil ripen?
1216.
Māra, be wearied of the Buddha, do not have hope regarding the monks.
1217.
Then that unhappy demon disappeared right there."
Thus the Venerable Elder Mahāmoggallāna spoke these verses.
The Book of Sixties is concluded.
The summary therein:
Alone, the verses of the elder, sixty-eight they are.
21.
The Great Book
1.
Verses of the Elder Vaṅgīsa
1218.
Applied thoughts run up to me, these bold ones from the dark side.
1219.
Were to surround me on all sides, a thousand who do not flee,
1220.
They will never disturb me, established as I am in the Teaching.
1221.
The path leading to Nibbāna - there my mind delights.
1222.
I shall act in such a way, O Death, that you will not even see my path.
1223.
One should not create craving anywhere, free from craving, without inclination - he is a monk.
1224.
Everything decays, all is impermanent - thus having understood, the wise ones live.
1225.
Here one should dispel desire, being without longing - whoever here does not cling, him they call a sage.
1226.
One should not go to any faction anywhere, nor should that monk be one who grasps at inertia.
1227.
The sage has attained the peaceful state, dependent on it, attained final Nibbāna, he awaits the time.
1228.
One infatuated with the path of conceit was remorseful for a long time.
1229.
People grieve for a long time, struck down by conceit, reborn in hell.
1230.
He experiences fame and happiness, they call him a seer of the Teaching, one who is thus."
1231.
And having abandoned conceit entirely, a maker of an end through true knowledge, one who has quieted himself."
1232.
Please tell me the quenching, out of compassion, O Gotama."
1233.
Avoid the sign of the beautiful connected with lust.
1234.
Let mindfulness directed to the body be yours, be full of disenchantment.
1235.
Then through the full realization of conceit, you will live at peace.
1236.
And would not harm others - that indeed is well-spoken speech.
1237.
Which, not taking up evil words, speaks what is pleasant to others.
1238.
The good have said they are established in truth, in meaning, and in the Teaching.
1239.
For making an end of suffering - that indeed is the highest of speeches.
1240.
Sāriputta of great wisdom teaches the Teaching to the monks.
1241.
Like the sound of a myna bird, inspiration arises.
1242.
With a voice that is delightful, pleasant to hear, lovely;
With elated minds, joyful, the monks lend an ear.
1243.
Cutters of the bonds and fetters, free from trouble, with rebirth eliminated, sages.
1244.
Travels all around this earth bounded by the ocean.
1245.
The disciples attend upon, possessors of the threefold true knowledge, conquerors of death.
1246.
The destroyer of the dart of craving, I pay homage to the kinsman of the sun.
1247.
Teaching the stainless Teaching, Nibbāna, fearless from any quarter.
1248.
Indeed the Self-awakened One shines, honoured by the Community of monks.
1249.
Having become like a great cloud, you rain upon the disciples.
1250.
Your disciple, O Great Hero, Vaṅgīsa pays homage at your feet.
1251.
See him, the releaser from bonds, unattached, analysing in parts.
1252.
When that Deathless has been declared, the seers of the Teaching stand unshakable.
1253.
Having known and having realised, he taught the highest to the five.
1254.
Therefore, in that Blessed One's Dispensation, one should always, diligent, pay homage and train.
1255.
An obtainer of pleasant abidings, of seclusions, repeatedly.
1256.
All that has been attained by him, the diligent one who trains.
1257.
Koṇḍañña, heir of the Buddha, pays homage at the feet of the Teacher.
1258.
The disciples attend upon, possessors of the threefold true knowledge, conquerors of death.
1259.
Investigating their minds, free, without clinging.
1260.
Accomplished in many ways, they attend upon Gotama.
1261.
So too you, Aṅgīrasa, great sage, outshine the whole world in glory.
1262.
Then we saw the Self-enlightened One, who has gone beyond all phenomena.
1263.
Having heard the Teaching, we were pleased, faith arose in us.
1264.
And having understood the elements, I went forth into homelessness.
1265.
For women and men, who comply with their teaching.
1266.
For monks and nuns, those who have seen the state free from defilement.
1267.
The four noble truths, out of compassion for living beings.
1268.
The noble eightfold path, leading to the peace of suffering.
1269.
My own welfare has been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
1270.
Among the well-analysed teachings, I have approached that which is foremost.
1271.
I am a possessor of the threefold true knowledge, attained to supernormal power, skilled in the ways of others' minds.
1272.
A monk died at Aggāḷava, well-known, famous, with a perfectly calmed self.
1273.
He practised venerating you, hoping for liberation, putting forth strenuous energy, one who sees the firm Teaching.
1274.
Our ears are well-prepared for hearing, you are our Teacher, you are unsurpassed."
1275.
Speak to us in our midst, O All-Seeing One, like Sakka, the thousand-eyed one, among the gods.
1276.
Having reached the Tathāgata, they do not exist, for this is the supreme vision for people.
1277.
The whole world would be covered in darkness, and even the luminous ones would not shine."
1278.
Knowing you as Vipassī, we have approached you, reveal to us Kappa in the assemblies.
1279.
With a voice like drops, well-modulated, all of us, attentive, shall hear you.
1280.
For worldlings have no freedom of action, but the Tathāgatas have deliberate action.
1281.
This final salutation with joined palms is well offered, do not delude one who knows, O one of superior wisdom.
1282.
Just as one scorched by heat in the hot season longs for water, I long for your speech - pour forth what has been heard.
1283.
Did he attain Nibbāna, or with residue of clinging, in what way was he liberated - let us hear that."
1284.
(Thus spoke the Blessed One) the stream of the Dark One, long lain dormant;
He has crossed over birth and death entirely," thus spoke the Blessed One, foremost of the five.
1285.
Truly my question was not in vain, the brahmin did not deceive me.
1286.
He cut through Death's net, spread out firm by the deceitful one.
1287.
Kappāyana has indeed overcome, the realm of Death so hard to cross.
1288.
The one born after, the great hero, the elephant, the legitimate son of the elephant."
Thus the Venerable Elder Vaṅgīsa spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Great Book is concluded.
The summary therein:
The elder alone, there is no other, verses seventy-one.
The Verses of the Elders are concluded.
The summary therein:
And the elders are two hundred and sixty-four proclaimed.
Having attained the secure end, they are quenched like a mass of fire.
The Theragāthā Pāḷi is concluded.