Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Perfectly Enlightened One
In the Minor Collection
The Verses of the Elder Monks' Life Histories
(Second Part)
43.
The Chapter on Sakiṃsammajjaka
1.
The Life History of the Elder Sakiṃsammajjaka
1.
Having seen that tree, I gladdened my mind there.
2.
Having swept that Bodhi tree, I venerated the trumpet-flower tree.
3.
Paying homage to that Bodhi tree, I went to my hut.
4.
A boa constrictor crushed me, of terrible form and great power.
5.
My corpse is being swallowed, I rejoice in the heavenly world.
6.
I do not know the dart of sorrow, the sorrow of my mind.
7.
Ringworm and itch I have not, this is the fruit of sweeping.
8.
Unconfused and straight is my mind, this is the fruit of sweeping.
9.
Whatever concentration I desire, that very one succeeds for me.
10.
I do not become deluded towards what leads to infatuation, this is the fruit of sweeping.
11.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of sweeping.
12.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
13.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
14.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Sakiṃsammajjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sakiṃsammajjaka is first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Ekadussadāyaka
15.
I live by carrying grass, by that I support my children.
16.
Having removed the darkness of ignorance, the leader of the world arose.
17.
'A Buddha has arisen in the world, and no gift to give is found.
18.
Painful is the contact with hell, I shall plant an offering.'
19.
Having taken one cloth, I gave it to the foremost Buddha.
20.
'If you are a Buddha, O hero, help me cross, O great sage.'
21.
Praising my gift, he gave me thanksgiving.
22.
For a hundred thousand cosmic cycles, you do not go to the nether world.
23.
Thirty-three times as a king, you will be a universal monarch.
24.
In the heavenly world or among human beings, you wandering in existence.
25.
Imperturbable, boundless cloth, you will obtain at will.'
26.
The hero rose up into the sky, like a king of swans in the firmament.
27.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of one cloth.
28.
Below I stand on cloth, above is my roof.
29.
If I wished, today I could cover it with cloth.
30.
Having become golden-coloured, I wander in the round of rebirths from existence to existence.
31.
This is my last birth, it ripens for me even here.
32.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of one cloth.
33.
34.
35.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ekadussadāyaka spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Ekadussadāyaka is second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Ekāsanadāyaka
36.
A hermitage was well made by me, a leaf-hut was well built.
37.
Seeking the path of purity, I dwelt at Gosita then.
38.
The Fully Enlightened One, desiring seclusion, came along the wind's path.
39.
Having prepared a wooden bed, I spread out a cheetah hide.
40.
Having declared my pleasure, I spoke these words.
41.
Give me, afflicted by disease, medical treatment, O leader.
42.
They attain the accomplishment of everlasting good, for them there would be no ageing in existence.
43.
This seat of mine there is, sit down upon the wooden bed.'
44.
Having waited a moment, he spoke these words.
45.
All that is wished for by you, will be fulfilled in the future.
46.
It is possible to uplift oneself, whose mind is directed.
47.
For a hundred thousand cosmic cycles, you do not go to the nether world.
48.
Eighty times as a king, you will be a universal monarch.
49.
Having been happy everywhere, you will wander in the round of rebirths.'
50.
The hero rose up into the sky, like a king of swans in the firmament.
51.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of a single seat.
52.
Having understood my thought, a divan stands close.
53.
Having understood my thought, a divan stands close.
54.
A hundred thousand divans surround me always.
55.
I am born in two families, in the warrior caste and also in the brahmin caste.
56.
Having taken up the Dhamma cross-legged sitting, I dwell without mental corruptions.
57.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of a single seat.
58.
59.
60.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ekāsanadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ekāsanadāyaka is third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Sattakadambapupphiya
61.
At the foot of that mountain, seven Buddhas dwelt there.
62.
Having taken seven garlands, with a meritorious mind I scattered them.
63.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
64.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
65.
66.
67.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sattakadambapupphiya spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Sattakadambapupphiya is fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya
68.
I live by slaughtering beasts, no wholesome deed is found in me.
69.
Showed three steps, the one with vision, out of compassion.
70.
Joyful, with a joyful mind, I gladdened my mind at the footprint.
71.
Having taken it with its buds, I venerated the excellent footprint.
72.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
73.
Like the colour of the koraṇḍa flower, I become one of radiant splendour.
74.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the feet.
75.
76.
77.
Thus the Venerable Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya is fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka
78.
Who had sat down in the great forest, afflicted by an illness caused by the wind humour.
79.
Because of what has been done and accumulated, this is the Ganges, the Bhāgīrathī.
80.
And this terrible earth, limitless and innumerable.
81.
These trees from the four continents, the trees, the earth-growers.
82.
Fifty times as lord of the gods, I exercised divine kingship.
83.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
84.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the cream of ghee.
85.
86.
87.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka is sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Ekadhammassavaniya
88.
Making known the four truths, he helped many people cross over.
89.
Shaking off my bark garments, I then go into the sky.
90.
Like a bird having struck against a rock, I do not obtain passage.
91.
This has never happened to me before, this upsetting of my posture.
92.
Descending from the sky, I heard the sound of the Teacher.
93.
While he was speaking of impermanence, that very thing I learned then;
Having taken up the perception of impermanence, I went to my hermitage.
94.
When I was in my last existence, I remembered the hearing of the Good Teaching.
95.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
96.
And fifty-one times, I exercised divine kingship.
97.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
98.
I recollect that perception, wandering in the round of rebirths from existence to existence;
I do not penetrate the end, Nibbāna, the imperishable state.
99.
Explaining how, spoke of impermanence.
100.
Having arisen, they cease; their appeasement is happiness."
101.
Having sat down on one seat, I attained arahantship.
102.
The Buddha gave full ordination, this is the fruit of hearing the teaching.
103.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of hearing the teaching.
104.
105.
106.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ekadhammassavaniya spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Ekadhammassavaniya is seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Sucintita
107.
By farming I live, by that I support my children.
108.
And when the time of ripening arrived, thus I thought then.
109.
If I, without having given to the monastic community, were to consume the best then.
110.
From him the Community is made illustrious, an unsurpassed field of merit.
111.
Having thus reflected, joyful, with a gladdened mind.
112.
Having approached the Self-enlightened One, the elder of the world, the lord of men;
Having paid homage at the Teacher's feet, I spoke these words.
113.
Out of pity, consent, O One with Vision.'
114.
Having understood my thought, spoke these words.
115.
This is the Community, upright, concentrated in wisdom and morality;
For human beings who sacrifice, for beings hoping for merit.
116.
To that Community indeed should be given, your crop and likewise the other.
117.
Give what has been prepared, existing in the house, to the community of monks.'
118.
What was prepared in my house, I gave to the community of monks.
119.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
120.
Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.
The nineteenth recitation section.
121.
Having eaten and drunk there, I dwell in the Thirty-three heaven.
122.
Five hundred times I was a universal monarch;
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
123.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of new corn.
124.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of new corn.
125.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of new corn.
126.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of new corn.
127.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of new corn.
128.
And also mental suffering is not found in my heart.
129.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of new corn.
130.
Even today my gift pleases me with its fruit always.
131.
I experience eight benefits, befitting my action.
132.
I always have a great following, always an assembly that cannot be divided.
133.
And whatever gifts there are, again and again I obtain.
134.
Having transcended all, the donors give to me alone.
135.
I experience these benefits, this is the fruit of new corn.
136.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of new corn.
137.
138.
139.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sucintita spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sucintita is eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Sovaṇṇakiṅkaṇiya
140.
I was a wearer of bark garments, devoted to ascetic practice.
141.
Arose at that time, helping the great multitude to cross over.
142.
Having remembered the foremost Buddha, the supreme monument on the sandbank.
143.
Golden bell-flowers, I with elated mind.
144.
By that gladdening of heart, for Atthadassī, such a one.
145.
Golden-coloured I was there, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
146.
Always attend upon me, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
147.
Conch shells and tambourines there, lovely drums are beaten.
148.
Tuskers in three-fold rut, sixty years old.
149.
In the army and in elephants, no deficiency is found in me.
150.
And fifty-eight times, I exercised divine kingship.
151.
One hundred times I exercised kingship on earth, on the great earth.
152.
With mental fetters exhausted, there is now no more rebirth.
153.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
154.
155.
156.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sovaṇṇakiṅkaṇiya spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Sovaṇṇakiṅkaṇiya is ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Soṇṇakontarika
157.
Dwelling on the Brahma path, delighting in the appeasement of mind.
158.
A meditative attainer at the landing place, with the radiance of a blue water-lily petal.
159.
Having washed the Buddha's feet, I gave the gourd.
160.
'Having struck this water, place it at my feet'.
161.
Having taken water in a gourd, I approached the foremost Buddha.
162.
'By this gift of a gourd, may your thought succeed.'
163.
Thirty times I was a king, a universal monarch.
164.
Having grasped a golden lance, he stands before me.
165.
Even a little service done, becomes extensive among such ones.
166.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gourd.
167.
168.
169.
Thus the Venerable Elder Soṇṇakontarika spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Soṇṇakontarika is tenth.
The Sakiṃsammajjaka Chapter is the forty-third.
Its summary:
Kadambapupphiya, Koraṇḍapupphiya, Ghatassavanika also.
Here one hundred and seventy-one verses.
44.
The Chapter on Ekavihāri
1.
The Life History of the Elder Ekavihārika
1.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
2.
Abundant in emptiness, such a one, delighting in the signless, a master.
3.
The greatly compassionate hero, skilled in the means of monastic discipline.
4.
The path leading to Nibbāna, the destination that dries up the mire.
5.
He, the saviour of the world, seated in the midst of the great assembly.
6.
Lifting up from great peril, those who are lost and without a leader.
7.
Having heard his teaching, I went forth into homelessness.
8.
Alone in the charming forest, I dwelt, oppressed by association.
9.
For one secluded in mind, seeing danger in association.
10.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
11.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
12.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Ekavihārika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ekavihārika is first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Ekasaṅkhiya
13.
The great multitude having assembled, venerate the highest enlightenment tree.
14.
Whose enlightenment is such, and the Teacher is worthy of veneration.
15.
Blowing it all day long, I venerated the highest enlightenment.
16.
My corpse has fallen, I rejoice in the heavenly world.
17.
Always attend upon me, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
18.
Ruler of the four quarters, victorious, lord of the Indian subcontinent.
19.
I experience my own action, this is the fruit of attendance.
20.
Even while gone into my mother's womb, drums are always beaten.
21.
The safe, secure, Deathless, I have attained the unshakeable state.
22.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
23.
24.
25.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ekasaṅkhiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ekasaṅkhiya is second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Pāṭihīrasaññaka
26.
With a hundred thousand masters, entered the city then.
27.
The jewels shone forth, there was shouting at that very moment.
28.
Lutes played by themselves, as the Buddha entered the city.
29.
Having seen the miracle, I gladdened my mind there.
30.
Even the non-sentient musical instruments play by themselves."
31.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of perception of the Buddha.
32.
33.
34.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pāṭihīrasaññaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Pāṭihīrasaññaka is third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Ñāṇatthavika
35.
Shining like gold, I saw the highest of bipeds.
36.
Having arranged the antelope skin on one shoulder, I praised the foremost Buddha.
37.
Having shown the light of knowledge, you have crossed over, O great sage.
38.
There is no comparison to your knowledge, as far as the world's destination extends.
39.
I pay homage to that great hero, whose omniscience is unobstructed.'
40.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of praising knowledge;
41.
42.
43.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ñāṇatthavika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ñāṇatthavika is fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Ucchukhaṇḍika
44.
I saw the stainless Buddha, who has gone beyond all phenomena.
45.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, to Vipassī, the great sage.
46.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the piece of sugar-cane.
47.
48.
49.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ucchukhaṇḍika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Ucchukhaṇḍika is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Kaḷambadāyaka
50.
I gave him a kaḷamba fruit, devoted, with my own hands.
51.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the kaḷamba offering.
52.
53.
54.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kaḷambadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Kaḷambadāyaka is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Ambāṭakadāyaka
55.
Having taken an ambāṭaka fruit, I gave to the Self-Become One.
56.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
57.
58.
59.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ambāṭakadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Ambāṭakadāyaka is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Harītakadāyaka
60.
Jujube, marking-nut and marmelos, I myself shall carry.
61.
Afflicted by illness, without a companion, the great sage.
62.
When the medicine was eaten, the illness was calmed at that very moment.
63.
'By this giving of medicine, and by the appeasement of disease.
64.
May he be happy everywhere, and may illness not come to you.'
65.
The wise one rose up into the sky, like a king of swans in the firmament.
66.
From this birth onwards, illness did not arise in me.
67.
The three true knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
68.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of medicine.
69.
70.
71.
Thus the Venerable Elder Harītakadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Harītakadāyaka is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Ambapiṇḍiya
72.
Wandering in the great forest, I saw the leader of the world.
73.
The great hero accepted, Siddhattha, the leader of the world.
74.
Having gladdened my mind there, I was reborn in Tusita.
75.
By this very means, having experienced accomplishment.
76.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, I dwell without mental corruptions.
77.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
78.
79.
80.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ambapiṇḍiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the elder Ambapiṇḍiya is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Ambaphaliya
81.
Wandering for almsfood, bearing the highest fame.
82.
I gave it to the Teacher, the hero worthy of offerings.
83.
I have attained the unshakeable state, having abandoned victory and defeat.
84.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the foremost gift.
85.
86.
87.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ambaphaliyo spoke these verses.
The life history of the Elder Ambaphaliya is the tenth.
The Ekavihāri Chapter is the forty-fourth.
Its summary:
Thavika and Ucchukhaṇḍī, and the Kaḷamba-ambāṭaka giver.
Eighty-six verses, counted by the wise.
45.
The Chapter on Vibhītaka
1.
The Life History of the Elder Vibhītakamiñjiya
1.
Withdrawn from the group, he went into the forest.
2.
The Blessed One at that time, was meditating in the mountain caves.
3.
I gave a seed kernel to the hero worthy of offerings.
4.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the seed kernel.
5.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
6.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
7.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Vibhītakamiñjiya spoke these
verses.
The life history of the Elder Vibhītakamiñjiya is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Koladāyaka
8.
Having filled a basket, I laughed at the jujube fruits in my hermitage.
9.
He approached my hermitage, knowing all times.
10.
Having held it up with both hands, I gave the jujube to the Buddha.
11.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gift of jujube fruit.
12.
13.
14.
Thus the Venerable Elder Koladāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Koladāyaka is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Billiya
15.
Strewn with marmelos trees, frequented by various trees.
16.
Having filled a carrying-pole burden, satisfied, with an agitated mind.
17.
To the hero, the field of merit, with a clear mind.
18.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
19.
20.
21.
Thus the Venerable Elder Billiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Billiya is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Bhallātadāyaka
22.
Going through the forest top, like a fully blossomed king of sal trees.
23.
'May the Buddha have compassion on me, I wish to give almsfood.'
24.
Having understood my thought, descend to my hermitage.
25.
Having taken a marking-nut, I gave it to the foremost Buddha.
26.
Having gladdened my mind there, I then bowed down to the Conqueror.
27.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
28.
29.
30.
Thus the Venerable Elder Bhallātadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Bhallātadāyaka is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Uttalipupphiya
31.
Having held up a garland of flowers, I placed it upon the Bodhi tree.
32.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the enlightenment.
33.
34.
35.
Thus the Venerable Elder Uttalipupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Uttalipupphiya is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Ambāṭakiya
36.
Sat down in the mountain fastnesses, well-born like a lion.
37.
The unsurpassed field of merit, devoted, with my own hands.
38.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
39.
40.
41.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ambāṭakiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Ambāṭakiya is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Sīhāsanika
42.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave a lion's seat.
43.
I obtain an extensive mansion, this is the fruit of the lion's seat.
44.
And divans made of jewels, always arise for me.
45.
I am born in a high family, oh, the good nature of the Dhamma!
46.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the lion's seat.
47.
48.
49.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sīhāsanika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Sīhāsanika is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Pādapīṭhiya
50.
Having helped many beings cross over, he, of great fame, attained final Nibbāna.
51.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I had a footstool made.
52.
Connected with meritorious action, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
53.
As I lift my steps, golden chairs come to be for me.
54.
Having done service to the quenched, they obtain abundant happiness.
55.
Having made a footstool, I obtain a golden seat.
56.
I step upon a golden chair, this is the fruit of meritorious action.
57.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the footstool.
58.
59.
60.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pādapīṭhiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Pādapīṭhiya is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Vedikāraka
61.
Having made a well-crafted railing, I gladdened my own mind.
62.
Rain down from the sky, this is the fruit of the railing.
63.
I do not see fear and dread, this is the fruit of the railing.
64.
Very costly beds, this is the fruit of the railing.
65.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the railing.
66.
67.
68.
Thus the Venerable Elder Vedikāraka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Vedikāraka is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Bodhigharadāyaka
69.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I had a Bodhi tree shrine built.
70.
Neither cold nor heat, nor wind touches my body.
71.
A city named Kāsika, created by Vissakamma.
72.
In that city there is not, wood nor creeper nor clay.
73.
The mansion named Maṅgala, created by Vissakamma.
74.
And turrets made of jewels, the roof was of silver.
75.
This was inhabited by me, this is the fruit of giving a house.
76.
I have attained Nibbāna, the unsurpassed state of peace.
77.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving a house.
78.
79.
80.
Thus the Venerable Elder Bodhigharadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Bodhigharadāyaka is the tenth.
The Vibhītaka Chapter is the forty-fifth.
Its summary:
Hanging Ornament and also, Thunderbolt, Footstool.
All seventy-nine have been praised in this chapter.
46.
The Chapter on Jagatidāyaka
1.
The Life History of the Elder Jagatidāyaka
1.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I had a terrace built.
2.
Having passed away, I find support, this is the fruit of the earth.
3.
I overcome all enemies, this is the fruit of the earth.
4.
Everywhere I am venerated, this is the fruit of the earth.
5.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gift of a terrace.
6.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
7.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
8.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Jagatidāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Jagatidāyaka is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Morahatthiya
9.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave the peacock-feather fan.
10.
The three fires were extinguished, I obtain abundant happiness.
11.
Having given a peacock-feather fan, I obtain abundant happiness.
12.
All mental corruptions are completely eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
13.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the peacock fan.
14.
15.
16.
Thus the Venerable Elder Morahatthiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Morahatthiya is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Sīhāsanabījiya
17.
Having held up a fan there, I fanned the lion's seat.
18.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of fanning.
19.
20.
21.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sīhāsanabījiya spoke these
verses.
The life history of the Elder Sīhāsanabījiya is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Tiṇukkadhāriya
22.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I held up three torches.
23.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gift of a torch.
24.
25.
26.
Thus the Venerable Elder Tiṇukkadhāriya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Tiṇukkadhāriya is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Akkamanadāyaka
27.
As he was going for the day's abiding, I gave a stepping stone.
28.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of treading upon.
29.
30.
31.
Thus the Venerable Elder Akkamanadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Akkamanadāyaka is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Vanakoraṇḍiya
32.
Having taken a forest koraṇḍa flower, I placed it upon the Buddha.
33.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
34.
35.
36.
Thus the Venerable Elder Vanakoraṇḍiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Vanakoraṇḍiya is the sixth.
The twentieth recitation section.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Ekachattiya
37.
The Blessed One Padumuttara walked up and down in the open air.
38.
There, having seen the Self-enlightened One, joy arose in me.
39.
Great winds blow, causing discomfort to the body.
40.
Accept this umbrella, I shall attain peace."
41.
Having understood my thought, the Conqueror then accepted.
42.
Five hundred times I was a universal monarch.
43.
I experience my own action, well done by myself in the past.
44.
Even today a white parasol is held for me at all times.
45.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving an umbrella.
46.
47.
48.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ekachattiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Ekachattiya is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Jātipupphiya
49.
Having made flower wreaths, I placed them upon his body.
50.
Having gone to the world of gods, being peaceful, I remember my meritorious action.
51.
If I wander in the round of rebirths among human beings, I become a king of great fame.
52.
Owing to that very flower offering to the All-Seeing One.
53.
Even today a shower of flowers rains down upon me always.
54.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the worship of the body.
55.
56.
57.
Thus the Venerable Elder Jātipupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Jātipupphiya is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Paṭṭipupphiya
58.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I offered a paṭṭi flower.
59.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the worship of the body.
60.
61.
62.
Thus the Venerable Elder Paṭṭipupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Paṭṭipupphiya is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Gandhapūjaka
63.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I offered a handful of fragrance.
64.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the funeral pyre.
65.
66.
67.
Thus the Venerable Elder Gandhapūjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Gandhapūjaka is the tenth.
The Jagatidāyaka Chapter is the forty-sixth.
Its summary:
Akkamī, Vanakoraṇḍī, Chattada, Jātipūjaka.
Sixty-seven verses, counted by the wise.
47.
The Chapter on Sālakusumiya
1.
The Life History of the Elder Sālakusumiya
1.
When the funeral pyre was prepared, I made an offering of sal flowers.
2.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the funeral pyre.
3.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
4.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
5.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Sālakusumiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Sālakusumiya is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Citakapūjaka
6.
Eight champaka flowers, I placed upon the funeral pyre.
7.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the funeral pyre.
8.
9.
10.
Thus the Venerable Elder Citakapūjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Citakapūjaka is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Citakanibbāpaka
11.
Having taken scented water, I extinguished the pyre.
12.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the scented water.
13.
14.
15.
Thus the Venerable Elder Citakanibbāpaka spoke these
verses.
The life history of the Elder Citakanibbāpaka is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Setudāyaka
16.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I had a bridge built.
17.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gift of a bridge.
18.
19.
20.
Thus the Venerable Elder Setudāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Setudāyaka is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Sumanatālavaṇṭiya
21.
Covered with jasmine flowers, I hold this of great fame.
22.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the fan.
23.
24.
25.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sumanatālavaṇṭiya spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Sumanatālavaṇṭiya is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Avaṭaphaliya
26.
The Fully Enlightened One, desiring seclusion, went forth for alms.
27.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave a mango fruit.
28.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
29.
30.
31.
Thus the Venerable Elder Avaṭaphaliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Avaṭaphaliya is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Labujaphaladāyaka
32.
I saw the stainless Buddha, going through the sky-path.
33.
Standing in space, being peaceful, the one of great fame accepted.
34.
Having given fruit to the Buddha, with a clear mind.
35.
A jewel arises indeed, for one reborn here and there.
36.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
37.
38.
39.
Thus the Venerable Elder Labujaphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Labujaphaladāyaka is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Pilakkhaphaladāyaka
40.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave a fruit of the wave-leafed fig tree.
41.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
42.
43.
44.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pilakkhaphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Pilakkhaphaladāyaka is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Sayaṃpaṭibhāniya
45.
Proceeding along the road, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
46.
Shining with the light of knowledge, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
47.
Lifting up many beings, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
48.
Roaring the lion's roar, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
49.
They ask subtle questions, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
50.
By that they experience merit, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
51.
When requested, he does not waver, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
52.
Intoxicated elephants trumpet, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
53.
The high places become level, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
54.
He informs all beings, who, having seen him, is not pleased?
55.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of praising.
56.
57.
58.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sayaṃpaṭibhāniya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sayaṃpaṭibhāniya is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Nimittabyākaraṇiya
59.
Fifty-four thousand pupils attended upon me.
60.
Proud of their own knowledge and learning, they dwell in the Himalayas.
61.
Was born in his mother's womb, fully aware and mindful.
62.
The blind obtained vision, when the Leader was arising.
63.
Having heard the resounding sound, the great multitude became frightened.
64.
The earth trembled, what will be the result?
65.
Be confident, all of you, this arising is auspicious.'
66.
Likewise signs appear, the radiance vast and great.
67.
Having convinced the populace, I spoke about the five precepts.
68.
They became glad-minded, stirred with excitement, satisfied and joyful.
69.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the explanation.
70.
71.
72.
Thus the Venerable Elder Nimittabyākaraṇiya spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nimittabyākaraṇiya is the tenth.
The Sālakusumiya Chapter is the forty-seventh.
Its summary:
Setuda and Tālavaṇṭī, and Avaṭalabujappada.
Seventy-two verses, counted by the wise.
48.
The Chapter on Naḷamāli
1.
The Life History of the Elder Naḷamāliya
1.
Going through the forest top, I saw the leader of the world.
2.
There I saw the self-enlightened one, a crosser of the mental floods, without mental corruptions.
3.
To the one worthy of offerings, the great hero, who has compassion for all the world.
4.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
5.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
6.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
7.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Naḷamāliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Naḷamāliya is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Maṇipūjaka
8.
The Fully Enlightened One, desiring seclusion, goes through the sky-path.
9.
There my dwelling was, connected with meritorious action.
10.
Like a blazing blue water-lily, like a burning fire.
11.
Having gladdened my own mind, I venerated the Teacher.
12.
By this gem-offering, may the result be good.
13.
The Teacher, standing in the sky, spoke this verse.
14.
By this gem-offering, may you experience great fame.'
15.
The Supreme Buddha went to where his mind was directed.
16.
And many hundreds of times, I was a universal monarch.
17.
A gem arises for me, making light for me.
18.
Adorned with variegated garments and ornaments, wearing jewelled earrings.
19.
They surround me constantly, this is the fruit of gem-offering.
20.
My goods are well-made, ornaments if you wish.
21.
Having understood my thought, arise at will.
22.
A field of merit for human beings, a medicine for all living beings.
23.
From the nether world I am freed, I have attained the unshakeable state.
24.
By day and by night, there is always light for me.
25.
The light of knowledge was seen by me, I have attained the unshakeable state.
26.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of gem-offering.
27.
28.
29.
Thus the Venerable Elder Maṇipūjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Maṇipūjaka is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Ukkāsatika
30.
A meditator, delighting in meditative absorption, a Buddha, delighting in seclusion, a sage.
31.
I saw the Buddha Kosika, like the full moon.
32.
Having stood for seven nights and days, on the eighth I came.
33.
With a confident mind, having paid homage, I gave one almsfood.
34.
I was born in the Tusita realm, this is the fruit of one alms-giving.
35.
A hundred yojanas all around, I pervade with radiance.
36.
Ruler of the four quarters, victorious, lord of the Indian subcontinent.
37.
Thirty yojanas in length, and twenty in breadth.
38.
That place, secluded from the ten sounds, furnished with cymbals.
39.
Entirely made of gold, it shines permanently.
40.
And in the middle a row of palm trees, created by Vissakamma.
41.
Full of white lotuses, stirred by various odours.
42.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of holding a torch.
43.
44.
45.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ukkāsatika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ukkāsatika is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Sumanabījaniya
46.
Sumana, having grasped a fan, fanned the highest enlightenment tree.
47.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of fanning.
48.
49.
50.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sumanabījaniya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sumanabījaniya is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Kummāsadāyaka
51.
Having seen his empty bowl, I filled it with food made with flour.
52.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the food made with flour.
53.
54.
55.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kummāsadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kummāsadāyaka is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Kusaṭṭhakadāyaka
56.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave eight portions of kusa-grass food.
57.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the eight portions of kusa-grass food.
58.
59.
60.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kusaṭṭhakadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kusaṭṭhakadāyaka is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Giripunnāgiya
61.
Having taken a mountain laurel, I venerated the Self-Become One.
62.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
63.
64.
65.
Thus the Venerable Elder Giripunnāgiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Giripunnāgiya is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Vallikāraphaladāyaka
66.
Having taken a vallikāra fruit, I gave to the Self-Become One.
67.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
68.
69.
70.
Thus the Venerable Elder Vallikāraphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Vallikāraphaladāyaka is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Pānadhidāyaka
71.
Having come out from the day residence, the one with vision first ascended.
72.
There I saw the self-enlightened one, on foot, lovely to behold.
73.
Having placed it at his feet, I spoke these words.
74.
From this I shall obtain fruit, may that purpose of mine succeed.'
75.
Having ascended the beverage vessel, spoke these words.
76.
Him I will explain, listen to me as I speak."
77.
With elated minds, glad, filled with joy, with joined palms.
78.
And fifty-five times he will exercise divine kingship.
79.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
80.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
81.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, he will attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions.
82.
He will obtain a vehicle comparable to a divine chariot.
83.
Chariots yoked with thoroughbreds, always appear to me.
84.
While my hair was being cut, I attained arahantship.
85.
Having given one beverage vessel, I have attained the unshakeable state.
86.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of offering a drink.
87.
88.
89.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pānadhidāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Pānadhidāyaka is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Pulinacaṅkamiya
90.
Seeking a wind-deer, I saw a walking path.
91.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, for the glorious Fortunate One.
92.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the sand.
93.
94.
95.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pulinacaṅkamiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Pulinacaṅkamiya is the tenth.
The Naḷamālī Chapter is the forty-eighth.
Its summary:
Kummāso and Kusaṭṭho, and also Giripunnāgiya.
Ninety-five verses, counted by the wise.
49.
The Chapter on Paṃsukūla
1.
The Life History of the Elder Paṃsukūlasaññaka
1.
Having set aside the rag-robe, the Conqueror entered the dwelling.
2.
Having seized the circular tip, I entered the forest.
3.
Having put down my bow right there, having made a salutation with joined palms at my head.
4.
Having remembered the foremost Buddha, I paid homage to the rag-robe.
5.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of homage.
6.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
7.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
8.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Paṃsukūlasaññaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Paṃsukūlasaññaka is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Buddhasaññaka
9.
In the marks of a great man and in history, together with vocabularies and rituals.
10.
To them I teach the sacred texts, unwearied day and night.
11.
Having removed the darkness of ignorance, he set in motion the light of knowledge.
12.
Having heard this matter, they reported to me then.
13.
People conform to him, material gain for us is not found.
14.
What if I were to see the foremost Buddha, the leader of the world.
15.
Having gone forth from the hermitage, I addressed the pupils.
16.
As milk for crows, rare is the leader of the world.
17.
When both are present, hearing is very difficult to obtain.
18.
Come, let us all go to the presence of the Perfectly Self-awakened One.
19.
Those matted-haired ones, laden with burdens, departed from the forest then.
20.
Free from attachment and hate, fearless like lions.
21.
Wandering for gleanings, they approached the foremost Buddha.
22.
Having remembered the foremost Buddha, there I deceased.
23.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of perception of the Buddha.
24.
25.
26.
Thus the Venerable Elder Buddhasaññaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Buddhasaññaka is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Bhisadāyaka
27.
I pulled out lotus roots there, for the sake of food, I then.
28.
The Buddha wearing red robes, goes through the sky-path.
29.
Looking upwards, I saw the leader of the world.
30.
Honey flows from the lotus roots, milk and ghee from the tubers.
31.
Then the compassionate Teacher, of great fame, having descended.
32.
Having accepted, the Fully Enlightened One gave me thanksgiving.
33.
By this gift of lotus roots, may you obtain abundant happiness.'
34.
The Fully Enlightened One, having taken almsfood, the Conqueror departed through the sky.
35.
Having hung the lotus root on a tree, I remembered my giving.
36.
The sky resounded, with a thunderbolt crashing.
37.
I, sitting peacefully, there I deceased.
38.
My corpse has fallen, I delighted in the heavenly world.
39.
Attend upon me morning and evening, this is the fruit of giving lotus roots.
40.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of giving lotus roots.
41.
All mental corruptions are completely eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
42.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving lotus roots.
43.
44.
45.
Thus the Venerable Elder Bhisadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Bhisadāyaka is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Ñāṇathavika
46.
Seeking the highest good, I dwelt in the forest then.
47.
Seeking a teacher, I dwell alone.
48.
He makes known the four truths, lifting up the great multitude.
49.
When eight years had passed, I heard of the leader of the world.
50.
Having taken a carrying-pole burden, I departed from the forest.
51.
Gradually to Candavatī, then I approached.
52.
Lifting up many beings, he teaches the Deathless state.
53.
Having arranged my antelope skin on one shoulder, I praised the leader of the world.
54.
The ultimate goal and the support, the island and the best of bipeds.
The twenty-first recitation section.
55.
There is no other saviour in the world, none higher than you, O sage.
56.
But your knowledge, O Omniscient One, it is not possible to measure.
57.
But for your wisdom, there is no measure, O One with Vision.
58.
But your morality, O Omniscient One, it is not possible to measure.
59.
These are measurable, you are immeasurable, O One with Vision."
60.
Having raised my joined palms, I remained silent then.
61.
Having sat down in the community of monks, he spoke these verses.
62.
Him I will explain, listen to me as I speak.
63.
A thousand times as lord of the gods, he will exercise divine kingship.
64.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
65.
With undiminished mental thought, he will be of sharp wisdom.'
66.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
67.
At seven years old by birth, he will attain arahantship.
68.
In between here I do not know an intention that is unpleasant.
69.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, the fruit of praising knowledge.
70.
All mental corruptions are completely eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
71.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, the fruit of praising knowledge.
72.
73.
74.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ñāṇathavika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ñāṇathavika is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Candanamāliya
75.
Having abandoned eighty crores, I went forth into homelessness.
76.
Having abandoned verbal misconduct, I dwelt on the river bank.
77.
Not knowing him to be the Buddha, I offered a friendly welcome.
78.
'Are you a deity, a gandhabba, or Sakka, the first of givers?
79.
You illuminate all directions, like the rising sun.
80.
Who are you, or whose son are you? How may we know you?
Declare your name and clan, dispel my doubt."
81.
Nor is there the state of Brahmā in me, I am the highest of these.
82.
Having burnt all mental defilements, I attained the highest enlightenment.'
83.
'If you are a Buddha, omniscient, sit down, O great sage.
84.
"Having spread out a lion's hide, I gave it to the Teacher.
85.
Having quickly ascended the mountain, I took up a mango fruit.
86.
Having quickly taken up all that, having approached the leader of the world.
87.
Having anointed him with sandalwood, I venerated the Teacher.
88.
Having sat down on the cheetah hide, the wise one, the leader of the world.
89.
'By this gift of fruit, and by garlands of fragrance, both.
90.
With undiminished mental thought, he will be wielding power.
91.
He will be a universal monarch, ruler of the four quarters, of great supernormal power.
92.
It will be entirely made of gold, adorned with various jewels.
93.
Having been venerated everywhere, in divinity and also in humanity.
94.
Having gone forth from home, he will become homeless;
Having gone beyond through direct knowledge, he will attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions.'
95.
While I was gazing, departed through the sky-path.
96.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
97.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, in whatever womb I dwell.
98.
By my mother's desire, arises at will.
99.
When my hair was cut off, I attained arahantship.
100.
In thirty thousand cosmic cycles, I remembered my action.
101.
Having come to your teaching, I have attained the unshakeable state.
102.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
103.
104.
105.
Thus the Venerable Elder Candanamāliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Candanamāliya is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Dhātupūjaka
106.
Having brought together my relatives, I made an offering to the relics.
107.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the veneration of the relic.
108.
109.
110.
Thus the Venerable Elder Dhātupūjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Dhātupūjaka is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Pulinuppādaka
111.
There was a walking path for me, created by spirits.
112.
Seeking the highest good, I departed from the forest then.
113.
Devoted to their own duties, they dwelt in the forest then.
114.
Having brought together various flowers, I venerated that shrine.
115.
All the pupils, having assembled together, asked me about this matter.
116.
We too wish to know, being asked, tell us, you.'
117.
Them indeed I pay homage to, the foremost Buddhas of great fame.'
118.
Of what beauty, of what character, what are they like, those of great fame?"
119.
Their eyes have cow-like eyelashes, resembling the fruit of wild liquorice.
120.
Their knees do not creak, no sound of joints is heard.
121.
The right foot first, this is the nature of the Buddhas.
122.
They do not exalt themselves, nor do they scoff at living beings.
123.
Not exalting themselves, the Buddhas, this is the nature of the Buddhas.
124.
They cause to tremble in six ways, this entire earth.
125.
A great rain cloud sheds rain, this is the nature of the Buddhas.
126.
Unsurpassed in beauty, immeasurable are the Tathāgatas.'
127.
And they proceeded accordingly, according to their ability, according to their strength."
128.
Believing my word, with minds honouring the Buddha.
129.
Arose in his mother's womb, the ten thousand trembled.
130.
All the pupils, having assembled together, came to my presence.
131.
Like a crocodile it moves, what will be the result?
132.
He, the Blessed One, the Teacher, has now entered the mother's womb.
133.
Having dismissed my own pupils, I sat cross-legged.
134.
Having remembered the foremost Buddha, there I deceased.
135.
And having taken my body, they placed it upon the funeral pyre.
136.
Afflicted by the dart of sorrow, they assembled and cried loudly.
137.
'I am your teacher, do not grieve, O wise ones.
138.
Do not be heedless, the moment has been provided to you.'
139.
For eighteen cosmic cycles, I delighted in the heavenly world.
140.
And many hundreds of times, I exercised divine kingship.
141.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the arising.
142.
So too I, at the right time, was made to bloom by the great sage.
143.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
144.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of praising.
145.
146.
147.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pulinuppādaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Pulinuppādaka is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Taraṇiya
148.
The Tathāgata approached the bank of the river Vinatā.
149.
Wishing to help the Buddha cross, I approached the leader of the world.
150.
I will help you cross, you are the one who makes an end of suffering.'
151.
Having ascended my back, the leader of the world stood.
152.
There is no such happiness for me, as when the soles of my feet are touched.
153.
Standing on the riverbank, spoke these verses.
154.
And this tortoise king, the wise one, helped me to cross.
155.
For eighteen hundred cosmic cycles, he will delight in the heavenly world.
156.
Having sat down on one seat, he will cross the stream of uncertainty.
157.
When the rain sends down proper showers, the fruit pleases the farmer.
158.
When the rain sends down proper showers, the fruit will please me.'
159.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, I dwell without mental corruptions.
160.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of crossing over.
161.
162.
163.
Thus the Venerable Elder Taraṇiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Taraṇiya is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Dhammaruci
164.
'Immeasurable cosmic cycles from now, this one will be a Buddha.
165.
His father will be named Suddhodana, this one will be Gotama.
166.
At the root of the holy fig tree, the Fully Enlightened One of great fame will awaken.
167.
Ānanda by name, he will attend upon this Conqueror.
168.
Citta and Āḷavaka will be the chief lay followers.
169.
The enlightenment tree of this hero is called the holy fig tree.'
170.
Rejoicing, men and deities pay homage with joined palms.
171.
Having heard the excellent explanation, of Sumedha, the great sage.
172.
And when that hero was going forth, I went forth together with him.
173.
Living a pure life, mindful, a hero, one who complies with the Conqueror's teaching.
174.
Engaged in misconduct, fallen from the good path.
175.
Afterwards by that bad friend, I was employed in matricide.
176.
Having passed away from there, I was reborn in the great Avīci, extremely dreadful.
177.
I did not see again the hero, the wise one, the bull among men.
178.
Having seen a boat in the sea, I approached for the purpose of food.
179.
Having heard the great cry 'Gotama' uttered by them.
180.
In Sāvatthī, in a prosperous family, I was born in the brahmin caste.
181.
Having seen the light of the world, seven years old by birth.
182.
I approach the Buddha three times, by night and by day.
183.
Then I said to the Buddha, illumined by former action.
184.
Today indeed I, with excellent seeing, behold your incomparable body.
185.
For a very long time, the stainless was purified, the eye made of knowledge, O great sage.
186.
Having come together with you again today, for deeds done do not perish, O Gotama.
187.
188.
189.
Thus the Venerable Elder Dhammaruciya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Dhammaruciya is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Sālamaṇḍapiya
190.
Covered with Sāla flowers, I dwelt in the forest then.
191.
The Fully Enlightened One, desiring seclusion, approached the Sal grove.
192.
Seeking roots and fruits, I wandered in the forest then.
193.
Well seated, a meditative attainer, shining in the great forest.
194.
Having made a well-crafted pavilion, covered it with sal flowers.
195.
Having gladdened my mind there, I paid homage to the foremost Buddha.
196.
Looking only a yoke's length ahead, the highest of men sat down.
197.
With a hundred thousand masters, approached the Guide.
198.
Having sat down in the community of monks, the Conqueror manifested a smile.
199.
Having arranged his robe on one shoulder, asked the great sage.
200.
When a reason exists, the Teacher manifests a smile.'
201.
Having remembered his action, I manifested a smile.
202.
In the heavenly world or among human beings, no place is suitable.
203.
As far as his assembly extends, it will be covered with Sal trees.
204.
He will always delight, being peaceful, concentrated through meritorious action.
205.
And a shower of sal flowers will rain down at that very moment.
206.
Here too a sal-branch roof he will hold at all times.
207.
They will constantly surround me, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
208.
Connected with meritorious action, it rains at all times.
209.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
210.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, he will attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions.
211.
For one burning on the funeral pyre, there will be a roof there.'
212.
Taught the Teaching to the assembly, satisfying them with the rain of the Teaching.
213.
And sixty-seven times I was a universal monarch.
214.
Here too a sal-branch roof, this is the fruit of the pavilion.
215.
Here too a sal-branch roof will be at all times.
216.
I have attained the unshakeable state, having abandoned victory and defeat.
217.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
218.
219.
220.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sālamaṇḍapiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sālamaṇḍapiya is the tenth.
The Paṃsukūla Chapter is the forty-ninth.
Its summary:
Candanī, Dhātupūjī, and Pulinuppādaka also.
There are two hundred verses, and nineteen less.
50.
The Chapter on Kiṅkaṇipuppha
1.
The Life History of the Elder Tikiṅkaṇipupphiya
1.
I saw the stainless Buddha, Vipassī, the leader of the world.
2.
Having venerated the Self-Enlightened One, I go facing south.
3.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
4.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
5.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
6.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
7.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Tikiṅkaṇipupphiya spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Tikiṅkaṇipupphiya is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Paṃsukūlapūjaka
8.
There I saw a rag-robe, hanging on a tree-top.
9.
Joyful, with a joyful mind, venerated the rag robe.
10.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
11.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, having venerated the banner of the worthy.
12.
13.
14.
Thus the Venerable Elder Paṃsukūlapūjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Rag-Robe Honourer is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya
15.
I live by slaughtering beasts, no wholesome deed is found in me.
16.
Showed three steps, the one with vision, out of compassion.
17.
Joyful, with a joyful mind, I gladdened my mind at the footprint.
18.
Having taken it with its buds, I venerated the excellent footprint.
19.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
20.
I have skin like the koraṇḍa flower, I become one of radiant splendour.
21.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the feet.
22.
23.
24.
Thus the Venerable Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Koraṇḍa Flower Offerer is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Kiṃsukapupphiya
25.
Having remembered the foremost Buddha, I venerated him in space.
26.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
27.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
28.
29.
30.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kiṃsukapupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kiṃsuka Flower Offerer is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Upaḍḍhadussadāyaka
31.
Seeking a rag-robe, he wandered in the refuse then.
32.
Having given half a cloth, I paid respect with my head.
33.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
34.
And seventy-seven times, I was a universal monarch.
35.
By the gift of half a cloth, I rejoice, free from fear from any quarter."
36.
I could cover with linen cloths, this is the fruit of a half-cloth.
37.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of a half-cloth.
38.
39.
40.
Thus the Venerable Elder Upaḍḍhadussadāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Half-Cloth Donor is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka
41.
Who had sat down in the great forest, afflicted by an illness caused by the wind humour.
42.
Because of what has been done and accumulated, this is the Ganges, the Bhāgīrathī.
43.
And this terrible earth, limitless and innumerable.
44.
These trees from the four continents, the trees, the earth-growers.
45.
Fifty times as lord of the gods, I exercised divine kingship.
46.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
47.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the cream of ghee.
48.
49.
50.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka is sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Udakadāyaka
51.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I filled a water-pot.
52.
Whenever I wish for drinking water, it quickly arises for me.
53.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving water.
54.
55.
56.
Thus the Venerable Elder Udakadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Water Donor is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Pulinathūpiya
57.
A hermitage was well made by me, a leaf-hut was well built.
58.
Fourteen thousand pupils attend upon me.
59.
'All people venerate me, I venerate nothing.
60.
Without teacher or preceptor, I go to dwell in the forest.
61.
That teacher of mine does not exist, dwelling in the forest is useless.
62.
With support I shall dwell, no one will censure me.'
63.
Strewn with pure sand, not far from my hermitage.
64.
Having heaped up the sand, I made a sand shrine.
65.
Such a monument for them, that sign I make.
66.
Golden bell-flowers, three thousand I offered.
67.
As if face to face with the self-enlightened, I venerated the sand shrine.
68.
I remember the well-made monument, I review it at that very moment.
69.
You would associate with the defilements, that is not proper for you, dear sir.
70.
I dispelled evil thoughts, like an elephant pricked by a goad.
71.
There having deceased, I went to the Brahma world.
72.
Eighty times as lord of the gods, I exercised divine kingship.
73.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
74.
A hundred thousand nurses surround me in existence.
75.
Sweat does not emit from my body, I become one of radiant splendour.
76.
Having made a monument of sand, I have attained the unshakeable state.
77.
There is no field or unsuitable place, practice alone is the accomplisher.
78.
Having taken a small piece of wood, might plunge into the great lake.
79.
With endeavour and energy, a man would cross the ocean.
80.
In dependence on that action, I transcended the round of rebirths.
81.
Formerly I was born in Sāvatthī, in a very wealthy great household.
82.
Both of these have seen the state, they conform to the Dispensation.
83.
They pay homage morning and evening, in the presence of the son of the Sakyans.
84.
Praising the Buddha's excellence, they spent the three watches of the night.
85.
Having sat down on one seat, I attained arahantship.
The twenty-second recitation section.
86.
Having gone forth from home, I went forth in his presence.
87.
The Buddha, the one with vision, gave me full ordination, having understood my virtues.
88.
What was to be done by me today is done, in the Sakyan son's Dispensation.
89.
Your disciple, O Great Hero, this is the fruit of the golden stupa.
90.
91.
92.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pulinathūpiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sand Stūpa Builder is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Naḷakuṭidāyaka
93.
The self-become one named Nārada, a master dwelling at the root of a tree then.
94.
Having cleared the walking path, I gave to the self-born one.
95.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
96.
Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.
97.
Seventy-one times, I exercised divine kingship.
98.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
99.
I dwell as I wish, in the Sakyan son's Dispensation.
100.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the reed hut.
101.
102.
103.
Thus the Venerable Elder Naḷakuṭidāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Reed Hut Donor is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Piyālaphaladāyaka
104.
I saw the stainless Buddha, who has gone beyond all phenomena.
105.
To the hero, the field of merit, devoted, with my own hands.
106.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
107.
108.
109.
Thus the Venerable Elder Piyālaphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Piyāla Fruit Donor is the tenth.
The Kiṅkaṇi Flower Chapter is the fiftieth.
Its summary:
Half-cloth, Ghee-giver, Water, Stupa-builder.
One hundred and one verses, and nine more.
Then the chapter summary:
One-who-dwells-alone, Vibhītakī, Jagatī, Sāla-flower.
Eighty-two verses, and fourteen hundred.
The Metteyya Chapter Group of Ten.
The Fifth Hundred is complete.
51.
The Chapter on Kaṇikāra
1.
The Life History of the Elder Tikaṇikārapupphiya
1.
The Fully Enlightened One, desiring seclusion, approached the Himalayas.
2.
Having bent into cross-legged posture, the highest of men sat down.
3.
Having grasped a well-made trident, I then go into the sky.
4.
The Buddha shines in the forest, like a king of sal trees in full bloom.
5.
Resembling the colour of a reed fire, having seen, I gladdened my mind.
6.
Having taken three flowers, I honoured the foremost Buddha.
7.
Stalks upward, petals downward, make shade for the Teacher.
8.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
9.
Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.
10.
With a hundred thousand turrets, divine mansions appeared to me.
11.
And divans made of crystal, whatever one wishes, whichever one desires.
12.
With upward-facing hair exclusively, combined with a pillow.
13.
Whenever I wish for passage, honoured by a host of gods.
14.
A hundred yojanas all around, covered with kaṇikāra flowers.
15.
They surround me constantly, unwearied night and day.
16.
I delight in playful enjoyment, I rejoice, desiring sensual pleasures.
17.
Together with groups of women, I rejoice in the highest divine mansion.
18.
Three hundred times I was a universal monarch;
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
19.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
20.
I know no other destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
21.
I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
22.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
23.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
24.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
25.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
26.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
27.
I always have a great following, always an assembly that cannot be divided;
I am the highest among relatives, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
28.
And also mental suffering is not found in my heart.
29.
I do not know of disfiguration, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
30.
Formerly I was born in Sāvatthī, in a very wealthy great household.
31.
Seven years old by birth, I attained arahantship.
32.
Young, I am worthy of veneration, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
33.
Having reached the perfection of direct knowledge, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
34.
Having attained perfection in the teachings, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
35.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
36.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
37.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
38.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
Thus the Venerable Elder Tikaṇikārapupphiya spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Three Kaṇikāra Flower Offerer is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Ekapattadāyaka
39.
I saw the stainless Buddha, a crosser of the mental floods, without mental corruptions.
40.
Having given a bowl to the Blessed One, to such a one who was upright.
41.
And silver ones and golden ones, and straw-mats made of jewels.
42.
And of fame and of wealth, I have become the foremost.
43.
When the rain sends down proper showers, the fruit pleases the farmer.
44.
When the rain sends down showers of joy, the fruit will please me.
45.
There is none equal to the Buddha-field, the giver of happiness to all living beings.
46.
Having given a single bowl, I have attained the unshakeable state.
47.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gift of a bowl.
48.
49.
50.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ekapattadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder One Bowl Donor is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Kāsumāraphaliya
51.
I saw the stainless Buddha, the elder of the world, the lord of men.
52.
Having taken a kāsumārika fruit, I gave it to the foremost Buddha.
53.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
54.
55.
56.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kāsumāraphaliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kāsumāra Fruit Offerer is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Avaṭaphaliya
57.
Having risen from seclusion, went forth for alms.
58.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave a mango fruit.
59.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
60.
61.
62.
Thus the Venerable Elder Avaṭaphaliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Avaṭa Fruit Offerer is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Pādaphaliya
63.
Proceeding along the road, I gave a foot-fruit to him.
64.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
65.
66.
67.
Thus the Venerable Elder Pādaphaliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Pādaphaliya is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Mātuluṅgaphaladāyaka
68.
Like a blazing lamp post, I saw the leader of the world.
69.
To the hero worthy of offerings, devoted, with my own hands.
70.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
71.
72.
73.
Thus the Venerable Elder Mātuluṅgaphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Mātuluṅgaphaladāyaka is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Ajeliphaladāyaka
74.
And accomplished in conduct, a sage skilled in concentration.
75.
Having taken an umbrella-leaf, I gave it to the Teacher.
76.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
77.
78.
79.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ajeliphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Ajeliphaladāyaka is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Amodaphaliya
80.
Proceeding along the road, rejoicing I gave fruit.
81.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
82.
83.
84.
Thus the Venerable Elder Amodaphaliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Amodaphaliya is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Tālaphaladāyaka
85.
Having risen from seclusion, went forth for alms.
86.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave a palmyra fruit.
87.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
88.
89.
90.
Thus the Venerable Elder Tālaphaladāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Tālaphaladāyaka is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Nāḷikeraphaladāyaka
91.
I saw the stainless Buddha, going through the sky-path.
92.
Standing in space, being peaceful, the one of great fame received it.
93.
Having given fruit to the Buddha, with a clear mind.
94.
A jewel arises indeed, for one reborn here and there.
95.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
96.
Having reached the perfection of direct knowledge, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
97.
98.
99.
Thus the Venerable Elder Nāḷikeraphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nāḷikeraphaladāyaka is the tenth.
The Kaṇikāra Chapter is the fifty-first.
Its summary:
Pāda and Mātuluṅga, and Ajelī, Moda as well.
There are one hundred verses, neither less nor more.
52.
The Chapter on Phaladāyaka
1.
The Life History of the Elder Kurañciyaphaladāyaka
1.
I saw the stainless Buddha, who has gone beyond all phenomena.
2.
To such a one, the field of merit, devoted, with my own hands.
3.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
4.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
5.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
6.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Kurañciyaphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Kurañciyaphaladāyaka is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Kapitthaphaladāyaka
7.
Proceeding along the road, I gave a wood-apple fruit.
8.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
9.
10.
11.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kapitthaphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Kapitthaphaladāyaka is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Kosambaphaliya
12.
Proceeding along the road, I gave Kosamba then.
13.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
14.
15.
16.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kosambaphaliya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kosambaphaliya is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Ketakapupphiya
17.
I saw the stainless Buddha, fully focused, well concentrated.
18.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, honoured the foremost Buddha.
19.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
20.
21.
22.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ketakapupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ketakapupphiya is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Nāgapupphiya
23.
Proceeding along the road, I venerated him with nāga flowers.
24.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
25.
26.
27.
Thus the Venerable Elder Nāgapupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Nāgapupphiya is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Ajjunapupphiya
28.
I saw the stainless Buddha, the Self-Become One, the unconquered.
29.
Having taken an arjuna flower, I venerated the Self-Become One.
30.
Having abandoned the kinnara body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
31.
Ten times as a wheel-turning monarch, I exercised great kingship.
32.
A seed sown in a good field, in the Self-Existent One, oh, mine!
33.
Worthy of veneration am I today, in the Sakyan son's Dispensation.
34.
35.
36.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ajjunapupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ajjunapupphiya is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Kuṭajapupphiya
37.
The Buddha named Sudassana dwelt in the mountain caves.
38.
There I saw the self-enlightened one, a crosser of the mental floods, without mental corruptions.
39.
I placed upon the Buddha, the self-born great sage.
40.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
41.
42.
43.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kuṭajapupphiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kuṭajapupphiya is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Ghosasaññaka
44.
I saw the stainless Buddha, honoured by the host of gods.
45.
I heard the sweet teaching, of Sikhi, the kinsman of the world.
46.
Having gladdened my mind there, I crossed over existence, hard to cross.
47.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the perception of sound.
48.
49.
50.
Thus the Venerable Elder Ghosasaññaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Ghosasaññaka is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Sabbaphaladāyaka
51.
Having abandoned ten sons, I entered into the midst of the forest then.
52.
Having made a leaf-hut, I dwell in the forest.
53.
Wishing to uplift me, he came to my hermitage.
54.
By the Buddha's power, the forest blazed forth then.
55.
Having taken a leaf-container, I worshipped with fruit.
56.
Out of compassion for me, the Buddha spoke these words.
57.
And when the monastic community has been served, merit will be yours.'
58.
Having gladdened my mind there, I was reborn in Tusita.
59.
Connected with meritorious action, I always experience happiness.
60.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
61.
Having given fruit to the Buddha, I make him lord.
62.
They too follow my control, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
63.
Kumbhaṇḍas and garuḷas too, they come to me for service.
64.
They too follow my control, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
65.
They too go to me for refuge, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
66.
They too follow my control, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
67.
They too follow my control, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
68.
All go to me for refuge, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
69.
Having touched it, I dwell, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
70.
Ardent and prudent am I, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
71.
I am a certain one among them, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
72.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, I dwell without mental corruptions.
73.
Attainers of the divine ear, I am one of them.
74.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
75.
76.
77.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sabbaphaladāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sabbaphaladāyaka is ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Padumadhārika
78.
And a Buddha named Sambhava, dwelt in the open air then.
79.
Having held it for one day, I came again to the dwelling.
80.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
81.
82.
83.
Thus the Venerable Elder Padumadhārika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Padumadhārika is tenth.
The Phaladāyaka Chapter is the fifty-second.
Its summary:
Nāgapuppha and Ajjuna, Kuṭajī and Ghosasaññaka.
Here there are eighty verses, and three verses beyond that.
53.
The Chapter on Tiṇadāyaka
1.
The Life History of the Elder Tiṇamuṭṭhidāyaka
1.
There the Fully Enlightened One Tissa walked up and down in the open air.
2.
Having seen that god of gods, I gave a handful of grass.
3.
Having paid respect to the self-enlightened, I departed facing north.
4.
Being struck by the lion, there I deceased.
5.
Well released like the speed of an arrow, I went to the world of the gods.
6.
With a thousand storeys, a hundred pinnacles, adorned with flags, made of green gold.
7.
Crowded by heavenly maidens, I rejoiced, desiring sensual pleasures.
8.
Having come to human existence, I have attained the elimination of mental corruptions.
9.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of a handful of grass.
10.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
11.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
12.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Tiṇamuṭṭhidāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Tiṇamuṭṭhidāyaka is first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Mañcadāyaka
13.
One bed was given by me, with confidence, with my own hands.
14.
By that gift of a small bed, I have attained the elimination of mental corruptions.
15.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving a bed.
16.
17.
18.
Thus the Venerable Elder Mañcadāyaka spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Mañcadāyaka is second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Saraṇagamaniya
19.
When the boat was breaking apart, the monk gave me refuge.
20.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of going for refuge.
21.
22.
23.
Thus the Venerable Elder Saraṇagamaniya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Saraṇagamaniya is third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Abbhañjanadāyaka
24.
Clad in leather then I was, carrying a water-pitcher.
25.
Resolute in striving, a meditator, delighting in meditative absorption, a master.
26.
Devoted, glad at heart, I gave unguent.
27.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the unguent.
28.
29.
30.
Thus the Venerable Elder Abbhañjanadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The life history of the Elder Abbhañjanadāyaka is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Supaṭadāyaka
31.
Having quickly given a fine cloth, I rejoiced in heaven for a cosmic cycle.
32.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the fine cloth.
33.
34.
35.
Thus the Venerable Elder Supaṭadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Supaṭadāyaka is fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Daṇḍadāyaka
36.
Having made a support, I gave much to the Community.
37.
Having given a supporting stick, I departed facing north.
38.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving the walking stick.
39.
40.
41.
Thus the Venerable Elder Daṇḍadāyaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Daṇḍadāyaka is sixth.
The twenty-third recitation section.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Girinelapūjaka
42.
I saw the stainless Buddha, who has gone beyond all phenomena.
43.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I made an offering of nela flowers.
44.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
45.
46.
47.
Thus the Venerable Elder Girinelapūjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Girinelapūjaka is seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Bodhisammajjaka
48.
Having taken it, I threw it away, I obtained twenty qualities.
49.
I wander in two existences, in divinity and also in humanity.
50.
I am born in two families, in the warrior caste and also in the brahmin caste.
51.
I am handsome and pure, with complete limbs, not deficient.
52.
In existence golden-coloured, like molten gold.
53.
My skin is always so, when the Bodhi leaves are well discarded.
54.
Dust and dirt do not cling, the result when the bowl is discarded.
55.
Sweat does not emit from his body, the result when the bowl is discarded.
56.
Ringworm too does not arise in the body, the result when the bowl is discarded.
57.
Diseases do not arise in the body, the result when the bowl is discarded.
58.
There is no mind-produced affliction, the result when the bowl is discarded.
59.
Enemies do not exist for him, the result when the bowl is discarded.
60.
He becomes one of complete enjoyment, the result when the bowl is discarded.
61.
There is no fear from fire, kings, thieves, or water.
62.
Female and male slaves, attendants, become followers of his mind.
63.
From that the life span does not diminish, it remains as long as life lasts.
64.
All are engaged, desiring growth, wishing for happiness.
65.
Free from fear and trembling, may I be in every existence.
66.
All of them protect him, as he transmigrates through existences always.
67.
And at the end, Nibbāna, the safe, unsurpassed, he attained.
68.
Whatever man generates merit, what indeed is difficult to obtain for him?
69.
Having become superior to others, I attain final liberation without mental corruptions.
70.
I am always endowed with these twenty factors.
71.
72.
73.
Thus the Venerable Elder Bodhisammajjaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Bodhisammajjaka is eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Āmaṇḍaphaladāyaka
74.
Having risen from concentration, the leader of the world walked back and forth.
75.
I saw the stainless Buddha, walking up and down, the great sage.
76.
Having paid respect to the Self-enlightened One, I gave a gallnut fruit.
77.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gallnut.
78.
79.
80.
Thus the Venerable Elder Āmaṇḍaphaladāyaka spoke these
verses.
The Life History of the Elder Āmaṇḍaphaladāyaka is ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Sugandha
81.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
82.
Surrounded by a fathom-wide radiance, covered with a net of rays.
83.
An extinguisher like a cloud, a mine of virtues like the ocean.
84.
Like space in wisdom, unattached like the wind.
85.
Makes known the truths, lifting up the great multitude.
86.
I was then of abundant wealth and grain, of much.
87.
I saw the stainless Buddha, teaching the Deathless state.
88.
With a proclamation like the calls of swans, teaching the great multitude.
89.
Having abandoned not insignificant wealth, I went forth into homelessness.
90.
I was a preacher of the Teaching, with varied inspiration.
91.
I praised the excellence of the golden-coloured one, skilled in praising.
92.
Having attained the elimination of all action, liberated in the extinction of clinging.
93.
The one who sets in motion the sublime wheel for the world with its gods.
94.
An extinguisher and comforted, a consoler of the great multitude.
95.
Victorious and a conqueror, not proud, without attachment.
96.
A beast of burden, a leading bull, an elephant, a lion, able even among the venerable.
97.
Without barrenness and free from the dart, matchless, self-controlled, pure.
98.
Warrior, Buddha, learned and unlearned, immovable, joyful, smiling.
99.
The gladdener, the breaker, the cutter, the stream, the praised one.
100.
Without longing, stainless, the doer, odours, the speaker, the praised one.
101.
One who causes to attain, enduring, lovely, a slayer, ardent, an ascetic.
102.
Marvellous being, without deceit, one who has done what was to be done, the seventh sage.
103.
Gone beyond all paths of speech, the Conqueror who has reached the end of what is to be understood through truth.
104.
Therefore faith in the Buddha and the Teaching and the Community is of great benefit.
105.
In the midst of the assembly, I gave a talk on the Teaching.
106.
Having passed away from there among human beings, I was born as Sugandhika.
107.
And the odour of sweat constantly, all odours are mine.
108.
The assembly always blows fragrant, and likewise my body too.
109.
All with fully focused minds, I will praise, listen to me.
110.
I am happy everywhere, the Community is endowed with heroes.
111.
A speaker, not despised, faultless, and likewise wise.
112.
I will declare their cause, listen to that according to truth.
113.
Wherever I am reborn, by that I become famous.
114.
Praising them, I was a giver of happiness, and from that I was happy among beings.
115.
I generated my own radiance and others' radiance, thereby becoming radiant.
116.
Speaking the virtue, I illuminated the leader, brilliant from that.
117.
Like the autumn moon with its hare, therefore I was agreeable to behold.
118.
The Fortunate One, therefore Vāgīsa, with variegated inspiration.
119.
I rebuked them by the Good Teaching, I am not despised by that.
120.
I became one with a mind free from defilements, owing to that action.
121.
Thereby I was wise, one gifted with introspection into subtle meanings.
122.
Like fire without clinging, I shall attain peace.
123.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of praising the Buddha.
124.
125.
126.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sugandha spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sugandha is tenth.
The Tiṇadāyaka Chapter is the fifty-third.
Its summary:
The cloth-giver, the staff-giver, and the faultless-worshipper likewise.
One hundred and twenty-seven verses, counted here altogether.
54.
The Chapter on Kaccāyana
1.
The Life History of the Elder Mahākaccāyana
1.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
2.
Resembling a golden mountain, with radiance equal to the sun's light.
3.
Gone beyond all paths of speech, honoured by humans and deities.
4.
With a continuum bound by compassion, confident in the assemblies.
5.
He lifts up living beings sunk in the mire of delusion.
6.
Going through the sky to the human world, I saw the Conqueror.
7.
Of the hero praising the great virtue of the disciple.
8.
He pleases both the assembly and me, just as this Kaccāyana does.
9.
Therefore henceforth he is the foremost, thus remember, monks.'
10.
Having gone to the Himalaya, having brought a collection of flowers.
11.
Then, having known my disposition, he who abandons conflict made the declaration.
12.
With hair standing on end, with full shoulders, standing unshakeable with joined palms.
13.
Born of the Dhamma, with a heart for learning, resembling one sprinkled with the Deathless.'
14.
In the future time, of Gotama, the great sage.
15.
Kaccāna by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.
16.
He will attain that state, just as he was declared by me.
17.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
18.
I go to no other destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
19.
I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
20.
Under the fierce Pajjota, dependent on the chief priest, a brahmin.
21.
And my mother was named Candimā, I am Kaccāna of excellent skin.
22.
Having seen the leader, the accumulation of virtues, the door to the city of liberation.
23.
I attained the Deathless, the peaceful, together with the remaining seven.
24.
And established in the foremost position, with wish well fulfilled.
25.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
26.
"Indeed welcome it was for me, my coming to the Buddha's presence; The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
27.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Mahākaccāyana spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Mahākaccāyana is first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Vakkali
28.
Of superior name, immeasurable, named Padumuttara.
29.
Untainted by the world, just as a lotus by water.
30.
Like the supreme fragrance of a lotus, therefore he is Padumuttara.
31.
Of peaceful appearance, a treasure of virtues, an ocean of compassion and wisdom.
32.
The supreme conqueror, amidst the people crowded with gods and humans.
33.
Pleasing the entire assembly, he praised his own disciple.
34.
There is no other such as this, as this monk Vakkali.
35.
Having been, and having heard that word, I delighted in that state.
36.
Having fed them for seven days, I then covered them with cloth.
37.
Submerged, filled with joy, I spoke these words.
38.
The monk foremost among the faithful, such may I become, O sage.'
39.
Uttered this word to the assembly, the great sage.
40.
With limbs adorned with golden ornaments, captivating to the eyes and minds of people.
41.
The foremost among those resolved in faith, this one will be his disciple.
42.
Surrounded by all wealth, he will transmigrate happily.
43.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
44.
Vakkali by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
45.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
46.
Formerly I was born in Sāvatthī, in a certain family.
47.
Helpless, lying on my back, frightened by fear of a goblin.
48.
We give this one to you, O protector, be his refuge, O leader.
49.
With a hand that was webbed, marked with wheels, soft and tender.
50.
Released from all enmity, I grew in happiness.
51.
Seven years old by birth, I went forth into homelessness.
52.
A form strewn with all beauty, unsatisfied I dwell.
53.
'Enough, Vakkali, what is there in this form, you delight in what fools find pleasing.
54.
Not seeing the Good Teaching, even seeing me, he does not see.
55.
The residence of all diseases, a heap of suffering alone.
56.
See the impurities, he will easily go to the end.'
57.
Having climbed up Vulture's Peak, I meditate in the mountain grotto.
58.
'Vakkalī,' the Conqueror spoke, having heard that, I was joyful.
59.
Then by the power of the Buddha, I went easily to the earth.
60.
Having understood that Teaching, I attained arahantship.
61.
The great wise man declared foremost among those resolved in faith.
62.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
63.
64.
65.
Thus the Venerable Elder Vakkali spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Vakkali is second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Mahākappina
66.
Risen in the cloudless sky, like the sun in the autumn sky.
67.
The Leader dries up the mud of mental defilements with the rays of his wisdom.
68.
He illuminates the radiance of truth's meaning, like the sun a jewel.
69.
Like Pajjunna upon beings, he rains with the Dhamma-cloud.
70.
Having approached, I heard the teaching, of the one whose name is the Highest Water-born.
71.
Of him who was proclaiming virtue, who was pleasing my mind.
72.
Having fed him together with his disciples, I aspired for that state.
73.
Behold this chief minister, skilled in judgment.
74.
With the colour of a rain-cloud, with full shoulders, with serene eyes and face.
75.
This one aspires to the state of one who has done his duty, with a heart of altruistic joy.
76.
For a hundred thousand cosmic cycles, one is not reborn in an unfortunate realm.
77.
With the remainder, he will attain Nibbāna.
78.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
79.
Kappina by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
80.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tusita.
81.
Near Bārāṇasī, he was born in the weaver caste.
82.
Attended upon five hundred Individually Enlightened Ones.
83.
Passed away from there, we all became those who reached the realm of the deities.
84.
We were born formerly in Kukkuṭa, in sight of the Himalayas.
85.
Those born in the remaining ministers' families surrounded me alone.
86.
I heard from merchants the announcement of the arising of a Buddha.
87.
He makes known the Good Teaching, the Deathless, the highest happiness.
88.
"Having heard their good words, having honoured the merchants.
89.
Having seen the river, great and fierce, filled to the brim.
90.
Having remembered the virtue of the Buddha, I crossed over safely.
91.
By this speaking of truth, may my journey succeed.
92.
By this speaking of truth, may my journey succeed.
93.
By this speaking of truth, may my journey succeed.'
94.
Then I crossed over with ease, to the delightful riverbank.
95.
Blazing like a golden rock, illuminated like a lamp post.
96.
Like Vāsava raining, amidst the clouds of the Teaching.
97.
Then, having known our disposition, the Buddha taught the Dhamma.
98.
'Give us the going forth, O great hero, we are wearied of existence.'
99.
Practise the holy life', thus said the seventh sage.
100.
We became fully ordained, and stream-enterers in the Dispensation.
101.
Admonished by the Conqueror, I attained arahantship.
102.
Those who followed my instruction, they too were without mental corruptions.
103.
Foremost among exhorters of monks, as Kappina among the great assembly."
104.
Released like the speed of an arrow, I burnt up my defilements.
105.
106.
107.
Thus the Venerable Elder Mahākappina spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Mahākappina is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Dabbamallaputta
108.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the one with vision arose.
109.
The Buddha, skilled in teaching, helped many people to cross.
110.
He established all the sectarians who had arrived in the five precepts.
111.
Decorated with Worthy Ones, by those who had become masters, by such ones.
112.
Resembling the radiance of gold, possessing the thirty-two excellent characteristics.
113.
Remaining for that long, he helped many people to cross.
114.
Having approached the light of the world, I heard the teaching of the Dhamma.
115.
Having heard the word of him who was proclaiming, I was joyful.
116.
Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I aspired for that state.
117.
'He who fed the leader of the world together with the monastic community for seven days.
118.
Fell at my feet, aspiring to the highest state.
119.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
120.
An appointer of lodgings, he will be the foremost at that time.'
121.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
122.
Five hundred times I was a universal monarch.
123.
Everywhere I was happy, owing to that action.
124.
Arose, lovely to behold, one with insight into all phenomena.
125.
One in whom all mental corruptions are eliminated, and knowing him to be pure.
126.
Having taken a voting ticket, I gave milk-rice.
127.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
128.
Having trained those fit to be trained, he, together with his disciples, attained final Nibbāna.
129.
The gods cried out, agitated, with loosened hair, with tearful faces.
130.
We shall not hear the Good Teaching, alas, our lack of merit.
131.
And the ocean, as if with sorrow, resounded a pitiful utterance.
132.
All around the thunderbolts, burst forth frightfully.
133.
With smoke and whirling flames, the beasts cried pitiably.
134.
Agitated, we seven monks, we reflected then.
135.
Having entered the great forest, let us engage in the Conqueror's Dispensation.
136.
Having climbed it by a ladder, we threw down the ladder.
137.
Faith, extremely rare, has been obtained, and little remains of the Dispensation.'
138.
Therefore effort should be made, as long as the sage's teaching stands.
139.
The others, virtuous and engaged, we went to the heavenly world.
140.
And I and Pakkusāti, Sabhiya and Bāhiya likewise.
141.
Freed from the bonds of saṃsāra, shown compassion by Gotama.
142.
My mother died and ascended the funeral pyre, from there I fell out.
143.
By the power of the holy life, I was liberated at seven years old.
144.
By insulting one who has eliminated the mental corruptions, I was much accused by the evil ones.
145.
Having attained the supreme peace, I dwell without mental corruptions.
146.
The Conqueror, satisfied with that virtue, established me in the foremost position.
147.
148.
149.
Thus the Venerable Elder Dabbamallaputta spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Dabbamallaputta is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Kumārakassapa
150.
The hero, beneficial to the whole world, named Padumuttara.
151.
Wandering for the day's abiding, I saw the leader of the world.
152.
Foremost among brilliant speakers, praising among the great assembly.
153.
Having decorated the pavilion with cloths of various colours.
154.
Having fed them for seven days, with food of various excellent flavours.
155.
Having bowed down at his feet, I aspired to that state.
156.
'Behold this excellent twice-born one, with lotus-face and eyes.
157.
With wide eyes full of mirth, eager for my teaching.
158.
This one aspires to that state, of being a brilliant speaker.
159.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
160.
Kumārakassapa by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.
161.
He will attain the foremost position among brilliant speakers.'
162.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
163.
Having become the offspring of a monkey, I entered the womb of a hind.
164.
My mother, abandoned by her relatives, went for refuge to a banyan tree.
165.
Having given up a living being, he then exhorted me thus.
166.
Death in the banyan tree is better, than life in a branch."
167.
Having come to the charming Tusita abode, we went abroad as if to our own home.
168.
Having ascended the peak of a rock, having engaged in the Conqueror's Dispensation.
169.
My mother, being pregnant, went forth into homelessness.
170.
He said 'Destroy this evil nun.'
171.
My mother gave birth happily, in the nuns' quarters.
172.
With the care of a prince, and by name I am Kassapa.
173.
Having heard the body likened to an ant-hill, taught by the Buddha.
174.
Having tamed Pāyāsi, I attained this highest state.
175.
176.
177.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kumārakassapa spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kumārakassapa is the fifth.
The twenty-fourth recitation section.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Bāhiya
178.
Of great radiance, the highest in the three worlds, named Padumuttara.
179.
Having heard, with elated mind, I, having made an offering to the great sage.
180.
Having paid respect to the self-enlightened, I aspired to that state then.
181.
Fallen at my feet, reviewing his conduct.
182.
With hanging copper-coloured lips like bimba fruit, a twice-born with even white sharp teeth.
183.
Having become a receptacle for a flood of virtues, with face blossoming with joy.
184.
In the future, the great hero, Gotama by name, will be.
185.
Bāhiya by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
186.
Having made an offering, passed away, I went to heaven as to my own dwelling.
187.
Having transmigrated owing to it, I experience success.
188.
Having ascended the peak of a rock, having engaged in the Conqueror's Dispensation.
189.
Passed away from there, five people, we went to the heavenly world.
190.
Then I plunged by boat into the ocean with little success.
191.
Then in the dreadful, terrible, sea-monster-filled waters, I fell.
192.
Reached the excellent port of Suppāda, shaken by the slow wind.
193.
Then that person, satisfied, said: 'A Worthy One has come here.'
194.
And with medicine, we shall be happy.
195.
I gave rise to the thought 'I am a Worthy One' unwisely.
196.
'You do not know the path of means, whence would you be a Worthy One?'
197.
'Who are these and where in the world, the Worthy Ones, the best of men?
198.
He, the Sakyan son, a Worthy One, without mental corruptions, teaches the Teaching for the attainment of arahantship.
199.
Elated in mind, to see the highest arahantship, the beautiful one of infinite range.
200.
Having approached the charming forest named Vijita, I asked the brahmans where is the world's delight.
201.
Like a hare, quickly, eager to see the sage, having approached, pay homage to that foremost person.'
202.
Saw him wandering for almsfood, without longing, without greed.
203.
Resembling an abode of splendour, with a face that bears the brightness of the sun.
204.
"Be a refuge for one lost on the wrong path, O Gotama.
205.
This is not the time for a Dhamma talk', thus said the seventh sage."
206.
He who taught me the Teaching, the profound state of emptiness.
207.
Being one whose life span was exhausted, peaceful - oh, how compassionate is the Teacher!
208.
209.
210.
211.
Fallen on a rubbish heap, by a cow possessed by a spirit.
212.
That elder attained final Nibbāna, in Sāvatthī, the best of cities.
213.
The wise one wearing bark-cloth, Bāhiya who had warded off evil.
214.
Life gone, defilements dried up, a doer of the Conqueror's teaching.
215.
"Take, having led away, cremate the body of the fellow in the holy life.
216.
He is the foremost of those with quick direct knowledge, my disciple who acts according to my word.
217.
One verse is better, hearing which one becomes calm.
218.
There the stars do not shine, the sun does not radiate.
219.
When the brahmin, a sage, knew by himself through the wisdom of a sage.
220.
Thus spoke the Protector, the sage, the refuge of the three worlds."
Thus the Venerable Elder Bāhiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Bāhiya is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Mahākoṭṭhika
221.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the one with vision arose.
222.
The Buddha, skilled in teaching, helped many people to cross.
223.
He established all the sectarians who had arrived in the five precepts.
224.
Decorated with Worthy Ones, by those who had become masters, by such ones.
225.
Resembling the radiance of gold, possessing the thirty-two excellent characteristics.
226.
Remaining for that long, he helped many people to cross.
227.
Having approached the highest in all the world, I heard the teaching of the Dhamma.
228.
Skilled in meaning and teaching and language, and in discernment.
229.
Together with his disciples, the excellent conqueror, I fed for seven days then.
230.
Having bowed down at his feet, I aspired to that state.
231.
Bent at my feet, with the radiance of a lotus's interior.
232.
Through that faith, through generosity, and through hearing the Good Teaching.
233.
In the future time, you will obtain that wish.
234.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
235.
Koṭṭhika by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
236.
With a mind of friendliness I tended, mindful, concentrated in wisdom.
237.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
238.
Five hundred times I was a universal monarch.
239.
Everywhere I was happy, owing to that action.
240.
I go to no other destination, this is the fruit of good practice.
241.
"I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of good practice.
242.
In Sāvatthī, in a brahmin family, I was reborn, of great riches.
243.
When the Buddha trained my father, with complete purification.
244.
Moggallāna was my teacher, my preceptor was of Sāri's origin.
245.
And while putting on the ochre robe, I attained arahantship.
246.
Excelling in these, the chief of the world established me in the foremost position.
247.
Therefore in the analytical knowledges, I am the foremost in the Fully Enlightened One's Dispensation.
248.
249.
250.
Thus the Venerable Elder Mahākoṭṭhika spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Mahākoṭṭhika is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Uruveḷakassapa
251.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the one with vision arose.
252.
The Buddha, skilled in teaching, helped many people to cross.
253.
He established all the sectarians who had arrived in the five precepts.
254.
Decorated with Worthy Ones, by those who had become masters, by such ones.
255.
Resembling the radiance of gold, possessing the thirty-two excellent characteristics.
256.
Remaining for that long, he helped many people to cross.
257.
Having approached the light of the world, I heard the teaching of the Dhamma.
258.
Establishing him in the foremost position, having heard that, I was joyful.
259.
Together with a thousand brahmins, I gave a gift.
260.
Standing to one side, joyful, I spoke these words.
261.
May there be a great assembly, for one reborn here and there.'
262.
The Teacher with the voice of the Indian cuckoo, "See this brahmin.
263.
With an exultant son, joyful, having faith in my virtues.
264.
In the future time, you will obtain that wish.
265.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
266.
Kassapa by clan, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
267.
Incomparable, matchless, Phussa, the chief leader of the world.
268.
He rains down the Deathless rain, satisfying the world including the gods.
269.
We were three brothers, all associated with the king.
270.
Then the lord of the earth, with angered borderlands, said to us.
271.
Having made it secure and conquered, give again,' thus you speak."
272.
For our attendance, we will accomplish that for you.'
273.
Having made the borderland lay down its weapons, and having approached that place again.
274.
Having obtained the heroic sage, we worshipped him for as long as life.
275.
Charming lodgings and beneficial medicines.
276.
Moral ones, compassionate, with minds devoted to meditation.
277.
When that chief of the world was quenched, having made an offering according to my strength.
278.
We all experienced this, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
279.
So I, wandering in existence, was the lord of Videha.
280.
Having mounted the path to hell, by the wish of my daughter.
281.
Having wandered through in many ways, having abandoned the evil view.
282.
Having abandoned the body, I went to heaven as to my own dwelling.
283.
Born in prosperous Bārāṇasī, in a great brahman family.
284.
Seeking the state of Nibbāna, I wandered among the matted-hair ascetics.
285.
Having built a hermitage at Uruvelā, I dwelt there.
286.
Thence there was a description of me, as Uruvelākassapa."
287.
By the name of his dwelling place, at Gayā was Gayākassapa.
288.
For me five hundred less, all pupils following me.
289.
Miracles for me, the chief of the world, the trainer of men, trained me.
290.
Together with all of them, I attained arahantship.
291.
And I was able to teach, therefore I am the seventh sage.
292.
Oh, the service done to the Buddha, became fruitful for me.
293.
294.
295.
Thus the Venerable Elder Uruveḷakassapa spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Uruveḷakassapa is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Rādha
296.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the one with vision arose.
297.
The Buddha, skilled in teaching, helped many people to cross.
298.
He established all the sectarians who had arrived in the five precepts.
299.
Decorated with Worthy Ones, by those who had become masters, by such ones.
300.
Resembling the radiance of gold, possessing the thirty-two excellent characteristics.
301.
Remaining for that long, he helped many people to cross.
302.
Having approached that excellent man, I heard the teaching of the Dhamma.
303.
The monk ready in reply, the guide in the foremost position.
304.
Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I aspired for that state.
305.
With a voice that is delightful, removing the stain of mental defilements.
306.
The service done by you to me together with the Community is exceedingly extensive.
307.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
308.
Rādha by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.
309.
The Leader will declare you foremost among those with ready wit.'
310.
With a mind of friendliness I tended, mindful, concentrated in wisdom.
311.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
312.
Five hundred times I was a universal monarch.
313.
Everywhere I was happy, owing to that action.
314.
Born in a poor brahmin family, lacking in clothing and seats.
315.
When I was old and aged, then I approached the monastery.
316.
Because of that I was wretched, pale of limb, and sorrowful then was I.
317.
'For what purpose are you afflicted by sorrow for your son? Tell me your mind-produced pain.'
318.
By that sorrow I am wretched, be my refuge, O leader.'
319.
'Those who remember the matter of this, let them speak out'."
320.
He gave a ladle of almsfood to me as I was walking for almsfood.'
321.
Give the going forth to this senior twice-born, this one will be of good breed.'
322.
Not long after, I attained the elimination of mental corruptions.
323.
The Conqueror placed me foremost among those with ready wit.
324.
325.
326.
Thus the Venerable Elder Rādha spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Rādha is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Mogharāja
327.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the one with vision arose.
328.
The Buddha, skilled in teaching, helped many people to cross.
329.
He established all the sectarians who had arrived in the five precepts.
330.
Decorated with Worthy Ones, by those who had become masters, by such ones.
331.
Resembling the radiance of gold, possessing the thirty-two excellent characteristics.
332.
Remaining for that long, he helped many people to cross.
333.
Engaged in working for others, I have no wealth at all.
334.
I lit a fire there, for she was strongly dark indeed.
335.
Praised the disciple, the wearer of coarse robes.
336.
I aspired to the highest state of being foremost among those wearing coarse robes.
337.
'Behold this little man, poorly clothed and thin of body.
338.
With an exultant son, joyful, unshakeable, gathered under the Sal tree.
339.
Of one who wears coarse robes, his inclination is towards praise of that one.
340.
Having done beautiful action in the Conqueror's Dispensation for as long as life.
341.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa heaven.
342.
For a full thousand years in hell, I burned, afflicted by pain.
343.
Having become a human of good family, was marked with characteristics from birth.
344.
I experienced great suffering, owing to that action.
345.
I satisfied with almsfood, I with a gladdened mind.
346.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
347.
After my father's passing, I was entrusted with the great kingdom.
348.
Since the happiness of kingship is vain, therefore I am Mogharāja.
349.
I entered into pupilship of Bāvari, the foremost of the twice-born.
350.
I asked a subtle question, to that hero, the slayer of disputants.
351.
I do not directly know the view of the famous Gotama.
352.
How regarding the world, does the King of Death not see one?"
353.
Having uprooted the view of self, thus one would be a crosser over death.
354.
Thus the Buddha spoke to me, the healer of all diseases.
355.
Wearing the ochre robe, I was a monk, a Worthy One.
356.
'May the dwelling not be defiled,' oppressed by wind-humour illnesses.
357.
From that having made a double robe, I wore a coarse robe.
358.
Established me in the foremost position among those who wear coarse robes.
359.
Like fire without clinging, I shall be quenched, without mental corruptions.
360.
361.
362.
Thus the Venerable Elder Mogharāja spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Mogharāja is the tenth.
The Kaccāyana Chapter is the fifty-fourth.
Its summary:
Dabba named Kumāra, and Bāhiya, Koṭṭhika the master.
Three hundred verses here, and sixty-two combined.
55.
The Chapter on Bhaddiya
1.
The Life History of the Elder Lakuṇḍabhaddiya
1.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
2.
Walking about for leg exercise, I came to the monastery of the Community.
3.
He praised the excellent disciple among those of sweet voice.
4.
Having paid homage at the Teacher's feet, I aspired for that state.
5.
'In the future time, you will obtain that wish.
6.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
7.
Bhaddiya by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
8.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
9.
Difficult to approach, difficult to overcome, the Conqueror, highest in all the world.
10.
Seeking the welfare of all beings, he freed many from bondage.
11.
Near the perfumed chamber, in a mango tree I dwelt.
12.
Having gladdened my mind, I chirped with a sweet sound.
13.
Having taken a lump of mangoes, I offered it to the Self-Enlightened One.
14.
The Leader took up the bowl from the attendant's hand.
15.
Having put it in the bowl with my wings, having made a salutation charmingly.
16.
Singing for the purpose of honouring the Buddha, having gone to my nest, I lay down.
17.
A hawk, having approached, killed me, with a corrupted mind.
18.
I came to the human realm, owing to that action.
19.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
20.
Having trained those accessible to instruction, he, together with his disciples, attained final Nibbāna.
21.
For the purpose of venerating the Buddha, they make a monument to the Teacher.
22.
We shall make for the great sage,' thus they consult.
23.
Having been, I spoke the measure at the shrine of the immeasurable one.
24.
For the hero among men, adorned with various jewels.
25.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
26.
In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, opulent, of great riches.
27.
Having gone forth, not long after, I attained arahantship.
28.
I was born with a dwarfish body, worthy of contempt.
29.
I attained pre-eminence among monks of sweet voice.
30.
Accomplished in the fruit of asceticism, I dwell without mental corruptions.
31.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
32.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
33.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Lakuṇḍabhaddiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Lakuṇḍabhaddiya is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Kaṅkhārevata
34.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
35.
With a gait like an elephant's stride, with radiance like the moon, sun, and so on.
36.
The greatly compassionate protector, the dispeller of great darkness.
37.
Taught the Teaching, the removal of much that is tractable.
38.
Praising in the assembly, the Conqueror pleased the populace.
39.
Having heard the Teaching, joyful, I aspired for that state.
40.
'Be joyful, Brahmā, you will obtain that wish.
41.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
42.
Revata by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
43.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
44.
In a family of the warrior caste, prosperous, opulent, of great riches.
45.
Then devoted to the Fortunate One, I went forth into homelessness.
46.
All that the Buddha removed, having taught the highest teaching.
47.
I was dwelling when the Buddha, having seen me, said this.
48.
Those who are meditators abandon all of them, ardent, living the holy life.'
49.
Well released like the speed of an arrow, I burnt up my defilements.
50.
The great wise man declares him foremost among meditator monks.
51.
52.
53.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kaṅkhārevata spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kaṅkhārevata is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Sīvali
54.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
55.
His excellent knowledge is incalculable, and his liberation is incomparable.
56.
Crowded with ascetics and brahmins, the Leader taught the Teaching.
57.
He established me in the foremost position, confident in the assemblies.
58.
Having heard that word of the Conqueror, the many virtues of the disciple.
59.
Having given a great gift, I aspired for that state.
60.
The hero spoke these words with a great voice.
61.
Gods, titans, and gandhabbas, and Brahmās of great supernormal power.'
62.
'Homage to you, thoroughbred among men, homage to you, highest of men.
63.
Wishing to hear its fruit, explain it, O great sage.'
64.
Established in the immeasurable Buddha, together with the Community.
65.
Even if one of great wealth aspires to the highest state.
66.
May I also become thus', you will obtain that in the future.
67.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
68.
Sīvali by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
69.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa heaven.
70.
Arose, lovely to behold, one with insight into all phenomena.
71.
Beloved and trusted indeed, I was engaged in work.
72.
Made a food distribution, great and very famous.
73.
Fresh curds and honey too, selecting they did not see.
74.
I went to the employer's house, those seeking me saw me.
75.
Then I thought thus, 'This will not be a trivial matter.
76.
I too shall make an offering to the leader of the world together with the Community.'
77.
Having mixed, I gave to the Protector of the World, together with the monastic community.
78.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
79.
Angered at Sattuka then, I caused the blocking of the doors.
80.
Then by the result of that, I fell into hell exceedingly.
81.
And Suppavāsā was my mother, Mahāli the Licchavi was my father.
82.
For seven years I dwelt, afflicted in my mother's womb.
83.
My mother, by giving her consent, was thus greatly distressed.
84.
On the very day of departure, I went forth into homelessness.
85.
While shaving my hair, the great wise man instructed me.
86.
Gods, serpents, and humans bring requisites to me.
87.
Whom I worshipped greatly delighted, with requisites distinctively.
88.
I obtain material gain everywhere, in the forest, in the village, in the water, on dry ground.
89.
Together with thirty thousand monks, the chief leader of the world.
90.
The great hero, together with the Community, the leader of the world.
91.
Then having gone to Jeta's Grove, he established me in the foremost position.
92.
The Teacher, beneficial to the whole world, praised me in the assemblies.
93.
94.
95.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sīvali spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sīvali is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Vaṅgīsa
96.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
97.
Thus his Scriptures, adorned by Worthy Ones.
98.
The supreme conqueror, amidst the people crowded with ascetics and brahmins.
99.
With his words awakening the lotuses of those to be guided, he.
100.
Having abandoned fear and impurity, having attained security, self-confident.
101.
The chief of the world acknowledges, there is no accuser anywhere.
102.
Neither god nor man nor Brahmā, no one who speaks against is found.
103.
He sets in motion the wheel of the Teaching, confident in the assemblies.
104.
Having praised his many virtues, he established him in the foremost position.
105.
Born skilled in all the Vedas, Vāgīsa, subduer of debaters.
106.
I obtained excellent joy, delighting in the virtues of the disciple.
107.
Having fed them for seven days, I then covered them with cloth.
108.
Standing to one side, joyful, I praised the supreme conqueror.
109.
Homage to you, highest in all the world, homage to you, giver of fearlessness.
110.
Homage to you, giver of peaceful happiness, homage to you, maker of refuge.
111.
Resting ground for the peaceful, refuge for those seeking refuge.'
112.
I said, 'I attain the destination of a monk who subdues disputants.'
113.
'He who fed the Buddha for seven days together with his disciples.
114.
This one aspires to the state of a monk who subdues disputants.
115.
Having experienced not a little success among gods and humans.
116.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
117.
Vaṅgīsa by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
118.
With requisites I attended on, with a mind of friendliness, the Tathāgata.
119.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tusita.
120.
When I was reborn, seven years old by birth.
121.
Lord of debaters, a brilliant speaker, crusher of opponents' views.
122.
Vaṅgīsa, thus my name, became acknowledged by the world.
123.
Then in charming Rājagaha, I saw the great Sāriputta.
The twenty-fifth recitation section.
124.
With eyes not wandering about, speaking moderately, looking only a yoke's length ahead.
125.
A variegated line of a stanza, like an accumulated kaṇikāra tree.
126.
Then that wise hero spoke further to me.
127.
I was pleased by him, such a one, with variegated discernment.
128.
Then he, the one of great wisdom, brought me to the foremost Buddha.
129.
The foremost of speakers said to me, "Vaṅgīsa, do you know?
130.
A dead head thrown away in the forest, even twelve years old;
By the distinction of your knowledge, if you are able, recite.
131.
Among those reborn in hell, among humans, among gods, I taught.
132.
Thereupon I, with effort destroyed, requested the going forth at the right time.
133.
Therefore monks here grumble at me, 'You are a poet.'
134.
These rationalist verses, with reason they come to your mind.
135.
If so, now Vaṅgīsa, on the spot make acquaintance with me.
136.
Satisfied with me with reason and cause, the Conqueror established me in the foremost position.
137.
Agitated by that towards the well-behaved, I attained arahantship.
138.
As this monk Vaṅgīsa, thus remember, monks.'
139.
Well released like the speed of an arrow, I burnt up my defilements.
140.
141.
142.
Thus the Venerable Elder Vaṅgīsa spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Vaṅgīsa is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Nandaka
143.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
144.
For the benefit of those including the gods, the remarkable man is practicing.
145.
Venerated by the whole world, renowned in all directions.
146.
With mind and thought perfected, he has attained the highest enlightenment.
147.
And the undeclared he declared, and the unproduced he produced.
148.
The Teacher skilled in the path, the most excellent among charioteers.
149.
He lifts up living beings sunk in the mire of sensual pleasure.
150.
Praising him in this foremost position, the great sage declared.
151.
Having fed him together with the Community, I aspired to the highest state.
152.
'May you be happy, long-lived, you will obtain that wish.
153.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
154.
Nandaka by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
155.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa heaven.
156.
In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, opulent, of great riches.
157.
At the acceptance of Jeta's park, I went forth into homelessness.
158.
Then I, one who has crossed over the round of rebirths, instructed by the All-Seeing One.
159.
All of them were instructed by me, they became without mental corruptions.
160.
Established me in the foremost position among those who exhort the nuns.
161.
Well released like the speed of an arrow, I burnt up my defilements.
162.
163.
164.
Thus the Venerable Elder Nandaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Nandaka is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Kāḷudāyi
165.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
166.
Grateful and thankful, he yokes living beings to the ford.
167.
He teaches the excellent Teaching, the accumulation of infinite virtues.
168.
He teaches the sweet Teaching, endowed with the four truths.
169.
There was the full realization of the teaching for a hundred thousand living beings.
170.
Gods, brahmās, humans and titans uttered applause.
171.
Oh, the Conqueror lifted up those sunk in the ocean of existence."
172.
The Conqueror praised the disciple foremost among those who inspire confidence in families.
173.
Pleasing, handsome, with abundant wealth and grain.
174.
Having heard the sweet Teaching, and having made an offering to such a one.
175.
'The foremost among those who inspire confidence in families, who was praised by you, O sage.
176.
Then the greatly compassionate one, sprinkling me as if with the deathless.
177.
How indeed could one who has done service to the Conqueror be without fruit?'
178.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
179.
Udāyī by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
180.
With a mind of friendliness I tended, with requisites, the Guide.
181.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
182.
I was born in a chief minister's family, of King Suddhodana.
183.
For the welfare of the whole world, for happiness, the lord of men.
184.
Dear, a friend, beloved, accomplished, skilled in guidance.
185.
Having spent six years, he became the Buddha, the great leader.
186.
Having crossed the ocean of existence, he became the Buddha in the world with its gods.
187.
From there the Blessed One trained, having gone here and there.
188.
Having approached the mountain in Magadha, the Conqueror then dwelt there.
189.
Having gone and seen the one of ten powers, having gone forth I became a Worthy One.
190.
Having gone to the city before that, I gladdened the great family.
191.
Declared me foremost among those who inspire confidence in families, the great leader.
192.
193.
194.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kāḷudāyi spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kāḷudāyī is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Abhaya
195.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
196.
Some he established in morality, in the highest ten courses of action.
197.
Likewise the eight attainments, the three true knowledges he bestows.
198.
That protector gives to someone the four analytical knowledges.
199.
Having approached in a moment, the trainer of men trains them.
200.
One gone beyond all the Vedas, esteemed in grammar.
201.
Learned in verse, knowing the rituals, skilled in the analysis of metre.
202.
I saw the excellent giver of boons, honoured by the multitude.
203.
Having approached his good, having heard the spotless, I.
204.
I did not see in that sage, therefore I went forth.
205.
Subtle in the word of the Buddha, I was esteemed as one possessed of good qualities.
206.
Having praised the chief of the three worlds, I will teach day by day.
207.
Out of compassion you did not attain Nibbāna, therefore the sage is compassionate.
208.
Fully aware, endowed with mindfulness, therefore this one is inconceivable.
209.
Burnt all around by the fire of knowledge, they were not exhausted - that is wonderful.
210.
So too he is the teacher of the world, the world is his follower.
211.
Having done so for as long as life, he went to heaven, having passed away from there.
212.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of praising.
213.
A universal monarch's great kingdom, I experienced many times.
214.
I know no other destination, this is the fruit of praising.
215.
I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of praising.
216.
I am the son of King Bimbisāra, Abhaya by name.
217.
Sent by Nāṭaputta, I approached the Buddha, the foremost one.
218.
Having gone forth, not long after, I attained arahantship.
219.
With a fragrant body and face, I was endowed with happiness.
220.
And of varied discernment, owing to that action.
221.
Did not go to the plane of misery for a hundred thousand cosmic cycles by the power of that.
222.
223.
224.
Thus the Venerable Elder Abhaya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Abhaya is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Lomasakaṅgiya
225.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
226.
Having fulfilled the teaching limited with the end of life, in the Dispensation.
227.
There with divine dancing, singing, and music.
228.
Having lived for my whole life span, having experienced great happiness.
229.
I was born in Kapilavatthu, a son of the Sākiyans.
230.
Having compassion for the Sakyans, he approached the city called Kapila.
231.
Do not bow down to the Self-enlightened One, proud of birth, disrespectful.
232.
He rained like the Rain-God, he blazed like fire.
233.
Having been one, he became many, and again became one.
234.
Having performed a miracle, the sage trained his relatives.
235.
For at that time the Buddha taught the Vessantara birth story.
236.
Went to the Buddha for refuge, Suddhodana then said.
237.
When you were born the earth quaked, and when the rose-apple tree's shade did not leave you.'
238.
Having gone forth right there, I dwelt as one who venerated my mother.
239.
About the auspicious night then, the method in brief and in detail.
240.
Having heard the Bhaddekaratta, agitated, I went to the forest.
241.
My mother, saying 'You are delicate', prevented that word then.
242.
I shall push aside with my chest, developing seclusion.
243.
The exhortation on 'One Auspicious Night', I attained arahantship.
244.
What is past has been abandoned, and the future has not yet arrived.
245.
Unshakable, unagitated, knowing that, one should develop it.
246.
For there is no bargaining with that one, Death with his great army.
247.
That one indeed is called 'one who has an auspicious night,' the peaceful sage declares."
248.
249.
250.
Thus the Venerable Elder Lomasakaṅgiya spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Lomasakaṅgiya is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Vanavaccha
251.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
252.
Having lived the holy life for as long as life, passed away from there.
253.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
254.
Accomplished in virtues, a monk always delighting in meditative absorption dwells.
255.
Equanimous, the great hero, skilled in the boundless states.
256.
I was confident before long, in that disciple of the Fortunate One.
257.
Sometimes he gives food, and sometimes he taught the Teaching.
258.
Passing away from there, he went to heaven, like a sojourner to his own home.
259.
Having abandoned the house, I went forth repeatedly.
260.
Having been so, I dwelt in the forest, for many hundreds of lives.
261.
Vacchagotta the twice-born, into his wife I descended.
262.
When the time of birth was near, the determination was for dwelling in the forest.
263.
As I was coming forth from the womb, she received me with an ochre robe.
264.
I was his dear friend, intimate and highly esteemed.
265.
I too, having gone forth, approached the Himalayas.
266.
Having seen and heard of the arising of the Conqueror, I approached the trainer of men.
267.
Then I, having gone forth, returned again to the forest.
268.
Oh, well-gained is my gain, shown compassion by a good friend.
269.
270.
271.
Thus the Venerable Elder Vanavaccha spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Vanavaccha is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Cūḷasugandha
272.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
273.
Surrounded by a fathom-wide radiance, covered with a net of rays.
274.
An extinguisher like a cloud, a mine of virtues like the ocean.
275.
Like space in wisdom, unattached like the wind.
276.
With abundant wealth and grain, with an accumulation of various jewels.
277.
Having approached, I heard the teaching, charming like the Deathless.
278.
Endowed with the features, like a king of sal trees in full bloom.
279.
Surrounded by a fathom's radiance, the hundred-rayed sun.
280.
With a heart full of compassion, like the ocean in virtue.
281.
The hero, spread wide in glory, the sage, like space.
282.
The support of all beings, like the earth, the seventh sage.
283.
Burning where bad doctrines go, you shine like a mass of fire.
284.
Like Mount Gandhamādana, adorned with the fragrance of virtues.
285.
Like a river for the forest groves, a remover of the stain of defilements.
286.
Like a universal monarch, that king, lord of the jewel of the factors of enlightenment.
287.
A surgeon like a doctor, one who lances the boil of wrong view.
288.
The sun among men in the assemblies, the Conqueror taught the Teaching.
289.
And by meditation one is extinguished, thus you should instruct."
290.
All the assemblies hear it, like the Deathless of great flavour.
291.
Having gone for refuge to the Fortunate One, for as long as life I paid homage.
292.
With the four kinds of perfume, for eight days in a month.
293.
Then the Conqueror explained, the obtaining of a fragrant body.
294.
By the result of that action, he was reborn here and there.
295.
Having become endowed with the fragrance of virtue, he will attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions.'
296.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
297.
While I was dwelling in the womb, my mother was fragrant in body.
298.
Seemed to blow as if perfumed with all the fragrances of Sāvatthī.
299.
And very costly incenses, blew towards at that very moment.
300.
They perfumed with fragrance, in which house I was born.
301.
Then the trainer of men, having trained Sela together with his following.
302.
Then, having seen that majestic power of the Buddha, I went forth.
303.
Having developed these four qualities, I attained the elimination of mental corruptions.
304.
When I shall attain nibbāna, at that time there was the odour of the rains retreat.
305.
Likewise other odours altogether, having overcome by force, I blow from there here and there.
306.
307.
308.
Thus the Venerable Elder Cūḷasugandha spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Cūḷasugandha is the tenth.
The Bhaddiya Chapter is the fifty-fifth.
Its summary:
Vaṅgīsa and Nandaka, Kāḷudāyī and likewise Abhaya.
Three hundred verses there, and sixteen beyond that.
Then the chapter summary:
Kaccāna, Bhaddiya chapter, these verses have been counted.
Five hundred and fifty biographies have been proclaimed.
And two hundred verses, and eighteen beyond that.
56.
The Chapter on Yasa
1.
The Life History of the Elder Yasa
1.
A well-fashioned pond, resounding with the singing of ruddy geese.
2.
And a river flows there, with good fords, delightful.
3.
Resounding with peacocks and herons, with cuckoos and other lovely ones.
4.
Partridges and myna-birds here, fire-birds and jīvañjīvaka birds.
5.
Accomplished with the seven treasures, with gems, pearls and coral.
6.
They illuminate the dwelling by day and night, at all times.
7.
Sixteen thousand women surround me always.
8.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I paid homage to him of great fame.
9.
That wise one consented, the wise one, the leader of the world.
10.
Having paid respect to the self-enlightened, I approached my dwelling.
11.
'In the earlier period of the day, the Buddha will come to the dwelling.'"
12.
We too shall honour the Buddha, the foremost, the Teacher.'
13.
With a hundred thousand masters, the leader of the world approached.
14.
On a chair entirely made of gold, the highest of men sat down.
15.
Fans blow forth, upon the unsurpassed community of monks.
16.
A pair of cloths to each, I gave to the community of monks.
17.
Having sat down in the community of monks, he spoke these verses.
18.
Him I will explain, listen to me as I speak.
19.
A thousand times this one will be a king, a universal monarch.
20.
He will wear a roof entirely made of gold.
21.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
22.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, he will attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions.
23.
They hold an umbrella over the funeral pyre, beneath the umbrella you are burnt.
24.
In a pavilion or at the root of a tree, fear is not found in me.
25.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving all.
26.
Like an elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
27.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
28.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the Venerable Elder Yasa spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Yasa is the first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Nadīkassapa
29.
Was walking for almsfood, bearing the highest fame;
Having taken the highest fruit, I gave it to the Teacher.
30.
I have attained the unshakeable state, having abandoned victory and defeat.
31.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the foremost gift.
32.
33.
34.
Thus the Venerable Elder Nadīkassapa spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Nadīkassapa is the second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Gayākassapa
35.
Having carried the alkaline, I brought jujube to the hermitage.
36.
Approached my hermitage, illuminating all times.
37.
Having held it up with both hands, I gave the jujube to the Buddha.
38.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the gift of jujube fruit.
39.
40.
41.
Thus the Venerable Elder Gayākassapa spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Gayākassapa is the third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Kimila
42.
Having taken sal tree garlands, I had a pavilion made.
43.
I outshine other gods, this is the fruit of meritorious action.
44.
Covered with sāla flower blossoms, this is the fruit of meritorious action.
45.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
46.
47.
48.
Thus the Venerable Elder Kimila spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Kimila is the fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Vajjīputta
49.
Having risen from seclusion, went forth for alms.
50.
With a confident mind, glad at heart, I gave a fruit with its stalk.
51.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving fruit.
52.
53.
54.
Thus the Venerable Elder Vajjīputta spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Vajjīputta is the fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Uttara
55.
The Blessed One, desiring seclusion, approached the Himalayas.
56.
Folding his legs crosswise, the highest of men sat down.
57.
Having grasped a well-made trident, I then go into the sky.
58.
The Buddha shines in the forest, like a king of sal trees in full bloom.
59.
Resembling the colour of a reed fire, having seen, I gladdened my mind.
60.
Having taken three flowers, I honoured the foremost Buddha.
61.
Stalks upward, petals downward, make shade for the Teacher.
62.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
63.
Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.
64.
With a hundred thousand turrets, divine mansions appeared to me.
65.
And divans made of crystal, whatever one wishes, whichever one desires.
66.
And with hair pointing upwards throughout, combined with a pillow.
67.
Whenever I wish for passage, honoured by a host of gods.
68.
A hundred yojanas all around, covered with kaṇikāra flowers.
69.
They surround me constantly, unwearied night and day.
70.
I delight in playful enjoyment, I rejoice, desiring sensual pleasures.
71.
Together with groups of women, I rejoice in the highest divine mansion.
72.
Three hundred times I was a universal monarch;
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
73.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
74.
I know no other destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
75.
I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
76.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
77.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
78.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
79.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
80.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
81.
I always have a great following, always an assembly that cannot be divided;
I am the highest among relatives, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
82.
And also mental suffering is not found in my heart.
83.
I do not know of disfiguration, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
84.
Formerly I was born in Sāvatthī, in a very wealthy great household.
85.
Seven years old by birth, I attained arahantship.
86.
Young, I am worthy of veneration, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
87.
Having reached the perfection of direct knowledge, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
88.
Having attained perfection in the teachings, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
89.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
90.
91.
92.
Thus the Venerable Elder Uttara spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Uttara is the sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Other Elder Uttara
93.
Having brought together my relatives, I made an offering to the relics.
94.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the veneration of the relic.
95.
96.
97.
Thus the Venerable Elder Apara Uttara spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Other Elder Uttara is the seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Elder Bhaddaji
98.
I pulled out lotus roots there, for the sake of food, I then.
99.
The Buddha wearing red robes, goes through the sky-path.
100.
Looking upwards, I saw the leader of the world.
101.
Honey together with lotus roots, milk, ghee and tubers.
102.
Then the compassionate Teacher, of great fame, having descended.
103.
Having accepted, the Fully Enlightened One gave me thanksgiving.
104.
By this gift of lotus roots, may you obtain abundant happiness.'
105.
The Fully Enlightened One, having taken almsfood, the Conqueror departed through the sky.
106.
Having hung the lotus root on a tree, I remembered my giving.
107.
The sky resounded, and a thunderbolt crashed then.
108.
I, sitting peacefully, there I deceased.
109.
My corpse has fallen, I rejoice in the heavenly world.
110.
Attend upon me morning and evening, this is the fruit of giving lotus roots.
111.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of giving lotus roots.
112.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
113.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving lotus roots.
114.
115.
116.
Thus the Venerable Elder Bhaddaji spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Bhaddaji is the eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Elder Sivaka
117.
Having seen his empty bowl, I filled it with food made with flour.
118.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the food made with flour.
119.
120.
121.
Thus the Venerable Elder Sivaka spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Sivaka is the ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Elder Upavāna
122.
Having blazed like a great mass of fire, the Fully Enlightened One attained final Nibbāna.
123.
Having made a pyre for the Fortunate One, they placed the body upon it.
124.
All together with gods and humans, they made a stupa for the Buddha.
125.
The third was made of silver, the fourth was made of crystal.
126.
The sixth was of emerald, above all made of jewels.
127.
The stupa was entirely made of gold, rising upward for a yojana.
128.
'We too shall build a monument, for the Protector of the World, such a one.
129.
For this Buddha monument, we shall build a mantle."
130.
The stupa, two yojanas in height, dispelled the darkness.
131.
'Humans and gods, they made a stupa for the Buddha.
132.
We too shall build a monument, for the Protector of the World, such a one."
133.
Having gathered them together as one, they covered the Buddha's stupa.
134.
Rising up three yojanas high, it was light-producing then.
135.
'Humans, gods and serpents, they made an offering to the Buddha.
136.
We too shall build a monument, for the Protector of the World, such a one."
137.
They too extended the Buddha shrine by a yojana in length.
138.
It illuminates all directions, like the risen sun.
139.
'Humans and gods, and serpents and garuḷas likewise.
140.
May we not be heedless, diligent together with the gods.
141.
We shall cover with jewels, the extended Buddha shrine."
142.
Rising up five yojanas, the stupa shone forth then.
143.
'Humans, gods and serpents, and garuḷas and kumbhaṇḍas.
144.
May we not be heedless, diligent together with the gods.
145.
With crystal we shall cover the extended Buddha shrine."
146.
Rising up six yojanas, the stupa shone forth then.
147.
'Men, deities, serpents, kumbhaṇḍas, and garuḷas likewise.
148.
We too shall build a monument, for the Protector of the World, such a one."
149.
An entirely golden monument, the gandhabbas had built then.
150.
Night and day are not discerned, there is light always.
151.
All around for a hundred yojanas, even a lamp does not blaze.
152.
They do not ascend the monument, they are lifted up into the sky.
153.
He raises up further a flag or a garland of flowers.
154.
Thus having seen, those going, all go to a good destination.
155.
Wishing to see a miracle, humans venerate the monument.
156.
Having seen the rejoicing people, thus I thought then.
157.
And this populace, satisfied, making offerings, is not devoted to another.
158.
His heir in the teachings, I shall be in the future.'
159.
Having attached it to the top of a bamboo, I raised it as a flag in the sky.
160.
Having seen the flag moved by the wind, I generate even more joy.
161.
Having paid respect to that monk, I asked about the result of the emblem.
162.
'You will always experience the result of that flag.
163.
They will constantly surround you, this is the fruit of giving a banner.
164.
They will constantly surround you, this is the fruit of giving a banner.
165.
Adorned with variegated garments and ornaments, wearing jewelled earrings.
166.
They will constantly surround you, this is the fruit of giving a banner.
167.
Eighty times as lord of the gods, you will exercise divine kingship.
168.
Principality over a district, extensive, incalculable by counting.
169.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
170.
Connected with meritorious action, you will become a kinsman of Brahma.
171.
You will go forth in the Dispensation of the Blessed One Gotama.
172.
By the name Upavāna, you will be a disciple of the Teacher."
173.
Well released like the speed of an arrow, I burnt up my defilements.
174.
For three yojanas all around, flags always stand raised.
175.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving a banner.
176.
177.
178.
Thus the Venerable Elder Upavāna spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Upavāna is the tenth.
11.
The Life History of the Elder Raṭṭhapāla
179.
A noble elephant was given by me, with tusks as long as a plough-pole, fully grown.
180.
Having valued all that, I had a monastery built for the Community.
181.
Having made a great flood of giving, I dedicated them to the great sage.
182.
Gladdening all people, he taught the Deathless state.
183.
Having sat down in the community of monks, he spoke these verses.
184.
I will explain the result, listen to me as I speak.
185.
Arisen in the highest Brahmā realm, and entirely made of gold are they.
186.
And fifty-eight times he will be a wheel-turning monarch.
187.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
188.
He will be reborn at that very moment in a wealthy family of great possessions.
189.
Raṭṭhapāla by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.
190.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, he will attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions.'
191.
Like a lump of spittle, love for wealth does not exist in me.
192.
I bear my final body in the teaching of the perfectly Self-awakened One.
193.
194.
195.
Thus the Venerable Elder Raṭṭhapāla spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Raṭṭhapāla is the eleventh.
The Yasa Chapter is the fifty-sixth.
Its summary:
Two Uttarās, Bhaddaji, Sivaka, and Upavāhana;
Raṭṭhapāla - one hundred, and ninety-five verses.
The Life Histories of the Elders is complete.
Thus far the life history of the Buddha and the life histories of the Solitary Buddhas and the life histories of the Elders
They are complete.
Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Perfectly Enlightened One
In the Minor Collection
Past Life Ηistories of the Elder Nuns
1.
The Chapter on Sumedhā
1.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Sumedhā
Now listen to the life histories of the senior nuns -
1.
We three friends, women, gave the gift of a dwelling."
2.
We were reborn among the gods, what then to say of human existence.
3.
I was the chief queen of one with the seven treasures, I was the woman treasure.
4.
Dhanañjānī and Khemā and I too, three people.
5.
Having dedicated it to the Community headed by the Buddha, she rejoiced.
6.
I attained the foremost position among the gods, and likewise among human beings.
7.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
8.
The King of Kāsi named Kikī, in the best city of Bārāṇasī.
9.
Devoted to attending upon the Buddha, they lived the holy life.
10.
Having given gifts thoroughly, I practised religious duty while still in the household.
11.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
12.
From there to Nimmānarati, and from there to the city of Vasavatti.
13.
There in each place, I attained the status of chief queen of kings.
14.
And of regional kings, I attained the status of chief queen.
15.
Having been happy everywhere, I wandered in the round of rebirths through many births.
16.
That is the first combination, that is Nibbāna for one delighted in the Dhamma.
17.
Like a she-elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
18.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
19.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the nun Sumedhā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Sumedhā is first.
2.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Who Gave a Girdle
20.
A girdle was given by me, for the new construction work of the Teacher.
21.
To the sage, the Protector of the World, devoted, with my own hands.
22.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of making a stupa.
23.
24.
25.
Thus the nun Mekhalādāyikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Mekhalādāyikā is second.
3.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Who Gave a Pavilion
26.
Constantly I gave the three robes to the Buddha, the kinsman of the world.
27.
Everywhere I am venerated, this is the fruit of meritorious action.
28.
29.
30.
Thus the nun Maṇḍapadāyikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Maṇḍapadāyikā is third.
4.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Who Gave for the Purpose of a Bridge
31.
Proceeding along the road, helping living beings to cross over.
32.
The compassionate Lord of the World stepped upon my head.
33.
By that confidence of mind, I went to Tusita.
34.
35.
36.
Thus the nun Saṅkamanattā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Saṅkamanatthā is fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Who Gave a Reed Garland
37.
I saw the stainless Buddha, the Self-Become One, the unconquered.
38.
Having taken a reed garland, I venerated the Self-Become One.
39.
Having abandoned the kinnarī body, I went to the destination among the deities.
40.
I attained the status of chief queen of ten universal monarchs;
Having caused agitation in my mind, I went forth into homelessness.
41.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
42.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of flower-offering.
43.
44.
45.
Thus the Elder Nun Naḷamālikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Naḷamālikā is fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Who Gave One Almsfood
46.
I was the wife of that king, I lived together with him.
47.
'Indeed there is nothing wholesome done by me to take along when going.
48.
Surely I go to hell, here there is no doubt for me.'
49.
'Give me one ascetic, I will feed him, O warrior.'
50.
Having taken his bowl, I filled it with the finest food.
51.
Having covered it with a net, I concealed it with a pair of cloths.
52.
Having gladdened my mind there, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
53.
What is wished for by my mind, arises as desired.
54.
Having become as if gathered, I wander in the round of rebirths from existence to existence.
55.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
56.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of almsfood.
57.
58.
59.
Thus the nun Ekapiṇḍapātadāyikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Ekapiṇḍapātadāyikā is sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Who Gave a Ladle of Almsfood
60.
Having held up a ladle of almsfood, I gave to the Buddha, the foremost.
61.
The Teacher, standing in the street, gave me thanksgiving.
62.
You will become the chief queen of thirty-six divine kings.
63.
All that is wished for by mind, you will obtain always.
64.
Having fully understood all mental corruptions, she will attain nibbāna, without mental corruptions.'
65.
The hero rose up into the sky, like a king of swans in the firmament.
66.
Having given a ladle of almsfood, I have attained the unshakeable state.
67.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving almsfood.
68.
69.
70.
Thus the nun Kaṭacchubhikkhādāyikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Kaṭacchubhikkhādāyikā is seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Sattuppalamālikā
71.
I was the wife of that king, I prevented what was to be prevented.
72.
Having sat down in the excellent mansion, thus she thought at that very moment.
73.
Better for me is what is planted in the knowledge of the Buddha, the foremost.'
74.
'When the Self-enlightened One comes, I will honour the great sage.'
75.
Together with the Community of monks, the Conqueror came along the street.
76.
Having opened the door, I honoured the foremost Buddha.
77.
Making a canopy, they bear them upon the Buddha's head.
78.
Having gladdened my mind there, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
79.
I waft divine fragrance, this is the fruit of seven water lilies.
80.
As far as my assembly extended, a great canopy was held.
81.
Having been lord everywhere, I wander in the round of rebirths from existence to existence.
82.
All conformed to me, my words were acceptable.
83.
I do not know ugliness, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
84.
Having attained the perfection of direct knowledge, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
85.
Engaged in right striving, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
86.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
87.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
88.
89.
90.
Thus the nun Sattuppalamālikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Sattuppalamālikā is eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Pañcadīpikā
91.
From park to park, I wander seeking the wholesome.
92.
Having gladdened my mind there, I sat down at the foot of the Bodhi tree.
93.
Having declared my pleasure, thus I thought at that very moment.
94.
Let him show me a miracle, let this Bodhi tree shine forth.'
95.
Entirely made of gold it was, all directions shine brilliantly.
96.
When the seventh day arrived, I made an offering of lamps.
97.
Until the sun rose, my lamps blazed then.
98.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
99.
Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.
100.
As far as the divine abode, it shines with the light of lamps.
101.
Above, below, and across, I see all with my eye.
102.
There is no obstruction, whether in trees or mountains.
103.
Of a hundred universal monarchs, I attained the status of chief queen.
104.
A hundred thousand lamps blaze in my retinue.
105.
While gone into my mother's womb, my eye does not close.
106.
Blaze in the maternity house, this is the fruit of five lamps.
107.
I touched Nibbāna, the ageless, deathless, state of coolness.
108.
The Buddha, Gotama, gave me full ordination, having understood my virtues.
109.
For me dwelling in an empty house, five lamps blaze.
110.
Having attained the perfection of direct knowledge, this is the fruit of five lamps.
111.
Five lamps, O great hero, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.
112.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of five lamps.
113.
114.
115.
Thus the nun Pañcadīpikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Pañcadīpikā is ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Udakadāyikā
116.
I live by carrying water, by that I support my children.
117.
Having approached the porch, I started the water.
118.
There my divine mansion was well made, fashioned by carrying water.
119.
In ten respects I always outshine all of them.
120.
Of twenty universal monarchs, I attained the status of chief queen.
121.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving water.
122.
Whenever I wish for water, I quickly obtain it.
123.
Having understood my thought, a great cloud sheds rain.
124.
Whenever I wished for rain, a great cloud arose.
125.
And no dust is on my body, this is the fruit of giving water.
126.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
127.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of giving water.
128.
129.
130.
Thus the nun who gave water spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Udakadāyikā is tenth.
The Sumedhā Chapter is first.
Its summary:
Naḷamālī, the almsfood-giver, the ladle-giver, the lotus-giver.
One hundred verses, and thirty beyond that.
2.
The Chapter on Ekūposathika
1.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Ekūposathikā
1.
On the full moon day, he observed the Observance.
2.
Having seen the army with its king, thus I reflected then.
3.
Surely that action was fruitful, the crowd of people was glad.'
4.
Having gladdened the mind, I observed the Observance.
5.
By that well-done action, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
6.
Endowed with excellent pinnacle buildings, well adorned with great seats.
7.
Surpassing other gods, I outshine them always.
8.
I attained the status of chief queen of sixty-three universal monarchs.
9.
Everywhere I am the noble one, this is the fruit of the Observance.
10.
I obtain all this indeed, this is the fruit of the Observance.
11.
And made of coral, I obtain all.
12.
And very costly garments, I obtain all.
13.
All this one would obtain, this is the fruit of the Observance.
14.
All this one would obtain, this is the fruit of the Observance.
15.
All this one would obtain, this is the fruit of the Observance.
16.
Before a fortnight had passed, I attained arahantship.
17.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
18.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the Observance.
19.
20.
21.
Thus the nun Ekūposathikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Ekūposathikā is first.
2.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Saḷalapupphikā
22.
I saw the god of gods, the lord of men walking up and down.
23.
The great hero sniffed at the sal flower with divine fragrance.
24.
The great hero sniffed at it while I was looking on then.
25.
Having gladdened my own mind, I then ascended the mountain.
26.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of honouring the Buddha.
27.
28.
29.
Thus the nun Saḷalapupphikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Saḷalapupphikā is second.
3.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Modakadāyikā
30.
Having taken my share, I went as a water carrier.
31.
With a confident mind, glad, I gave sweet-meats for thirteen days.
32.
For ninety-one cosmic cycles, I did not go to the nether world.
33.
Having given three sweet-meats, I have attained the unshakeable state.
34.
35.
36.
Thus the nun Modakadāyikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Modakadāyikā is third.
4.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Ekāsanadāyikā
37.
My mother and father too, they went to work.
38.
Going along the road, I prepared a seat.
39.
With a confident mind, glad, I spoke these words.
40.
And the winds do not blow, and this is the time for rain."
41.
Out of compassion, sit down upon my seat.'
42.
Having taken his bowl, I gave according to what was prepared.
43.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
44.
Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.
45.
And made of ruby, various are my divans.
46.
And otter-skin with fur on one side, my divans are well-established.
47.
Together with the excellent divan, I go to what I wished for.
48.
Of seventy universal monarchs, I attained the status of chief queen.
49.
There is no deficiency in my wealth, this is the fruit of a single seat.
50.
I do not know other existences, this is the fruit of a single seat.
51.
Of high birth everywhere, this is the fruit of a single seat.
52.
I do not know disfiguration, this is the fruit of a single seat.
53.
I go from lap to lap, this is the fruit of a single seat.
54.
Some anoint me with fragrance, this is the fruit of a single seat.
55.
Having understood my thought, a divan stands close.
56.
Even today, having abandoned kingship, I went forth into homelessness.
57.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of a single seat.
58.
59.
60.
Thus the nun Ekāsanadāyikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Ekāsanadāyikā is fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Pañcadīpadāyikā
61.
From park to park, I wander seeking the wholesome.
62.
Having gladdened my mind there, I sat down at the foot of the Bodhi tree.
63.
Having declared my pleasure, thus I thought at that very moment.
64.
Let him show me a miracle, let this Bodhi tree shine forth.'
65.
Entirely made of gold it was, all directions shine brilliantly.
66.
When the seventh day arrived, I made an offering of lamps.
67.
Until the sun rose, my lamps blazed then.
68.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
69.
Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.
70.
As far as the divine abode, it shines with the light of lamps.
71.
Above, below, and across, I see all with my eye.
72.
There is no obstruction, whether in trees or mountains.
73.
Of a hundred universal monarchs, I attained the status of chief queen.
74.
A hundred thousand lamps blaze in my retinue.
75.
While gone into my mother's womb, my eye does not close.
76.
Blaze in the maternity house, this is the fruit of five lamps.
77.
I touched Nibbāna, the ageless, deathless, state of coolness.
78.
The Buddha, Gotama, gave me full ordination, having understood my virtues.
79.
A lamp always blazes, this is the fruit of five lamps.
80.
Having attained the perfection of direct knowledge, this is the fruit of five lamps.
81.
Five lamps, O great hero, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.
82.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of five lamps.
83.
84.
85.
Thus the nun Pañcadīpadāyikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Pañcadīpadāyikā is fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Who Gave a Reed Garland
86.
I saw the stainless Buddha, the Self-Become One, the unconquered.
87.
Having taken a reed garland, I venerated the Self-Become One.
88.
Having abandoned the kinnarī body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
89.
What is wished for by my mind, arises as desired.
90.
Having become as if gathered, I wander in the round of rebirths from existence to existence.
91.
Worthy of veneration am I today, in the Sakyan son's Dispensation.
92.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
93.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of the reed garland.
94.
95.
96.
Thus the nun Naḷamālikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Naḷamālikā is sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Mahāpajāpatigotamī
97.
In the Pinnacled Hall, in the excellent hall, the trainer of men dwelt.
98.
Dwelt in the nuns' quarters, in that charming city that was built there.
99.
Gone to a private place, thus was her mind's reflection.
100.
Of Rāhula, Ānanda, and Nanda, I will not obtain to see.
101.
Of Mahākassapa and Nanda, and of Ānanda and Rāhula.
102.
I would go, permitted by the Lord of the World, the great sage.
103.
Of Khemā and the others too, this very same was the reflection.
104.
The deities inhabiting the dwelling, were oppressed by sorrow.
105.
Those friendly nuns, having approached Gotamī.
106.
'There, sprinkled with drops of water, we ladies went to a private place.
107.
And lamentations are heard, for what purpose indeed, Gotamī?'
108.
They all also said, just as she had reflected.
109.
We shall all attain Nibbāna, by the Buddha's permission, O one of good conduct.
110.
Together we shall go to Nibbāna, the supreme state.'
111.
Together with all of them she departed from the nuns' dwelling place then.
112.
This is my last seeing of the nuns' abode.
113.
There is no separation from the dear, I shall go to that unconditioned.
114.
Afflicted by sorrow, they lamented, 'Alas, our lack of merit.'
115.
Like stars at dawn, the Victor's daughters are not seen.
116.
Just as the Ganges with five hundred rivers goes to the ocean.
117.
Having come out from their houses, having bowed down at their feet, said this.
118.
We are not fit to cease to exist without you,' thus desiring, they lamented."
119.
'Enough of weeping, sons, today is a time for joy for you.
120.
Cessation has been realized by me, and the path too has been well developed.
The first recitation section.
121.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
122.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
123.
So long is the time for me to cease to exist, do not grieve for me, dear children.
124.
The Community is happy together, and the sectarians' substance is destroyed.
125.
Is it not now the time for me, for the sake of Nibbāna, dear children.
126.
This is the time of the drum of joy, why with tears, dear children?
127.
For the duration of the Good Teaching, all of you, make firm energy.
128.
Therefore, just as I would rejoice, so you should support that.'
129.
Having approached and paid homage to the Buddha, she spoke these words.
130.
O protector, giver of the happiness of the Good Teaching, by you I have been born, O Gotama.
131.
The blameless body of the Teaching was nourished in me by you.
132.
By you I was given to drink the milk of the Dhamma, absolutely peaceful.
133.
Women desiring sons, requesting, obtain such a son.
134.
I who was submerged, by you, son, have been helped across the ocean of existence.
135.
But the name 'mother of a Buddha' - this is supremely rare.
136.
Whether small or great, all that has been fulfilled by me.
137.
Permit me, O hero, O leader, maker of an end to suffering.
138.
I shall pay homage to you, O best of sons.
139.
Having well seen your body, I go to peace, O leader.'
140.
Like the young sun amidst evening clouds, the Conqueror showed his mother's sister.
141.
Marked with wheels, thereupon she fell at them with her head.
142.
At my final death, I shall not see him again.
143.
If there is any fault of mine, forgive me, O compassionate one.
144.
If there is any fault of mine in that, forgive me, O bull among men.
145.
If therein there is anything wrongly applied, forgive that, O lord of patience.
146.
What further shall I say to you, who are going to Nibbāna.
147.
At the time of dawn, having seen those who have come to disaster, like the crescent moon it goes forth.'
148.
Having circumambulated, having bowed down at his feet, standing, gazing at his face.
149.
My mind alone, only this one, having attained that, is satisfied by the flavour of the Dhamma.
150.
Those who will see your face, fortunate are they, O bull among men.
151.
Those who will bow down to these feet, they too are fortunate, O bearer of virtues.
152.
Those who hear your sayings, they too are fortunate, O best of men.
153.
Having crossed the wilderness of saṃsāra, by the good words of the glorious one.'
154.
And having paid homage to Rāhula, Ānanda and Nanda, said this.
155.
Becoming disenchanted with this mass of suffering, the domain of ageing and death.
156.
By that I wish to be extinguished, approve, dear children.'
157.
Firm in unshakeable stability, they reflected on the nature of phenomena.
158.
Like magic and a mirage, the other, unsteady.
159.
Gotamī goes to destruction, impermanent is all that is conditioned.'
160.
There shedding tears, he laments pitiably.
161.
Goes not long after, like a fire without fuel.
162.
Deep as an ocean in learning, devoted to attending upon the Buddha.
163.
Through you, son, my refuge, that Nibbāna has been attained.
164.
Do not be displeased, son, fruitful is your effort.
165.
That state was known by delicate girls of seven years.
166.
I am going there, son, where one who has gone is not seen.
167.
Then I, compassionate, spoke a word of blessing.
168.
For the benefit of the whole world, may you become free from ageing and death.
169.
'Not in this way are Buddhas to be paid respect, as you pay respect, Gotamī.
170.
How are the Buddhas not to be honoured? Tell me this when asked.
171.
Disciples in unity, this is the homage to the Buddhas.
172.
The Protector, gone to the end of the three existences, obstructed the united assembly.
173.
Having thus reflected, having seen the seventh sage.
174.
Then he gave approval, 'Know the time, Gotamī.'
175.
176.
177.
178.
For the purpose of abandoning their view, display supernormal power, Gotamī.'
179.
Gotamī showed various supernormal powers, by the Buddha's permission.
180.
Appearing, vanishing, through walls, through mountains.
181.
On the water not breaking, she came as if on the earth.
182.
He exercised mastery with his body, up to the dwelling of Brahmā.
183.
Having turned it upside down with its root, holding it I walked in the sky.
184.
Like the world at the end of an age, she made it entangled with garlands of flames.
185.
All like mustard seeds, he grasped with one fist.
186.
Thousands of moons and suns, he wore like a garland.
187.
Like a rain cloud at the end of an age, shed a great rain.
188.
She displayed a garuḷa, an elephant, and a lion roaring.
189.
Then having made them disappear, alone she spoke to the sage.
190.
Having attained her own welfare, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision."
191.
Having paid homage to the light of the world, she sat down to one side.
192.
This much is enough, O hero, I shall attain nibbāna, O leader.
193.
Said how she was, of incomparable supernormal power and effort.
194.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
195.
Endowed with all supports, prosperous, opulent, of great riches.
196.
With a great retinue, having approached that lord of men.
197.
Like the autumn sun, resplendent with a net of rays.
198.
The leader of men establishing my mother's sister, the nun, in the foremost position.
199.
To the highest of men together with the monastic community, and many requisites.
200.
Then, to the great assembly, the seventh sage said.
201.
Him I will explain, listen to me as I speak.
202.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
203.
Gotamī by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher.
204.
She will obtain pre-eminence among nuns of long standing.'
205.
Having attended on with requisites, thereafter I deceased.
206.
Reborn with ten factors, I surpassed others.
207.
And also with life span and beauty, with happiness and also with fame.
208.
I was the chief queen, beloved of the lord of the immortals, there.
209.
In the domain of the king of Kāsi, I was born in a slave village.
210.
Whoever was the eldest of all there, I was his wife.
211.
Having seen them, I was satisfied, together with all the women.
212.
Having given the three robes, we transmigrated with our husbands.
213.
And in this final existence now, we were born in the city of Devadaha.
214.
From there she went to Kapilavatthu, to the house of Suddhodana.
215.
I was the most distinguished of all, I was the foster-mother of the Conqueror.
216.
Afterwards I, having gone forth, together with five hundred.
217.
Those who then in a former birth were our masters.
218.
They attained arahantship, compassionately cared for by the Fortunate One.
219.
Like stars assembled, they shone, of great supernormal power.
220.
Like a smith with gold, well-trained in workable material.
221.
Having pleased the excellent speaker, the sage together with his following then.
222.
Permitted by the best of men, they sat down in their proper places.
223.
Perfumed by your merits, we have attained the elimination of mental corruptions.
224.
Like she-elephants having cut the bond, we dwell without mental corruptions.
225.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
226.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
227.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I was a master, O great sage.
228.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
229.
Knowledge for us, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
230.
Permit us all for Nibbāna, O great sage.'
231.
"Now do as you think fit," the Conqueror said.
232.
Having paid homage, having risen from that seat, they departed.
233.
That hero accompanied his mother's sister as far as the porch.
234.
Together with all of them, the last homage at his feet.
235.
I shall not again see your face, having the appearance of the Deathless.
236.
O chief of the world, today I go to peace.'
237.
All this is merely conditioned, without comfort and short-lived.
238.
Having bent into a half cross-legged posture, sat down on the highest seat.
239.
Having heard the news of her, they approached to pay homage at her feet.
240.
Crying a pitiful cry, afflicted by sorrow, fallen to the ground.
241.
Having fallen down, we all entreat with our heads.
242.
While stroking her head, spoke these words.
243.
Impermanent is all that is conditioned, ending in separation, unstable.'
244.
And the second and the third, she attained the fourth.
245.
Nothingness and neither-perception, he attained in succession.
246.
As far as the first meditative absorption, thence up to the fourth.
247.
There was a great earthquake, lightning fell from the sky.
248.
And a shower of flowers from the sky, rained down upon the earth.
249.
And the ocean, as if wretched with sorrow, was roaring.
250.
'Impermanent indeed are activities, just as this has gone to dissolution.'
251.
They too, without clinging, are quenched like a lamp's flame.
252.
Alas! Life ends in destruction," thus was the lamentation.
253.
Act in accordance with time, having approached the seventh sage.
254.
'Go, Ānanda, announce to the monks the passing of their mother'.
255.
Said with a choked voice, 'Let the monks assemble.
256.
Let them hear my saying, monks, sons of the Fortunate One.
257.
That Gotamī has gone to peace, like a star at sunrise.
258.
Where even the five-eyed Leader does not see her destination.
259.
Let the son of the Fortunate One make an offering to the Buddha's mother.'
260.
Some by the power of the Buddha, some skilled in supernormal powers.
261.
They placed a small bed, where Gotamī lay sleeping.
262.
The remaining gods, Sakka and so on, assembled in the pinnacle building.
263.
With the colour of the autumn sun, made by Vissakamma indeed.
264.
Having mounted the shoulders of the gods, they are led out gradually.
265.
With stars, moon and sun, marked, made of gold.
266.
Lotuses descended from the sky, flowers risen from the earth.
267.
Even the sun gone to the middle, does not scorch as the moon does.
268.
And with music and dancing, and with singing they venerated.
269.
Honoured her as she was being carried out, the quenched mother of the Buddha.
270.
Gotamī is led afterwards, honoured, the Buddha's nurse.
271.
Behind, the Buddha with his disciples, goes for the purpose of honouring his mother.
272.
The final Nibbāna of Gotamī, was exceedingly marvellous.
273.
The Buddha at Gotamī's Nibbāna, likewise Sāriputta and so on.
274.
Scattered with fragrant powder, they burnt them there.
275.
And Ānanda then said, words productive of religious emotion.
276.
The rendezvous is the Buddha's Nibbāna, it will not be long.'
277.
The relics of Gotamī, those that had gone into her bowl.
278.
'Just as a great tree standing with substance,
279.
Likewise of the community of nuns, Gotamī has attained final Nibbāna.
280.
With only her body remaining, there is no sorrow or lamentation.
281.
Having avoided torment, become cooled, well quenched.
282.
She is of long standing among the nuns, thus remember, monks.
283.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, Gotamī was a master.
284.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is no more rebirth for her.
285.
Knowledge was pure, therefore she is not to be sorrowed for.
286.
Gradually subsiding, the destination is not known.
287.
There is no destination to be declared for those who have attained unshakeable happiness.
288.
Having developed the seven factors of enlightenment, you will make an end of suffering."
Thus Mahāpajāpatī Gotamī spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Mahāpajāpatigotamī is seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Khemā
289.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
290.
Radiant with various jewels, endowed with great happiness.
291.
Then, with confidence arisen, I go to the Conqueror for refuge.
292.
Having invited for seven days, I fed him together with his disciples.
293.
The nun, in the foremost position, the trainer of men established.
294.
Having done service to that place, having bowed down, I aspired.
295.
The service done by you to me together with the Community is of immeasurable fruit.
296.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
297.
Having attained the highest, she will be named Khemā.'
298.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
299.
From there to Nimmānarati, and from there to the city of Vasavatti.
300.
There in each place, I attained the status of chief queen of kings.
301.
And of regional kings, I attained the status of chief queen.
302.
Having been happy everywhere, I wandered in the round of rebirths through many cosmic cycles.
303.
Arose, lovely to behold, one with insight into all phenomena.
304.
Having heard the Teaching spoken, I went forth into homelessness.
305.
Having lived the holy life, devoted to meditation, very learned.
306.
Subtle, brilliant speakers, carrying out the Teacher's instruction.
307.
I outshine others there through the fruit of the holy life.
308.
Wise, virtuous, and with a disciplined following.
309.
All successes for me are easily obtained, dear to the mind.
310.
No one disrespects me, by the power of my practice.
311.
Koṇāgamana by name, the best of speakers arose.
312.
Dhanañjānī and Sumedhā and I too, three people.
313.
And we had a dwelling-place built for the Community.
314.
Having attained the foremost position in glory, and likewise among human beings.
315.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
316.
The King of Kāsi named Kikī, in the best city of Bārāṇasī.
317.
Having heard the Teaching of the foremost Conqueror, I delighted in the going forth.
318.
For twenty thousand years, we wandered untiringly.
319.
Devoted to attending upon the Buddha, joyful were the seven daughters.
320.
Dhammā and Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.
321.
Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, Visākhā is the seventh.
322.
Having heard the Great Discourse on Causality, I learnt it thoroughly.
323.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
324.
I am the daughter of King Madda, agreeable, beloved, and dear.
325.
Therefore the name Khemā arose for me, by virtue.
326.
Then my father gave me, to King Bimbisāra.
327.
As one who spoke ill of material forms, I did not approach the greatly compassionate one.
328.
Having praised the Bamboo Grove, had singers sing for me.
329.
By him the Nandana garden has not been seen, thus we imagine.
330.
By him the Nandana garden has been well seen, the delight of the lord of the immortals.
331.
Having seen the charming Bamboo Grove, they are not satisfied, being much astonished.
332.
Who could speak entirely of that forest's accumulation of virtues?
333.
Wishing to see that park, I announced it to the king then.
334.
Sent me to that park, eager to see.
335.
Which always shines with splendour, delighted by the radiance of the Fortunate One.
336.
Had entered, then I approached to see the forest.
337.
Accompanied by the singing of cuckoos, with flocks of peacocks dancing.
338.
Full of huts and pavilions, resplendent with the best of meditators.
339.
Even there, having seen a young monk engaged, I considered.
340.
Endowed with pleasant form, like the spring.
341.
This monk indeed meditates, having abandoned delight born of sense objects.
342.
Afterwards when old, this Teaching should be practised, O Subhadda.'
343.
Having approached, I saw the Conqueror, like the rising sun.
344.
Having seen thus I thought, 'This lord of men is not rough.'
345.
With lips like bimba fruit, with teeth like jasmine, a delight to the mind and eye.
346.
With a beautiful waist like an altar's middle, with thighs like plantain stems, adorned with charming ornaments.
347.
With an appearance not to be exerted upon, endowed with a mirthful disposition.
348.
Never before have I seen her with this eye.'
349.
With broken teeth, white-haired, drooling, her mouth impure.
350.
With wrinkles spread over all limbs, with veins spread over the body.
351.
Trembling, fallen, sighing moment by moment.
352.
Shame on the impure body, where fools delight.
353.
The Fortunate One, elated in mind, spoke these verses.
354.
Oozing and dripping, delighted in by the foolish.
355.
Let mindfulness directed to the body be yours, be full of disenchantment.
356.
Internally and externally, remove desire regarding the body.
357.
Then through the full realization of conceit, you will live at peace.
358.
Having cut even this, they wander forth, without longing, having abandoned sensual happiness.'
359.
Taught the Mahānidāna discourse, for my discipline.
360.
Steady in that, while I was peaceful, I purified the eye of the Teaching.
361.
For the purpose of confessing my transgression, I spoke these words.
362.
Homage to you, one who has crossed over the round of rebirths, homage to you, bestower of the Deathless.
363.
By you, through the right means, disciplined, delighting in the discipline.
364.
Beings experience great suffering in the ocean of saṃsāra.
365.
Standing not far away, I confess that transgression.
366.
Delighting in form, I did not approach him, I confess that transgression.'
367.
Said 'Stand in security,' sprinkling me with the deathless.
368.
Having gone and seen the king, I spoke these words.
369.
For the desire to see the forest, the sage was seen from Nibbāna.
370.
I shall go forth from material things, wearied by the sage's word.'
The second recitation section.
371.
'I allow you, dear lady, may your going forth succeed.'
372.
Having seen the rise and destruction of the island, with a stirred mind.
373.
Having passed over the four mental floods, I attained arahantship.
374.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I become a master too.
375.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
376.
My knowledge is pure, arisen in the Buddha's Dispensation.
377.
And knowing the method of the higher teaching, I have attained mastery in the Dispensation.
378.
Asked subtle questions, she answered according to truth.
379.
The Buddha declared just so, as it was declared to you by me.
380.
As foremost among those of great wisdom, among the nuns, the highest of men.
381.
382.
383.
Thus the nun Khemā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Khemā is eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Uppalavaṇṇā
384.
Having paid homage at the Teacher's feet, spoke these words.
385.
All suffering has been eliminated by me, I inform you, great sage.
386.
And to whomever my offence there is, may they forgive me in the Conqueror's presence.
387.
I inform you, O great hero, forgive that offence.
388.
Today, cut off the doubt of the four assemblies, as far as they extend.
389.
And much difficult action, done by me, exceedingly difficult.
390.
Your female disciple, O Great Hero, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.
391.
Born in one existence, with the same desire and mind.
392.
When the final existence is attained, both are of different origins.
393.
See, O hero, my supernormal power, I show my strength to the Teacher.
394.
Oil come into hand, just as a playful boy.
395.
Just as a young boy pulls out the variegated muñja grass.
396.
Having caused rain to fall, drops of various colours, again and again.
397.
Having made Sineru a pestle, she crushed like a young girl.
398.
Having become a master over the direct knowledges, one who followed your teaching.
399.
And having announced my name and clan, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.
400.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
401.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
402.
My knowledge is spotless, pure, by the intrinsic nature of the great sage.
403.
Much aspiration of mine, for your benefit, O great sage.
404.
For your benefit, O great hero, merit was accumulated by me.
405.
For your benefit, O great hero, my highest life has been given up.
406.
And I have been given up, for your benefit, O great sage.
407.
Said how she was, of incomparable supernormal power and effort."
408.
Vimalā by name, highly honoured among maidens.
409.
Invited Padumuttara of great radiance together with his disciples.
410.
Strewn with jewel-sand, enjoyments made of jewels.
411.
Having gone out to meet the self-enlightened, playing musical instruments.
412.
In the abode of the great serpent, sat down on the highest seat.
413.
The king of serpents of great fame gave excellent boon after boon.
414.
The serpent maiden of great supernormal power gave thanks.
415.
Her mind devoted to the Teacher, and her mental state firmly bound.
416.
At that moment the great hero showed the nun his supernormal power.
417.
Delighted, filled with joy, she said this to the Teacher.
418.
How was she, O hero, so confident in supernormal power?'
419.
Carrying out my instruction, so confident in supernormal power.'
420.
May I too be such, confident in supernormal power."
421.
In the future time, may I become such, O leader.
422.
Having satisfied with food and drink, the leader of the world together with the Community.
423.
May my beauty be such, I honoured the leader of the world.
424.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
425.
Covered with water lilies, I gave almsfood.
426.
Arose, lovely to behold, having vision regarding all phenomena.
427.
Having invited the self-enlightened one, the leader of the world together with the Community.
428.
Having venerated him with my mind, I aspired to beauty of complexion.
429.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
430.
The King of Kāsi named Kikī, in the best city of Bārāṇasī.
431.
Having heard the Teaching of the foremost Conqueror, I delighted in the going forth.
432.
For twenty thousand years, we wandered untiringly.
433.
Devoted to attending upon the Buddha, joyful were the seven daughters.
434.
Dhammā and Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.
435.
Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, Visākhā is the seventh.
436.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
437.
Yellow, polished, excellent cloth, I gave to the Worthy One.
438.
The daughter of Tiriṭivaccha, Ummādantī, the charming one.
439.
Was born in one not very prosperous, I guarded rice then.
440.
Covered with lotuses, I have five hundred sons.
441.
Passed away from there, in the forest I was born in the belly of a lotus.
442.
I gave birth to princes, a full five hundred.
443.
Having seen a fallen lotus, they became Solitary Leaders.
444.
Passed away on the slope of Isigili, I was born in a small village.
445.
Taking rice gruel, was going to the eight individual leaders.
446.
A stream of milk flowed out, then, due to my love for my son.
447.
Having passed away from there, I was reborn among the deities, in Nandana.
448.
For your benefit, O great hero, life was given up.
449.
When the final existence was attained, I was born formerly in Sāvatthī.
450.
Shining with various jewels, prosperous with all sensual pleasures.
451.
Endowed with personal splendour, greatly honoured among families.
452.
Desired by merchants' sons, by many hundreds too.
453.
Before a fortnight had passed, I attained the four truths.
454.
Paid homage at the feet of the Buddha, the Protector of the World, such a one.
455.
And there is no companion of yours whatsoever, foolish one, do you not fear the cheats?"
456.
I would not stir a hair nor would I tremble, what will you do to me, Māra, alone?
457.
Even between your eyebrows, standing there you will not see me.
458.
I am freed from all bondage, I do not fear you, friend.
459.
What you call 'sensual delight', that is now discontent for me.
460.
Know thus, Evil One, you are defeated, O Death."
461.
As the foremost among those possessing supernormal power," said the great leader in the assemblies.
462.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
463.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
464.
In a moment they offer, thousands from all around.
465.
466.
467.
Thus the nun Uppalavaṇṇā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Uppalavaṇṇā is ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Paṭācārā
468.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
469.
Radiant with various jewels, endowed with great happiness.
470.
Then, with confidence arisen, I approached the Conqueror for refuge.
471.
A nun who was conscientious, such a one, skilled in what is allowable and what is not allowable.
472.
Having invited the one of ten powers, the leader of the world together with the Community.
473.
Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I spoke these words.
474.
Such shall I become, if it succeeds, O leader.'
475.
In the future time, you will obtain that wish.
476.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
477.
Paṭācārā by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
478.
With a mind of friendliness I attended, the leader of the world together with the Community.
479.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
480.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
481.
The King of Kāsi named Kikī, in the best city of Bārāṇasī.
482.
Having heard the Teaching of the foremost Conqueror, I delighted in the going forth.
483.
For twenty thousand years, we wandered untiringly.
484.
Devoted to attending upon the Buddha, joyful were the seven daughters.
485.
Dhammā and Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.
486.
Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, Visākhā is the seventh.
487.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
488.
In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, opulent, of great riches.
489.
Having seen a man, an old husband, I went together with him.
490.
Then I, fully resolved, thought 'I will leave my mother and father.'
491.
Alone I went forth from the house, to go to Sāvatthī, the excellent.
492.
At that time, kamma-born pains arose in me, extremely severe.
493.
Having gone then for the sake of timber, my husband was killed by a snake.
494.
Having seen the rivulet filled, going to my family's home.
495.
Having put the young son to sleep, I went back to cross for the other.
496.
And the other the stream carried away, I was given over to sorrow.
497.
Then, afflicted by sorrow, overcome by great sorrow, I said.
498.
Mother, father, and brother are burnt on one pyre.
499.
Wandering here and there, I saw the trainer of men.
500.
You should seek yourself, why do you vex yourself in vain?
501.
For one overcome by the Ender, there is no protection among kin."
502.
Having gone forth, not long after, I attained arahantship.
503.
I know the minds of others, carrying out the Teacher's instruction.
504.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, I was pure, completely stainless.
505.
I learned it in all its detail, and recited it according to truth.
506.
Foremost among those who uphold the discipline, Paṭācārā alone.
507.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
508.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
509.
510.
511.
Thus the nun Paṭācārā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Paṭācārā is tenth.
The Ekūposathikā Chapter is second.
Its summary:
Ekāsanā, Pañcadīpā, Naḷamālī and Gotamī.
Five hundred verses, and nine more beyond that.
3.
The Chapter on Kuṇḍalakesī
1.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Kuṇḍalakesā
1.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
2.
Radiant with various jewels, endowed with great happiness.
3.
Then, with confidence arisen, I approached the Conqueror for refuge.
4.
Established the nun Subhā as foremost among those of quick direct knowledge."
5.
Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I aspired for that state.
6.
All that will succeed, may you be happy, quenched.'
7.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
8.
Bhaddā Kuṇḍalakesā by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
9.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
10.
From there to Nimmānarati, and from there to the city of Vasavatti.
11.
There in each place, I attained the status of chief queen of kings.
12.
And of regional kings, I attained the status of chief queen.
13.
Having been happy everywhere, I wandered in the round of rebirths through many cosmic cycles.
14.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
15.
The King of Kāsi named Kikī, in the best city of Bārāṇasī.
16.
Having heard the Teaching of the foremost Conqueror, I delighted in the going forth.
17.
For twenty thousand years, we wandered untiringly.
18.
Devoted to attending upon the Buddha, joyful were the seven daughters.
19.
Dhammā and Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.
20.
Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, Visākhā is the seventh.
21.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
22.
Born in a prosperous millionaire's family, when I was standing in youth.
23.
My father, having released him from murder with a thousand, thereupon.
24.
To him I was devoted, exceedingly beloved and dear.
25.
Having led me to the thieves' precipice, the mountain, he intended murder.
26.
Protecting my own life, I spoke these words.
27.
Take it all, venerable one, and announce me as a slave.'
28.
And I do not directly know wealth brought by having killed.'
29.
And I do not directly know another more dear than you."
30.
And now there is no more meeting of me and you.
31.
A woman too may be wise, discerning here and there.
32.
A woman too may be wise, quickly discerning what is beneficial.
33.
Just as wool a deer, then I killed the flour.
34.
He, of slow wit, is destroyed, like a thief in a mountain cave.
35.
Is freed from the confinement of flour, just as I was from the flour."
36.
Having approached the presence of the white-robed ones, I went forth.
37.
Having gone forth, they explained the teaching continuously.
38.
I thought over that teaching, a dog performing human deeds.
39.
Having seen it, I obtained a sign, that hand swarming with worms.
40.
They said they understand, that matter, the Sakyan monks.
41.
They, having taken me, went to the presence of the Buddha, the foremost.
42.
Foulness, impermanence, and suffering, and non-self," said the Leader.
43.
Then having cognised the Good Teaching, I received the going forth and the full ordination.
44.
Then I became fully ordained, I saw a small amount of water.
45.
Likewise all activities, thus I reflected then.
46.
The Conqueror then made known to me the path of quick direct knowledge.
47.
I know the minds of others, carrying out the Teacher's instruction.
48.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, I was pure, completely stainless.
49.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
50.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
51.
My knowledge is spotless, pure, in the Dispensation of the Buddha, the foremost.
52.
Like a she-elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
53.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
54.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the nun Bhaddākuṇḍalakesā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Kuṇḍalakesā is first.
2.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Kisāgotamī
55.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
56.
Having approached that excellent man, I went for refuge.
57.
Sweet, of supreme gratification, bringing the happiness of peace from the round of rebirths.
58.
Placing her in the foremost position, praised the nun who wore coarse robes.
59.
Having done service to the Buddha, according to ability, according to strength.
60.
The Fully Enlightened One, the Leader, gave thanks for the attainment of that state.
61.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
62.
Kisāgotamī by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
63.
With a mind of friendliness I tended, with requisites, the Guide.
64.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
65.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
66.
The King of Kāsi named Kikī, in the best city of Bārāṇasī.
67.
Having heard the Teaching of the foremost Conqueror, I delighted in the going forth.
68.
For twenty thousand years, we wandered untiringly.
69.
Devoted to attending upon the Buddha, joyful were the seven daughters.
70.
Dhammā and Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.
71.
And I and Dhammadinnā, Visākhā is the seventh.
72.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
73.
When it had become poor, without wealth, ruined, I went to a wealthy family.
74.
But when I had given birth, I was beloved by all then.
75.
Pleasant to me like life itself, then he went under Yama's control.
76.
Having taken up the dead corpse, lamenting, I went.
77.
I said, 'Give medicine for reviving my son, friend.'
78.
Said the Conqueror, skilled in the means of monastic discipline.
79.
Whence mustard seed? Therefore, from that I obtained mindfulness.
80.
Having seen me from afar, he with the sweet voice spoke.
81.
Better is the life of one day, of one seeing rise and fall.
82.
For the whole world including the gods, this alone is the principle, namely impermanence.'
83.
Then having cognised the Good Teaching, I went forth into homelessness.
84.
Not long after, I attained arahantship.
85.
I know the minds of others, carrying out the Teacher's instruction.
86.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, I was pure, completely stainless.
87.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
88.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
89.
My knowledge is spotless, pure, owing to the Buddha, the foremost.
90.
From that having made a double robe, I wear a coarse robe.
91.
The great leader established me in the foremost position, in the assemblies.
92.
93.
94.
Thus the nun Kisāgotamī spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Kisāgotamī is second.
3.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Dhammadinnā
95.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
96.
I was a worker for others, prudent, restrained by morality.
97.
Having gone forth from the dwelling, goes for almsfood.
98.
Having seen him, I gave a cake, devoted, with my own hands.
99.
Then having led him to the house, I gave food to him.
100.
Having gone together with my mother-in-law, I paid respect to the Self-enlightened One.
101.
Established her in the foremost position, having heard that, I was joyful.
102.
Having given a great gift, I aspired for that state.
103.
'To one delighting in my attendance, serving food together with the Community.
104.
Dear lady, be joyful, you will obtain the fruit of your aspiration.
105.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
106.
Dhammadinnā by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
107.
With a mind of friendliness I tended, with requisites, the Guide.
108.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
109.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
110.
The King of Kāsi named Kikī, in the best city of Bārāṇasī.
111.
Having heard the Teaching of the foremost Conqueror, I delighted in the going forth.
112.
For twenty thousand years, we wandered untiringly.
The third recitation section.
113.
Devoted to attending upon the Buddha, joyful were the seven daughters.
114.
Dhammā and Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.
115.
Gotamī and I myself, Visākhā is the seventh.
116.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
117.
Born in a prosperous millionaire's family, abounding in all sensual pleasures.
118.
Then having gone to another's family, I dwelt, devoted to happiness.
119.
My husband, of great wisdom, has attained the fruition of non-returning.
120.
Not long after, I attained arahantship.
121.
Profound and subtle questions, all those I answered.
122.
'I do not see another nun who is a Teaching-preacher such as this.'
123.
"Thus I am wise, shown compassion by the leader.
124.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
125.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
126.
I know the minds of others, carrying out the Teacher's instruction.
127.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, I was pure, completely stainless.
128.
129.
130.
Thus the nun Dhammadinnā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Dhammadinnā is third.
4.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Sakulā
131.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
132.
For the benefit of those including the gods, the remarkable man is practicing.
133.
Venerated by the whole world, renowned in all directions.
134.
With mind and thought fulfilled, he attained the highest enlightenment.
135.
And the undeclared he declared, and the unproduced he produced.
136.
The Teacher skilled in the path, the most excellent among charioteers.
137.
He lifts up living beings sunk in the mire of sensual pleasure.
138.
Handsome and wealthy too, beloved and glorious.
139.
And also the half-sister of the one named Padumuttara.
140.
Having approached the great hero, I heard the teaching of the Dhamma.
141.
Praising her in the midst of the assembly, established her in the foremost position.
142.
And having venerated the Self-enlightened One, I aspired to the divine eye.
143.
This is the well-determined fruit of the gift of lamps and the Teaching.
144.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
145.
Sakulā by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
146.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
147.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
148.
Having wandered about for alms, I obtained just a little oil.
149.
The shrine of the highest of bipeds, with a clear mind.
150.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
151.
Great lamps blaze forth for me, wherever I have gone.
152.
I see whatever I wish, this is the fruit of giving a lamp.
153.
And I am endowed with faith and wisdom, this is the fruit of giving a lamp.
154.
In one abundant in wealth and grain, joyful, honoured by the king.
155.
At the city entrance, standing at the window, I saw the Fortunate One.
156.
Accomplished in features, adorned with characteristics.
157.
Not long after, I attained arahantship.
158.
I know the minds of others, carrying out the Teacher's instruction.
159.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, I was pure, completely stainless.
160.
The heavy burden has been laid down, the conduit to existence has been uprooted.
161.
That purpose has been attained by me, the destruction of all mental fetters.
162.
Foremost among those with the divine eye, Sakulā," said the highest of men.
163.
164.
165.
Thus the nun Sakulā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Sakulā is fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Nandā
166.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
167.
The Buddha, skilled in teaching, helped many people to cross.
168.
He established all the sectarians who had arrived in the five precepts.
169.
Decorated with Worthy Ones, by those who had become masters, by such ones.
170.
Resembling the radiance of gold, possessing the thirty-two excellent characteristics.
171.
Remaining for that long, he helped many people to cross.
172.
Radiant with various jewels, endowed with great happiness.
173.
The Deathless, of supreme gratification, the announcer of ultimate reality.
174.
Having given to him a great gift, devoted, with my own hands.
175.
Having bowed down with my head to the wise one, the leader of the world together with the Community.
176.
The trainer of men declared, 'You will obtain that which is well wished for.'
177.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
178.
Nandā by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
179.
With a mind of friendliness I tended, with requisites, the Guide.
180.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
181.
From there to Nimmānarati, and from there to the city of Vasavatti.
182.
There in each place, I attained the status of chief queen of kings.
183.
And of regional kings, I attained the status of chief queen.
184.
Having been happy everywhere, I wandered in the round of rebirths through many cosmic cycles.
185.
I was the blameless daughter of King Suddhodana.
186.
Therefore my name is Nandā, it was beautiful and excellent.
187.
In that charming city, having set aside that Yasodhara.
188.
I alone remained a householder, urged on by my mother.
189.
Being without Nanda too, why do you remain in the house?
190.
But health ends in disease, life ends in death.
191.
An ornament among decorations, resembling a cluster of glory.
192.
Producing fame for the meritorious, the delight of the Okkāka clan.
193.
Having left the house, out of compassion, practise the blameless teaching.'
194.
With body but not with mind, being charmed by beauty and youth.
195.
My mother speaks of doing, but I am not zealous for that.
196.
For the purpose of disenchantment with matter, the Conqueror appeared in my range of vision.
197.
Beautiful to behold, very lovely, and more handsome than me.
198.
I thought 'this is fruitful for me', and the gaining of eyes as a human.
199.
Tell me your family, name and clan, if it is dear to you.
200.
My limbs are sinking, let me sleep for a moment."
201.
On her forehead fell one who was greedy, extremely cruel.
202.
And having burst, they oozed, corpse-like, with pus and blood.
203.
Swollen and discoloured, and also the body full of pus.
204.
Experiencing her own suffering, lamented pitiably.
205.
I am sunk in great suffering, be a refuge to me, friend.'
206.
Your lips like excellent copper-coloured bimba fruit, where has your face gone?
207.
Your ears, like swinging ornaments, have become discoloured.
208.
Broken open, putrid corpses, having reached the utmost foul odour.
209.
Born filled with impurity, alas, such form is not eternal.
210.
Loathsome like a cemetery, where fools delight."
211.
Having seen me with an agitated mind, spoke these verses.
212.
Develop the mind towards foulness, fully focused, well concentrated.
213.
Foul-smelling and putrid it blows, delighted in by the foolish.
214.
Then with your own wisdom, having broken through, you shall see."
215.
Standing right there, being peaceful, I attained arahantship.
216.
The Conqueror, satisfied with that virtue, established me in the foremost position.
217.
218.
219.
Thus the nun Nandā, the most beautiful girl in the country, spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Nandā is fifth.
6.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Soṇā
220.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
221.
Having approached that excellent sage, I heard the sweet speech.
222.
Having heard that, having become joyful, having done service to the Teacher.
223.
The great hero gave thanks, 'May your aspiration succeed.
224.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
225.
Soṇā by name, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
226.
With a mind of friendliness I tended, with requisites, the Guide.
227.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
228.
In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, opulent, of great riches.
229.
Gave birth to ten children, handsome distinctively.
230.
Pleasing even to enemies, how much more dear are they to me.
231.
My husband went forth, in the Dispensation of the god of gods.
232.
Abandoned by husband and sons, and old, a wretched woman.'
233.
Having thus reflected, I went forth into homelessness.
234.
Going for the exhortation, 'Heat the water,' thus.
235.
Having placed it on the stove, seated, thereupon I concentrated my mind.
236.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, I attained arahantship.
237.
Having determined upon the heat element, I quickly heated the water.
238.
Having heard that, the joyful protector spoke this verse.
239.
Better is the life of one day, of one who firmly arouses energy.'
240.
That great sage said I was foremost among those putting forth strenuous energy.
241.
242.
243.
Thus the nun Soṇā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Soṇā is sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Bhaddakāpilānī
244.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
245.
A millionaire with abundant wealth, I was his wife.
246.
Heard the teaching of the Buddha, which dispels all suffering and fear.
247.
Having heard, having given a week-long gift to the Buddha, such a one.
248.
He, the bull among men, gladdening the assembly then.
249.
'You will obtain the wished for state, be one with passion quenched, dear son.
250.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
251.
Kassapa by clan, will be a disciple of the Teacher.'
252.
With a mind of friendliness he tended, with requisites, the Guide.
253.
And having trained those fit to be trained, he, together with his disciples, attained final Nibbāna.
254.
Having brought together relatives and friends, together with them he made an offering.
255.
Blazing like the sun with a hundred rays, like a fully blossomed king of sal trees.
256.
Shining like a fire of reeds, with the seven jewels.
257.
For the purpose of venerating the great sage, compassionate towards all beings.
258.
Filled with jewels indeed, for the purpose of venerating the great sage.
259.
They outshine in beauty, like the sun in autumn.
260.
Raised delightful planks shine, made of jewels.
261.
Banners hoisted, the jewels shine brilliantly.
262.
It outshines in beauty, like the sun at evening.
263.
One with red arsenic, and one with eye ointment.
264.
He gave a gift to the Community, for as long as life, according to his strength.
265.
Having done so for as long as life, together they went to a fortunate destination.
266.
Like a shadow with the body, together with that very one I wandered in the round of rebirths.
267.
Arose, lovely to behold, one with insight into all phenomena.
268.
Being wealthy in virtue, but very poor in riches.
269.
Sometimes that excellent twice-born one met with the great sage.
270.
Having heard the Teaching, greatly delighted, he gave a single cloth.
271.
'Rejoice in the great merit, the cloth given to the Buddha'.
272.
'The cloth is well given, my lord, to the Buddha, the foremost, such a one.'
273.
In the charming city of Bārāṇasī, there was a king, a lord of the earth.
274.
I was beloved to him, through former affection for my husband.
275.
Having seen them, being greatly delighted, having given very precious almsfood.
276.
A bowl made by smiths, golden, indeed of such size.
277.
To those seated on golden seats, devoted, with his own hands.
278.
Again I in Bārāṇasī, was born in a Kāsika village.
279.
I was the wife of the eldest brother, a devoted wife.
280.
Having given him a portion of food, when he came I spoke to him.
281.
Having brought that food in a pot, he gave it again to that very one.
282.
That bowl filled with mud, I gave to such a one.
283.
Having seen his face with equanimous mind, then I was stirred exceedingly.
284.
With a confident mind, having filled it, I gave ghee and sugar.
285.
But with foul-smelling speech owing to injury to the Buddha.
286.
I gave an excellent golden brick, joyful.
287.
Freed from the fault of bad odour, well-endowed with all limbs.
288.
Having made them filled with ghee, and wicks by the thousands.
289.
For the purpose of honouring the Protector of the World, with a clear mind.
290.
Again born among the Kāsis, renowned as Sumitta.
291.
Then to the solitary sage, I gave a thick head-wrap.
292.
Again in the Kāsi country, born of the Koliya clan.
293.
He attended upon five hundred Paccekabuddhas.
294.
His wife then I was, following the path of meritorious action.
295.
I was also his chief queen, endowed with all sensual pleasures.
296.
Of the sons of Padumavatī, the solitary sages then.
297.
Having housed them in a royal garden, and I worshipped those who were quenched.
298.
Having developed the boundless states, we went to the Brahma world.
299.
His mother was Sumanadevī, his father a twice-born of the Kosiya clan.
300.
I was the daughter of Kappila, a brahmin, my mother was Sucīmatī.
301.
Gave me to Kassapa the wise, to his hermitage, one who had renounced sensual pleasures.
302.
Having seen living beings being eaten by crows and so on, he was stirred.
303.
Worms being eaten by crows, I then gained a sense of urgency.
304.
For five rains retreats I dwelt, I as a wanderer.
305.
Then I, having approached her, was advised by the Buddha.
306.
Oh, the good friendship of the glorious Kassapa!
307.
He who knows past lives, and sees heaven and the realms of misery.
308.
By these three true knowledges, one becomes a possessor of the threefold true knowledge, a brahmin.
309.
Bears her final body, having conquered Māra with his mount.
310.
We are ones who have eliminated the mental corruptions, tamed, become cool, quenched.
311.
312.
313.
Thus the nun Bhaddā Kāpilānī spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Bhaddakāpilānī is seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Yasodharā
314.
On an excellent mountain slope, while the leader of men was dwelling.
315.
For the nun Yasodharā, thus was the reflection.
316.
Well-known great elders, and elder nuns of great supernormal power.
317.
While the Lord of the World was still living, I too attained the safe state.
318.
Having seen the life principle, on that very day gone to destruction.
319.
She, honoured by nuns, by hundreds of thousands.
320.
Having paid respect to the self-enlightened, at the wheel-characteristic of the Teacher;
Seated on one side, she spoke these words.
321.
Having reached the mountain slope, I inform you, great sage.
322.
Leaving you, I shall go, I have made myself my own refuge.
323.
Tonight, O great hero, I shall attain peace.
324.
I shall go to the city without ageing and death, the unconditioned.
325.
Not knowing any offence, being patient in the presence of the sage.
326.
I inform you, O great hero, forgive my offence.'
327.
"What further shall I say to you, who are going to Nibbāna.
328.
Cut off the doubt of all the assemblies, as far as they extend.'
329.
Having paid homage to that king of sages, spoke these words.
330.
Born in the Sakyan clan, established in a woman's form.
331.
In the house, I, O hero, was the chief of all, the lord.
332.
All pay homage to me, humans as if to a deity.
333.
Sharing the same happiness and suffering, like deities in the Nandana grove.
334.
There is none similar in matter, except for the leader of the world.
335.
Many of various kinds, he also displayed great supernormal power.
336.
Both wings as two islands, Jambudīpa from the body.
337.
The moon and the sun are the eyes, and from Mount Meru the crest.
338.
Flying towards and approaching, they pay homage to the leader of the world.
339.
The moon, the sun, Meru, and the appearance of Sakka he showed.
340.
With a full-blown lotus, he covered a thousand world systems.
341.
I am Yasodharā, O hero, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.
342.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
343.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
344.
Knowledge for me, O great hero, has arisen in your presence.
345.
Much aspiration of mine, for your benefit, O great sage.
346.
For your benefit, O great hero, merit was accumulated by me.
347.
For your benefit, O great hero, life was sacrificed by me.
348.
I am not displeased therein, for your benefit, O great sage.
349.
I am not displeased therein, for your benefit, O great sage.
350.
I am not displeased therein, for your benefit, O great sage.
351.
They will bring release from fear, I give my life.
352.
Women's adornments I do not conceal, for your benefit, O great sage.
353.
Field, sons and daughters, have been given up, O great sage.
354.
For your benefit, O great hero, given up innumerable times.
355.
I do not see displeasure in me, while giving the highest gift.
356.
For your benefit, O great hero, was undergone, incalculable.
357.
I am balanced everywhere, for your benefit, O great sage.
358.
Having experienced happiness and suffering, the great sage attained enlightenment.
359.
The meeting with other lords of the world was much by me.
360.
While seeking the Buddha's teachings, I was your attendant.
361.
Dīpaṅkara, the great hero, arose as the leader of the world.
362.
They clean the path for his coming, with satisfied minds.
363.
And he prepared the path for the coming of the All-Seeing One.
364.
Sumittā by name, I approached the assembly.
365.
Having taken them, in the midst of the people, I saw the sage risen high.
366.
Having seen, then I imagined my life to be fruitful.
367.
Through former action, my mind became confident in the Self-enlightened One.
368.
I see nothing else to give, I give you flowers, O sage.
369.
Together with that let them be equal, for the sake of your enlightenment, O seer."
The fourth recitation section.
370.
He honoured in the midst of the people, for the sake of enlightenment, the great sage.
371.
The great hero declared concerning the sage with uplifted mind.
372.
Explained my action, my uprightness, the great sage.
373.
She will be dear by action, for your benefit, O great sage.
374.
His heir in the teachings, she will dwell with supernormal power.
375.
So this one will guard wholesome mental states.
376.
Like a lion having broken through a cage, he will attain enlightenment.'
377.
Rejoicing in that speech, I became one who acts thus.
378.
Having experienced the realm of gods and humans, incalculable.
379.
When the final existence was attained, I was born in a Sakyan family.
380.
I am accomplished in all qualities, greatly honoured among families.
381.
And my mind is not afflicted, I dwell free from fear from any quarter.
382.
Before the warriors, O hero, he pointed out the benefit.
383.
The woman who shows what is beneficial, and the woman who is compassionate.
384.
To those gods of gods, I carried on the great giving.
385.
Eleven hundred ten millions, twelve ten millions of Buddhas.
386.
My aspiration was great, King of the Dhamma, listen to me.
387.
To those gods of gods, I carried on the great giving.
388.
Four thousand ten millions, and five thousand ten millions.
389.
My aspiration was great, King of the Dhamma, listen to me.
390.
To those gods of gods, I carried on the great giving.
391.
Eight thousand million Buddhas, and nine thousand million too.
392.
My aspiration was great, King of the Dhamma, listen to me.
393.
To those gods of gods, I carried on the great giving.
394.
Nine thousand koṭis, other lords of the world.
395.
My aspiration was great, King of the Dhamma, listen to me.
396.
Eighty-five hundred crores, and thirty-seven crores.
397.
My aspiration was great, King of the Dhamma, listen to me.
398.
My aspiration was great, King of the Dhamma, listen to me.
399.
My aspiration was great, King of the Dhamma, listen to me.
400.
One who practises the Teaching sleeps happily, in this world and the next.
401.
One who practises the Teaching sleeps happily, in this world and the next.
402.
With a retinue of a thousand, having gone forth, owning nothing.
403.
Before a fortnight had passed, I attained the four truths.
404.
Many people bring, like waves to the ocean.
405.
406.
407.
408.
Having attained the state of purification, I obtain the accomplishment of all.
409.
They become endowed with friendship, the unconditioned state of Nibbāna.
410.
All my action is eliminated, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision."
Thus the nun Yasodharā spoke these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Yasodharā is eighth.
9.
The Life History of Ten Thousand Nuns Headed by Yasodharā
411.
The Conqueror named Dīpaṅkara, the leader of the world, arose.
412.
Sumedha and Sumitta, as sharing the same happiness and suffering.
413.
For their praise, having approached us at the assembly.
414.
All of us will be your wives, agreeable and speaking kindly.
415.
And all of ours for a long time, has been given up, O great sage.
416.
Whatever was wished for, all was given up by the great sage.
417.
For a long time all of ours, has been given up, O great sage.
418.
Having experienced lordship, having wandered in the round of rebirths from existence to existence.
419.
Reborn in various families, a nymph of sensual appearance.
420.
Obtainers of food and drink, we are always revered.
421.
Before a fortnight had passed, we all attained the final bliss.
422.
All requisites come to them, always honoured and revered.
423.
424.
425.
Thus ten thousand nuns headed by Yasodharā spoke these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.
The Life History of Ten Thousand Nuns headed by Yasodharā is ninth.
10.
The Life History of Eighteen Thousand Nuns Headed by Yasodharā
426.
Headed by Yasodharā, approached the Self-enlightened One.
427.
They pay homage at the sage's feet, they report according to their strength.
428.
We go to the state without mental corruptions, peaceful, the Deathless, O leader.
429.
Not knowing any offence, be patient with us, O great leader.
430.
Cut off the doubt of all the assemblies, as far as they extend.
431.
All were your wives, O great hero, in the house.
432.
In the house, we, O hero, were the chief of all, the lords.
433.
All pay homage to us, humans as if to a deity.
434.
Thousands of Yasodharās, eminent and lords then.
435.
There is none similar in matter, among thousands, O great sage.
436.
Many of various kinds, they also displayed great supernormal power.
437.
Both wings as two islands, Jambudīpa from the body.
438.
The moon and the sun are the eyes, and from Mount Meru the crest.
439.
Flying towards and approaching, they pay homage to the leader of the world.
440.
The moon and the sun, Meru, and the appearance of Sakka they showed.
441.
Through your long-lasting radiance, we have been produced, O leader of men.
442.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I was a master, O great sage.
443.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
444.
Knowledge for us, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
445.
Many aspirations of ours, for your benefit, O great sage.
446.
For your benefit, O great hero, merits were accumulated by us.
447.
For your benefit, O great hero, our lives were given up.
448.
We were not displeased therein, for your benefit, O great sage.
449.
We were not displeased therein, for your benefit, O great sage.
450.
We were not displeased therein, for your benefit, O great sage.
451.
We shall bring release from fear, we gave up our lives.
452.
Women's goods we do not conceal, for your benefit, O great sage.
453.
Field, sons and daughters, have been given up, O great sage.
454.
For your benefit, O great hero, given up beyond counting.
455.
We do not see displeasure in us, while giving the highest gift.
456.
For your benefit, O great hero, was undergone, incalculable.
457.
We are balanced everywhere, for your benefit, O great sage.
458.
Having experienced happiness and suffering, the great sage attained enlightenment.
459.
The meeting with other lords of the world was not much by them.
460.
While seeking the Buddha's teachings, we were your attendants.
461.
Dīpaṅkara, the great hero, arose as the leader of the world.
462.
They clean the path for his coming, with satisfied minds.
463.
And he prepared the path for the coming of the All-Seeing One.
464.
We brought flowers born on land and in water to the assembly.
465.
The great hero declared concerning the sage with uplifted mind.
466.
When praising his action, concerning the sage with uplifted mind.
467.
Having venerated various articles worthy of homage, they aspired.
468.
Those who are wished for today, they will be present.
469.
Rejoicing in that speech, we became ones who act thus.
470.
Having experienced the realm of gods and humans, incalculable.
471.
When the final existence was attained, we were born in a Sakyan family.
472.
Accomplished in all qualities, greatly honoured among families.
473.
And our minds are not afflicted, we dwell free from fear from any quarter.
474.
Before the warriors, O hero, he pointed out the benefit.
475.
The woman who shows what is beneficial, and the woman who is compassionate.
476.
One who practises the Teaching sleeps happily, in this world and the next.
477.
Before a fortnight had passed, we attained the four truths.
478.
Many bring to us, like waves to the ocean.
479.
Like she-elephants having cut the bond, we dwell without mental corruptions.
480.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
481.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
482.
Having attained the state of purification, we obtain the accomplishment of all.
483.
They become endowed with friendship, the unconditioned state of Nibbāna.
484.
All our action too is eliminated, we pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.
485.
For having stilled the fault of the conditioned, you have reached the Deathless state."
Thus eighteen thousand nuns headed by Yasodharā spoke these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.
The Life History of Eighteen Thousand Nuns headed by Yasodharā is tenth.
The Kuṇḍalakesī Chapter is third.
Its summary:
Varanandā and Soṇā, Kāpilānī and Yasodharā.
Four hundred verses, and seventy-six.
4.
The Chapter on Khattiyas
1.
The Life History of Eighteen Thousand Nuns Headed by Yasavatī
1.
And all mental corruptions are not in us, we inform you, O great sage.
2.
Given consisting of enjoyment, for your benefit, O great sage.
3.
Given consisting of enjoyment, for your benefit, O great sage.
4.
The preliminary work for noble families, what is that, O great sage?
5.
Having surpassed the human realm, they were born in a warrior family.
6.
In the final existence born together, warriors of family origin.
7.
In the inner palace, O great hero, like in the Nandana grove of the gods.
8.
After a few days, we all attained the final bliss.
9.
Many bring to us, always honoured and revered.
10.
Like she-elephants having cut the bond, we dwell without mental corruptions.
11.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
12.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus eighteen thousand nuns who were maidens of the warrior caste, headed by Yasavatī, spoke these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.
The Life History of Eighteen Thousand Nuns headed by Yasavatī is first.
2.
The Life History of Eighty-Four Thousand Nuns
13.
With delicate hands and feet, formerly attended you, O great sage.
14.
Many maidens from the four continents, formerly attended you, O great sage.
15.
Gods and kinnaras, serpents, will experience in the future.
16.
Having obtained confidence in you, they will understand in the future.
17.
While you look on, O Great Hero, we pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.
18.
Underlying tendencies have been cut off, meritorious activities have been shattered.
19.
With absorption and delight in the Dhamma, we shall always dwell."
20.
Having gone to the state very difficult to see, allow me, O leader.
21.
Having cut the doubt of the four, may all go to peace.
22.
Some show forth light, and others darkness.
23.
Sineru and its encircling mountains, they show the coral tree.
24.
The Tusita, the gods who create, the wielding power, the great lords.
25.
And having created a Brahma's appearance, they teach the Teaching on emptiness.
26.
They all displayed their strength, and paid homage at the Teacher's feet.
27.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I was a master, O great sage.
28.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
29.
Knowledge for us, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
30.
Many aspirations of ours, for your benefit, O great sage.
31.
For your benefit, O great hero, merits were accumulated by us.
32.
The city named Haṃsavatī was the dwelling place of the clan of the Fully Enlightened One.
33.
Troubled by the river, the monks do not obtain passage.
34.
Even for a full four months, they do not obtain passage.
35.
Having seen the monks obstructed, he had a bridge built over the Ganges.
36.
And on the near shore for the Community, he had a monastery built.
37.
They made for him a bridge and a monastery in equal shares.
38.
His heirs in the teachings, in the city and in the countryside.
39.
They scattered sand on the bridge and on the monastery.
40.
Having done service with incense, bath powder, and garlands to the Teacher.
41.
Having given a great gift, I aspired for the highest enlightenment.
42.
The great sage gave thanks to the matted-hair ascetic.
43.
Having experienced existence after existence, he will attain enlightenment.
44.
In the future time, all will be face to face.'
45.
They arose in the divine abode, those attendants of yours.
46.
We served you, we transmigrated from existence to existence.
47.
Delicate among human beings, and also in the excellent celestial city.
48.
We constantly obtain all, the accomplishment of well-done action.
49.
With delicate hands and feet, in the dwelling of the Sakyan son.
50.
We do not see the muddy ground, the impure, O great sage.
51.
They always bring everything to us, by the fruit of former deeds.
52.
Having crossed over the path of wandering in the round of rebirths, may we become ones without lust.
53.
Thousands from here and there always bring to us.
54.
55.
56.
Thus eighty-four thousand brahmin maiden nuns spoke these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.
The Life History of Eighty-Four Thousand Nuns is second.
3.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Uppaladāyikā
57.
I was the wife of that king, I lived together with him.
58.
'No wholesome deed has been done by me, nothing to take with me as I go.
59.
Surely I go to hell, here there is no doubt for me.'
60.
Having approached the king, I spoke these words.
61.
Give me one ascetic, I will feed him, O warrior.'
62.
Having taken his bowl, I filled it with the finest food.
63.
Having covered it with a great cloth, I gave it with a satisfied mind.
64.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
65.
Of a thousand universal monarchs, I attained the status of chief queen.
66.
Various and much else, from that is the fruit of his action.
67.
Endowed with all womanly qualities, well-born, resplendent.
68.
Chief among a thousand women, I belonged to the son of Suddhodana.
69.
When the seventh night had arrived, I attained the four truths.
70.
I am not able to measure it, this is the fruit of almsfood.
71.
For your benefit, O great hero, much was given up by me.
72.
I do not know of an unfortunate realm, this is the fruit of almsfood.
73.
I know no other destination, this is the fruit of almsfood.
74.
I am not born in another family, this is the fruit of almsfood.
75.
I do not see anything disagreeable, the fruit is made of pleasure.
76.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
77.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
78.
Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
79.
80.
81.
Thus the nun Uppaladāyikā spoke these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Uppaladāyikā is third.
4.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Siṅgālamātu
82.
A hundred thousand cosmic cycles ago from now, the Leader arose.
83.
Shining with various jewels, prosperous, opulent, of great riches.
84.
Having heard the Teaching of the Buddha, I went forth into homelessness.
85.
Having abandoned verbal misconduct, I purified my livelihood.
86.
Engaged in hearing the Good Teaching, longing to see the Buddha.
87.
Having aspired to that state, I fulfilled the three trainings.
88.
'One whose faith in the Tathāgata is unshakeable and well established;
And whose morality is good, dear to the noble ones, praised.
89.
They call him 'not poor', his life is not in vain.
90.
The wise one should pursue, remembering the Buddhas' Dispensation.'
91.
Then the superior one, the immeasurable one, the great leader declared;
'Devoted to the Buddha, beautiful one, you will obtain that which is well wished for.
92.
Gotama by name, by clan, the Teacher in the world will be.
93.
Siṅgālaka's mother, will be a disciple of the Teacher."
94.
With a mind of friendliness I attended, the leader with practices.
95.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
96.
Born in a prosperous millionaire's family, with a great accumulation of jewels.
97.
Plunged into the thicket of views, devoted to worshipping the directions.
98.
Having seen him, the Buddha exhorted, the great leader standing on the path.
99.
There was the full realization of the teaching for twenty million men and women.
100.
Having attained the fruition of stream-entry, I went forth into homelessness.
101.
Having developed that recollection, I attained arahantship.
102.
Unsatisfied indeed I see, the form that delights the eye.
103.
A form strewn with all beauty, unsatisfied I dwell.
104.
She who was Siṅgālaka's mother, the foremost of those devoted to faith.
105.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
106.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
107.
Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
108.
109.
110.
Thus the nun Siṅgālamātā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Siṅgālamātu is fourth.
5.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Sukkā
111.
Arose, lovely to behold, one with insight into all phenomena.
112.
Having heard the Teaching of the sage, I went forth into homelessness.
113.
Brilliant speakers too, workers in the Conqueror's Dispensation.
114.
Having passed away from there to Tusita, I was reborn, one of fame.
115.
Shining with glory in the world, the best of speakers arose.
116.
Having illuminated the Conqueror's words, from there too they went to the celestial abode.
117.
Arose, the one of great wisdom, and even then likewise was I.
118.
Having gone to the charming city of the gods, I experienced great happiness.
119.
Arose, the refuge of men, and even then likewise was I.
120.
Having passed away from there, I went to the celestial abode as to my own dwelling.
121.
Arose as the refuge of the world, without conflict, gone to the Deathless.
122.
Very learned, a bearer of the Teaching, I illuminated the Conqueror's Dispensation.
123.
Arose as the refuge of the world, without conflict, gone beyond death.
124.
Having thoroughly learnt the Good Teaching, confident in interrogation.
125.
Having given many talks on the Teaching, for as long as life, O great sage.
126.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
127.
Born in a prosperous millionaire's family, with a great accumulation of jewels.
128.
Approached Rājagaha, praised by the thousand-eyed one.
129.
With the colour of refined gold, the Blessed One entered Rājagaha.'
130.
Having gladdened my mind in the Buddha, I worshipped him according to my strength.
131.
Having gone forth from home, I went forth into homelessness.
132.
I learned the entire teaching, not long after I had gone forth.
133.
While the Teaching was being taught, there was the full realization of the teaching.
134.
The demon devoted to me, having roamed around Giribbaja.
135.
Who do not attend upon Sukkā, teaching the Deathless state.
136.
The wise drink it, methinks, like travellers from a rain cloud.
137.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
138.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
139.
Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
140.
141.
142.
Thus the nun Sukkā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Sukkā is fifth.
The fifth recitation section.
6.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Abhirūpanandā
143.
Arose, lovely to behold, having vision regarding all phenomena.
144.
Was born handsome, beloved, and worthy of veneration by the people.
145.
Having heard the Teaching, I went for refuge to the leader of men.
146.
Above the relic stupa, I offered a golden umbrella.
147.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
148.
With forms and sounds, with odours, with flavours and with touchings.
149.
Likewise with authority, having attained, I shone forth.
150.
The daughter of Khemaka the Sakyan, renowned by the name Nandā.
151.
When I had attained youth, adorned with beauty and grace.
152.
Therefore my father gave the going forth, 'May the Sakyans not perish.'"
153.
Having heard, I do not approach, proud of my own beauty.
154.
Then the Conqueror, by means, having brought me into his presence.
155.
Like a nymph in form, a young woman, aged and dead.
156.
I stood, weary of existence, then the Leader said to me.
157.
Oozing and dripping, delighted in by the foolish.
158.
Just as this is, so is that; just as that is, so is this.
159.
Then with your own wisdom, having broken through, you shall live."
160.
This body was seen as it really is, within and without.
161.
Diligent, unbound, I am at peace, quenched.
162.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
163.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
164.
Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
165.
166.
167.
Thus the nun Abhirūpanandā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Abhirūpanandā is sixth.
7.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Aḍḍhakāsī
168.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
169.
Restrained in the principal monastic code, and in the five faculties.
170.
Dwelling engaged in exertion, I am a nun free from mental corruptions.
171.
By that evil action, I was cooked in hell.
172.
Mostly dependent on others, and in the final birth.
173.
Like a nymph among the gods, I was with accomplishment of beauty.
174.
They established me in the profession of a courtesan, by the power of my abuse.
175.
Accomplished in former impressions, I went forth into homelessness.
176.
Having heard that cheats were standing on the road, I obtained ordination by messenger.
177.
Having crossed over all saṃsāra, and the courtesan's life is spent.
178.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
179.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
180.
Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.
181.
182.
183.
Thus the nun Aḍḍhakāsī spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Aḍḍhakāsī is seventh.
8.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Puṇṇikā
184.
Of the sage Kakusandha, of Koṇāgamana and such ones.
185.
A nun accomplished in morality, prudent, with controlled faculties.
186.
Learners of the teachings, listeners, those who attend.
187.
Because of that great learning, I despised the well-behaved.
188.
In the house of Anāthapiṇḍika, I was born as a water-carrying slave girl.
189.
Afflicted by cold in the midst of the water, having seen that, I spoke this.
190.
Frightened by fear of punishment from my masters, afflicted by fear of verbal blame.
191.
With trembling limbs, you feel the cold intensely."
192.
Doing wholesome action, preventing evil that has been done.
193.
By sprinkling with water, even he is freed from evil deeds."
194.
And having heard that, he, agitated, having gone forth, became a Worthy One.
195.
Therefore my name is Puṇṇā, they made me a free woman.
196.
Not long after, I attained arahantship.
197.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
198.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
199.
My knowledge is spotless, pure, owing to the Buddha, the foremost.
200.
Born of low family through conceit, for action does not perish.
201.
202.
203.
Thus the nun Puṇṇikā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Puṇṇikā is eighth.
9.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Ambapālī
204.
I was his sister, I was born in a warrior family.
205.
Having given a great gift, I aspired to accomplishment of beauty.
206.
Arose as the light of the world, the refuge of the three worlds, the Conqueror.
207.
Angry, I cursed a nun with a liberated mind.
208.
Having thus reviled, by that evil action.
209.
Passed away from there among human beings, reborn as a female ascetic.
210.
From that evil I would not be freed, like one having eaten deadly poison.
211.
By the result of that action, I was born in the city of the Thirty-three heaven.
212.
Born among the mango branches, therefore I am called Ambapālī.
213.
I have attained the unshakeable state, a legitimate daughter of the Buddha.
214.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
215.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
216.
My knowledge is spotless, pure, owing to the Buddha, the foremost.
217.
218.
219.
Thus the nun Ambapālī spoke these verses.
Thus he spoke.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Ambapālī is ninth.
10.
The Life History of the Senior Nun Pesalā
220.
Kassapa by clan, the best of speakers arose.
221.
Was born, having seen that excellent conqueror, and having heard the Teaching.
222.
Sometimes that great hero, at the assembly of the public.
223.
Regarding teachings not heard before, beginning with suffering and so on.
224.
Having heard that and learnt it, and having inquired, monks.
225.
Having abandoned the human body, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.
226.
Having approached the Buddha, having heard the Good Teaching connected with truth.
227.
Having exhausted all mental corruptions, I attained arahantship.
228.
In the knowledge of others' mental states, I am a master, O great sage.
229.
With all mental corruptions eliminated, there is now no more rebirth.
230.
My knowledge is spotless, pure, owing to the Buddha, the foremost.
231.
Like a she-elephant having cut the bond, I dwell without mental corruptions.
232.
The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled.
233.
The six higher knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's teaching has been fulfilled."
Thus the well-behaved nun Pesalā spoke these verses.
The Life History of the Elder Nun Pesalā is tenth.
The Khattiyā Chapter is fourth.
Its summary:
Siṅgāla's Mother and Sukkā, the Beautiful One and the Half-Kāsi Woman.
Two hundred verses here, and forty-two more.
Then the chapter summary:
A thousand and three hundred verses, forty-seven combined.
A thousand three hundred verses, and fifty-seven indeed.
The Life Histories of the Elder Nuns is complete.
The Apadāna Pāḷi is complete.