7.
The Discourse on the Question about the Plane of Nothingness
338.
"'The plane of nothingness, the plane of nothingness,' it is said.
What is the plane of nothingness?
This occurred to me, friend -
'Here a monk, with the complete transcendence of the plane of infinite consciousness, aware that "there is nothing," enters and dwells in the plane of nothingness.
This is called the plane of nothingness.'
So I, friends, with the complete transcendence of the plane of infinite consciousness, aware that 'there is nothing,' enter and dwell in the plane of nothingness.
While I was dwelling with this abiding, friends, perceptions and attention accompanied by the plane of infinite consciousness occurred to me.
"Then, friends, the Blessed One, having approached me by supernormal power, said this: 'Moggallāna, Moggallāna! Do not be negligent, brahmin, regarding the plane of nothingness; steady your mind in the plane of nothingness, unify your mind in the plane of nothingness, concentrate your mind in the plane of nothingness.' So I, friends, at a later time, with the complete transcendence of the plane of infinite consciousness, aware that 'there is nothing,' entered and dwelt in the plane of nothingness. If anyone, friends, speaking rightly would say: etc. 'A disciple helped by the Teacher has attained great direct knowledge.'" The seventh.