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Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Perfectly Enlightened One

The Collection of Minor Texts

The Text of the Elders' Attributes

(Second Part)

43.

The Chapter on Sakiṃsammajjaka

1.

The Attribute of the Elder One-Time Sweeper

1.

"For the Blessed One Vipassī, at the excellent Bodhi trumpet-flower tree;

Having seen that supreme tree, I established confidence there.

2.

"Taking a broom, I swept the Bodhi tree right then;

Having swept around that Bodhi tree, I venerated the trumpet flower tree.

3.

"Having established confidence there, making a reverential salutation at my head;

Paying homage to that enlightenment tree, I went back to my hut.

4.

"I was going by such a path, recollecting the supreme enlightenment;

A python crushed me, terrifying in form and of great strength.

5.

"The deed done recently pleased me with its fruit;

Though it devours my body, I delight in the deity world.

6.

"My mind is untroubled, always pure and bright;

I do not know the dart of sorrow, the torment of my mind.

7.

"I have no leprosy, tumours, skin disease, epilepsy, or scabies;

No ringworm or itch is found in me, this is the fruit of sweeping.

8.

"Sorrow and lamentation are not found in my heart;

My mind is unagitated and upright, this is the fruit of sweeping.

9.

"I am not intoxicated with concentrations, my mind is clear;

Whatever concentration I wish for, that is accomplished for me.

10.

"I am not attached to what is enticing, and also to what is repulsive;

I am not deluded by what is delusive, this is the fruit of sweeping.

11.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of sweeping.

12.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

13.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

14.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sakiṃsammajjaka

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sakiṃsammajjaka, the first.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ekadussadāyaka

15.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was a grass-carrier;

I lived by carrying grass, by that I supported my children.

16.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

Having destroyed that darkness, arose as Leader of the World.

17.

"Having sat in my own house, I thought thus then;

'A Buddha has arisen in the world, but there is nothing to give.

18.

"This is my one cloth, I have no giver;

The contact of hell is painful, I will plant a gift."

19.

"Having reflected thus, I made my mind confident;

Taking one cloth, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One.

20.

"Having given one cloth, I raised a shout:

'If you are the Enlightened One, O hero, help me cross over, great sage'.

21.

"Padumuttara, knower of the world, receiver of offerings;

Proclaiming my giving, he made rejoicing for me.

22.

"'By this single cloth, and by volition and wishes,

For a hundred thousand aeons, you will not go to the lower world.

23.

"'Thirty-six times you will be king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

Thirty-three times you will be a wheel-turning monarch.

24.

"Extensive regional rulership, beyond numerical reckoning;

While wandering in existence, in the world of deities or human beings.

25.

"'You will be beautiful, endowed with virtues, with a body free from decline;

You will obtain immeasurable, unshakeable cloth, whatever you wish.'

26.

Having said this, the Enlightened One, named Supreme Among Water-born,

The hero ascended into the sky, like a king of swans in the firmament.

27.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of a single cloth.

28.

"At each footstep, at each footstep, cloth appears for me;

I stand on cloth below, and above is my covering.

29.

"From the world-sphere, with its forests and mountains;

If I wish today, I could cover it with cloths.

30.

"By that one cloth alone, wandering through various existences,

Having golden beauty, I wander through various existences.

31.

"The result of that one cloth, I have not found destruction anywhere;

This is my last birth, it ripens even here.

32.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that cloth;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of one robe.

33.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

34.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

35.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ekadussadāyaka speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver of One Robe, the second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver of One Seat

36.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there was a mountain called Gosita;

My hermitage was well-made, a leaf-hut well-built.

37.

"Nārada was my name, they knew me as Kassapa;

Seeking the path of purity, I was living at Gosita then.

38.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

The Enlightened One desiring seclusion, came through the air.

39.

"Having seen the rays of the great sage, going through the forest top;

Having prepared a wooden bed, I spread a deerskin.

40.

"Having prepared a seat, making a reverential salutation at my head;

Having expressed my joy, I spoke these words.

41.

"'O great hero, surgeon, healer of the afflicted;

Give me treatment, O leader, who am overcome by disease.

42.

"'O supreme Buddha, O sage, those who see you seeking pliancy;

Attain stable success, may they be free from aging.

43.

"'I have nothing to give, I live on offered fruit;

"This seat of mine is here, sit on the wooden couch."

44.

There sat the Blessed One, fearless like a lion;

Having let a moment pass, spoke these words.

45.

"'Be confident, do not be afraid, you have obtained the taste of light;

All that you have wished for will be fulfilled in the future.

46.

"'Not futile is what you have done in the unsurpassed field of merit;

It is possible to lift oneself up when one's mind is well directed.

47.

"'Through this gift of a seat, and through volition and wishes;

For a hundred thousand aeons, you will not go to the lower world.

48.

"Fifty times you will be king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

Eighty times you will be a wheel-turning monarch.

49.

"Extensive regional rulership, beyond numerical reckoning;

Having been happy everywhere, you will fare on in the round of rebirths."

50.

Having said this, the Enlightened One, named Supreme Among Water-born,

The hero ascended into the sky, like a king of swans in the firmament.

51.

"Elephant mounts and horse mounts, chariots and carriages;

I receive all of these, this is the fruit of giving one seat.

52.

"Having entered the forest, whenever I wish for a seat;

Having known my intention, a couch stands ready.

53.

"Being in the midst of water, whenever I wish for a seat;

Having known my intention, a couch stands ready.

54.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

A hundred thousand couches always surround me.

55.

"I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I am born into two families, noble and brahmin.

56.

"Having given a single seat, in the unsurpassed field of merit;

Having taken up the Dhamma-seat, I dwell taintless.

57.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a single seat.

58.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

59.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

60.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ekāsanadāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Third Apadāna of the Elder Ekāsanadāyaka.

4.

The Attribute of the Elder Sattakadambapupphiya

61.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there is a mountain called Kukkuṭa;

At the foot of that mountain, those seven Enlightened Ones dwelt.

62.

"Having seen the kadamba in bloom, having raised my hands in reverential salutation;

Taking seven garlands, with a meritorious mind I scattered them.

63.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

64.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

65.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

66.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

67.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sattakadambapupphiya

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sattakadambapupphiya, the fourth.

5.

The Apadāna of the Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya

68.

"Formerly I was a forest worker, following my parents' advice;

I live by hunting animals, wholesomeness is not found in me.

69.

"Near my dwelling place, the Leader Supreme of the Three Worlds;

Showed three footprints, out of compassion, the One with vision.

70.

"Having seen the footprints pressed, of the Teacher named Tissa;

Delighted, with a delighted mind, I gained confidence in the footprint.

71.

"Having seen the flowering koraṇḍa, a tree growing from the earth;

Taking it with its sheath, I offered it to the supreme footprint.

72.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

73.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

Like a koraṇḍa flower, I become one of great luminosity.

74.

"Ninety-two aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of worshipping the feet.

75.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

76.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

77.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya speak these verses.

The fifth attribute of the Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka

78.

"The Blessed One Sucintita, the eldest in the world, the bull among men;

Seated in the great forest, afflicted by a wind ailment.

79.

Having seen him and established confidence in my mind, I offered clarified butter;

Because of what has been done and accumulated, this is the river Ganges of Bhagīratha.

80.

The four great oceans became ghee for me;

And this terrible earth, measureless, incalculable.

81.

Having known my intention, they become honey and honour;

These trees of the four continents, the trees growing on earth.

82.

Having known my intention, they become wish-fulfilling trees;

Fifty times I was king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

83.

"Fifty-one times I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

84.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving clarified butter.

85.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

86.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

87.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka is the sixth.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ekadhammassavaniya

88.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

Proclaiming the four truths, he led many people across.

89.

"At that time I was a matted-hair ascetic of intense austerity;

Shaking my bark garments, I was going through the sky then.

90.

"Above the supreme Buddha, I was not able to go;

Like a bird hitting a rock, I could not get passage.

91.

"Having stepped into the water, so I was going through the sky;

Never before had there been this disruption of posture for me.

92.

"Come, I will search for this, perhaps I might gain benefit;

Descending from the sky, I heard the sound of the Teacher.

93.

"With a delightful tone, pleasing and graceful;

As he was speaking about impermanence, I learned that very thing then;

Having grasped the perception of impermanence, I went to my hermitage.

94.

"Having lived there for my life span, I died there;

When my final moment was occurring, I recalled hearing the true Teaching.

95.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

96.

"For thirty thousand aeons, I delighted in the deity realm;

And fifty-one times, I exercised rulership over the deities.

97.

"And twenty-one times, I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

98.

"I experience my own merit, I am happy in various existences;

I recollect that perception, wandering through various existences;

I do not penetrate the end, Nibbāna, the deathless state.

99.

"Seated in my father's house, an ascetic with developed faculties;

Illuminating through talk, he spoke of impermanence.

100.

"'Impermanent indeed are formations, subject to arising and passing away;

Having arisen they cease, their subsiding is happiness.'

101.

"Having heard the verse, I recollected my past perception;

Having sat on one seat, I attained Arahantship.

102.

"At seven years of age, I attained Arahantship;

The Enlightened One granted me full admission, this is the fruit of hearing the Teaching.

103.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I heard that Teaching;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of hearing the Teaching.

104.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

105.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

106.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ekadhammassavaniya

Speak these verses.

The apadāna of the Elder Ekadhammassavaniya, the seventh.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sucintita

107.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was a farmer then;

I lived by farming, by that I supported my children.

108.

"Then my field was very fertile, my grain was fruitful;

And when harvest time arrived, I thought thus then:

109.

"It is not proper, not fitting, for one who knows good and bad;

If I should eat the first fruits without giving to the Community then.

110.

"This Enlightened One is incomparable, possessing the thirty-two excellent characteristics;

From that the Community was developed, the unsurpassed field of merit.

111.

"There I will give gifts, first fruits again and again;

Having reflected thus, happy and satisfied in mind.

112.

"Having brought grain from the field, I approached the Enlightened One;

Having approached the Enlightened One, the eldest in the world, the bull among men;

Having paid homage at the Teacher's feet, I spoke these words.

113.

"'And accomplished in the nine, you are a worthy recipient, O sage;

Out of compassion, consent, O One with Vision.'

114.

"Padumuttara, knower of the world, receiver of offerings;

Having known my intention, spoke these words.

115.

"'The four who are practising, and the four established in the fruits;

This Community is upright, endowed with wisdom and virtue, concentrated;

Of human beings who make offerings, of living beings who seek merit.

116.

"When making meritorious deeds with attachments, what is given to the Community bears great fruit;

In that same Community you should give, both your grain and other things.

117.

"Having designated from the Community, having led the monks to your house;

What is prepared and present at home, give to the Community of monks."

118.

"Having designated from the Community, having led the monks to my house;

What was prepared at my home, I gave to the Community of monks.

119.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

120.

"There my well-made mansion, golden and luminous;

Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.

The nineteenth section for recitation.

121.

"My dwelling was crowded, thronged with groups of women;

Having eaten and drunk there, I lived among the Thirty-three.

122.

"And three hundred times I exercised divine kingship;

And five hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

123.

"Wandering through various states of existence, I obtain immeasurable wealth;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of new harvest.

124.

"Elephant mounts and horse mounts, palanquin and chariot;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of new harvest.

125.

"New clothes, new fruits, food with the finest new tastes;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of new harvest.

126.

"Silken blankets, and those made of linen and cotton;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of new harvest.

127.

"Groups of female slaves and male slaves, and adorned women;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of new harvest.

128.

"Neither cold nor heat affects me, passion is not found;

Moreover, mental suffering is not found in my heart.

129.

"Eat this, partake of this, lie on this bed;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of new harvest.

130.

"This is now the final existence, my last life unfolds;

Even today my offerings bear fruit, pleasing me always.

131.

"Having given new harvest to the Community, the supreme group;

I experience eight benefits, befitting my actions.

132.

"I am beautiful and famous, of great wealth, free from trouble;

I always have a great following, always an unbreakable assembly.

133.

"All honour me, whoever are based upon the earth;

And whatever gifts there are, I obtain them first and foremost.

134.

"In the midst of the Community of monks, in front of the supreme Buddha;

Having transcended all, the donors give to me alone.

135.

"Having given the first fruits to the supreme group of the Community;

I experience these benefits, this is the fruit of the first fruits.

136.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the nine harvests.

137.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless;

138.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

139.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sucintita speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sucintita, the eighth.

9.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sovaṇṇakiṅkaṇiya

140.

"Through faith I went forth into homelessness;

I wore bark garments, devoted to austerity.

141.

"The Blessed One Atthadassī, eldest in the world, bull among men,

Arose at that time, helping across the multitude.

142.

"Indeed my strength was depleted, by that supreme illness;

Recollecting the supreme Buddha, a supreme monument in the sand.

143.

"Having made it with a gladdened mind, I scattered with my own hand;

Golden bell flowers, I with uplifted mind.

144.

"As if in the presence of the Enlightened One, I attended on the monument;

Through that confidence of mind, towards such a one Atthadassī.

145.

"Having gone to the world of deities, I gain abundant happiness;

I was golden in complexion there, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

146.

"Eighty million women, adorned,

Always attend me, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

147.

"Sixty thousand musical instruments, drums and small drums,

And there conches and kettle drums, tabors sound pleasantly.

148.

"Eighty-four thousand elephants, adorned,

Royal elephants in rut from three places, tuskers sixty years old.

149.

"Covered with nets of gold, they attend to me;

In armies and elephants too, deficiency is not found in me.

150.

"I experience the result of golden bell-flowers;

And fifty-eight times I ruled over the deity realm.

151.

"And seventy-one times, I was a wheel-turning monarch;

A hundred times I ruled over the kingdom of the earth's greatness.

152.

"Now he has attained the Deathless, the unconditioned that is very hard to see;

The fetters completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

153.

"Eighteen hundred aeons ago, when I placed those flowers;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

154.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

155.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

156.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sovaṇṇakiṅkaṇiya

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sovaṇṇakiṅkaṇiya is the ninth.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder Soṇṇakontarika

157.

"The Buddha, worthy of mental development, self-tamed and concentrated;

Walking on the divine path, delighting in the peace of mind.

158.

"The Enlightened One who crossed the flood, a meditator delighting in meditation, a sage;

Having approached him in concentration, shining like a blue lotus.

159.

"Taking water in a gourd, I approached the supreme Enlightened One;

Having washed the feet of the Buddha, I offered the gourd.

160.

"And the Enlightened One named Padumuttara commanded;

'Having brought water with this, place it at my feet'.

161.

"Having agreed saying 'Very well', and out of reverence for the Teacher;

Having brought water with a gourd, I approached the supreme Enlightened One.

162.

"The Great Hero rejoiced, cooling my mind;

'By this gift of a gourd, may your intention succeed'.

163.

"For fifteen aeons, I delighted in the deity realm;

Thirty times I was a wheel-turning monarch.

164.

"Whether by day or by night, while walking or standing;

A golden spittoon appears before me.

165.

"Having given a gourd to the Buddha, I receive a golden spittoon;

Even a small deed done becomes abundant for such ones.

166.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gourd;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the gourd.

167.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

168.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

169.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Soṇṇakontarika

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Soṇṇakontarika is the tenth.

The Chapter on Sakiṃsammajjaka, the Forty-Third.

Here is its summary -

The elder One-Time Sweeper, One-Robe, One-Seat;

The giver of kadamba and koraṇḍa flowers, and the giver of ghee lamps.

Sucintika, Kiṅkaṇika, and Soṇṇakontarika;

Here are one hundred and seventy-one verses.

44.

The Chapter on Ekavihāri

1.

The Attribute of the Elder Lone Dweller

1.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

2.

"Free from proliferation, without support, with mind like space;

Abundant in emptiness, such a one delighting in the signless, controlled.

3.

"With unattached mind, without defilements, not associating with families and groups;

The hero of great compassion, skilled in the methods of discipline.

4.

"Devoted to helping others, disciplining those with deities;

The path that leads to Nibbāna, the way that dries up the mire.

5.

"The Deathless of supreme gratification, that wards off aging and death;

He sits in the midst of the great assembly, the saviour of the world.

6.

"The Lord with voice like a karavīka bird, the Truth Finder with voice of a brahmā;

Drawing out those who are lost and without a guide from the great misery.

7.

"Teaching the stainless Teaching, I saw the leader of the world;

Having heard his Teaching, I went forth into homelessness.

8.

"Having gone forth then, reflecting on the Victor's Dispensation;

Alone in the delightful forest, I dwelt oppressed by bonding.

9.

"The withdrawal from identity became a cause for me;

For the withdrawal of mind, seeing the peril of bonding.

10.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

11.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

12.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ekavihārika

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ekavihārika is the first.

2.

The Attribute of the Elder Ekasaṅkhiya

13.

"When the Blessed One Vipassī's great enlightenment festival occurred;

A great crowd having gathered, they honour the supreme enlightenment.

14.

"Surely this must be no ordinary matter, he will be the supreme Enlightened One;

For whom this enlightenment is such, and worthy of worship for the Teacher.

15.

"Then taking a conch shell, I attended the enlightenment tree;

Blowing all day long, I venerated the supreme enlightenment.

16.

"The action done recently, led me to the world of deities;

Though my body has fallen, I delight in the deity world.

17.

Sixty thousand musical instruments, joyful, elated, and delighted;

Always attend me, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

18.

Seventy-one aeons ago, I was a king named Sudassana;

A conqueror of the four quarters, sovereign of Jambu Isle.

19.

Since then a hundred musical instruments always surrounded me;

I experience my own action, this is the fruit of that attendance.

20.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

Even while in my mother's womb, drums always resounded.

21.

"Having attended on the Enlightened One, having experienced the attainments;

I have attained the peaceful, secure, deathless, unshakeable state.

22.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

23.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

24.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

25.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ekasaṅkhiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Ekasaṅkhiya is the second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Pāṭihīrasaññaka

26.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, receiver of offerings;

With a hundred thousand masters, then entered the city.

27.

"When he who was peaceful, such a one, was entering the city;

The jewels shone forth, there was a sound right then.

28.

"Through the Buddha's power, drums sounded unstruck;

Lutes played by themselves, as the Buddha entered the city.

29.

"I pay homage to the supreme Enlightened One, Padumuttara the great sage;

Having seen the miracle, I established confidence there.

30.

"Oh, the Buddha! Oh, the Teaching! Oh, the perfection of our Teacher!

Even mindless musical instruments played by themselves.

31.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gained that perception;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of perception of the Enlightened One.

32.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

33.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

34.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pāṭihīrasaññaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

This is the third Apadāna, of the Elder Pāṭihīrasaññaka.

4.

Apadāna of the Elder Ñāṇatthavika

35.

"Like a blazing trumpet-flower tree, like a shining lamp-tree;

Like gleaming gold, I saw the highest of bipeds.

36.

"Having put down my water-pot, bark garment and water-filter;

Arranging my deerskin on one shoulder, I praised the best of Enlightened Ones.

37.

"'Dispelling that darkness, entangled in the net of delusion;

Having shown the light of knowledge, you have crossed over, O great sage.

38.

"'You raise up this world, all of it unsurpassed;

In knowledge there is no comparison to you, as far as the world's destination extends.

39.

'Through that knowledge you are called omniscient, thus the Enlightened One;

I venerate you, great hero, the unobstructed omniscient one.'

40.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, I praised the supreme Buddha;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of praising knowledge;

41.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless;

42.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

43.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ñāṇatthavika

Speak these verses.

The Fourth, the Apadāna of the Elder Ñāṇatthavika.

5.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ucchukhaṇḍika

44.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, I was a gatekeeper;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, who had gone beyond all teachings.

45.

"Having taken a piece of sugarcane, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One;

With a faithful mind and glad, to Vipassī, the great sage.

46.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that sugarcane;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the piece of sugarcane.

47.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

48.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

49.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ucchukhaṇḍika speak these verses

Speak these verses.

This is the Fifth Apadāna, of the Elder Ucchukhaṇḍika.

6.

Apadāna of the Elder Kaḷambadāyaka

50.

"At that time, the Self-enlightened One named Romasa lived between mountains;

I gave him a kaḷamba fruit, with confidence, with my own hands.

51.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the kaḷamba.

52.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

53.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

54.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kaḷambadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kaḷambadāyaka is the sixth.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ambāṭakadāyaka

55.

"Having seen the Enlightened One in the forest, self-enlightened, unvanquished;

Taking the hog-plum, I gave it to the Self-enlightened One.

56.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

57.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

58.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

59.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ambāṭakadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Seventh: The Apadāna of the Elder Hog-plum Giver.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Yellow Myrobalan Giver

60.

"Yellow myrobalan, emblic myrobalan, mango, rose-apple, beleric myrobalan;

Jujubes, marking nuts and wood-apples, I gather by myself.

61.

"Having seen the sage inclining to meditation, a meditator delighting in meditation;

Afflicted by illness, the great sage without a companion.

62.

"Taking the yellow myrobalan, I gave it to the Self-enlightened One;

Just by eating the medicine, the sickness was calmed right then.

63.

"The Buddha, free from disturbance, gave me this blessing:

'By this gift of medicine and by the subsiding of the sickness.

64.

"'Whether become a deity or a human being, or born in any other birth;

May you be happy everywhere, and may sickness not come to you'.

65.

"Having said this, the Enlightened One, self-enlightened, undefeated;

The wise one rose into the sky, like a king of swans in the air.

66.

"Since the myrobalan was given to the self-enlightened great sage;

From then on in this birth, no sickness has been tenable in me.

67.

"This is my final existence, my last life unfolds;

The three true knowledges have been realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

68.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, I gave medicine then;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of medicine.

69.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

70.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

71.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Harītakadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The attribute of the Elder Harītakadāyaka, the eighth.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Ambapiṇḍiya

72.

"I was then a king of elephants, with tusks like poles, in rut;

Wandering in the great forest, I saw the Leader of the World.

73.

"Taking a mango fruit, I gave it to the Teacher;

The Great Hero Siddhattha, Leader of the World, accepted it.

74.

"While I was contemplating, the Victor consumed it then;

Having established confidence there, I was reborn in Tusita.

75.

"After passing away from there, I was a wheel-turning monarch;

By this very engagement, having experienced accomplishments.

76.

"I am resolute in striving, peaceful without acquisition;

Having fully understood all taints, I dwell taintless.

77.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

78.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

79.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

80.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ambapiṇḍiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The ninth is the Apadāna of the Elder Ambapiṇḍiya.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ambaphaliya

81.

"To the Buddha Padumuttara, the foremost in the world, such a one;

Who was wandering for alms, bearing supreme glory.

82.

"Taking the best fruit, with a clear mind;

To the worthy hero, the Teacher, I gave.

83.

"Through that action, O lord of bipeds, eldest of the world, bull among men;

I have attained the unshakeable state, having abandoned both victory and defeat.

84.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the supreme gift.

85.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

86.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

87.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ambaphaliya speak these verses.

The Tenth is the Apadāna of the Elder Ambaphaliya.

The Chapter on Ekavihāri is the Forty-fourth.

Here is its summary -

The Elder and the lone dweller, Saṅkhiya the miracle worker;

Thavika and the sugar cane cutter, and the giver of Kaḷamba and Ambāṭaka.

The giver of myrobalan and rice ball, and tenth is the ascetic giver of mango;

Eighty-six verses, counted by the wise.

45.

The Chapter on Vibhītaka

1.

Apadāna of the Elder Vibhītakamiñjiya

1.

"Kakusandha, the great hero, gone beyond all teachings;

Withdrawn from the group, he went into the forest.

2.

"Having taken a seed kernel, I strung it on a creeper;

The Blessed One at that time, was meditating between the mountains.

3.

"Having seen the deity of deities, with a clear mind;

To the worthy hero, I gave the seed pith.

4.

"In this very aeon, when I gave that pith;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the seed pith.

5.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

6.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

7.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vibhītakamiñjiya

Speak these verses.

First is the Apadāna of the Elder Vibhītakamiñjiya.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Koladāyaka

8.

"Dressed in animal hide, wearing bark cloth then;

Having filled a basket, I brought jujube fruit to my hermitage.

9.

"At that time the Enlightened One Sikhī was alone, without a companion;

He came to my hermitage, knowing all times.

10.

"Having established confidence in my mind, and having paid homage to the one of good observance;

Raising with both hands, I gave the jujube fruit to the Enlightened One.

11.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving jujube.

12.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

13.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

14.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Koladāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Koladāyaka, the second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Billi

15.

"On the bank of the Candabhāgā river, my hermitage was well-built;

Crowded with bel trees, frequented by various trees.

16.

"Having seen the fragrant bel fruit, I recollected the supreme Enlightened One;

Having filled my carrying pole, delighted with stirred mind.

17.

"Having approached Kakusandha, I gave bel fruit

To the hero, the field of merit, with a clear mind.

18.

"In this very aeon, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

19.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

20.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

21.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Billiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

This is the third Attribute of the Elder Billiya.

4.

The Attribute of the Elder Bhallātadāyaka

22.

"The Enlightened One, of golden complexion, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics;

Walking through the forest's edge, like a blossoming sal tree king.

23.

"Having spread grass as a seat, I invited the supreme Enlightened One;

'May the Enlightened One have compassion for me, I wish to give alms'.

24.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, Atthadassī of great fame;

Having known my intention, descended at my hermitage.

25.

"Having descended, the Enlightened One sat on a spread of leaves;

Having taken a marking nut, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One.

26.

"While I was contemplating, the Victor consumed it then;

Having established confidence there, I paid homage to the Victor then.

27.

"Eighteen hundred aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

28.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

29.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

30.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Bhallātadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth: The Attribute of the Elder Bhallātadāyaka.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Uttalipupphiya

31.

"At the banyan tree with green light, at the well-grown tree;

Taking an uttali garland, I placed it on the enlightenment tree.

32.

"In this very aeon, when I honoured that enlightenment tree;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of offering to enlightenment.

33.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

34.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

35.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Uttalipupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The fifth attribute of the Elder Uttalipupphiya.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Ambāṭakiya

36.

"Having entered a well-flowering sal grove, the sage Vessabhū

Sat in a mountain gorge, like a well-bred lion.

37.

"With a confident mind and glad, I honoured him with an ambāṭaka fruit,

The unsurpassed field of merit, with confidence, with my own hands.

38.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

39.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

40.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

41.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ambāṭakiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The sixth attribute of the Elder Ambāṭakiya.

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Sīhāsanika

42.

"Of the Blessed One Padumuttara, who sought the welfare of all beings;

With a faithful mind and glad, I gave a lion-throne.

43.

"In the world of deities or human beings, wherever I dwell;

I receive a vast mansion, this is the fruit of the lion-throne.

44.

"Many made of gold, made of silver, made of ruby;

And seats made of jewels, always arise for me.

45.

"Having made a seat at the enlightenment tree of the one supreme among those born in water;

I am born in a high family, oh how well-ordered is the Teaching.

46.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, I made a lion-throne;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the lion-throne.

47.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

48.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

49.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sīhāsanika speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The seventh Apadāna of the Elder Sīhāsanika.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Pādapīṭhiya

50.

"The Enlightened One named Sumedha, the foremost compassionate sage;

Having helped many beings cross over, that one of great fame was quenched.

51.

"Near the lion-throne of the great sage Sumedha;

With a confident mind and glad, I had a footstool made.

52.

"Having performed wholesome action, ripening in happiness, leading to happiness;

Connected with meritorious action, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.

53.

"While I was dwelling there, endowed with meritorious action;

As I was lifting my feet, golden seats came to be mine.

54.

"It is a gain for them, it is well-gained by you, who obtain a chance to hear;

Having shown respect to the quenched ones, they obtain abundant happiness.

55.

"Well done was my deed too, trade was well applied;

Having made a footstool, I obtain a golden seat.

56.

"Whatever direction I depart to, for some purpose;

I step on a golden seat, this is the fruit of meritorious action.

57.

"Thirty thousand aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the footstool.

58.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

59.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

60.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pādapīṭhiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Eighth Attribute of the Elder Pādapīṭhiya.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Vedikāraka

61.

"For the Blessed One Padumuttara, at the excellent tree of enlightenment;

Having made a well-constructed railing, I made my mind confident.

62.

"Abundant goods, both made and unmade;

Rain down from the sky - this is the fruit of the railing.

63.

"In a fearsome battle with armies on both sides, while charging forward;

I do not see fear and terror - this is the fruit of the railing.

64.

"Having known my intention, a beautiful mansion manifests;

Magnificent beds appear - this is the fruit of the railing.

65.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I had that railing made;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the railing.

66.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

67.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

68.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vedikāraka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The ninth attribute of the Elder who made the railing.

10.

The Attribute of the Elder who Gave the Enlightenment House

69.

"To the Blessed One Siddhattha, the foremost of bipeds, such a one;

With a confident mind and glad, I had an enlightenment house built.

70.

"I was reborn in Tusita, I dwell in a jewelled house;

Neither cold nor heat affects me, nor does wind touch my body.

71.

"Sixty-five aeons ago, I was a wheel-turning monarch;

A city named Kasika, created by Vissakamma.

72.

"Ten yojanas in length, eight yojanas in width;

In that city there was no wood, creeper, or clay.

73.

"One yojana across, half a yojana in width;

A mansion named Mangala, created by Vissakamma.

74.

"Eighty-four thousand pillars were made of gold;

And the turrets were made of jewels, the roof was of silver.

75.

"A house all made of gold, created by Vissakamma;

This was lived in by me, this is the fruit of giving a house.

76.

"Having experienced all those existences among deities and humans;

I have now attained Nibbāna, the unsurpassed state of peace.

77.

"Thirty thousand aeons ago, I had a shrine for enlightenment built;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a shrine.

78.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

79.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

80.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Bodhigharadāyaka speak these verses.

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver of the Enlightenment House is tenth.

The Chapter on Vibhītaka is forty-fifth.

Here is its summary -

Myrobalan, jujube fruit giver, wood-apple and marking-nut giver;

Uttalambataka fruit giver, and seat giver, footstool giver.

Railing giver and enlightenment house giver, and the verses counted;

Seventy-nine verses in total are proclaimed in this chapter.

46.

The Chapter on Jagatidāyaka

1.

Attribute of the Elder Platform Giver

1.

"For the sage Dhammadassi, at the excellent tree of enlightenment;

With faithful mind and glad, I had a platform made.

2.

"If I fall from a cliff, a mountain, or a tree;

Having passed away I find support, this is the fruit of the terrace.

3.

"Thieves do not harm me, nobles do not treat me with arrogance;

I transcend all enemies, this is the fruit of the terrace.

4.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

Everywhere I am honoured, this is the fruit of the terrace.

5.

"Eighteen hundred aeons ago, I had a terrace made;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving the terrace.

6.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

7.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

8.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Jagatidāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

First, the Apadāna of the Elder Jagatidāyaka.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Morahatthiya

9.

"Taking a peacock-plume fan, I approached the world leader;

With a confident mind and glad, I gave the peacock-plume fan.

10.

"Through this peacock-plume fan, and through volition and wish;

Three fires were extinguished, I gain abundant happiness.

11.

"Oh, the Buddha! Oh, the Teaching! Oh, the perfection of our Teacher!

Having given a peacock-feather fan, I gain abundant happiness.

12.

"My threefold fires are quenched, all existences are destroyed;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

13.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the peacock-feather fan.

14.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

15.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

16.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Morahatthiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Second: The Attribute of the Elder Peacock-fan

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Lion-throne-fanner

17.

"To the Blessed One Tissa, I paid homage to the Bodhi tree;

Having raised a fan there, I fanned the lion throne.

18.

"Ninety-two aeons ago, I fanned the lion throne;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of fanning.

19.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

20.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

21.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sīhāsanabījiya

Speak these verses.

This is the third Apadāna of the Elder Sīhāsanabījiya.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Tiṇukkadhāriya

22.

"At the supreme foot of the enlightenment tree of the Enlightened One Padumuttara,

With a faithful mind and glad, I held up three torches.

23.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, I held up that torch;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving the torch.

24.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

25.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

26.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Tiṇukkadhāriya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth, the Attribute of the Elder Torch Bearer.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver of a Step

27.

"To the sage Kakusandha, the accomplished brahmin;

Going for his day's dwelling, I gave a step.

28.

"In this very aeon, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the step.

29.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

30.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

31.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Akkamanadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fifth Apadāna: The Elder Akkamanadāyaka.

6.

The Apadāna of the Elder Vanakoraṇḍiya

32.

"Of the Blessed One Siddhatta, foremost in the world, such a one;

Having taken a wild koraṇḍa flower, I offered it to the Enlightened One.

33.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

34.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

35.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

36.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vanakoraṇḍiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The sixth Attribute of the Elder Vanakoraṇḍiya.

The twentieth section for recitation.

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Ekacchattiya

37.

"The earth was covered with embers, the great earth was filled with hot ashes;

The Blessed One Padumuttara walked in the open air.

38.

"Taking a white parasol, I entered upon the journey;

Having seen the Enlightened One there, joy arose in me.

39.

"The ground was covered with mirages, this earth was like embers;

Great winds strike, bringing discomfort to the body.

40.

"Warding off cold and heat, protecting from wind and sun;

Accept this parasol, I will experience quenching.

41.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, Padumuttara of great fame;

Having known my intention, the Victor accepted it then.

42.

"For thirty aeons I was king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

And five hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch.

43.

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning;

I experience my own action, previously well done by myself.

44.

"This is my last birth, my final life unfolds;

Even today a white parasol is held over me at all times.

45.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that parasol;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a parasol.

46.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

47.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

48.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ekacchattiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

This is the seventh apadāna, of the Elder Ekachattiya.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Jātipupphiya

49.

"When the Blessed One Padumuttara of great fame attained final Nibbāna;

Having made a garland of flowers, I placed it on the body.

50.

"Having established confidence there, I went to Nimmāna;

Having gone to the deity world, I remember that meritorious action.

51.

"A rain of flowers from the sky rains down upon me at all times;

When I wander in human existence, I become a king of great fame.

52.

"There a rain of flowers rains down upon me always;

Through the power of that flower offering to the All-Seeing One.

53.

"This is my final existence, my last life unfolds;

Even today a rain of flowers rains down upon me always.

54.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of worshipping the body.

55.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

56.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

57.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Jātipupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The eighth apadāna of the Elder Jātipupphiya.

9.

The Apadāna of the Elder Paṭṭipupphiya

58.

"While they were carrying out the body, when the drums were being beaten;

With a confident mind and glad, I offered a paṭṭi flower.

59.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of worshipping the body.

60.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

61.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

62.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Paṭṭipupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The ninth attribute of the Elder Paṭṭipupphiya.

10.

The Attribute of the Elder Gandhapūjaka

63.

"When funeral pyres were being made, various fragrances were collected;

With bright mind and glad, I offered a handful of fragrance.

64.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, I made offerings to that funeral pyre;

I do not recall any bad destination, this is the fruit of funeral pyre offerings.

65.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

66.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

67.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Gandhapūjaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The tenth is the Apadāna of the Elder Gandha-pūjaka.

The forty-sixth is the Chapter on Jagatidāyaka.

Here is its summary -

Platform and peacock-feather fan, and seat, torch bearer;

Stepping on, forest koraṇḍa, parasol giver, birth worshipper.

And the Elder Paṭṭipupphī, tenth is Gandha-pūjaka;

Sixty-seven verses, counted by the wise.

47.

The Chapter on Sālakusumiya

1.

Apadāna of the Elder Sālakusumiya

1.

"When the Blessed One, named Supreme among Water-born, attained final Nibbāna;

When placed upon the funeral pyre, I offered sāla flowers.

2.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall any bad destination, this is the fruit of funeral pyre offerings.

3.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

4.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

5.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sālakusumiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The first apadāna of the Elder Sālakusumiya.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Citakapūjaka

6.

"Of the meditating Blessed One Sikhī, the world's kinsman;

I offered eight campaka flowers at the funeral pyre.

7.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall any bad destination, this is the fruit of funeral pyre offerings.

8.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

9.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

10.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Citakapūjaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Second: The Apadāna of the Elder Citakapūjaka

3.

The Apadāna of the Elder Citakanibbāpaka

11.

"When the body was burning, of Vessabhu the great sage;

Having taken scented water, I extinguished the funeral pyre.

12.

"Thirty-one aeons ago from now, I extinguished the funeral pyre;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the scented water.

13.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

14.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

15.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Citakanibbāpaka

Speak these verses.

The Third Apadāna of the Elder Who Extinguished the Funeral Pyre.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Who Gave a Bridge

16.

"In front of the Blessed One Vipassī, as he was walking;

With a faithful mind and glad, I had a bridge built.

17.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I had that bridge built;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a bridge.

18.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

19.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

20.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Setudāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth Apadāna of the Elder Setudāyaka.

5.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sumanatālavaṇṭiya

21.

"To the Blessed One Siddhattha, I gave a palm fan;

Covered with jasmine flowers, I held up that which brought great fame.

22.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, I gave the palm fan;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the palm fan.

23.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

24.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

25.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sumanatālavaṇṭiya

Speak these verses.

The fifth apadāna of the Elder Sumanatāḷavaṇṭiya.

6.

The Apadāna of the Elder Avaṭaphaliya

26.

"The Blessed One named Sataraṃsī, self-enlightened, undefeated;

The Enlightened One, desiring seclusion, went out for alms.

27.

"With fruit in hand, having seen the bull of men, I approached;

With a clear mind and joyful, I gave myrobalan fruit.

28.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

29.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

30.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

31.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Avaṭaphaliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

This is the sixth apadāna, of the Elder Avaṭaphali.

7.

Apadāna of the Elder Labujaphaladāyaka

32.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, I was a park keeper then;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, going through the air.

33.

"Taking a breadfruit, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One;

Standing in space, the one of great fame accepted it while peaceful.

34.

"It generated delight for me, bringing happiness in this very life;

Having given fruit to the Enlightened One, with a clear mind.

35.

"Then I attained rapture, and supreme abundant happiness;

A jewel indeed arises, wherever I am reborn.

36.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

37.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

38.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

39.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Labujaphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Breadfruit-Giver is the Seventh.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Wave-Leaf Fig-Fruit-Giver

40.

"Having seen the Buddha in the forest, Atthadassī of great fame;

With a clear mind and joyful, I gave the fruit of a wave-leaf fig.

41.

"Eighteen hundred aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

42.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

43.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

44.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pilakkhaphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Pilakkhaphaladāyaka - Eighth.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Sayaṃpaṭibhāniya

45.

"Like a shining chief bull, the deity of deities, the bull among men;

Walking along the road, who having seen would not gain confidence.

46.

"Having destroyed that darkness, having led many people across;

Shining with the light of knowledge, who having seen would not gain confidence.

47.

"With a hundred thousand dwellers, the Leader of the World being led;

Uplifting many beings, who having seen would not gain confidence.

48.

"Beating the drum of Teaching, crushing groups of sectarians;

Roaring the lion's roar, who having seen would not gain confidence.

49.

"To the extent of the brahmā world, having come together with brahmās;

Asking subtle questions, who having seen would not gain confidence.

50.

"Having made reverential salutation to whom, they beseech together with deities;

Through that they experience merit, who having seen would not gain confidence.

51.

"All people having gathered together, invite the One with Vision;

When requested he does not waver, who having seen would not gain confidence.

52.

"When he enters the city, many drums sound;

Intoxicated elephants trumpet, who having seen would not gain confidence.

53.

"When he goes along the street, all light always shines;

The raised places become even, who having seen would not gain confidence.

54.

When the Enlightened One speaks, it is heard even in the world sphere;

He instructs all beings, who having seen would not gain confidence.

55.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I praised that Enlightened One;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of praising.

56.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

57.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

58.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sayaṃpaṭibhāniya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The ninth Apadāna of the Elder of Self-Inspired Ingenuity.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder of Sign Explanation

59.

"Having plunged into the Himalayas, I then spoke the sacred verses;

Fifty-four thousand disciples attended upon me.

60.

"All were masters of the sacred knowledge, gone to perfection in the six factors;

Supported by their own true knowledge, they lived in the Himalayas.

61.

"Having fallen from the Tusita realm, a young deity of great fame;

He was born in a mother's womb, clearly comprehending and mindful.

62.

"When the Enlightened One was arising, the ten thousand worlds shook;

The blind gained vision, when the Teacher was arising.

63.

"This entire earth shook in all aspects, completely;

Having heard the resounding sound, the great masses were startled.

64.

"All people having gathered together, came into my presence;

This earth has shaken, what will be the result?

65.

"Then I said to them, do not be afraid, there is no fear for you;

Be all at ease, this arising is auspicious.

66.

"Having touched with eight causes, this earth shakes;

When signs appear like this, there is a great and extensive light.

67.

"Without doubt the supreme Enlightened One, with vision, will arise;

Having instructed the people, I spoke about the five precepts.

68.

"Having heard the five precepts, and that a Buddha's arising is rare,

They became stirred up and glad, delighted and joyful.

69.

"Ninety-two aeons ago, when I explained that sign;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the explanation.

70.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

71.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

72.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Nimittabyākaraṇiya

Speak these verses.

The tenth is the Attribute of the Elder Sign-Explainer.

The Chapter on Sālakusumiya is the forty-seventh.

Here is its summary -

The Elder Sāla-flower-offerer, and the Worship-maker and the Extinguisher;

The White-parasol-maker and the Palm-fan-maker, and the Avaṭa-fruit-giver.

And Pilakkha-tree-inspired and the Explainer, the twice-born;

Seventy-two verses, counted by the wise.

48.

The Chapter on Naḷamāli

1.

The Attribute of the Elder Reed-Garland-Maker

1.

"The Enlightened One with golden complexion, the recipient of offerings;

Going through the forest path, I saw the Leader of the World.

2.

"Having taken a reed garland, and immediately going forth;

There I saw the Enlightened One, crossed over the floods, taintless.

3.

"With a confident mind and glad, I offered the reed garland;

To the great hero worthy of offerings, compassionate towards all the world.

4.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I offered that garland;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

5.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

6.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

7.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Naḷamāliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

First, the Apadāna of the Elder Naḷamāliya.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Maṇipūjaka

8.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

The Enlightened One desiring seclusion, walked in the sky.

9.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there was a great lake;

There was my dwelling, endowed with meritorious action.

10.

"Having left the dwelling, I saw the Leader of the World;

Like a blazing blue lotus, like a burning sacrificial fire.

11.

"Looking around I did not see a flower, to offer to the leader;

Having established confidence in my mind, I paid homage to the Teacher.

12.

"Taking the jewel from my head, I offered it to the leader of the world;

By this offering of a jewel, may there be an auspicious result.

13.

"Padumuttara, knower of the world, receiver of offerings;

The Teacher, standing in the sky, spoke this verse.

14.

'May that intention of yours succeed, may you obtain abundant happiness;

'By this offering of jewels, experience great fame.'

15.

Having said this, the Blessed One, named Supreme Among Water-born;

The supreme Enlightened One went where his mind was set.

16.

For sixty aeons I was king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

And hundreds of times I was a wheel-turning monarch.

17.

When I was one who had become a deity, remembering my past action;

A jewel appears for me, making light for me.

18.

Eighty-six thousand women are my possessions;

With decorated clothes and ornaments, adorned with jewelled earrings.

19.

"With eyes like those of a deer, smiling, with good perception, slender-waisted;

They always surround me, this is the fruit of jewel offerings.

20.

Made of gold, made of jewels, likewise made of rubies;

My goods are well-made, whatever ornaments you wish.

21.

Peaked houses, delightful homes, and a magnificent bed;

Having known my intention, whatever is wished appears.

22.

"It is a gain for them, it is well-gained, who obtain a chance to hear;

A field of merit for human beings, medicine for all living beings.

23.

"Well done was my deed, that I saw the Leader;

I am freed from the nether world, I have attained the unshakeable state.

24.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

Both day and night, there is always light for me.

25.

"Due to that very jewel offering, having experienced the attainments;

The light of knowledge was seen by me, I have attained the unshakeable state.

26.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I offered that jewel;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of offering the jewel.

27.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

28.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

29.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Maṇipūjaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Second: The Apadāna of the Elder Maṇipūjaka.

3.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ukkāsatika

30.

"The Blessed One named Kosika, lived then at Cittakūṭa;

A meditator delighting in meditation, the Enlightened One, a sage delighting in seclusion.

31.

"Having entered the Himalayas, surrounded by a group of women;

I saw the Enlightened One Kosika, like the moon on a full-moon night.

32.

"Taking a hundred torches, I surrounded him then;

Having stayed for seven days and nights, I went on the eighth.

33.

"Having seen the Enlightened One of the Kosika clan, self-enlightened, unvanquished;

With a faithful mind, having paid homage, I gave one alms-giving.

34.

"Through that action, O lord of bipeds, eldest of the world, bull among men;

I was reborn in the Tusita realm, this is the fruit of that one alms-giving.

35.

"Both day and night, there is always light for me;

For a hundred yojanas all around, I pervade with light.

36.

"Fifty-five aeons ago, I was a wheel-turning monarch;

A conqueror of the four quarters, sovereign of Jambu Isle.

37.

"Then my city was prosperous, flourishing and perfectly created;

Thirty yojanas in length, and twenty in width.

38.

"A city named Sobhana, created by Vissakamma;

That place was free from ten sounds, concentrated with proper rhythm.

39.

"In that city there was no creeper, wood, or clay;

All was made of gold, shining continuously.

40.

"Surrounded by four walls, there were three made of jewels;

And in the middle a row of palm trees, created by Vissakamma.

41.

"Ten thousand lotus ponds, covered with red and blue lotuses;

Covered with white lotuses, stirred by various fragrances.

42.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I held that torch;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of torch-bearing.

43.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

44.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

45.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ukkāsatika speak these verses

Speak these verses.

This is the third Apadāna of the Elder Ukkāsatika.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sumanabījaniya

46.

"For the Blessed One Vipassī, at the excellent tree of enlightenment;

Taking a fan named Sumana, I fanned the supreme enlightenment tree.

47.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, I fanned the supreme enlightenment tree;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of fanning.

48.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

49.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

50.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sumanabījaniya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth Attribute of the Elder Sumanabījaniya.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Kummāsadāyaka

51.

"When Vipassī, the great sage, was wandering in search;

Having seen his empty bowl, I filled it with porridge.

52.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that alms;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the porridge.

53.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

54.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

55.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kummāsadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fifth, the Apadāna of the Elder Kummāsadāyaka.

6.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kusaṭṭhakadāyaka

56.

"To the Blessed One Kassapa, the accomplished brahmin;

With a confident mind and glad, I gave eight handfuls of kusa grass.

57.

"In this very aeon, when I gave eight handfuls of kusa grass;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the eight handfuls of kusa grass.

58.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

59.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

60.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kusaṭṭhakadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kusaṭṭhakadāyaka is the sixth.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Giripunnāgiya

61.

"The Enlightened One named Sobhita, lived then at Cittakūṭa;

Having taken a mountain punnāga flower, I honoured the self-enlightened one.

62.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I honoured that Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

63.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

64.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

65.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Giripunnāgiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Seventh is the Attribute of the Elder Giripunnāgiya.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Vallikāraphaladāyaka

66.

"The Enlightened One named Sumana, lived then in Takkarā;

Taking a vallikāra fruit, I gave it to the Self-enlightened One.

67.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

68.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

69.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

70.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vallikāraphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

The eighth Attribute of the Elder Giver of Vallikāra Fruit.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver of Sandals

71.

"The Blessed One Anomadassī, eldest in the world, bull among men,

Coming out from the day's rest, the one with vision climbed first.

72.

"Taking well-made sandals, I set out on a journey;

There I saw the Enlightened One, on foot, beautiful to behold.

73.

"Having established confidence in my mind, having taken out the sandals;

Having placed at his feet, I spoke these words.

74.

"'Climb on, great hero, Fortunate One, leader;

From this I will obtain fruit, may that goal succeed for me.'

75.

"The Blessed One Anomadassī, eldest in the world, bull among men,

Having climbed on the sandals, spoke these words.

76.

"'He who gave me sandals, with confidence, with his own hands;

I will praise him, listen to my words.'

77.

"Having known the word of the Buddha, all deities gathered together;

With uplifted mind and glad, inspired, with reverential salutation.

78.

"By the giving of footwear, he will be happy;

And fifty-five times he will exercise rulership over deities.

79.

"A thousand times he will be a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

80.

"In an immeasurable aeon from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

81.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

Having fully understood all taints, he will attain nibbāna without taints.

82.

"In the world of deities or human beings, the meritorious one will be reborn;

A vehicle comparable to a divine vehicle, he will obtain.

83.

"Palaces, palanquins, litters, decorated elephants;

Chariots yoked with thoroughbreds, always manifest for me.

84.

"When departing from home, I departed by chariot;

While my hair was being cut, I attained Arahantship.

85.

"It is my gain, well-gotten by me, trading was well applied;

Having given one sandal, I have attained the unshakeable state.

86.

"In an immeasurable aeon from now, when I gave that sandal;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the sandal.

87.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

88.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

89.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pānadhidāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Ninth Apadāna: The Elder Giver of Sandals.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sand-Path-Maker

90.

"Formerly I was a deer-hunter, in the wilderness of the forest;

Searching for a wind-deer, I saw a walkway.

91.

"Taking sand in my lap, I scattered it on the walkway;

With a confident mind and glad, for the glorious Fortunate One.

92.

"Thirty-one aeons ago from now, I scattered that sand;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the sand.

93.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

94.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

95.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pulinacaṅkamiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The tenth is the Attribute of the Elder Pulinacaṅkamiya.

The Chapter on Naḷamāli is the forty-eighth.

Here is its summary -

Reed-Garland, Jewel-Giver, Torch, Hundred Fans;

Porridge and Kusa-Grass, and also Giripunnāgiya.

Creeper-Maker, Sandal-Giver, and then Sand-Walker;

Ninety-five verses, counted by the wise.

49.

The Chapter on Paṃsukūla

1.

Attribute of the Elder Paṃsukūlasaññaka

1.

The Blessed One named Tissa, self-enlightened, foremost person;

Having placed down a rag-robe, the victor entered the dwelling.

2.

Taking a bent bow, I wandered for food;

Taking a circular mark, I entered the forest.

3.

"There I saw a rag-robe, caught in a treetop then;

Having put down my bow right there, making a reverential salutation at my head.

4.

"With a confident heart and glad, and with abundant rapture;

Recollecting the supreme Buddha, I paid homage to the rag-robe.

5.

"Ninety-two aeons ago, I paid homage to the rag-robe;

I do not know a bad destination, this is the fruit of that homage.

6.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

7.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

8.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Paṃsukūlasaññaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The First: The Apadāna of the Elder Paṃsukūlasaññaka

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Buddhasaññaka

9.

"A reciter, a master of the mantras, accomplished in the three Vedas;

In characteristics, histories, with word-lists and rituals.

10.

"Like streams of a river, pupils came to me then;

I taught them the mantras, untiring day and night.

11.

"The Enlightened One named Siddhattha arose in the world at that time;

Having destroyed that darkness, he set forth the light of knowledge.

12.

"A certain student of mine told my students about me;

Having heard this matter, they informed me then.

13.

"An omniscient Enlightened One, leader of the world, has arisen in the world;

People follow him, but no gain is found for us.

14.

"Enlightened Ones arise without cause, possessing vision, of great fame;

Perhaps I should see the supreme Enlightened One, leader of the world.

15.

"Having taken my antelope hide, tree bark cloth, and water pot;

Having left the hermitage, I addressed my pupils.

16.

"Like a flower of the udumbara tree, like a rabbit in the moon,

Like milk from crows, rare is a Leader of the World.

17.

"An Enlightened One has arisen in the world, and human birth is rare;

When both are found, hearing too is very rare.

18.

"An Enlightened One has arisen in the world, may we gain vision;

Come all, let us go to the presence of the Fully Enlightened One.

19.

"All carrying water-pots, wearing rough deer-hide;

They with matted hair bearing a burden, departed from the forest then.

20.

"Looking ahead the length of a yoke, seeking the highest goal;

Free from the fault of attachment, like fearless lions.

21.

"Having few duties, not greedy, alert and peaceful in conduct;

Living on gleaned alms, they approached the supreme Enlightened One.

22.

"When one and a half yojanas remained, sickness arose in me;

Having recalled the supreme Enlightened One, I died there.

23.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gained that perception;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of perception of the Enlightened One.

24.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

25.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

26.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Buddhasaññaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Who Perceived the Buddha, the second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Who Gave Lotus Stalks

27.

"Having entered that lotus pond, frequented by various elephants;

I pulled up lotus stalks there, for the sake of food then.

28.

"The Blessed One at that time, named Padumuttara;

The Enlightened One wearing red robes, was going through the sky.

29.

"Shaking his rag-robes, I heard the sound then;

Looking upward, I saw the Leader of the World.

30.

"Standing right there, being peaceful, I invited the Leader of the World;

Honey flows from the lotus stalks, milk and ghee from the lotus roots.

31.

"May the Enlightened One accept from me, out of compassion, One with vision;

Then the compassionate Teacher, of great fame, having descended.

32.

"The One with vision accepted my alms out of compassion;

Having accepted, the Enlightened One made rejoicing for me.

33.

"'May you be happy, one of great merit, may your destination succeed;

By this gift of lotus stalks, may you obtain abundant happiness.'

34.

Having said this, the Enlightened One, named Supreme Among Water-born,

Taking alms, the Enlightened One, the victor came through the sky.

35.

"Then taking lotus stalks, I came to my hermitage;

Having hung the lotus stalks on a tree, I recollected my giving.

36.

"A great wind arose, shaking the forest then;

The sky resounded when lightning struck.

37.

"Then a thunderbolt fell, striking my head at that time;

Being peaceful, seated there, I died there.

38.

"Connected with meritorious action, I was reborn in the Tusita realm;

Though my body has fallen, I delighted in the deity realm.

39.

"Eighty-six thousand women, adorned,

Attend me morning and evening, this is the fruit of giving lotus stalks.

40.

"Having come to the human realm, I am always happy;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of giving lotus stalks.

41.

"Shown compassion by him, the deity of deities, such a one;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

42.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that lotus stalk;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving lotus stalks.

43.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

44.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

45.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Bhisadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Third Apadāna: The Story of the Elder Bhisadāyaka.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ñāṇathavika

46.

"In the southern Himalayas, my hermitage was well-made;

Seeking the highest goal, I lived in the forest then.

47.

"Content with gain and loss, with roots and fruits,

Searching for a teacher, I lived alone.

48.

"The Enlightened One named Sumedha arose in the world at that time;

Proclaimed the four truths, uplifting the masses.

49.

"I did not hear of the Enlightened One, nor did anyone praise him to me;

After eight years had passed, I heard of the leader of the world.

50.

"Having taken out firewood, having swept the hermitage;

Taking up my carrying pole, I departed from the forest.

51.

"Staying one night at a time, in villages and market towns;

Gradually I approached Candavati at that time.

52.

"The Blessed One at that time, Sumedha leader of the world;

Lifting up many beings, taught the term of the Deathless.

53.

Having gone beyond the mass of people, having paid homage to the ocean of victory;

Arranging my deerskin on one shoulder, I praised the Leader of the World.

54.

"You are the teacher and the banner, the flag and the pillar for living beings;

The destination, the support, the island and the supreme among bipeds.

The twenty-first section for recitation.

55.

"Skilled in vision, O hero, you led people across;

There is no other saviour in the world superior to you, O sage.

56.

"It is possible to measure the supreme ocean with a blade of grass;

But it is not possible to measure your knowledge, O Omniscient One.

57.

"It is possible to hold the earth placing it on a balance beam;

But there is no measure of your wisdom, O One with Vision.

58.

"It is possible to measure space with a rope or finger;

But it is not possible to measure your virtue, O Omniscient One.

59.

"The water in the great ocean, space and the earth,

These are measurable, but you are immeasurable, O One with Vision."

60.

"Having praised the Omniscient One of great fame with six verses,

Having raised my hands in reverential salutation, I stood silently then.

61.

"The one whom they call Sumedha, of vast wisdom and good intelligence;

Having sat down in the Community of monks, he spoke these verses.

62.

"He who proclaimed knowledge about me, with a clear mind;

I will praise him, listen to my words.

63.

"For seventy-seven aeons, he will delight in the world of deities;

A thousand times they will be king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm.

64.

"And many hundreds of times he will be a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

65.

"Whether become a deity or a human being, concentrated on meritorious action;

With complete intention, he will be one of sharp wisdom'.

66.

"In thirty thousand aeons, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

67.

"Having gone forth from home, one with impediments will go forth;

At seven years from birth, he will attain Arahantship.

68.

"Since I remember myself, since I attained the Teaching;

During that interval, I do not know of an unpleasant volition.

69.

"Having wandered through all existences, I experienced success;

I have no deficiency in wealth, the fruit of praising knowledge.

70.

"My threefold fires are quenched, all existences are destroyed;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

71.

"Thirty thousand aeons ago, I praised that knowledge;

I do not recall a bad destination, the fruit of praising knowledge.

72.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

73.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

74.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ñāṇathavika speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth Attribute of the Elder Ñāṇathavika.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Candanamāliya

75.

Having abandoned the five cords of sensual pleasure, dear and delightful to the mind;

Having abandoned eighty crores, I went forth into homelessness.

76.

"Having gone forth, I avoided evil action with the body;

Having abandoned verbal misconduct, I dwelt on the river bank.

77.

"While I was dwelling alone, the supreme Enlightened One approached me;

I did not know he was the Enlightened One, I showed hospitality.

78.

"Having shown hospitality, I asked his name and clan;

'Are you a deity or a gandhabba, or Sakka, the first of givers.

79.

'Who are you or whose son are you, a great Brahmā come here;

You illuminate all directions, like the rising sun.

80.

'Wheels with a thousand spokes are seen in your feet, friend;

Who are you or whose son are you, how should we know you;

Declare your name and clan, remove my doubt'.

81.

'I am neither a deity nor a gandhabba, nor Sakka, the first of givers;

I have no state of Brahmā, I am superior to them.

82.

"Gone beyond their domain, I broke the bondage of sensual pleasure;

Having burnt up all defilements, I attained supreme enlightenment."

83.

Having heard his speech, I spoke these words:

"If you are the enlightened one, the omniscient one, sit here, great sage.

84.

I shall honour you, you are the maker of suffering's end";

Having spread out the victor's leather, I gave it to the Teacher.

85.

There sat the Blessed One, like a lion in a mountain cave;

Quickly climbing the mountain, I gathered the fruit of a mango.

86.

"A beautiful sāla flower, and sandalwood of great worth;

Having quickly taken up all that, I approached the Leader of the World.

87.

"Having given fruit to the Enlightened One, I honoured him with sāla flowers;

Having anointed him with sandalwood, I paid homage to the Teacher.

88.

"With a confident heart and glad, and with abundant rapture;

Having sat on an antelope hide, Sumedha, the Leader of the World;

89.

"He described my action, delighting me then;

Through this giving of fruit and both kinds of garlands and fragrances.

90.

For twenty-five hundred aeons, they will delight in the world of deities;

With unfailing intention, they will be powerful.

91.

For twenty-six hundred aeons, they will go to the human state;

They will be a wheel-turning monarch, ruler of the four quarters with great spiritual power.

92.

A city named Vebhara, created by Vissakamma;

It will be all golden, adorned with various gems.

93.

"By this very engagement, he will transmigrate through existence;

Being honoured everywhere, among deities and among humans.

94.

"When the final existence arrives, he will be a kinsman of brahmins;

Having gone forth from home, he will become homeless;

Having reached the far shore through direct knowledge, he will attain nibbāna without taints."

95.

"Having said this, the Enlightened One Sumedha, leader of the world,

While I was contemplating, departed through the path of wind.

96.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

97.

"Having fallen from Tusita, I was born in a mother's womb;

I have no deficiency in wealth, in whatever womb I dwell.

98.

"When I was in my mother's womb, food and drink and nourishment;

For my mother according to my desire, manifested as wished.

99.

"At five years of age, I went forth into homelessness;

When my hair was shaved off, I attained Arahantship.

100.

"Searching for my past action, I did not see it in this period;

In thirty thousand aeons, I recalled my action.

101.

"Homage to you, thoroughbred among persons, homage to you, highest among persons;

Having come to your Dispensation, I have attained the unshakeable state.

102.

"Thirty thousand aeons ago, I honoured the Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

103.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

104.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

105.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Candanamāliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fifth Attribute of the Elder Candanamāliya.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Element-Venerator

106.

"When the Lord of the World, Siddhattha, the Leader of the World was quenched;

Having gathered my relatives, I made offerings to the element.

107.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I honoured that element;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of offering to the element.

108.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

109.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

110.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Dhātupūjaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Sixth: The Apadāna of the Elder Dhātupūjaka.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Pulinuppādaka

111.

"On the Himavanta mountain, there was an ascetic named Devala;

There I had a walkway, created by spirits.

112.

"Bearing a load of matted hair, always carrying a water-pot;

Seeking the highest goal, I then departed from the forest.

113.

"Eighty-four thousand disciples attended upon me;

Devoted to their own tasks, they dwelt in the forest then.

114.

"Having left the hermitage, I made a shrine of sand;

Having gathered various flowers, I made offerings at that shrine.

115.

"Having established confidence there, I entered the hermitage;

All students having gathered, asked me about this matter.

116.

"'The stupa made of sand, which you, deity, saw;

We too wish to know, when asked, please tell us.'

117.

"'They are pointed out in the sacred texts, the ones with vision of great fame;

I pay homage to them, the supreme Enlightened Ones of great fame.'

118.

"What were they like, those great heroes, those omniscient Leaders of the World;

Of what appearance, of what virtue, what were they like, those of great fame."

119.

"The Enlightened Ones had the thirty-two marks, and also forty teeth;

Their eyes were like those of a cow, resembling the fruit of the jujube.

120.

"And when walking, those Enlightened Ones looked ahead the distance of a plough;

Their knees made no sound, no sound of joints could be heard.

121.

"And when walking, those Fortunate Ones went lifting their feet;

The right foot first, this is the nature of the Enlightened Ones.

122.

"And those Enlightened Ones are fearless, like a lion, the king of beasts;

They neither exalt themselves, nor do they disparage living beings.

123.

"Free from conceit and contempt, equal towards all living beings;

The Enlightened Ones do not praise themselves, this is the nature of the Enlightened Ones.

124.

"And when the Enlightened Ones arise, they show the light;

They make this entire earth shake in six ways.

125.

"They see hell, and then hell cools down;

A great cloud rains down, this is the nature of the Enlightened Ones.

126.

"'Such are those great arahants, incomparable and of great fame;

Not surpassed in beauty, the Truth Finders are immeasurable.'

127.

"'All my pupils, reverential, rejoiced in my words;

And they practised accordingly, according to their ability and strength.'

128.

"They honour the sand, aspiring for their own deeds;

Having faith in my words, their minds devoted to honouring the Buddha.

129.

"Then passing away from Tusita, a young deity of great fame;

Arose in his mother's womb, and the ten thousand worlds shook.

130.

"Not far from the hermitage, I stood on the walking path;

All students having gathered, came into my presence.

131.

"Like a bull the earth roars, like a king of beasts it growls;

Like a crocodile it moves, what will be the result?

132.

"That Enlightened One whom I praise, near the sand stupa;

Now that Blessed One, the Teacher, has entered a mother's womb.

133.

"Having spoken a Teaching talk to them, having praised the great sage;

Having sent away my own pupils, I sat cross-legged.

134.

"Indeed my strength was depleted, by that supreme illness;

Having recalled the supreme Enlightened One, I died there.

135.

"All students having gathered, made the funeral pyre then;

And having taken my corpse, they placed it upon the funeral pyre.

136.

"Having surrounded the funeral pyre, making a reverential salutation at their heads;

Pierced by the dart of sorrow, they gathered and wailed.

137.

"While they were lamenting, I went to the funeral pyre then;

'I am your teacher, do not sorrow, O wise ones.

138.

'You should strive for your own welfare, untiring day and night;

Do not be heedless, the moment has been granted to you'.

139.

"Having instructed my own pupils, I returned again to the world of deities;

For eighteen aeons, I delight in the world of deities.

140.

"And five hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And many hundreds of times I ruled over the deity realm.

141.

"In the remaining aeons, I wandered through mixed existences;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of arising.

142.

"Just as in the month of Komudi, many trees bloom;

Even so at that time, I blossomed through the great sage.

143.

Energy is my beast of burden, carrying me to security from bondage;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

144.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I praised that Enlightened One;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of praising.

145.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

146.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

147.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pulinuppādaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Seventh is the Apadāna of the Elder Pulinuppādaka.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Taraṇiya

148.

"The Blessed One Atthadassī, self-enlightened, leader of the world;

The Truth Finder approached the bank of the river Vinatā.

149.

"Having emerged from the water, I, a turtle whose range was in the water;

Wishing to help the Enlightened One cross, I approached the leader of the world.

150.

"May the Enlightened One Atthadassī, the great sage, climb upon me;

'I will carry you across, you are the maker of suffering's end'.

151.

"Having known my intention, Atthadassī of great fame;

Having climbed onto my back, the Leader of the World stood.

152.

"Since I remember myself, since I attained wisdom;

I have no such happiness as when his foot-sole touched me.

153.

"Having crossed over, the Enlightened One, Atthadassī of great fame;

Standing on the river bank, spoke these verses.

154.

"'To the extent that mind extends, I cross the stream of the Ganges;

And this wise king tortoise helped me to cross.

155.

"Through this helping to cross like a Buddha, and through having a mind of loving-kindness;

For eighteen hundred aeons, he will delight in the world of deities.

156.

"Having come here from the world of deities, urged by wholesome roots;

Having sat on one seat, he will cross the stream of perplexity.

157.

"Just as in a good field, even when little seed is sown;

When proper rain is provided, the fruit delights the farmer.

158.

"Just so is this field of the Enlightened One, taught by the Perfectly Enlightened One;

When proper rain is provided, the fruit will delight me."

159.

'I am resolute in striving, peaceful without acquisition;

Having fully understood all taints, I dwell taintless.

160.

"Eighteen hundred aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of helping to cross.

161.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

162.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

163.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Taraṇiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Taraṇiya is the eighth.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Dhammaruci

164.

"When the Enlightened One Dīpaṅkara, the Victor, made a declaration about Sumedha;

'In an immeasurable aeon from now, he will become an Enlightened One.

165.

"'His birth mother will be named Māyā;

His father will be named Suddhodana, he will be Gotama.

166.

"'Having strived in striving, having performed austerities;

At the foot of the Assattha tree, the greatly famous one will become an Enlightened One.

167.

"'Upatissa and Kolita will be the chief disciples;

Named Ānanda, he will attend upon me, the victor.

168.

"'Khemā and Uppalavaṇṇā will be the chief female disciples;

Citta and Āḷavaka will be the chief male lay followers.

169.

"'Khujjuttarā and Nandamātā will be the chief female lay followers;

The enlightenment tree of this hero is declared to be the Assattha.'

170.

"Having heard these words of the peerless great sage;

Delighted humans and deities pay homage with reverential salutation.

171.

"At that time I was a young man, well trained, named Megha;

Having heard the supreme prediction of Sumedha, the great sage.

172.

"Having become associated with Sumedha, of compassionate disposition;

When that hero went forth, I went forth together with him.

173.

Restrained in the code of monastic rules and in the five faculties;

Of pure livelihood, mindful and heroic, practising the Teacher's Dispensation.

174.

"While living thus, by some evil friend,

I was urged to misconduct, fallen away from the good path.

175.

"Having come under the power of thoughts, I departed from the Teaching;

Later, instigated by that evil friend to matricide.

176.

"With a corrupted mind, I committed an immediate offence, had her killed;

Passing away from there, I was reborn in the great hell, most terrible.

177.

"Having gone to the nether world, I wandered in suffering for a long time;

I did not see again the hero, the wise one, the bull among men.

178.

"In this aeon in the ocean, I was a sea monster;

Having seen a ship in the ocean, I approached for food.

179.

"Seeing me, the merchants frightened, recollected the supreme Buddha;

Having heard the great sound 'Gotama' uttered by them.

180.

"Having recalled the previous perception, I died there;

In Sāvatthī in a wealthy family, I was born in a brahmin clan.

181.

"Named Dhammaruci, I was one who loathed all evil;

At seven years of age, I saw the Light of the World.

182.

"Having gone to the great Jetavana, I went forth into homelessness;

I went to the Buddha three times, both day and night.

183.

"Then seeing me, the sage addressed me as 'Dhammaruci of old';

Then I spoke to the Buddha, developed through past actions.

184.

"For a very long time, with the characteristics of a hundred merits, purified by previous conditions;

Today indeed with equanimity, I see your incomparable form.

185.

"For a long time the darkness has been dispelled by me, for a long time the river has been dried up by protection;

For a long time the stainless has been purified, the eye made of knowledge, O great sage.

186.

"For a long time endowed with you, not lost again for a long interval;

Again come to sovereignty through you, indeed what is done does not perish, O Gotama.

187.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

188.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

189.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Dhammaruciya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Ninth, the Apadāna of the Elder Dhammaruci.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sālamaṇḍapiya

190.

"Having entered the sāla forest, my hermitage was well-made;

Covered with sāla flowers, I dwelt in the forest then.

191.

"The Blessed One Piyadassī, self-enlightened, foremost person;

The Enlightened One desiring seclusion, approached the sāla forest.

192.

"Having left the hermitage, I went to the wilds;

Searching for roots and fruits, I wandered in the forest then.

193.

"There I saw the Enlightened One, Piyadassī of great fame;

Well seated and attained, shining in the Great Wood.

194.

"Having set up four posts, above the Buddha I,

Having made a well-made pavilion, covered it with sal flowers.

195.

"Having held up for seven days, the pavilion covered with sal wood;

Having established confidence there, I paid homage to the supreme Buddha.

196.

"The Blessed One at that time, having emerged from concentration;

Looking a plough-length ahead, the supreme person sat down.

197.

"The disciple named Varuṇa, of the Teacher Piyadassī;

With a hundred thousand masters, approached the Guide.

198.

"The Blessed One Piyadassī, eldest in the world, bull among men,

Having sat in the Community of monks, the Victor manifested a smile.

199.

"Anuruddha by name was the attendant, of the Teacher Piyadassī;

Having arranged his robe over one shoulder, he asked the great sage.

200.

"What, Blessed One, is the reason for the Teacher's smile;

When there is a cause present, the Teacher displays a smile.'

201.

"'The young man who for seven days held up for me a sal wood covering;

Having remembered his action, I manifested a smile.

202.

"'I do not see a place where his merit ripens;

In the world of deities or human beings, there is not even space enough.

203.

"While dwelling in the world of deities, endowed with meritorious action,

As far as his assembly extends, it will be covered with sal trees.

204.

There with divine dances, songs and music;

He will always delight, peaceful, concentrated on meritorious action.

205.

As far as his assembly extends, it will be fragrant with odours;

And immediately a rain of sal flowers will pour down.

206.

When this being passes away from here, he will come to the human state;

Here too a canopy of sal trees will remain at all times.

207.

Here too there will be dance and song, accompanied by rhythmic music;

Will constantly be my retinue, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

208.

"When the sun rises, a rain of sala flowers rains down;

Connected with meritorious action, it rains down at all times.

209.

"Eighteen hundred aeons ago, born in the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

210.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

Having fully understood all taints, he will attain nibbāna without taints.

211.

"'For one who has fully understood the Teaching, there will be a covering of sal trees;

When burning on the funeral pyre, there will be a canopy there.'

212.

"Having proclaimed the result, Piyadassī the great sage;

Taught the Teaching to the assembly, satisfying them with a shower of Teaching.

213.

"For thirty aeons I exercised rulership over the deities;

And sixty-seven times I was a wheel-turning monarch.

214.

"Having come here from the world of deities, I gain abundant happiness;

Here too is a roof of sal wood, this is the fruit of the pavilion.

215.

"This is my final existence, my last life unfolds;

Here too there will be a roof of sal wood at all times.

216.

"Having pleased the great sage, Gotama, the bull of the Sakyans;

I have attained the unshakeable state, having abandoned both victory and defeat.

217.

"Eighteen hundred aeons ago, when I honoured the Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

218.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

219.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

220.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sālamaṇḍapiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Tenth is the Apadāna of the Elder Sālamaṇḍapiya.

The Chapter on Paṃsukūla is the Forty-ninth.

Here is its summary -

Rag-robe and Buddhasaññī, Bhisada and Ñāṇakittaka;

Candanī and Dhātupūjī, and also Pulinuppādaka.

Taraṇa and Dhammarucika, and likewise Sālamaṇḍapiya;

The verses are two hundred, and nineteen less.

50.

The Chapter on Kiṅkaṇipuppha

1.

Apadāna of the Elder Tikiṅkaṇipupphiya

1.

"Shining like a kaṇikāra tree, seated between the mountains;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, Vipassī, leader of the world.

2.

"Taking three kiṅkaṇi flowers, I placed them as an offering;

Having honoured the Enlightened One, I went towards the south.

3.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

4.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I honoured that Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

5.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

6.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

7.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Tikiṅkaṇipupphiya

Speak these verses.

First, the Apadāna of the Elder Tikiṅkaṇipupphiya.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Paṃsukūlapūjaka

8.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there was a mountain called Udaṅgaṇa;

There I saw a rag-robe, hanging in a treetop.

9.

"Having picked three kiṅkaṇi flowers then,

Delighted, with a delighted mind, I venerated the rag-robe.

10.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

11.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, having honoured the banner of the worthy ones.

12.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

13.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

14.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Paṃsukūlapūjaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Second Apadāna of the Elder Paṃsukūlapūjaka.

3.

The Apadāna of the Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya

15.

"Formerly I was a forest worker, following my parents' advice;

I live by hunting animals, wholesomeness is not found in me.

16.

"Near my dwelling place, the Leader Supreme of the Three Worlds;

Showed three footprints, out of compassion, the One with vision.

17.

"Having seen the footprints pressed, of the Teacher named Tissa;

Delighted, with a delighted mind, I gained confidence in the footprint.

18.

"Having seen the flowering koraṇḍa, a tree growing from the earth;

Taking it with its sheath, I offered it to the supreme footprint.

19.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

20.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

I am of golden complexion, I become one of great luminosity.

21.

"Ninety-two aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of worshipping the feet.

22.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

23.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

24.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The third Apadāna of the Elder Koraṇḍapupphiya.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kiṃsukapupphiya

25.

"Having seen the kiṃsuka tree in flower, having raised my hands in reverential salutation, remembering the Enlightened One Siddhattha, I made an offering in space.

Recollecting the supreme Buddha, I made an offering in space.

26.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

27.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

28.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

29.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

30.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kiṃsukapupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth Attribute of the Elder Kiṃsukapupphiya.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Half-cloth Giver

31.

"Of the Blessed One Padumuttara, a disciple named Sujāta;

Searching for a rag-robe, was wandering in a rubbish heap then.

32.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was a hired worker for others;

Having given half a cloth, I welcomed him with my head.

33.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

34.

Thirty-three times I was king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

And seventy-seven times, I was a wheel-turning monarch.

35.

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning;

Through the gift of half a cloth, I rejoice, free from fear.

36.

If I wish today, I could cover

The forest with its mountains with linen cloths, this is the fruit of that half cloth.

37.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of half a cloth.

38.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

39.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

40.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Upaḍḍhadussadāyaka

Speak these verses.

The fifth attribute of the Elder Upaḍḍhadussadāyaka.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka

41.

"The Blessed One Sucintita, the eldest in the world, the bull among men;

Seated in the great forest, afflicted by a wind ailment.

42.

Having seen him and established confidence in my mind, I offered clarified butter;

Because of what has been done and accumulated, this is the river Ganges of Bhagīratha.

43.

The four great oceans became ghee for me;

And this terrible earth, measureless, incalculable.

44.

Having known my intention, they become honey and honour;

These trees of the four continents, the trees growing on earth.

45.

Having known my intention, they become wish-fulfilling trees;

Fifty times I was king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

46.

"Fifty-one times I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

47.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving clarified butter.

48.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

49.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

50.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ghatamaṇḍadāyaka is the sixth.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Udakadāyaka

51.

"To the Enlightened One Padumuttara, in the unsurpassed Community of monks;

With a confident mind and glad, I filled a water pot.

52.

"On mountain peaks and treetops, in space or on the ground;

When I wish for water, quickly it manifests for me.

53.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving water.

54.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

55.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

56.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Udakadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Seventh is the Attribute of the Elder Water-Giver.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Sand-Stupa-Maker

57.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there was a mountain called Yamaka;

My hermitage was well-made, a leaf-hut well-built.

58.

"Named Nārada by name, a matted-hair ascetic of intense austerity;

Fourteen thousand students attend upon me.

59.

"Being in seclusion, I thought thus then;

'All people honour me, but I honour no one.

60.

'I have no exhorter, no instructor is found;

Without teacher or preceptor, I took up dwelling in the forest.

61.

"While living there, I established reverent thoughts;

I have no teacher, dwelling in the forest is purposeless.

62.

"I shall seek a worthy one to make offerings to, one who is venerable and worthy of development;

I shall dwell with support, no one will blame me."

63.

"The river has low banks, good fords and is delightful;

Strewn with very pure sand, not far from my hermitage.

64.

"Then having approached the river named Amarika,

Having heaped up sand, I made a sand shrine.

65.

"Those who were Enlightened Ones, sages who made an end of existence;

Their monument was like this, I make that sign.

66.

"Having made a sand monument, I created a golden one;

I offered three thousand golden bell flowers.

67.

"Morning and evening I pay homage, inspired, with reverential salutation;

As if in the presence of the Enlightened One, I venerated the sand shrine.

68.

"When defilements arise, thoughts dependent on the household;

I remember the well-made shrine, I reflect on it right then.

69.

"Dwelling in dependence on the caravan leader, the guide;

You should not live with defilements, it is not fitting for you, good sir.

70.

"As soon as I reflected on the shrine, reverence arose in me then;

I dispelled wrong thoughts, like a bull elephant struck by a goad.

71.

"While I was dwelling thus, the king of death crushed me;

Having died there, I went to the brahmā world.

72.

"Having lived there for my life span, I was reborn in the realm of the thirty-three;

Eighty times I was king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm.

73.

"And three hundred times, I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

74.

"I experience the result of golden bell-flowers;

A hundred thousand nurses surrounded me in existence.

75.

"Due to attending to the shrine, dust and dirt do not cling;

Sweat does not release from my body, I am one of great luminosity.

76.

"Oh, well made was my shrine, well seen was the celestial river;

Having made a sand stupa, I have attained the unshakeable state.

77.

"For one who wishes to do wholesome, for a being who grasps the essence,

There is no field or non-field, only practice brings success.

78.

"Just as a strong person would strive to cross the ocean,

Taking a small piece of wood, would plunge into the great lake.

79.

"Depending on this wood, I will cross the great ocean;

With enthusiasm and energy, a person would cross the ocean.

80.

"Just so the deed done by me, small and little as it was,

Dependent on that action, I transcended the round of rebirths.

81.

When the final existence arrived, urged by wholesome roots;

I was born in Sāvatthī, in a very wealthy great household.

82.

My faithful mother and father went to refuge in the Enlightened One;

Both having seen the state, they followed the Teaching.

83.

Taking the bark of the Bodhi tree, they had a golden shrine made;

Morning and evening they pay homage in front of the son of the Sakyans.

84.

"On the Uposatha day, they brought out the golden stupa;

Praising the beauty of the Buddha, they spent the three watches of the night.

85.

"As soon as I saw the stupa, I remembered the shrine of sand;

Having sat on one seat, I attained Arahantship.

The twenty-second section for recitation.

86.

"Searching for that hero, I saw the general of the Teaching;

Having left home, I went forth in his presence.

87.

"At seven years of age, I attained Arahantship;

The Enlightened One, possessing vision, granted me full admission, knowing my qualities.

88.

"By me, peaceful like a child, the task has been completed;

Today what needed to be done has been done in the Dispensation of the son of the Sakyans.

89.

"Gone beyond all animosity and fear, transcended all fetters, the sage;

Your disciple, O Great Hero, this is the fruit of Soṇṇathūpa.

90.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

91.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

92.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pulinathūpiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Pulinathūpiya, the Eighth.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Reed Hut Giver

93.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there was a mountain called Hārita;

The Self-enlightened One named Nārada, lived at the root of a tree then.

94.

"Having made a reed hut, I covered it with grass;

Having cleaned the walking path, I gave it to the Self-enlightened One.

95.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

96.

"There my well-made mansion, constructed like a reed hut;

Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.

97.

"For fourteen aeons, I delighted in the deity realm;

And seventy-one times I exercised rulership over the deity realm.

98.

"And thirty-four times I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

99.

"Having ascended the palace of the Teaching, excellent in all aspects,

I dwell as I wish in the Dispensation of the son of the Sakyans.

100.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the reed hut.

101.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

102.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

103.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Naḷakuṭidāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Ninth Attribute of the Elder Reed-Hut-Giver.

10.

The Attribute of the Elder Piyāla-Fruit-Giver

104.

"Formerly I was a deer-hunter, wandering in the forest then;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, who had gone beyond all teachings.

105.

"Having taken a piyāla fruit, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One;

To the hero, the field of merit, with confidence, with my own hands.

106.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

107.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

108.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

109.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Piyālaphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

The tenth is the Apadāna of the Elder Piyālaphala-dāyaka.

The Chapter on Kiṅkaṇipuppha is the fiftieth.

Here is its summary -

Kiṅkaṇi and rag-robe, and koraṇḍa then kiṃsuka;

Half-cloth and ghee-giver, water and stupa-maker.

And Naḷakārī is the ninth, Piyālaphala-dāyaka;

One hundred and one verses, and nine more than that.

Then the chapter summary -

The Metteyya Chapter, Bhaddāli, and Sakiṃsammajjaka too;

Ekavihārī, Vibhītakī, platform and Sāla-flowers.

A reed hut, a rag-robe, and likewise bell-flowers;

Eighty-two verses, and fourteen hundreds.

The Chapter of Ten about Metteyya.

The Fifth Hundred is finished.

51.

The Chapter on Kaṇikāra

1.

The Attribute of the Elder Three-Kaṇikāra-Flower

1.

"The Enlightened One named Sumedha, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics;

The Enlightened One desiring seclusion, approached the Himalayas.

2.

"Having plunged into the Himalayas, the foremost compassionate sage;

Having folded his legs crosswise, the supreme person sat down.

3.

"I was then a knowledge-master, moving through the sky;

Taking a well-made trident, I was going through the sky then.

4.

"Like a fire on a mountain peak, like the moon on the full moon night;

The Enlightened One shines in the forest, like a blossoming king of sal trees.

5.

"Having departed from the forest peak, with the rays of the Enlightened One spreading;

Seeing what appeared like the colour of reed-fire, I made my mind confident.

6.

"Searching I saw a flower, a kaṇikāra with divine fragrance;

Taking three flowers, I honoured the supreme Enlightened One.

7.

"Through the power of the Enlightened One, those three flowers of mine then;

With stalks up and leaves down, made shade for the Teacher.

8.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

9.

"There my well-made mansion, is known as Kaṇikārī;

Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.

10.

"With a thousand pillars, a hundred spires, adorned with banners, made of green gems;

A hundred thousand turrets appeared in my mansion.

11.

"Made of gold, made of jewels, and also made of rubies;

And crystal couches too, whatever and however I wished.

12.

"A grand resting place, furnished with cotton mattresses,

With long-fleeced rugs on one side, equipped with pillows.

13.

"Having left my dwelling, wandering on a deity's journey;

Whenever I wish to go, honoured by the community of deities.

14.

I stand beneath flowers, above is my covering;

Extending for a hundred yojanas, covered with kaṇikāra flowers.

15.

Sixty thousand musical instruments attended morning and evening;

Always surround me, untiring day and night.

16.

There with dances and songs, with cymbals and music,

I delight in playful delight, I rejoice in sensual pleasures here.

17.

"Having eaten and drunk there, I rejoiced then among the Thirty-three;

Accompanied by groups of women, I rejoice in the highest Brahmā realm.

18.

"And five hundred times I exercised divine kingship;

And three hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

19.

Wandering in various existences in the round of rebirths, I gain great wealth;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

20.

"I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I do not know any other destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

21.

"I am born into two families, noble and brahmin;

I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

22.

"Elephant mounts and horse mounts, palanquin and chariot;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

23.

"Groups of female slaves and male slaves, and adorned women;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

24.

"Silken blankets, and those made of linen and cotton;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

25.

"New clothes, new fruits, food with the finest new tastes;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

26.

"Eat this, partake of this, lie on this bed;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

27.

"Everywhere I am honoured, my fame has risen high;

I always have a great following, always an unbreakable assembly;

I am the highest of relatives, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

28.

"I do not know cold or heat, no passion is found;

Moreover, mental suffering is not found in my heart.

29.

"Having golden beauty, I wander through various existences;

I do not know disfigurement, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

30.

"Having fallen from the world of deities, urged by wholesome roots;

I was born in Sāvatthī, in a very wealthy great household.

31.

"Having abandoned the five cords of sensual pleasure, I went forth into homelessness;

At seven years of age, I attained Arahantship.

32.

"The Enlightened One, possessing vision, granted me full admission, knowing my qualities;

Young and worthy of honour I was, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

33.

"My divine eye is purified, I am skilled in concentration;

I have attained perfection in direct knowledge, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

34.

"I have attained the analytical knowledges, am skilled in the bases for spiritual power;

I have attained perfection in the teachings, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

35.

"Thirty thousand aeons ago, I honoured the Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

36.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

37.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

38.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Tikaṇikārapupphiya

Speak these verses.

The First. The Apadāna of the Elder Tikaṇikārapupphiya.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ekapattadāyaka

39.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was a potter;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, crossed over the floods, taintless.

40.

"I gave a well-made clay bowl to the supreme Enlightened One;

Having given the bowl to the Blessed One, such a one of upright nature.

41.

"Being reborn in existence, I obtain golden bowls;

I use bowls of silver and gold, and also of jewels.

42.

"I use bowls - this is the fruit of meritorious action;

And I am foremost in fame and wealth.

43.

"Just as in a good field, even when little seed is sown;

When proper rain is provided, the fruit delights the farmer.

44.

"Just so this gift of a bowl, planted in the field of the Enlightened One;

When the rain of rapture pours, the fruit will delight me.

45.

"As many fields as there are, and Communities and groups;

There is none equal to the field of the Enlightened One, giver of happiness to all living beings.

46.

"Homage to you, thoroughbred among persons, homage to you, highest among persons;

Having given one bowl, I have attained the unshakeable state.

47.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that bowl;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a bowl.

48.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

49.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

50.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ekapattadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder One Bowl Giver, the second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Kāsumāra Fruit Giver

51.

"Shining like a kaṇikāra tree, seated between the mountains;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, the eldest in the world, the bull among men.

52.

"With a confident heart and joyful mind, making a reverential salutation at my head;

Taking a kāsumāra fruit, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One.

53.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

54.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

55.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

56.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kāsumāraphaliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The third apadāna of the Elder Kāsumāraphaliya.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Avaṭaphaliya

57.

"The Blessed One Thousand-rayed, self-enlightened, undefeated;

Having risen from seclusion, went out for alms.

58.

"With fruit in hand, having seen the bull of men, I approached;

With bright mind, gladdened, I gave myrobalan fruit.

59.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

60.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

61.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

62.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Avaṭaphaliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

This is the fourth apadāna, of the Elder Avaṭaphala.

5.

Apadāna of the Elder Pādaphala

63.

"The Enlightened One with golden complexion, the recipient of offerings;

Walking along the road, I gave a pāda fruit.

64.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

65.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

66.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

67.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Pādaphaliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fifth Attribute of the Elder Pādaphali.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Citron-Fruit-Giver

68.

"Like a blazing kaṇikāra tree, like the moon on a full-moon night,

Like a blazing lamp-tree, I saw the Leader of the World.

69.

"Taking a citron fruit, I gave it to the Teacher;

To the worthy hero, with confidence, with my own hands.

70.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

71.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

72.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

73.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Mātuluṅgaphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

This is the sixth apadāna of the Elder, the giver of the citron fruit.

7.

Apadāna of the Elder, the Giver of the Wood Apple Fruit

74.

"There was a Fully Enlightened One named Ajjuna, who dwelt then in the Himalayas;

And accomplished in conduct, the sage was skilled in concentration.

75.

"Taking a pot-measure of wood apple, fresh and ripe;

Taking an umbrella leaf, I gave it to the Teacher.

76.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

77.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

78.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

79.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ajeliphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Seventh: The Apadāna of the Elder Ajeli Fruit Giver.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Amoda Fruit Giver

80.

"The Enlightened One with golden complexion, the recipient of offerings;

Walking along the road, I gave an amoda fruit.

81.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

82.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

83.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

84.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Amodaphaliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The eighth attribute of the Elder Amodaphaliya.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Tālaphaladāyaka

85.

"The Blessed One named Sataraṃsī, self-enlightened, undefeated;

Having risen from seclusion, he went out for alms.

86.

"With fruit in hand, having seen the bull of men, I approached;

With confident mind and glad, I gave a palm fruit.

87.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

88.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

89.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

90.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Tālaphaladāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Ninth Attribute of the Elder Giver of Palm Fruit.

10.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver of Coconut Fruit

91.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, I was a park keeper then;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, going through the air.

92.

"Having taken a coconut fruit, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One;

Standing in space, the one of great fame accepted it while peaceful.

93.

"It generated delight for me, bringing happiness in this very life;

Having given fruit to the Enlightened One, with a clear mind.

94.

"Then I attained rapture, and supreme abundant happiness;

A jewel indeed arises, wherever I am reborn.

95.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

96.

"My divine eye is purified, I am skilled in concentration;

I have attained perfection in direct knowledge, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

97.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

98.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

99.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Nāḷikeraphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

This is the tenth apadāna, of the Elder Coconut-fruit-giver.

The Chapter on Kaṇikāra is the fifty-first.

Here is its summary -

Kaṇikāra and one leaf, and Kāsumārī and Āvaṭa;

Foot and citron, and goat and jasmine.

Palm and coconut, the verses counted here;

Make exactly one hundred verses, neither more nor less.

52.

The Chapter on Phaladāyaka

1.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kurañciya-fruit-giver

1.

"Formerly I was a deer-hunter, wandering in the forest;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, who had gone beyond all teachings.

2.

"Having taken the kurañciya fruit, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One;

To such a one, the field of merit, with confidence, with my own hands.

3.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

4.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

5.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the supreme Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

6.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kurañciyaphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

First is the Apadāna of the Elder Kurañciya Fruit Giver.

2.

Apadāna of the Elder Kapittha Fruit Giver

7.

"The Enlightened One with golden complexion, the recipient of offerings;

While walking along the road, I gave a kapittha fruit.

8.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

9.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

10.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

11.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kapitthaphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Second Apadāna of the Elder Kapitthaphaladāyaka.

3.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kosambaphaliya

12.

"Like a shining chief bull, the deity of deities, the bull among men;

Walking along the road, I gave a kosamba fruit then.

13.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

14.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

15.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

16.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kosambaphaliya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Third, the Apadāna of the Elder Kosambaphaliya.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Ketakapupphiya

17.

"On the bank of the Vinatā river, the highest among persons dwelt;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, one-pointed and well concentrated.

18.

"Then with a sweet-scented flower, of the ketaka plant,

With a confident mind and glad, I honoured the supreme Enlightened One.

19.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

20.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

21.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

22.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ketakapupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth Apadāna, of the Elder Ketakapupphiya.

5.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nāgapupphiya

23.

"The Enlightened One with golden complexion, the recipient of offerings;

Walking along the road, I offered a nāga flower.

24.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

25.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

26.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

27.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Nāgapupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The fifth attribute of the Elder Nāgapupphiya.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Ajjunapupphiya

28.

"On the bank of the river Candabhāgā, I was then a celestial musician;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, self-enlightened, unvanquished.

29.

"With a confident mind, gladdened, inspired, with reverential salutation;

Taking an ajjuna flower, I honoured the self-enlightened one.

30.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the kinnara body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

31.

"Thirty-six times I was king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

Ten times I was a wheel-turning monarch, ruling over a great kingdom.

32.

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning;

Oh, for me the seed sown in a good field, in the Self-enlightened One.

33.

I have wholesome qualities, I went forth into homelessness;

Today I am worthy of veneration in the Dispensation of the son of the Sakyans.

34.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

35.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

36.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ajjunapupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Sixth Attribute of the Elder Arjuna Flower

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Mountain Ebony Flower

37.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there was a mountain called Vasala;

An Enlightened One named Sudassana, dwelt between the mountains.

38.

"Taking a flower from the Himalayas, I went through the air;

There I saw the Enlightened One, crossed over the floods, taintless.

39.

"Taking a mountain ebony flower, making a reverential salutation at my head;

I offered them to the Buddha, the self-enlightened great sage.

40.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

41.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

42.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

43.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kuṭajapupphiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The seventh is the Apadāna of the Elder Kuṭajapupphiya.

8.

Apadāna of the Elder Ghosasaññaka

44.

"Formerly I was a deer-hunter, in the wilderness of the forest;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, honoured by hosts of deities.

45.

"Proclaiming the four noble truths, teaching the term of the Deathless;

I heard the sweet Teaching of Sikhī, the world's kinsman.

46.

"I established confidence in his voice, in the incomparable person;

Having established confidence there, I crossed over difficult existence.

47.

"Thirty-one aeons ago from now, when I gained that perception;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the perception of sound.

48.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

49.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

50.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Ghosasaññaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Eighth: The Apadāna of the Elder Ghosasaññaka.

9.

The Apadāna of the Elder Sabbaphaladāyaka

51.

"One named Varuṇa, a brahmin accomplished in mantras;

Having abandoned ten sons, I then entered the forest.

52.

"Having made a well-constructed hermitage, well-proportioned, delightful;

Having made a leaf-hut, I dwelt in the jungle.

53.

"Padumuttara, knower of the world, receiver of offerings;

Wishing to lift me up, came to my hermitage.

54.

"Throughout the forest grove, there was an extensive light;

Through the power of the Enlightened One, the forest blazed then.

55.

"Having seen that miracle of such a supreme Buddha;

Having taken a bowl-bag, I made an offering with fruit.

56.

"Having approached the Enlightened One, I gave him my shoulder-load;

Out of compassion for me the Enlightened One spoke these words.

57.

'Taking up your carrying pole, come behind me;

When the Community has partaken, there will be merit for you'.

58.

"Having taken a needle case, I gave it to the Community of monks;

Having established confidence there, I was reborn in Tusita.

59.

"There with divine dances, songs and music;

Connected with meritorious action, I always experience happiness.

60.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of giving fruit.

61.

"As far as the four continents extend, with their oceans and mountains;

Having given fruit to the Enlightened One, I exercise lordship.

62.

"As many flocks of birds as there are, if they fly in the sky;

They too come under my control, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

63.

"As many spirits, beings, and demons as there are in the woodland grove;

Kumbhaṇḍas and garuḷas too come to attend upon me.

64.

"Kumbhas, dogs, honey-makers, gadflies and both mosquitoes;

They too come under my control, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

65.

"Birds called supaṇṇas, born with wings, of great strength;

They too go to me for refuge, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

66.

"Those dragons who are long-lived, with spiritual powers and great fame;

They too come under my control, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

67.

"Lions and tigers and leopards, bears and hyenas;

They too come under my control, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

68.

"Those who dwell in medicinal herbs and grass, and those who dwell in space;

They all go to me for refuge, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

69.

"Very hard to see, extremely subtle, deep, well explained;

Having experienced contact I dwell, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

70.

"Having touched the eight deliverances, I dwell taintless;

I am ardent and alert, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

71.

"Those sons of the Buddha who have attained the fruits, with hatred destroyed, of great fame;

I am one among them, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

72.

"Having gone to the perfection of direct knowledge, urged by wholesome roots;

Having fully understood all taints, I dwell taintless.

73.

"Those with the three true knowledges, those who have attained spiritual powers, sons of the Buddha of great fame;

I am one of those who possess the divine ear.

74.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

75.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

76.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

77.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sabbaphaladāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The ninth attribute of the Elder who gave all fruits.

10.

The Attribute of the Elder who Held up a Lotus

78.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there was a mountain called Romasa;

An Enlightened One named Sambhava, lived in the open air then.

79.

"Having left my dwelling, I held up a lotus;

Having held it for one day, I returned to my dwelling again.

80.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I honoured that Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

81.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

82.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

83.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Padumadhārika speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Padumadhārika, the tenth.

The Chapter on Phaladāyaka, the fifty-second.

Here is its summary -

Kurañciya and kapittha, kosamba and then ketaka;

Nāgapuppha and Ajjuna, Kuṭajī and the one called Ghosa.

The Elder and giver of all fruits, and likewise Padumadhārika;

Here are eighty verses, and three verses more than that.

53.

The Chapter on Tiṇadāyaka

1.

The Apadāna of the Elder Tiṇamuṭṭhidāyaka

1.

"Not far from the Himalayas, there is a mountain called Lambaka;

Right there the Enlightened One Tissa was walking in the open air.

2.

"Formerly I was a deer-hunter, in the wilderness of the forest;

Having seen that deity of deities, I gave a handful of grass.

3.

"Having given it for the Buddha to sit upon, I made my mind confident;

Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, I departed facing north.

4.

"Shortly after I had gone, a king of beasts struck me;

Having been struck by a lion, I died there.

5.

"I had done an action recently towards the supreme Buddha, the taintless one;

Well freed like an arrow's speed, I went to the world of deities.

6.

"There was a beautiful sacrificial post, created by meritorious action;

A sacrificial post with a thousand sections and a hundred knots, with flags, made of green gems.

7.

"Its radiance streamed forth, like the risen hundred-rayed one;

Surrounded by heavenly maidens, I delighted in sensual pleasures.

8.

"Having fallen from the world of deities, urged by wholesome roots;

Having come to the human state, I have attained the destruction of taints.

9.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, I gave a seat;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of a handful of grass.

10.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

11.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

12.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Tiṇamuṭṭhidāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

First, the Apadāna of the Elder Tiṇamuṭṭhidāyaka.

2.

The Apadāna of the Elder Mañcadāyaka

13.

"Of the Blessed One Vipassī, foremost in the world, such a one;

One bed was given by me, with a faithful hand.

14.

"Elephant mounts and horse mounts, divine vehicles I attained;

By that gift of a bed, I have attained the destruction of taints.

15.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that bed;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a bed.

16.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

17.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

18.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Mañcadāyaka speak these verses.

The Second, the Attribute of the Elder Bed-giver.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Saraṇagamaniya

19.

"We boarded a boat then, a monk and an Ājīvaka and I;

When the boat was breaking up, the monk gave me refuge.

20.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when he gave me refuge;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of going for refuge.

21.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

22.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

23.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Saraṇagamaniya speak these verses.

Speak these verses.

The Third Apadāna: The Attribute of the Elder Gone to Refuge.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Abbhañjanadāyaka

24.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, I lived in the royal park;

I was then wearing leather robes, carrying a water-pot.

25.

"I saw the stainless Enlightened One, self-enlightened, unvanquished;

That resolute one in striving, a meditator delighting in meditation, controlled.

26.

"Accomplished in all sensual pleasures, crossed over the floods, taintless;

Seeing him, faithful and happy, I gave ointment.

27.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the ointment.

28.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

29.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

30.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Abbhañjanadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver-of-Ointment, the Fourth.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver-of-Cloth

31.

"Having left his day dwelling, Vipassī, the Leader of the World;

Having given a light cloth, I rejoiced in heaven for an aeon.

32.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, I gave a cloth;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the cloth.

33.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

34.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

35.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Supaṭadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The fifth attribute of the Elder Supaṭadāyaka.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Daṇḍadāyaka

36.

"Having entered the forest wilderness, having cut bamboo then;

Having made a handrail, I gave many to the Community.

37.

"With that confidence in mind, having paid homage to those of good observance;

Having given a handrail, I departed facing north.

38.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that stick;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a stick.

39.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

40.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

41.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Daṇḍadāyaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Sixth: The Apadāna of the Elder Daṇḍadāyaka.

The twenty-third section for recitation.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Girinelapūjaka

42.

"Formerly I was a deer-hunter, wandering in the forest;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, who had gone beyond all teachings.

43.

"In that one of great compassion, delighting in the welfare of all beings;

With a confident mind and glad, I offered nela flowers.

44.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

45.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

46.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

47.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Girinelapūjaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The seventh is the Apadāna of the Elder Girinela-pūjaka.

8.

Apadāna of the Elder Bodhi-sammajjaka

48.

"Formerly I took a bodhi leaf, discarded in the shrine grounds;

Having taken it I threw it away, I did not obtain twenty qualities.

49.

"By the power of that action, wandering through various existences;

I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans.

50.

"Having fallen from the world of deities, having come to human existence;

I am born into two families, noble and brahmin.

51.

"Complete in all limbs and organs, with height and girth,

I am handsome and pure, perfect in limbs, lacking nothing.

52.

"In the world of deities or human beings, or wherever born,

In existence I am golden-coloured, like refined gold.

53.

"Soft, gentle, smooth, delicate and tender

My skin always is, like a well-discarded enlightenment leaf.

54.

"In whatever destination, when a body arises,

Dust and dirt do not cling, the result of discarding a bowl.

55.

"In heat, wind and sun, or even with the heat of fire;

Sweat does not release from his body, the result of discarding a bowl.

56.

"Leprosy, tumours, skin disease, moles and boils likewise;

There is no ringworm on the body, the result of discarding a bowl.

57.

"Another quality of his arises in various existences;

There are no diseases in the body, the result of discarding a bowl.

58.

"Another quality of his arises in various existences;

There is no mental affliction, the result of discarding a bowl.

59.

"Another quality of his arises in various existences;

He has no enemies, the result of discarding a bowl.

60.

"Another quality of his arises in various existences;

He has no lack of wealth, the result of discarding a bowl.

61.

"Another quality of his arises in various existences;

There is no fear from fire, kings, thieves, or in water.

62.

"Another quality of his arises in various existences;

Male and female servants and followers are compliant with his mind.

63.

"In whatever human existence one is born with a measure of life,

From that the life span does not diminish, it remains for the full life term.

64.

"Those internal and external, townspeople and those with their kingdoms,

All are devoted, desiring growth and wishing happiness.

65.

"I am wealthy and famous, resplendent and with a following of relatives,

Free from fear and anxiety, in all existences.

66.

"Deities, human beings, titans, gandhabbas, yakkhas and rakkhasas;

All of them always protect me while wandering in existence.

67.

"Having experienced fame in both the world of deities and among human beings;

And in the end I attained Nibbāna, the unsurpassed peaceful state.

68.

"Having dedicated merit to the Enlightened One, or to the enlightenment of that Teacher;

Whatever merit a person generates, what could be difficult to obtain for them?

69.

"In the path and fruition, in scripture and in the qualities of meditation and direct knowledge;

Having become superior to others, I attain extinction taintless.

70.

"Before I attained enlightenment, having discarded with a joyful mind;

I am always endowed with these twenty factors.

71.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

72.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

73.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Bodhisammajjaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Eighth: The Attribute of the Elder Sweeper of the Bodhi Tree.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Giver of Gallnuts

74.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

Rising from concentration, the leader of the world walked back and forth.

75.

"Taking my carrying pole, bringing fruit then;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, the great sage, walking back and forth.

76.

"With a confident heart and joyful mind, making a reverential salutation at my head;

Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, I gave a gallnut fruit.

77.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the gallnut.

78.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

79.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

80.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Āmaṇḍaphaladāyaka

Speak these verses.

The Ninth Legend of the Elder, the Giver of Gallnut Fruit.

10.

The Legend of the Elder Sugandha

81.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

82.

"Endowed with excellent features, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics;

Surrounded by a fathom-wide aura, covered with a net of rays.

83.

"Comforting like the moon, radiant like the sun;

Quenching like a cloud, like the ocean a treasury of virtues.

84.

"Like the earth in virtue, like the Himalayas in concentration;

Like space with wisdom, unattached like the wind.

85.

"Then at times the great hero, confident in assemblies;

Proclaimed the truths, uplifting the masses.

86.

"At that time in Bārāṇasī, I was a merchant's son of great fame;

I had then much wealth and grain, abundant indeed.

87.

"Walking about on foot, having approached the Deer Park;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One teaching the term of the Deathless.

88.

"With clear and lovely speech, with voice like a cuckoo bird;

With sounds like a swan's call, enlightening the masses.

89.

"Having seen that deity beyond deities, and having heard his sweet voice;

Abandoning insignificant wealth, I went forth into homelessness.

90.

"Thus gone forth, before long I became learned;

I became a speaker of the Teaching, with varied discernment.

91.

"In the midst of a great assembly, with a joyful mind again and again;

I praised the beauty of the golden-hued one, being skilled in praise.

92.

"This Enlightened One with taints destroyed, trouble-free with doubts cut off;

Having attained the destruction of all actions, liberated in the extinction of acquisitions.

93.

"This is the Blessed One, the Enlightened One, this unsurpassed lion;

For the world with its deities, the one who sets in motion the supreme wheel.

94.

"Tamed and tamer, peaceful and peacemaker, quenched sage;

Quencher and comforter, who comforts the multitude.

95.

"Heroic, brave and valiant, wise, compassionate and self-controlled;

The victor is a conqueror, unassuming, without attachment.

96.

Imperturbable, unshakeable, wise, without delusion, the incomparable sage;

A beast of burden, a bull, a dragon, a lion, mighty even among the respected.

97.

Dispassionate, stainless, sublime, a speaker, a hero who abandons conflict;

Without barrenness, without arrows, incomparable, restrained, pure.

98.

A brahmin, an ascetic, a lord, a physician, a surgeon;

A warrior, an Enlightened One, learned and unlearned, unshakeable, filled with altruistic joy, with a sickle.

99.

An element, a bearer, peaceful, a doer, a leader, one who reveals;

One who gladdens, a breaker, a cutter, an ear, one who is praised.

100.

Without barrenness, without arrows, without trouble, without uncertainty;

Unstirred, stainless, the doer, praised for odours and observances.

101.

The one who leads across, who brings about good, who causes, who brings about anguish;

Who makes reach, united, beloved, destroyer, ardent ascetic.

102.

With righteous mind, equal to the righteous, without companion, with compassionate attachment;

With marvellous being, not deceitful, accomplished, supreme of seers.

103.

Gone beyond perplexity, without conceit, immeasurable, incomparable;

Gone beyond all paths of speech, the Victor who has gone to the end of truth.

104.

In him, the best of beings' core, confidence brings the Deathless;

Therefore faith in the Buddha and the Teaching and the Community is of great benefit.

105.

"With such qualities and others, the supreme refuge of the three worlds;

Praising in the midst of the assembly, I gave a talk on the Teaching.

106.

"Then passing away from there to Tusita, having experienced great happiness;

Passing away from there, I was born among human beings, fragrant.

107.

"My breath, the odour of my mouth, and likewise the odour of my body;

And my sweat's odour constantly, all are fragrant for me.

108.

"The odour of my mouth is always of lotus, water lily and champak;

It always wafts when I am tired, and likewise from my body.

109.

"All this is the fruit of praising qualities, truly most wonderful;

With one-pointed mind all, I will praise, listen to me.

110.

"Having spoken of the Buddha's qualities, incomparable for welfare;

I am happy everywhere, joined with the heroic Community.

111.

"Famous, happy, beloved, brilliant, pleasant to see;

A speaker who is not despised, and likewise faultless and wise.

112.

"When life is ended, Nibbāna is easily attained by one devoted to the Buddha;

I will tell you the reason for this, listen to it as it really is.

113.

"I welcomed with proper discrimination the Blessed One's peaceful glory;

Even when reborn there and there, by that I became famous.

114.

"Praising the Buddha who makes an end of suffering, the Teaching that is peaceful and unconditioned;

I was a giver of happiness to beings, and thus was happy.

115.

"Speaking of the qualities of the Buddha, united with rapture for the Buddha;

By that I generated delight in myself and others, being delightful.

116.

"When it was crowded with sectarians, having overcome the false sectarians;

Speaking of the qualities, I illuminated the Guide, thus becoming radiant.

117.

"Speaking of the qualities of the Perfectly Enlightened One, I was one who acted kindly towards people;

Like the moon in autumn, I was pleasant to behold.

118.

According to my ability, I praised with all manner of speech;

Due to that, I became eloquent, with varied ingenuity, about the Fortunate One.

119.

Those fools who attained uncertainty, who disparaged the great sage;

I refuted them with the true Teaching, I was not disparaged by that.

120.

Through praising the Enlightened One, I removed the defilements of beings;

I become one with mind free from defilements, due to the power of that action.

121.

"I generated growth for listeners, a teacher of recollection of the Enlightened One;

Therefore I became wise, seeing subtle meanings.

122.

"With all taints completely destroyed, crossed over the ocean of the round of rebirths;

Like a fire, without clinging, I will attain quenching.

123.

"In this very aeon, when I praised the Victor;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of praising the Enlightened One.

124.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

125.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

126.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sugandha speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Sugandha is the tenth.

The Chapter on Tiṇadāyaka is the fifty-third.

Here is its summary -

The grass-giver and the bed-giver, and the giver of refuge and ointment;

Supata and the staff-giver, and likewise the lotus-offerer.

The sweeper of the Bodhi Tree, Manda, and Sugandha as the tenth;

One hundred and twenty-seven verses, are counted here in total.

54.

The Chapter on Kaccāyana

1.

The Attribute of the Elder Mahākaccāyana

1.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, unstirred, undefeated victory;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, this guide arose.

2.

"A hero with lotus-petal eyes, with face pure like the moon;

Like a golden mountain, with radiance equal to the sun.

3.

"Captivating with seven eyes, adorned with excellent characteristics;

Beyond all paths of speech, honoured by humans and deities.

4.

"The Enlightened One enlightening beings, lord of speech with sweet voice;

With a continuum bound by compassion, confident in assemblies.

5.

"He teaches the sweet Teaching, connected with the four truths;

He raises up living beings, sunk in the mud of delusion.

6.

"Then being a solitary wanderer, an ascetic dwelling in the Himalayas;

Going through the sky to the human world, I saw the Victor.

7.

"Having approached him, I heard the teaching of the Teaching;

Of the hero praising the great qualities of the disciple.

8.

"What was spoken by me in brief, he explained in detail;

He delighted both the assembly and me, this Kaccāyana.

9.

'I do not see here any other disciple

Therefore, monks, remember him as foremost in this respect.'

10.

"Then I was amazed, having heard these delightful words;

Having gone to the Himalayas, having gathered flowers.

11.

"Having honoured the refuge of the world, I aspired for that state;

Then knowing my inclination, that conflict-ender declared.

12.

"Look at this supreme sage, with skin like burnished gold;

With hair standing upright, with plump shoulders, standing motionless with joined palms.

13.

"With eyes full of joy, with mind set on praising the Buddha;

Born of the Teaching, with uplifted heart, like one sprinkled with the Deathless."

14.

"Having heard of Kaccāna's virtue, standing I aspired to that state;

In the future time, of Gotama the great sage.

15.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Kaccāna will be a disciple of the Teacher.

16.

"Learned, of great knowledge, knower of intentions, O sage;

He will attain that state, as has been declared by me.

17.

A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

18.

"I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I do not go to any other destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

19.

"I am born into two families, noble and brahmin;

I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

20.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in the city of Ujjeni;

Under Pajjota the fierce, a brahmin chief priest.

21.

"Son of Tiriṭivaccha, skilled, master of the Vedas;

My mother was named Candimā, I was Kaccāna of golden complexion.

22.

"Sent by the ruler of the land to investigate the Buddha;

Seeing the door to the city of liberation, the Leader, a collection of virtues.

23.

"And having heard the stainless speech, which dried up the mire of destinations;

I attained the peaceful Deathless, together with seven others.

24.

"Born knowing the intentions, of great wisdom of the Fortunate One;

Placed at the foremost position, my heart's wish well fulfilled.

25.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

26.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha; The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

27.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Mahākaccāyana speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The First Attribute of the Elder Mahākaccāyana.

2.

The Attribute of the Elder Vakkali

28.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, a leader arose,

Named Anoma, immeasurable, by name Padumuttara.

29.

"With face like a lotus, with pure lotus-like complexion,

Unsullied by the world, like a lotus by water.

30.

"A hero with lotus-petal eyes, lovely like a lotus,

With lotus-like fragrance, therefore he was Padumuttara.

31.

"Eldest in the world and without conceit, like eyes to the blind,

Of peaceful appearance, a treasury of virtues, an ocean of compassion.

32.

"Then at times the great hero, honoured by brahmās, titans and deities;

In the midst of people crowded with deities and humans, the supreme victor.

33.

"With a fragrant voice, and with sweet speech;

Delighting the entire assembly, he praised his own disciple.

34.

"Resolved in faith, of good wisdom, eager to see me;

There is no other like this monk Vakkali.

35.

"Then in the city of Haṃsavatī, born as a brahmin;

Having heard that statement, I aspired to that state.

36.

"Having invited that stainless Truth Finder together with his disciples;

Having fed them for seven days, I clothed them with robes then.

37.

"Having bowed my head to him, the ocean of infinite virtues;

Immersed and filled with rapture, I spoke these words.

38.

"'That sage whom you praised, seven days from now;

The Buddhist monk foremost among those with faith and vows, may I become like him, O sage.'

39.

"When this was said, the great hero, with unobstructed vision;

Uttered these words, the great sage in the assembly.

40.

"'Look at this young man, wearing clean yellow robes;

With limbs adorned with golden sacrificial marks, delighting the eyes and minds of people.

41.

"'He in the future course, of the great seer Gotama;

He will be the chief disciple among those with disposition to faith.

42.

Whether become a deity or a human being, free from all distress;

Endowed with all enjoyments, he will wander through existence happily.

43.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

44.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Vakkali will be a disciple of the Teacher.

45.

"Through that distinction of action, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

46.

"Having been happy everywhere, wandering through various existences;

I was born in the city of Sāvatthī, in a certain family.

47.

"Me, delicate as butter, soft as a newly sprouted leaf;

Lying feebly on my back, frightened by the fear of demons.

48.

"At the feet of the Great Seer, with dejected minds they laid me down;

We give him to you, Lord, be a refuge, O Leader.

49.

"Then the sage, the refuge of the frightened, accepted me,

With his webbed hand marked with a wheel, soft and tender.

50.

"From then on, protected by him who needs no protection,

Free from all animosity, I grew up in happiness.

51.

"Being without the Fortunate One, I feel anxious even for a moment;

At seven years of age, I went forth into homelessness.

52.

"Born of all perfections, with excellent dark eyes,

Form adorned with all beauty, I dwell unsatisfied.

53.

"Knowing my delight in the Buddha's form, then the Victor exhorted me;

"Enough Vakkali, why delight in form, which fools find pleasing.

54.

"One who sees the true Teaching, that wise person sees me;

Not seeing the true Teaching, even seeing me one does not see.

55.

"The body has endless dangers, like a poisonous tree;

A dwelling for all diseases, merely a mass of suffering.

56.

"Being disenchanted with form then, seeing the rise and fall of the aggregates;

See the corruptions, one will go to the end of pleasure."

57.

"Thus instructed by him, the leader seeking welfare;

Having climbed Vulture Peak, I meditate in the mountain cave.

58.

"Standing at the foot of the mountain, the great sage gave comfort;

"Vakkali," said the Victor, and having heard that speech I was filled with altruistic joy.

59.

"I leapt from a rocky cliff, many hundreds of men high;

Then through the Buddha's power, I reached the ground comfortably.

60.

"Again he taught the Teaching, about the rise and fall of the aggregates;

Having understood that Teaching, I attained Arahantship.

61.

"Then in the midst of a great assembly, the one of great wisdom

Declared me foremost among those disposed to faith.

62.

A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

63.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

64.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

65.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vakkali speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Vakkali, the second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Mahākappina

66.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

Risen in the cloudless space, like the sun in the autumn sky.

67.

"With the light of his speech he awakens, the lotuses of those to be trained;

The leader dries up the mud of defilements, with the rays of wisdom.

68.

"He destroys the fame of other sectarians, as the sun destroys the light of fireflies;

He reveals the light of truth, like the sun a jewel.

69.

"He became the source of qualities, like the ocean of jewels;

Like the rain deity with beings, he rains with the cloud of Teaching.

70.

"I was then a judge, in the city called Haṃsa;

Having approached, I heard the Teaching of the one supreme among those born in water.

71.

"Of the exhorter of monks, the disciple who had done what had to be done;

Who was proclaiming the virtue, satisfying my mind.

72.

"Having heard, joyful and happy, having invited the Truth Finder;

Having fed him with his disciples, I aspired for that state.

73.

"Then equal to a swan, with voice like a swan's drum;

See this great minister, confident in making judgements.

74.

"Fallen at my feet, with body hair standing on end;

Dark as a rain cloud, with broad shoulders, with serene eyes and face.

75.

"With a great retinue, a royal official of great fame;

This one, having done his duty, aspires to that state with a mind full of altruistic joy.

76.

"By this prostration, by giving up and by these wishes;

For a hundred thousand aeons, he will not be reborn in a bad destination.

77.

"Among deities he will experience divine glory, among human beings greatness;

Having experienced the remainder, he will attain Nibbāna.

78.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

79.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Kappina will be a disciple of the Teacher.

80.

"Then having done good service in the Conqueror's Dispensation;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tusita realm.

81.

"Having ruled over divine and human kingdoms hundreds of times;

I was born near Bārāṇasi in the Keniya clan.

82.

"With a retinue of a thousand, together with my wife;

I attended to five hundred privately enlightened ones.

83.

"Having fed them for three months, afterwards we gave the three robes;

Passing away from there, we all went to the realm of the thirty-three deities.

84.

"Again, passing away from there, we all went to the human state;

I was born in Kukkuṭa, on the slopes of the Himalayas.

85.

"I was a prince named Kappina, of great fame;

The others were born in ministers' families and formed my retinue.

86.

"Having attained the happiness of great kingship, endowed with all sensual pleasures;

I heard from merchants about the arising of the Enlightened One.

87.

'An Enlightened One has arisen in the world, an incomparable individual;

He proclaimed the true Teaching, the supreme happiness of the Deathless.

88.

"'His disciples were well-yoked and well-freed, taintless';

"Having heard their good speech, having honoured the merchants.

89.

"Having abandoned the kingdom with my minister, I departed, devoted to the Buddha;

Having seen the great river, full and overflowing.

90.

"Without support, without a hold, difficult to cross, swift-flowing;

Recollecting the virtue of the Buddha, I crossed safely.

91.

"'If the Buddha, the knower gone to the world's end, has crossed the stream of existence;

By this truth-utterance, may my journey succeed.

92.

"If the path is the way to peace, and liberation is ultimate happiness;

By this truth-utterance, may my journey succeed.

93.

"If the Community has crossed the wilderness, the unsurpassed field of merit;

By this truth-utterance, may my journey succeed."

94.

"As soon as the excellent truth was spoken, the water receded from the path;

Then I crossed over happily to the delightful riverbank.

95.

"I saw the Enlightened One seated, like the rising sun,

Blazing like a golden mountain, shining like a lamp-tree.

96.

"Like the moon surrounded by stars, honoured by disciples;

Like Vāsava raining, amidst the waters of Teaching.

97.

Having paid homage with my minister, I sat down to one side;

Then knowing our inclination, the Enlightened One taught the Teaching.

98.

Having heard the stainless Teaching, we said to the Victor;

'Ordain us, Great Hero, we are weary of existence'.

99.

'Well-taught, monks, is the Teaching, for making an end of suffering for you;

Live the holy life', thus said the supreme sage.

100.

Together with those words, we all wore the robes of monks;

We were fully ordained and stream-enterers in the Dispensation.

101.

"Then going to Jetavana, the Guide instructed me;

Instructed by the Victor, I attained Arahantship.

102.

"Then I instructed a thousand monks at that time;

Following my instruction, they too became taintless.

103.

"The Victor, pleased with this quality, placed me at the foremost position;

'Kappina is foremost among monks who exhort,' he declared to the great assembly.

104.

"The deed done a hundred thousand aeons ago showed its fruit to me here;

Freed like the force of an arrow, I burnt up my defilements.

105.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

106.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

107.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Mahākappina speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Third, the Attribute of the Elder Mahākappina.

4.

The Attribute of the Elder Dabbamalla's Son

108.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, the sage who knew all worlds;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the one with vision arose.

109.

"An exhorter and instructor, leading all living beings across;

The Buddha, skilled in teaching, led many people across.

110.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, seeking the welfare of all living beings;

Having met all sectarians, he established them in the five precepts.

111.

"Thus it was free from confusion, and void of sectarians;

Adorned with Arahants, with those who had mastery, such as these.

112.

"That great sage was fifty-eight ratanas tall;

Like a golden offering, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics.

113.

"A hundred thousand years, life span existed right then;

Remaining for that long, he led many people across.

114.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was a merchant's son of great fame;

Having approached the light of the world, I heard the teaching of the Teaching.

115.

"Having heard the words of him who was praising,

While preparing lodgings for the monks with his disciples, I was filled with altruistic joy.

116.

"Having rendered service to that great sage with his Community,

Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I aspired to that state.

117.

"Then that great hero, praising my action,

"He who fed the leader of the world with the Community for seven days.

118.

"He with eyes like lotus petals, with gait like a lion, with golden skin;

Fell at my feet, aspiring for the supreme state.

119.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

120.

"A disciple of that Enlightened One, well-known by the name of Dabba;

Will then be foremost among those who assign lodgings."

121.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

122.

"And three hundred times I exercised divine kingship;

And five hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch.

123.

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning;

I was happy everywhere, due to the power of that action.

124.

Ninety-one aeons ago, the leader named Vipassī,

Arose, beautiful to behold, seeing all things.

125.

"With a corrupt mind I spoke against a disciple of such a one;

Having understood him to be pure, with all taints destroyed.

126.

"To the disciples of that hero among men, the great seekers;

Taking a ticket, I gave milk-rice.

127.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

128.

"Having illuminated the Dispensation, having overcome those of wrong views;

Having disciplined those to be disciplined, he was quenched with his disciples.

129.

"When the Lord was quenched with his disciples, when the Dispensation was setting;

The deities wept distraught, with dishevelled hair and tearful faces.

130.

"The eye of the Teaching will be quenched, we will not see the virtuous ones;

We will not hear the true Teaching, oh, how little merit we have.

131.

"Then this whole earth, unshakeable though it was, shook;

And the ocean, as if with sorrow, uttered a compassionate sound.

132.

"In the four directions superhuman drums sounded;

All around fearsome lightning bolts struck.

133.

"Meteors fell from the sky, and a comet appeared;

Smoking and blazing in circles, the deer cried out in compassion.

134.

"Having seen the dreadful arising that indicated the disappearance of the Teaching,

Seven monks, deeply moved, we then reflected.

135.

"Without the Teaching, we have had enough of life;

Having entered the great forest, let us practise the Victor's Teaching.

136.

"Then in the forest we saw a supreme, lofty rock;

Having climbed it with a ladder, we threw down the ladder.

137.

"Then the elder exhorted us: 'A Buddha's arising is very rare;

Faith, extremely rare, has been gained, and little remains of the Teaching.'

138.

"They fall when the moment has passed, into the endless ocean of suffering;

Therefore effort should be made, while the sage's Teaching endures.

139.

"That elder was an arahant, and his follower a non-returner;

The others were virtuous and engaged, we went to the world of deities.

140.

"Quenched, crossed over the round of births, and alone in the Pure Abodes;

I and Pakkusāti and Sabhiya, and likewise Bāhiya.

141.

"And Kumārakassapa too, we went to various places;

Freed from the bonds of the round of births, shown compassion by Gotama.

142.

"In Kusinārā among the Mallans, I was born while still in the womb;

My mother died and was placed on the pyre, then I fell down.

143.

"Having fallen on a heap of grass, from then I was known as 'Grass';

By the power of the holy life, I was liberated at seven years of age.

144.

"By the power of milk-rice, I attained the five factors;

Due to accusations about being taintless, I was repeatedly blamed by evil ones.

145.

"Now I have transcended both merit and evil;

Having attained supreme peace, I dwell taintless.

146.

"I prepared lodging, having gladdened those of good observance;

The Victor, pleased with this quality, placed me at the foremost position.

147.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

148.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

149.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Dabbamalla's son speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth: The Apadāna of the Elder Dabbamallaputta.

5.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kumārakassapa

150.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, a leader arose,

A hero beneficial to all the world, named Padumuttara.

151.

"Then I was a brahmin, renowned, master of the Vedas;

Walking for my day's dwelling, I saw the Leader of the World.

152.

"Proclaiming the four truths, enlightening those with deities,

Praising to the masses the foremost of varied speakers.

153.

"Then with a mind of altruistic joy, having invited the Truth Finder;

With variously dyed clothes, having decorated the pavilion.

154.

"With various jewel lamps, I fed the Community there;

Having fed them for seven days, with various excellent tastes of food.

155.

"With various kinds of flowers, having honoured him with his disciples;

Having bowed down at his feet, I aspired to that state.

156.

Then the excellent sage said, with compassion as his sole taste:

'Look at this excellent twice-born one, with eyes like lotus petals.

157.

'Full of rapture and gladness, with body hair standing on end;

With a smiling broad gaze, eager for my Teaching.

158.

'Fallen at my feet, with a mind fixed on one purpose;

He aspires to that state, to be one who speaks variously.

159.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

160.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Kumārakassapa will be a disciple of the Teacher.

161.

"Through the power of various flowers, clothes and jewels;

He will attain pre-eminence among those who give various talks.

162.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

163.

"Wandering through various existences, like an actor in the middle of a stage;

Having become a young monkey on a branch, I entered a doe's womb.

164.

"Then, while I was in the womb, the time of slaughter arrived;

Abandoned by the branch, my mother went to the banyan tree for refuge.

165.

"By that king of beasts, she was freed from death;

Having given up her own life, she then exhorted me thus.

166.

"'One should resort only to the banyan tree, should not dwell near a branch;

Better to die by the banyan tree than life by a branch.'

167.

"Thus instructed by the leader of the herd of deer, I and mother and others too;

Having come to the delightful Tusita abode, went abroad as if to our own home.

168.

"Again when the Dispensation of the hero Kassapa was ending,

Having climbed a mountain peak, I practiced the Victor's Teaching.

169.

"Now I was born in Rajagaha, in a wealthy family;

My mother was pregnant with me when she went forth into homelessness.

170.

"Having known she was pregnant, they brought her to Devadatta;

He said 'Destroy this evil nun'.

171.

"Even now, with compassion from the Leader of Sages, the Victor,

My mother gave birth to me happily in the nuns' quarters.

172.

"Having known this, the ruler of the earth, the Kosalan, supported me,

With royal care, and I was named Kassapa.

173.

"Having approached Mahākassapa, I became Kumārakassapa;

Having heard the Teaching about the body being like an anthill from the Enlightened One.

174.

"Then my mind was liberated, without clinging to anything at all;

Having tamed Pāyāsi, I attained this foremost position.

175.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

176.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

177.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kumārakassapa speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The fifth Apadāna of the Elder Kumārakassapa.

The twenty-fourth section for recitation.

6.

The Apadāna of the Elder Bāhiya

178.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, a leader arose,

Of great radiance, foremost of the three worlds, named Padumuttara.

179.

"Having heard the sage extolling the virtues of a bhikkhu of swift direct knowledge,

With elated mind, I made an offering to the great sage.

180.

"Having given gifts for seven days to the sage with his disciples,

Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, I then aspired to that state.

181.

"Then the Enlightened One declared about me, 'Look at this brahmin;

Fallen at my feet, reviewing the practice.

182.

'With limbs adorned with golden sacrifices, with pure and delicate skin;

With hanging lips red as bimba fruit, with white and sharp teeth.

183.

'With abundant strength of virtues, with body hair standing on end;

Become a base for floods of virtues, with face blossoming with rapture.

184.

'He aspires to the state of a monk with quick direct knowledge;

In the future there will be a great hero named Gotama.

185.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Bāhiya will be a disciple of the Teacher.'

186.

"Then being pleased, having risen, for as long as I lived, O great sage;

Having done what was proper and passed away, I went to heaven like to my own abode.

187.

"Whether become a deity or a human being, happy due to that action;

Having wandered due to its power, I experience success.

188.

"Again when the Dispensation of the hero Kassapa was ending,

Having climbed a mountain peak, I practiced the Victor's Teaching.

189.

"Of pure virtue and wise, practising the Victor's Dispensation;

Passing away from there, those five persons went to the world of deities.

190.

"Then I was born as Bāhiya, in the excellent city of Bhārukaccha;

Then embarking on a ship, I went to sea unsuccessfully.

191.

"Then the ship broke up, after going for several days;

Then in that frightening, terrible repository of sea monsters, I fell.

192.

"Then making an effort, having crossed the great ocean,

I reached the excellent port of Suppāra, weakened and trembling.

193.

"Having dressed in bark cloth, I entered the village for alms;

Then those people said joyfully, "An Arahant has come here."

194.

"By honouring him with food and drink, clothing and beds,

And medicine, we shall be happy.

195.

Then gaining requisites, honoured and revered by them,

I unwisely gave rise to the thought, "I am an Arahant."

196.

Then knowing my mind, my former deity admonished me:

'You do not know the method and path, how could you be an Arahant?'

197.

Admonished by her, I was stirred with urgency and asked her:

'Who and where in the world are these Arahants, supreme among men?'

198.

"In Sāvatthī, in the Kosalan realm, dwells the Victor, of abundant wisdom, of excellent and vast intelligence;

That son of the Sakyans, the taintless Arahant, teaches the Teaching for the attainment of Arahantship.

199.

"Having heard his word, highly pleased, as if having found a treasure, amazed like a poor man;

With uplifted mind, the supreme Arahantship, well seen, to be seen, with endless range.

200.

"Then departing from there, from the Teacher, I always see the Victor with stainless face;

Having approached the delightful forest called Vijita, I asked the birds where is the World's Delight.

201.

"Then they said the one honoured by humans and deities has entered the city in search of alms;

Like a rabbit quickly eager to see the sage, approach and pay homage to that supreme individual.'

202.

"Then I quickly went to Sāvatthī, the supreme city;

I saw him wandering for alms, without longing or greed.

203.

"With bowl in hand, eyes not wandering, inspiring rapture,

Like an abode of glory, with a face that steals the sun's radiance.

204.

"Having approached him and bowed down, I spoke these words:

'Be a refuge, Gotama, for one lost on the wrong path.

205.

"'I wander for alms for the purpose of helping living beings;

It is not time for a talk on the Teaching,' said the supreme sage.

206.

"Then again and again I begged the Enlightened One, yearning for the Teaching;

Who taught me the Teaching, the profound state of voidness.

207.

Having heard his Teaching, I attained the destruction of taints;

With life span completely exhausted, oh, the Teacher showed compassion.

208.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

209.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

210.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

211.

"Thus the elder Bāhiya of the Bark-cloth explained;

Fallen on a rubbish heap, by a being-possessed cow.

212.

"Having proclaimed his previous conduct, the one of great wisdom;

That elder attained final Nibbāna, in the supreme city of Sāvatthī.

213.

"When leaving the city, the supreme sage saw him,

Bāhiya wearing bark-cloth robes, the wise one who had rejected tradition.

214.

"Fallen on the ground, tamed, like a fallen Indra's banner,

His life-span ended, defilements dried up, one who had carried out the Victor's Teaching.

215.

"Then the Teacher addressed the disciples delighting in the Teaching:

'Take him, carry him away and cremate the body of your fellow monk.

216.

"'Build a monument and honour it, that great sage is quenched;

He was my disciple who quickly gained direct knowledge and followed my word.

217.

"'Though there be a thousand verses made up of meaningless terms,

Made up of meaningless terms, better is a single meaningful verse term, hearing which one becomes peaceful.

218.

"Where water and earth, fire and air find no footing;

There the stars do not shine, the sun does not illuminate.

219.

There the moon does not glow, darkness is not found there;

When the brahmin sage knows by himself through silence.

220.

Then from form and formless, from pleasure and pain he is freed";

Thus indeed spoke the Lord, the sage who is the refuge of the three worlds.

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Bāhiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Bāhiya, the Sixth.

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Mahākoṭṭhika

221.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, the sage who knew all worlds;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the one with vision arose.

222.

"An exhorter and instructor, leading all living beings across;

The Buddha, skilled in teaching, led many people across.

223.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, seeking the welfare of all living beings;

Having met all sectarians, he established them in the five precepts.

224.

"Thus it was free from confusion, and void of sectarians;

Adorned with Arahants, with those who had mastery, such as these.

225.

"That great sage was fifty-eight ratanas tall;

Like a golden offering, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics.

226.

"A hundred thousand years, life span existed right then;

Remaining for that long, he led many people across.

227.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was a brahmin accomplished in the ancient scriptures;

Having approached the foremost of all worlds, I heard the teaching of the Teaching.

228.

"Then that hero established a disciple of penetrative understanding and range,

Skilled in meaning, Teaching, language, and discernment.

229.

"He placed him in the foremost position, and having heard that I was filled with altruistic joy;

Then for seven days I fed the supreme Victor with his disciples.

230.

"Having covered with robes, the ocean of enlightened wisdom;

Having bowed down at his feet, I aspired to that state.

231.

"Then the foremost of the world said, 'Look at this supreme twice-born;

Bowed down at my feet, with radiance like a lotus centre.

232.

'This one aspires to the state of a monk of the supreme Enlightened One;

Through that faith and generosity, and through hearing the true Teaching.

233.

'Having been happy everywhere, having wandered through various existences;

In the future course, you will obtain that heart's desire.

234.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

235.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Koṭṭhika will be a disciple of the Teacher.

236.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended on the Victor, mindful, wise and concentrated.

237.

"Through that result of action, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

238.

"And three hundred times I exercised divine kingship;

And five hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch.

239.

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning;

I was happy everywhere, due to the power of that action.

240.

"I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I do not go to any other destination, this is the fruit of good conduct.

241.

"I am born into two families, noble and brahmin;

"I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of good conduct.

242.

"When the final existence arrived, I was a kinsman of brahmins;

I was reborn in a wealthy brahmin family in Sāvatthī.

243.

"My mother was named Candavatī, my father was Assalāyana;

When the Buddha trained my father in complete purity.

244.

"Then with faith in the Fortunate One, I went forth into homelessness;

Moggallāna was my teacher, Sāriputta my preceptor.

245.

"When my hair was being cut off, my view was cut off at the root;

And while putting on the ochre robe, I attained Arahantship.

246.

"I had understanding in meaning, Teaching, language, and discernment;

Due to that the supreme one in the world, placed me at the foremost position.

247.

"I explained what was not seen, when asked by Upatissa;

Therefore I am foremost in analytical knowledge in the Perfectly Enlightened One's Teaching.

248.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

249.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

250.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Mahākoṭṭhika speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Seventh: The Attribute of the Elder Mahākoṭṭhika.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Uruveḷakassapa

251.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, the sage who knew all worlds;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the one with vision arose.

252.

"An exhorter and instructor, leading all living beings across;

The Buddha, skilled in teaching, led many people across.

253.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, seeking the welfare of all living beings;

Having met all sectarians, he established them in the five precepts.

254.

"Thus it was free from confusion, and void of sectarians;

Adorned with Arahants, with those who had mastery, such as these.

255.

"That great sage was fifty-eight ratanas tall;

Like a golden offering, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics.

256.

"A hundred thousand years, life span existed right then;

Remaining for that long, he led many people across.

257.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was a brahmin well respected;

Having approached the light of the world, I heard the teaching of the Teaching.

258.

"Then in the great assembly, the disciple of the great assembly;

Placing him in that foremost position, having heard this I was joyful.

259.

"With a great retinue, having invited the great victor;

With a thousand brahmins, I gave a gift together.

260.

"Having given a great gift, having welcomed the Leader;

Standing to one side, delighted, I spoke these words.

261.

"'Through faith in you, O Hero, and through the merit of my service;

May I have a great assembly, wherever I am reborn'.

262.

"Then he addressed the assembly, with a voice like an elephant's trumpet;

The Teacher with a voice like a cuckoo's, 'Look at this brahmin.

263.

"'Golden-coloured, with mighty arms, with face and eyes like lotuses;

With uplifted body, delighted, faithful in my qualities.

264.

"'He aspires to the state of a monk with a lion's roar;

In the future course, you will obtain that heart's desire.

265.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

266.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Kassapa by clan will be a disciple of the Teacher.

267.

"Ninety-two aeons ago, there was an unsurpassed Teacher;

Incomparable, unequalled, Phussa, leader of the world.

268.

"Having destroyed all darkness, having untangled the great tangle;

He rains down the rain of the Deathless, satisfying the world with its deities.

269.

"At that time in Bārāṇasī, we were kings in succession;

We were three brothers, all closely associated with the king.

270.

"Heroic in form and strong, undefeated in battle;

Then when the border was disturbed, the monarch told us.

271.

"'Come, having gone to the border, having cleared the forest forces;

Having made the realm secure, come back and report,' he said.

272.

"Then we said to him, if you would give us a leader;

For our service, we will accomplish this for you.

273.

"Then we, having received the boon, sent by the king;

Having pacified the frontier where weapons were laid down, returned to him again.

274.

"Having requested attendance on the Teacher, the Leader of the World, from the king;

Having obtained the heroic sage, we honoured him for life.

275.

"And expensive cloths, and sublime tastes,

And delightful lodgings, and beneficial medicines.

276.

"Having given to the sage with his Community what was righteously obtained by us;

Virtuous, compassionate, with minds devoted to development.

277.

"Having attended with faith and a mind of loving-kindness to the Leader;

When that foremost one in the world was quenched, having made offerings according to my strength.

278.

"Passing away from there, gone to the Tusita heaven, there experiencing great happiness;

We all experienced this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

279.

"As a magician at a stage shows many illusions;

Just so wandering in existence, I became the ruler of Videha.

280.

"By the words of Gunacela, with wrong views established in my mind;

I mounted the path to hell, due to my daughter's personal preference.

281.

"Not taking up the exhortation of Brahmā Nārada;

Having wandered in many ways, I abandoned the evil view.

282.

"Having fulfilled with distinction the ten courses of action;

Having abandoned the body, I went to heaven as to my own abode.

283.

"When the final existence arrived, I was a kinsman of brahmins;

Born in a great brahmin family, in prosperous Benares.

284.

"Afraid of death, disease and aging, having plunged into the great forest;

Searching for the state of Nibbāna, I went forth among the matted-hair ascetics.

285.

"Then two brothers of mine went forth together with me;

Having built a hermitage at Uruveḷā, I lived there.

286.

"Kassapa by clan, dwelling at Uruveḷā;

Thus I came to be known as Uruveḷakassapa.

287.

"My brother at the river was called Nadīkassapa;

At Gayā was one named after his dwelling, Gayākassapa.

288.

"Two hundred for the youngest brother, three hundred for the middle brother;

For me five hundred less one, all students following me.

289.

"Then the Enlightened One approached me, having performed for me various

The foremost in the world, the Charioteer of Men, trained me in miracles.

290.

"With a retinue of a thousand, I was one who came at the invitation 'Come, monk';

Together with all of them, I attained Arahantship.

291.

"Those and many others, students surrounded me;

And I was capable of instructing, then the Supreme Sage.

292.

"In the midst of the great assembly, placed me at the foremost position;

Ah, the deed done for the Buddha, has borne fruit for me.

293.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

294.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

295.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Uruveḷakassapa speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Eighth Attribute of the Elder Uruveḷakassapa.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Rādha

296.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, the sage who knew all worlds;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the one with vision arose.

297.

"An exhorter and instructor, leading all living beings across;

The Buddha, skilled in teaching, led many people across.

298.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, seeking the welfare of all living beings;

Having met all sectarians, he established them in the five precepts.

299.

"Thus it was free from confusion, and void of sectarians;

Adorned with Arahants, with those who had mastery, such as these.

300.

"That great sage was fifty-eight ratanas tall;

Like a golden offering, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics.

301.

"A hundred thousand years, life span existed right then;

Remaining for that long, he led many people across.

302.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was a brahmin accomplished in sacred texts;

Having approached that excellent man, I heard the teaching of the Teaching.

303.

"The great hero making known, confident in assemblies;

A monk of ingenuity, the guide foremost in this.

304.

"Then having shown respect to the world leader with his Community,

Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I aspired to that state.

305.

"Then the Blessed One, with radiance like refined gold,

With a delightful tone that removes the stain of defilements.

306.

"'May you be happy and long-lived, may your wish be fulfilled;

The respect you have shown to me with my Community is exceedingly abundant.

307.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

308.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Rādha will be a disciple of the Teacher.

309.

Pleased with your qualities of cause, the son of the Sakyans, the bull among men,

The leader will declare you foremost among those with ingenuity.

310.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended on the Victor, mindful, wise and concentrated.

311.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

312.

"And three hundred times I exercised divine kingship;

And five hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch.

313.

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning;

I was happy everywhere, due to the power of that action.

314.

"When the final existence arrived, in the supreme city of Giribbaja;

I was born in a wealthy brahmin family, with inadequate clothing and food.

315.

"I gave a ladleful of alms to such a one, Sāriputta;

When I was old and aged, then I went to the monastery.

316.

"No one ordained me, old, weak and frail;

Therefore miserable and discoloured, I was then sorrowful.

317.

"Having seen me, the greatly compassionate one, the great sage told me:

'Why are you afflicted with sorrow for your son? Tell me the pain born of your mind'.

318.

"I do not obtain the going forth, O Hero, in your well-proclaimed Dispensation;

By that sorrow I am wretched, be a refuge, O Leader."

319.

"Then having gathered the monks, the supreme sage asked;

'Those who remember his meritorious deed, let them speak.'

320.

"Then Sāriputta said, 'I remember his deed;

He gave a ladleful of alms when I was walking for alms.'

321.

'Good, good, Sāriputta, you are grateful, you

Ordain this elderly twice-born one, he will be a thoroughbred.'

322.

"Then I obtained the going forth, the formal act of full ordination;

In no long time, I attained the destruction of taints.

323.

"Since I listened with altruistic joy respectfully to the sage's word;

Then the Victor established me as foremost of those with ingenuity.

324.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

325.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

326.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Rādha speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Ninth Apadāna of the Elder Rādha.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder Mogharāja

327.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, the sage who knew all worlds;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the one with vision arose.

328.

"An exhorter and instructor, leading all living beings across;

The Buddha, skilled in teaching, led many people across.

329.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, seeking the welfare of all living beings;

Having met all sectarians, he established them in the five precepts.

330.

"Thus it was free from confusion, and void of sectarians;

Adorned with Arahants, with those who had mastery, such as these.

331.

"That great sage was fifty-eight ratanas tall;

Like a golden offering, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics.

332.

"A hundred thousand years, life span existed right then;

Remaining for that long, he led many people across.

333.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was in a certain family;

Engaged in work for others, I had no wealth whatsoever.

334.

"In the retiring hall, dwelling on the prepared ground;

I lit a fire there, it was indeed very dark.

335.

"Then in the assembly the Lord, proclaimer of the four truths;

Praised a disciple, who wore coarse robes.

336.

"Being pleased with that quality of his, having paid homage to the Truth Finder;

I aspired to the supreme state of being foremost among those who wear coarse robes.

337.

"Then the Blessed One Padumuttara said to his disciples;

'Look at this person, wearing coarse robes, with an emaciated body.

338.

"'With a face bright with rapture, endowed with the wealth of faith;

Elated, with uplifted body, joyful, unshakeable like a mass of sal trees.

339.

"'He aspires to that state of the monk Saccasena;

Of the one who wears coarse robes, his mind set on praising that.

340.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, having bowed my head to the Victor;

Having done wholesome action throughout life, in the Dispensation of the Victor.

341.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

342.

"Due to the action of burning the ground, in the retiring hall;

For a thousand years in hell, I was burned, afflicted with pain.

343.

"By that remaining result of action, for five hundred births,

I was born in a family as a human being, marked with characteristics from birth.

344.

"For five hundred births indeed, afflicted with leprosy,

I experienced great suffering, due to the power of that action.

345.

"In this fortunate aeon, Upariṭṭha of great fame;

I satisfied with almsfood, I with a faithful mind.

346.

"Through that distinction of action, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

347.

"When the final existence arrived, I was born in a noble family;

After my father's death, I was entrusted with a great kingdom.

348.

"Being afflicted with leprosy, I found neither delight nor happiness;

Since happiness and kingship were empty, therefore I am Mogharāja.

349.

"Having seen the defect of the body, I went forth into homelessness;

I attained the state of a pupil of Bāvari, the foremost of the twice-born.

350.

"With a great retinue, having approached the leader of men;

I asked a subtle question to that hero, the destroyer of doctrines.

351.

'This world and the other world, the brahmā world with its deities;

I do not know the view of the glorious Gotama.

352.

"To one of such excellent vision, I have come with a question;

How should one look upon the world, so that the King of Death does not see?"

353.

"Look upon the world as empty, Mogharāja, ever mindful;

Uprooting the view of self, thus one may cross beyond death.

354.

'One who looks upon the world in this way, the King of Death does not see';

Thus spoke to me the Enlightened One, healer of all diseases.

355.

"With the conclusion of the verse, with hair and beard removed,

Wearing ochre robes, I became a proper monk.

356.

"Afflicted with illness, I did not dwell in Community dwellings;

'Let not the dwelling be spoiled', afflicted with diseases of wind.

357.

"Having gathered from rubbish heaps, from cemeteries and streets;

Having made a robe from that, I wore a coarse robe.

358.

"The great healer, the guide, pleased with this quality of mine;

Placed me at the foremost position among those who wear coarse robes.

359.

"Exhausted of merit and evil, free from all illness;

Like a fire without clinging, I shall be extinguished, taintless.

360.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

361.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

362.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Mogharāja speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Mogharāja, the tenth.

The Chapter on Kaccāyana, the fifty-fourth.

Here is its summary -

Kaccāyana and the Elder Vakkali, and one named Mahākappina;

And one named young Dabba, Bāhiya and the ascetic Koṭṭhika.

Uruveḷakassapa, Rādha, and the wise Mogharāja;

Three hundred verses here, and sixty-two in total.

55.

The Chapter on Bhaddiya

1.

The Attribute of the Elder Lakuṇḍabhaddiya

1.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

2.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was a wealthy merchant's son;

Walking about on foot, I went to the monastery park.

3.

"Then that light of the world, the leader, taught the Teaching;

He praised the most excellent of those with sweet voices, a disciple.

4.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, I made an offering to the great sage;

Having paid homage at the Teacher's feet, I aspired to that state.

5.

"Then the Enlightened One, the Guide, explained in the midst of the Community;

'In the future course, you will obtain that heart's desire.

6.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

7.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Bhaddiya will be a disciple of the Teacher.

8.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

9.

Ninety-two aeons ago, the leader Phussa arose;

Hard to approach, hard to overcome, the Victor supreme in all the world.

10.

And accomplished in conduct, tall, upright and radiant;

Seeking the welfare of all beings, he freed many from bondage.

11.

In his Nandārāma grove, I was a cuckoo bird;

Near the fragrant chamber, I lived in a mango tree.

12.

Then going for alms, the supreme victor worthy of offerings;

Having seen him and established confidence in my mind, I sang sweetly.

13.

Then having gone to the royal park, well-ripened with golden skin;

Having taken a cluster of mangoes, I offered them to the Enlightened One.

14.

"Then having known my mind, the Victor of great compassion;

The leader took the bowl from the attendant's hand.

15.

"With a delighted mind I gave a mango fruit to the great sage;

Having placed it in the bowl, with wings I made an añjali gracefully.

16.

"With a delightful tone, pleasing and graceful;

Having showered praise for the Enlightened One, I went to my nest and lay down.

17.

"Then with a mind of altruistic joy, with devotion towards the Enlightened One,

A hawk approached and killed me with a corrupted mind.

18.

"Then passing away from there to Tusita, having experienced great happiness;

I came to the human realm, due to the power of that action.

19.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

20.

"Having illuminated the Dispensation, having overcome those of wrong views;

Having disciplined those to be disciplined, he was quenched with his disciples.

21.

"When that foremost one in the world was quenched, many people had faith;

To worship the Buddha, they built a shrine for the Teacher.

22.

"A seven-yojana high shrine, adorned with seven jewels;

We shall make for the great seer," thus they discussed.

23.

"Being then the army commander of King Kiki of Kāsi;

I spoke about the measure for a shrine to the Measureless One.

24.

"Then by my word, a shrine one yojana high;

They made for the hero among men, adorned with various jewels.

25.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

26.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a wealthy family;

In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, flourishing, of great wealth.

27.

"When the Fortunate One entered the city, with a mind amazed seeing him;

Having gone forth, not long after, I attained Arahantship.

28.

"Due to that action of making the shrine to that measure,

I was born with a dwarf's body, worthy of contempt.

29.

"With a sweet voice I honoured the supreme sage;

Among the sweet-voiced monks, I attained the foremost position.

30.

"By giving fruit to the Buddha, and by recollection of his qualities;

Endowed with the fruits of recluseship, I dwell taintless.

31.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

32.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the supreme Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

33.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Lakuṇḍabhaddiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The First: The Attribute of the Elder Lakuṇḍabhaddiya.

2.

The Attribute of the Elder Kaṅkhārevata

34.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

35.

"With a lion's jaw and divine voice, sound like a swan and drum;

With a dragon's gait, radiant like the moon, sun and such.

36.

"Of great wisdom, great hero, great meditator, of great strength;

The protector of great compassion, dispeller of great darkness.

37.

"Then sometimes the foremost of the three worlds, disciplining many who could be disciplined;

The Enlightened One, the sage who knows beings' dispositions, taught the Teaching.

38.

"Praising in the assembly the hero, a meditator delighting in meditation, peaceful, unclouded;

The Victor gratified the people.

39.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was a brahmin accomplished in the ancient scriptures;

Having heard the Teaching, joyful, I aspired to that state.

40.

"Then the Victor, the Guide, explained in the midst of the Community;

'Be joyful, O brahmā, you will obtain that heart's desire.

41.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

42.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Revata will be a disciple of the Teacher.'

43.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

44.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in the city of Koliya;

In a noble family of high birth, prosperous, flourishing, of great wealth.

45.

"When the Enlightened One taught the Teaching in Kapilavatthu;

Then with faith in the Fortunate One, I went forth into homelessness.

46.

"I had many perplexities, in aeon after aeon, here and there;

The Enlightened One removed them all, having taught the supreme Teaching.

47.

"Then I crossed over the round of rebirths, always delighting in the happiness of meditation;

I was dwelling then when the Enlightened One, having seen me, said this.

48.

"'Whatever perplexities here or beyond, whether experienced by oneself or by others;

Those meditators abandon them all, living the holy life ardently.'

49.

"The deed done a hundred thousand aeons ago showed its fruit to me here;

Like a well-freed arrow's speed, I burnt up my defilements.

50.

"Then seeing me delighting in meditation, the Enlightened One, the sage who had gone to the world's end,

The one of great wisdom declared me foremost among meditating monks.

51.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

52.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

53.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kaṅkhārevata speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Kaṅkhārevata, the second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Sīvali

54.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

55.

"His virtue was immeasurable, his concentration like a diamond;

His excellent knowledge immeasurable, and his liberation incomparable.

56.

"In the assembly of humans, deities, dragons, and brahmās;

The leader taught the Teaching in a place crowded with ascetics and brahmins.

57.

"With his disciples, of great gain, meritorious, bearing radiance;

He placed in the foremost position, confident in assemblies.

58.

"Then I was a noble, in the city called Haṃsa;

Having heard that word of the Victor, the many qualities of the disciple.

59.

"Having invited for seven days, having fed him with his disciples;

Having given a great gift, I aspired for that position.

60.

"Then seeing me bowed at his feet, the bull among men;

The hero, with a great voice, spoke these words.

61.

"Then the great multitude, wishing to hear the word of the Victor;

Deities, demons and gandhabbas, and brahmās of great spiritual power."

62.

"And ascetics and brahmins paid homage with reverential salutation;

'Homage to you, thoroughbred among persons, homage to you, highest among persons.

63.

"'A great gift was given by the noble even for seven days;

Wishing to hear its fruit, declare it, great sage.'"

64.

Then the Blessed One said, 'Listen to my words;

Established in the immeasurable Enlightened One and his Community.

65.

'Who can speak of that offering, for its fruit is immeasurable;

Even if one has great wealth, one seeks the highest state.

66.

'A gainer of abundant gains, like the monk Sudassana;

Thinking "May I too become like that," you will attain that in the future.

67.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

68.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Sīvali will be a disciple of the Teacher."

69.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

70.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, Vipassī, Leader of the World;

Arose, beautiful to behold, seeing all things.

71.

"Then in Bandhumatī, in a certain family;

I was dear and respected, engaged in work.

72.

"Then a certain guild, for Vipassī the great sage;

Arranged a meal distribution, great and renowned.

73.

"When the great giving was finished, they gave hard food;

Fresh curd and honey too, but searching they did not find any.

74.

"Then I, taking that, fresh curd and honey;

I went to the house of the owner of the action, searching for him they saw me.

75.

"Having given even a thousand, they did not obtain that dyad;

Then I thought thus, 'this will not be insignificant.

76.

"'Just as all these people honour the Truth Finder;

I too will do what is proper, for the leader of the world with his Community'.

77.

"Then having thought thus, curd and honey together,

Having churned for the protector of the world, I gave to him with his Community.

78.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

79.

"Again in Bārāṇasī, having become a king of great fame;

Being angry with an ascetic then, I had the door blocked.

80.

"Then the ascetics were blocked, they were confined for one day;

As a result of that, I fell into a terrible hell.

81.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in the city of Koliya;

And Suppavāsā was my mother, Mahāli the Licchavi my father.

82.

"In the noble family through meritorious action, because of the door blocking;

For seven years I dwelt, suffering in my mother's womb.

83.

"For seven days I was confused at the door, afflicted with great suffering;

Through her giving consent, my mother was thus greatly pained.

84.

"Well established I departed, shown compassion by the Enlightened One;

On the very day of departure, I went forth into homelessness.

85.

"Sāriputta was my preceptor, and Moggallāna of great spiritual power;

While cutting off my hair, the wise one instructed me.

86.

"While my hair was being cut, I attained Arahantship;

Deities, dragons and human beings bring me requisites.

87.

"The Lord Padumuttara and the Guide Vipassī;

I joyfully honoured them with requisites in particular.

88.

"Then due to those actions in particular, the highest and abundant;

I gain requisites everywhere, in forest, village, water and land.

89.

"When the Guide went to see Revata;

The foremost Leader of the world with thirty thousand monks.

90.

"Then with deity-brought offerings, for my sake, the one of great wisdom;

With the conditions, the great hero, the Leader of the World with his Community.

91.

"I attended on the Enlightened One, having gone he saw Revata;

Then going to Jetavana, placed me at the foremost position.

92.

"'Sivali is foremost among those who gain, monks, among my disciples';

The Teacher, benefactor of all the world, praised me in the assemblies.

93.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

94.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

95.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sīvali speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Third Apadāna of the Elder Sīvali.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Vaṅgīsa

96.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

97.

"Like waves in the ocean, like stars in the sky;

So was his Teaching honoured by the Arahants.

98.

"Honoured by deities, titans and dragons, and by humans;

In the midst of people crowded with ascetics and brahmins, the supreme victor.

99.

"The victor, who has gone to the world's end, illuminating the world with his radiance;

He, awakening with his speech the lotuses worthy of training.

100.

"The supreme person endowed with the four grounds of self-confidence;

Having abandoned fear and timidity, attained to security, confident.

101.

"The highest in the world claims the bull-like excellent state, and the complete enlightened plane;

There is no challenger anywhere.

102.

"When such a one roars his fearless lion's roar;

Neither deity, human, nor brahmā is found who can refute it.

103.

Teaching the excellent Teaching, helping to cross over the world with its deities;

He sets rolling the wheel of Teaching, confident in assemblies.

104.

The foremost of those with ingenuity, a disciple well esteemed;

Having proclaimed his many qualities, he placed him in that foremost position.

105.

Then in Haṃsavatī, I was a well esteemed brahmin;

Born knowledgeable in all ancient scriptures, skilled in speech, a destroyer of doctrines.

106.

Having approached that great hero, having heard the teaching of the Teaching;

I obtained the best rapture, delighting in the qualities of the disciple.

107.

"Having invited the Fortunate One, together with the Community, who delights the world;

Having fed them for seven days, I then clothed them with robes.

108.

"Having bowed down with my head at his feet, given permission, with reverential salutation;

Standing to one side, delighted, I praised the supreme Victor.

109.

"'Homage to you, crusher of doctrines, homage to you, highest of sages;

Homage to you, highest in all the world, homage to you, maker of fearlessness.

110.

"Homage to you, crusher of Māra, homage to you, destroyer of views;

Homage to you, giver of peaceful happiness, homage to you, maker of refuge.

111.

"You are the protector of the unprotected, giver of fearlessness to the frightened;

A resting place for the weary, a refuge for those seeking refuge."

112.

"Having praised the Enlightened One of great qualities with such words and others;

I spoke to the destroyer of doctrines, 'I shall attain the monk's destination.'

113.

"Then the Blessed One, of infinite discernment, said;

'He who fed the Buddha together with a thousand disciples for seven days.

114.

"He praised my qualities, with confidence, with his own hands;

He aspires to the state of a monk who is a debater.

115.

"In the future course, you will obtain that heart's desire;

Having experienced much success among deities and humans.

116.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

117.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Vaṅgīsa will be a disciple of the Teacher.

118.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

I attended on the Truth Finder with requisites, with a mind of loving-kindness.

119.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tusita realm.

120.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a brahmin family;

When I was reborn, I was seven years of age.

121.

"Born knowledgeable in all ancient Indian scriptures, skilled in doctrines and teachings;

Master of doctrines, a brilliant speaker, crusher of others' doctrines.

122.

"Born in Vaṅga thus Vaṅgīsa, or master of speech;

Vaṅgīsa was my name, accepted by the world.

123.

"When I attained wisdom, established in early youth;

Then in delightful Rajagaha, I saw Sariputta.

The twenty-fifth section for recitation.

124.

"Going on alms round, with bowl in hand, well restrained;

With steady eyes, measured speech, looking a yoke's length ahead.

125.

"Having seen him and being amazed, I spoke what was fitting for me;

Like a well-formed kanikara flower, I spoke a verse with my mind.

126.

"He pointed out to me the Teacher, the Enlightened One, leader of the world;

Then that wise hero spoke further to me.

127.

"Having made a statement connected with dispassion, supreme and difficult to see;

With varied discernment, I was pleased by such a one.

128.

"Having bowed down with my head at his feet, he said to me 'Give me the going forth';

Then that one of great wisdom led me to the best of Enlightened Ones.

129.

"Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I sat down near the Teacher;

The best of speakers said to me, 'Do you know, Vaṅgīsa?'

130.

"I said to him, 'I know some craft';

A dead head thrown in the forest, even twelve years old;

By your special true knowledge, if you can, make it speak.

131.

When I had agreed saying 'Yes', he showed three heads;

I made speak those reborn in hell, among humans and deities.

132.

Then the Leader showed the head of one whose taints were destroyed;

Then, with my pride destroyed, I requested the going forth.

133.

Having gone forth, I made intimacy with the Fortunate One here and there;

Then the monks here complained about me being skilled in poetry.

134.

Then for the purpose of investigation, the Buddha, the Leader, said to me;

These verses occur to you through reasoning, spontaneously.

135.

"I am not a poet, O hero, they occur to me spontaneously;

Then now, Vaṅgīsa, praise me spontaneously.

136.

"Then I praised the hero, the supreme sage, with verses;

Pleased with me then spontaneously, the Victor established me as foremost.

137.

"With an ingenious mind, I was arrogant towards others;

Agitated by this towards the virtuous ones, I attained Arahantship.

138.

'Foremost of those with ingenuity, no other is found;

Just as this monk Vaṅgīsa, thus remember, monks.'

139.

"The deed done a hundred thousand aeons ago showed its fruit to me here;

Like a well-freed arrow's speed, I burnt up my defilements.

140.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

141.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

142.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vaṅgīsa speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth Attribute of the Elder Vaṅgīsa.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Nandaka

143.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

144.

"For the welfare of all beings, the best of speakers for happiness;

For the good, the thoroughbred among persons, practising in the world with its deities.

145.

"Having reached the highest glory, the illustrious Victor, bearer of praise and beauty;

Venerated by all the world, renowned in all directions.

146.

"He has crossed over doubt, gone beyond uncertainty,

With intentions fulfilled, he attained supreme enlightenment.

147.

"The supreme person is the originator of the unoriginated path;

He explained what had not been explained, he made known what was not known.

148.

"Knower of the path, skilled in the path, proclaimer of the path, bull among men;

The Teacher skilled in the path, supreme among charioteers.

149.

"Then the greatly compassionate one, the leader, taught the Teaching;

He lifts up living beings who are sunk in the mud of sensual pleasures.

150.

"In exhorting the Buddhist nuns, a disciple considered best;

Praising in the foremost position, the great sage declared.

151.

"Having heard that, I was delighted, and having invited the Truth Finder;

Having fed him together with the Community, I aspired for the supreme state.

152.

"Then delighted, the protector, the great sage told me:

'May you be happy, long-lived one, you will obtain that heart's desire.

153.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

154.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Nandaka will be a disciple of the Teacher.

155.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

156.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a wealthy family;

In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, flourishing, of great wealth.

157.

"When the Fortunate One entered the city, with a mind amazed seeing him;

At the donation of Jeta's Grove, I went forth into homelessness.

158.

"In no long time, I attained Arahantship;

Then I crossed over the round of rebirths, instructed by the All-Seeing One.

159.

"I engaged in questions and answers about the Teaching with Buddhist nuns;

All those instructed by me became taintless.

160.

"Then the one of great benefit was pleased with the five less than a hundred;

He placed me in the highest state among those who exhort Buddhist nuns.

161.

"The deed done a hundred thousand aeons ago showed its fruit to me here;

Like a well-freed arrow's speed, I burnt up my defilements.

162.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

163.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

164.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Nandaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fifth Attribute of the Elder Nandaka.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Kāḷudāyi

165.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

166.

"The Teacher, best of leaders, the victor who knew virtues and non-virtues;

Grateful and appreciative, he directed living beings to the true way.

167.

"With omniscient knowledge, considering with compassionate disposition;

He teaches the excellent Teaching, an accumulation of endless virtues.

168.

"Then at times the great hero, who had recollected endless Victorious Ones;

Teaches the sweet Teaching, connected with the four truths.

169.

"Having heard that excellent Teaching, beautiful in the beginning, middle and end;

A hundred thousand living beings had a breakthrough to the Teaching.

170.

"Then the earth resounded, the rain clouds thundered;

Deities, brahmās, humans and titans uttered words of approval.

171.

"Oh, the compassionate Teacher, oh, the teaching of the true Teaching;

Oh, the Victor drew out those sunk in the ocean of existence."

172.

"Thus among those filled with inspiration, among deities, humans and sublime deities,

The Victor praised the foremost disciple who inspired confidence in families.

173.

"Then I was born in Haṃsavatī, in a wealthy family,

Inspiring confidence, good-looking, abundant in wealth and grain.

174.

"Having approached the Haṃsa monastery, having paid homage to that Truth Finder;

Having heard the sweet Teaching, and having shown respect to such a one.

175.

"Having bowed down at his feet, I spoke these words;

'O sage, the foremost among those who bring confidence to families, who was praised by you.

176.

"'May I be like that one, in the supreme Enlightened One's Dispensation';

Then the greatly compassionate one, as if sprinkling me with the deathless.

177.

"Said to me 'Rise up, son, you will obtain that heart's desire;

How could showing respect to the Victor be fruitless.

178.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

179.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Udāyi will be a disciple of the Teacher.

180.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended to the Guide with requisites.

181.

"Through that result of action, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

182.

"And now in the last existence, in delightful Kapilavatthu;

I was born in a great minister's family, when Suddhodana was the great king.

183.

"Then Siddhattha was born, in the delightful Lumbini grove;

For the welfare of all the world, and happiness, the bull among men.

184.

"On that very day I was born, and grew up together with him;

A dear beloved companion, intelligent and skilled in method.

185.

"At twenty-nine years of age, having departed from home;

Having spent six years, he became the Enlightened One, the guide.

186.

"Having conquered Māra with his army, having destroyed the taints;

Having crossed the ocean of existence, he became the Enlightened One in the world with its deities.

187.

"Having gone to Isipatana, having disciplined the group of five;

Then the Blessed One disciplined, going here and there.

188.

"While disciplining those to be disciplined, supporting the world with its deities;

Having approached the mountain in Magadha, the Victor dwelt there then.

189.

"Then I was sent by Suddhodana, the ruler of the land;

Having gone and seen the One of Ten Powers, having gone forth, I became an arahant.

190.

"Then having requested the Great Sage, I led him to Kapilavatthu;

Then having gone to the city, I inspired confidence in the great family.

191.

"The Victor, pleased with this quality, in the great assembly

The guide declared me foremost among those who inspire confidence in families.

192.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

193.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

194.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kāḷudāyi speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Kāḷudāyi is the sixth.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Abhaya

195.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

196.

"The Truth Finder established some in going to refuge;

Some he established in virtue, in the supreme ten courses of action.

197.

"That hero gives to some the supreme fruit of recluseship;

And likewise he bestows the eight attainments and the three true knowledges.

198.

"The supreme person trained some beings in the six direct knowledges;

That protector gives to some the four analytical knowledges.

199.

"Having seen beings ready for enlightenment even countless yojanas away,

Having approached in an instant, the Charioteer of Men guides them.

200.

"At that time in Haṃsavatī, I was born in a brahmin family;

Gone beyond all ancient scriptures, esteemed as a grammarian.

201.

"Skilled in language, confident in etymology;

Versed in terms, knowledgeable in exegesis, skilled in prosody.

202.

"Walking about on foot, I approached the Haṃsa monastery;

I saw the supreme boon-giver, put at the front by the multitude.

203.

"Teaching the stainless Teaching, I was of hostile mind;

Having approached his good Teaching, having heard the stainless one.

204.

"Contradictory or repetitive, or meaningless or purposeless;

I saw none of that in that sage, therefore I went forth.

205.

"In no long time, confident regarding all beings;

Skilled in the word of the Enlightened One, I was esteemed for my virtues.

206.

"Then having composed four verses with good phrasing;

Having praised the foremost of the three worlds, I will teach day by day.

207.

"The great hero is dispassionate, dwelling in the fearful round of rebirths;

Out of compassion he did not attain nibbāna, therefore he is the compassionate sage.

208.

"Though being an ordinary person and peaceful in age, he was not under the power of defilements;

Clearly comprehending and possessed of mindfulness, therefore he is inconceivable.

209.

"The defilements that lay dormant in me were weak;

Burnt up by the fire of knowledge, they were not exhausted - that is wonderful.

210.

"He who is the teacher of all the world, to whom the world is thus devoted;

Thus too is the Teacher of the world, the world follows him.

211.

"Thus praising the Enlightened One, and the teaching of the Teaching;

Having done so as long as life lasted, I went to heaven and passed away from there.

212.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I praised that Enlightened One;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of praising.

213.

"In the world of deities a great kingdom, a golden measure of territory;

A wheel-turning monarch's great kingdom, I experienced many times.

214.

"I am born into two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I do not know any other destination, this is the fruit of praising.

215.

"I am born into two families, noble and brahmin;

I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of praising.

216.

"And now in the last existence, in the supreme city of Giribbaja;

I was the son of King Bimbisāra, named Abhaya.

217.

"Having fallen under the influence of evil friends, deluded by a Jain;

Sent by Nātaputta, I approached the supreme Buddha.

218.

"Having asked a subtle question, having heard the supreme answer;

Having gone forth, before long, I attained Arahantship.

219.

"Having praised the excellent Victor, I am always praised;

I had a sweet-smelling body and speech, and was endowed with happiness.

220.

"I had sharp wit, quick wisdom, and great wisdom too;

And varied ingenuity, due to the power of that action.

221.

"Having highly praised Padumuttara, with a faithful mind, the peerless Self-enlightened One;

For a hundred thousand aeons I did not go to planes of misery, through the power of that.

222.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

223.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

224.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Abhaya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Abhaya is the seventh.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Lomasakaṅgiya

225.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

226.

"Then I and Candana, having gone forth in the Dispensation;

Having fulfilled the Teaching until the end of life in the Dispensation.

227.

"Passing away from there, we both were reborn in the Tusita heaven;

There with divine dances, songs and music.

228.

"Having surpassed others with the ten factors beginning with form;

Having lived there for my life span, having experienced great happiness.

229.

"Having passed away from there, Candana was reborn in the realm of the Thirty-Three;

I was born in Kapilavatthu, as a son of the Sakyans.

230.

"When the Leader of the World was requested by Elder Udāyi;

Out of compassion for the Sakyans, he approached Kapilavatthu.

231.

"Then the arrogant Sakyans, not knowing the virtues of the Buddha;

Did not bow to the Enlightened One, stiff with birth-pride, disrespectful.

232.

Knowing their intention, the Victor walked in space;

Like a rain cloud he poured down, like fire he blazed forth.

233.

Having shown incomparable form, he disappeared again;

Having been one, he became many, then became one again.

234.

Having shown darkness and light in many ways,

Having performed the miracle, the sage disciplined his relatives.

235.

A great cloud over the four continents poured down right then;

Then the Enlightened One taught the Vessantara birth story.

236.

Then all those nobles, having destroyed the vanity born of birth,

They went for refuge to the Buddha, said Suddhodana then.

237.

"This is the third time, O wise one, I venerate your feet, all-seeing one;

When you were born the earth trembled, and when the rose-apple tree's shade did not leave you."

238.

"Then with a mind amazed, seeing that power of the Buddha;

Having gone forth right there, I dwelt honouring my mother.

239.

"The young deity Candana, having approached, asked me;

About the brief and detailed method of the auspicious night then.

240.

"Urged by him then, having approached the leader of men;

Having heard about the auspicious night, I was stirred, a forest dweller.

241.

"Then I asked my mother, 'I will live alone in the forest';

"You are delicate," my mother said, restraining me with those words then.

242.

"Kāsa grass, kusa grass, potakila grass, usīra grass, muñja grass and pabbaja grass;

I will push them aside with my chest, developing seclusion.

243.

"Then having entered the forest, remembering the Teaching of the Victor;

The exhortation of the Auspicious One Night, I attained Arahantship.

244.

"Let one not pursue the past, nor yearn for the future;

What is past is abandoned, and the future has not yet come.

245.

"One who sees with insight the present phenomena, here and there;

One should cultivate that which is unshakeable and immovable, having understood it.

246.

"One should be ardent in doing what needs to be done today; who knows if death will come tomorrow?

For there can be no bargaining with Death and his great army.

247.

"One who dwells thus ardently, untiring day and night;

That indeed is one who has had an auspicious night, the peaceful sage declares.

248.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

249.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

250.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Lomasakaṅgiya speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Eighth: The Apadāna of the Elder Lomasakaṅgiya.

9.

The Apadāna of the Elder Vanavaccha

251.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

252.

"Then having gone forth in that Enlightened One's Teaching;

Having lived the holy life for as long as life lasted, passing away from there.

253.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

254.

Passing away from there, I was a pigeon in the forest;

There dwelt a monk endowed with virtues, always delighting in meditation.

255.

With a mind of loving-kindness and compassion, always with a joyful face;

The great hero was equanimous, skilled in the immeasurables.

256.

With intentions free from hindrances, with aspirations for the welfare of all beings;

I became devoted before long to that disciple of the Fortunate One.

257.

"Having approached the foot, seated then in the hermitage;

Sometimes he gives material things, and sometimes teaches the Teaching.

258.

"Then with great affection, having attended on the Victor's son;

Passing away from there went to heaven, like going from home to lodging.

259.

"Fallen from heaven among human beings, born through meritorious action;

Having abandoned the household life, I went forth many times.

260.

"As an ascetic, austere one, learned one, wanderer likewise I;

Having become, I dwelt in the forest, hundreds of times.

261.

"And now in the last existence, in delightful Kapilavatthu;

I entered the womb of the wife of the brahmin Vacchagotta.

262.

"When I was in my mother's womb,

Near the time of birth, she had a resolve for forest dwelling.

263.

"Then my mother gave birth to me in a delightful forest grove;

As I emerged from the womb, they received me with ochre robes.

264.

"Then prince Siddhattha was born, the banner of the Sakyan clan;

I was his dear friend, intimate and highly respected.

265.

"When the one with core essence departed, abandoning great fame;

Having gone forth, I went to the Himalayas.

266.

"Having seen and heard Kassapa, who dwelt in the forest, worthy of development, of austere doctrine, the arising of the Victor, I approached the Charioteer of Men.

Disvā sutvā jinuppādaṃ, upesiṃ narasārathiṃ.

267.

"He taught me the Teaching, illuminating all meaning;

Then having gone forth, I returned to the forest.

268.

"Dwelling there diligently, I attained the six direct knowledges;

Oh what a well-gained gain it was, being shown compassion by a good friend.

269.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

270.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

271.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vanavaccha speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Legend of the Elder Vanavaccha, the ninth.

10.

The Legend of the Elder Cūḷasugandha

272.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

273.

"Endowed with excellent features, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics;

Surrounded by a fathom-wide aura, covered with a net of rays.

274.

"Comforting like the moon, radiant like the sun;

Quenching like a cloud, like the ocean a treasury of virtues.

275.

"Like the earth in virtue, like the Himalayas in concentration;

Like space with wisdom, unattached like the wind.

276.

"Then I was reborn in Benares, in a great family;

With abundant wealth and grain, with various gems collected.

277.

"With a great retinue, the Leader of the world was seated;

Having approached, I heard the Teaching, like the Deathless, captivating the mind.

278.

"Bearing the thirty-two characteristics, like the moon with constellations;

Endowed with the features, like a blossomed king of sal trees.

279.

"Surrounded by a net of rays, shining like a golden mountain;

Surrounded by fathom-wide radiance, hundred-rayed like the sun.

280.

"Golden-faced is the Victor, like an ascetic's mountain;

With a heart full of compassion, like an ocean with virtue.

281.

World-renowned in fame, like Sineru, supreme among mountains;

The hero, widespread in glory, the sage like space.

282.

With mind unattached everywhere, the leader like the wind;

The support of all beings, like the earth, supreme among sages.

283.

Unsullied by the world, like a lotus by water;

Burning false doctrines, you shine like a mass of fire.

284.

Like a fathomless depth everywhere, destroyer of the poison of defilements;

Like Mount Gandhamādana, adorned with the fragrance of virtues.

285.

"A hero is a mine of virtues, like an ocean of jewels;

Like a river of forest ranges, removing the stain of defilements.

286.

"Like a victorious great warrior, crushing Māra's army;

Like a wheel-turning monarch, he is lord of the enlightenment factor jewels.

287.

"Like a great physician, treating the disease of hatred;

Like a surgeon doctor, splitting open the tumour of views.

288.

"Then he, the light of the world, honoured by humans, deities and Māras;

The Victor, like the sun among humans, teaches the Teaching in assemblies.

289.

"Having given gifts one gains great wealth, through virtue one reaches a good destination;

And through development one attains Nibbāna - thus indeed he instructed.

290.

"That teaching of great gratification, beautiful in beginning, middle and end;

All assemblies hear it, like the great taste of the Deathless.

291.

"Having heard the very sweet Teaching, gladdened in the Victor's Dispensation;

Having gone for refuge to the Fortunate One, I pay homage throughout life.

292.

"At the sage's fragrant dwelling, I then swept the ground;

With four kinds of odours, for eight days in the month.

293.

"Having made a wish for sweet fragrance, for a body free from odour;

Then the Victor explained, the gaining of a sweet-scented body.

294.

"'Whoever once sweeps with fragrance, the ground of the fragrant dwelling;

As a result of that action, wherever reborn.

295.

"This person will have a fragrant body everywhere;

Having become endowed with the fragrance of virtues, he will attain nibbāna without taints."

296.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

297.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a brahmin family;

While I dwelt in the womb, my mother's body was fragrant.

298.

"When I emerged from my mother's womb, then the city

Was filled with all odours, as if perfumed.

299.

"And a fragrant rain of flowers, with divine odour, delightful,

And costly incense, wafted immediately.

300.

"And deities with all odours, with incense and flowers, that house

They perfumed with sweet fragrance, the house where I was born.

301.

"When I was young and fortunate, established in first youth,

Then the Charioteer of Men trained Sela with his assembly.

302.

"Surrounded by all of them, I came to the city of Sāvatthī;

Then seeing that power of the Buddha, I went forth.

303.

"Virtue, concentration and wisdom, and unsurpassed liberation;

Having developed these four things, I attained the destruction of taints.

304.

"When I went forth and when I became an arahant,

And when I was extinguished, then there was a rain of fragrance.

305.

"And the fragrance of my body always surpasses magnificent sandalwood, champak and water lily;

Just so all other fragrances, overpowering them, it wafts here and there.

306.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

307.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

308.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Cūḷasugandha speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Cūḷasugandha is the tenth.

The Chapter on Bhaddiya is the fifty-fifth.

Here is its summary -

Bhaddiya and the Elder Revata, and Sīvalī of great gain;

Vaṅgīsa and Nandaka, and Kāḷudāyī and likewise Abhaya.

Lomasa and Vanavaccha, and Sugandha is the tenth;

Three hundred verses are there, and sixteen more than that.

Then the chapter summary -

The chapter named after Kaṇikāra, Phalada and Tiṇadāyaka;

Kaccāna and the chapter of Bhaddiya, these verses are counted here.

Nine hundred verses here, and exactly eighty-four;

Five hundred and fifty attributes were proclaimed.

Together with the inspired utterance verses, these are six thousand;

Two hundred verses, and eighteen more than that.

56.

The Chapter on Yasa

1.

Attribute of Elder Yasa

1.

"Having plunged into the great ocean, my dwelling was well-created;

Well-created was the lotus pond, resonant with ruddy geese.

2.

"Covered with coral flowers, and with lotuses and water lilies;

And there flowed a river, with beautiful banks, delightful.

3.

"Filled with fish and tortoises, spread with various birds;

Resounding with peacocks and herons, with sweet cuckoos and others.

4.

"Doves, crying geese, river-dwelling ruddy geese;

And here were partridges, mynahs, peacocks, and pheasants.

5.

"Geese and herons were crying, and many brown owls;

Endowed with the seven treasures, with jewels, pearls, and coral.

6.

"All the trees were made of gold, with various masses swaying;

They illuminated day and night, the dwelling at all times.

7.

"Sixty thousand musical instruments played morning and evening;

Sixteen thousand women always surrounded me.

8.

"Having left the existence, I, with a clear mind and joyful,

Paid homage to Sumedha, the leader of the world, of great fame.

9.

"Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, I invited him together with the Community;

He consented, that wise one, Sumedha, the leader of the world.

10.

"Having given me a talk on the Teaching, the great sage sent me away;

Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, I went to my abode.

11.

"I addressed my attendants, all gathered then;

'In the morning the Enlightened One will come to my abode.'

12.

"'It is a gain for us, it is well-gained by us, that we live near you;

We too shall honour the supreme Enlightened One, the Teacher.'

13.

"Having prepared food and drink, I announced the time;

The Leader of the World approached with six hundred thousand masters.

14.

"I made a welcome with five-factored musical instruments;

The supreme person sat on an all-golden seat.

15.

"The covering above was then all made of gold;

Fans were wafting around the unsurpassed Community of monks.

16.

"With abundant food and drink, I satisfied the Community of monks;

I gave pairs of cloth to each one in the Community of monks.

17.

"What the wise one spoke, receiver of offerings;

Having sat down in the Community of monks, he spoke these verses.

18.

"'Who satisfied me with food and drink, and all these;

I will praise him, listen to my words.

19.

"For eighteen hundred aeons, they will delight in the world of deities;

A thousand times this king will be a wheel-turning monarch.

20.

"Whatever realm he goes to, whether as deity or human;

He will bear a canopy made entirely of gold.

21.

"In thirty thousand aeons, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

22.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

Having fully understood all taints, he will attain nibbāna without taints.

23.

"Having sat in the Community of monks, he will roar the lion's roar";

They hold a parasol at the funeral pyre, beneath the parasol he burns.

24.

"I have attained asceticism, my defilements were burnt up by me;

In a pavilion or at the foot of a tree, distress is not found in me.

25.

"Thirty thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of all giving.

26.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

27.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

28.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Yasa speak these verses.

The Attribute of Elder Yasa First.

2.

The Attribute of Elder Nadīkassapa

29.

"Of the Blessed One Padumuttara, foremost in the world, such a one;

While walking for alms-round, supreme in glory from the side;

Taking the finest fruit, I gave it to the Teacher.

30.

"Through that action, lord of deities, foremost in the world, bull among men;

I have attained the unshakeable state, having abandoned both victory and defeat.

31.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the supreme gift.

32.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

33.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

34.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Nadīkassapa speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nadīkassapa, the second.

3.

The Apadāna of the Elder Gayākassapa

35.

"Then I wore antelope hide as clothing, carrying a load in a carrying pole;

Having carried the pole, I brought jujube fruit to the hermitage.

36.

"The Blessed One at that time, the Victor alone without a second;

Approached my hermitage, illuminating all around.

37.

"Having established confidence in my mind, having paid homage to the one of good observance;

Raising with both hands, I gave the jujube fruit to the Enlightened One.

38.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving jujube.

39.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

40.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

41.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Gayākassapa speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Third, the Apadāna of the Elder Gayākassapa.

4.

Apadāna of the Elder Kimila

42.

"When Kakusandha, the brahmin of fulfilled vows, was quenched,

Taking a garland of saḷala, I had a pavilion made.

43.

"Having gone to the Tāvatiṃsa realm, we received the supreme mansion;

I outshine other deities - this is the fruit of meritorious action.

44.

"Whether by day or by night, walking or standing,

Covered with sala flowers, this is the fruit of meritorious action.

45.

"In this very aeon, when I honoured the Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

46.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

47.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

48.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Kimila speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Fourth Apadāna, of the Elder Kimila.

5.

Apadāna of the Elder Vajjīputta

49.

"The Blessed One Thousand-rayed, self-enlightened, undefeated;

Having risen from seclusion, he went out for alms.

50.

"With fruit in hand, having seen the bull of men, I approached;

With bright mind, joyful, I gave fruit with its stalk.

51.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that fruit;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of fruit-giving.

52.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

53.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

54.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Vajjīputta speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The fifth attribute of the Elder Vajjīputta.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Uttara

55.

"The Enlightened One named Sumedha, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics;

The Blessed One desiring seclusion, approached the Himalayas.

56.

Having plunged into the Himalayas, the foremost compassionate sage;

Having folded his legs crosswise, the supreme person sat down.

57.

"I was then a knowledge-master, moving through the sky;

Taking a well-made trident, I was going through the sky then.

58.

"Like a fire on a mountain peak, like the moon on the full moon night;

The Enlightened One shines in the forest, like a blossoming king of sal trees.

59.

"Having departed from the forest peak, with the rays of the Enlightened One spreading;

Seeing what appeared like the colour of reed-fire, I made my mind confident.

60.

"Searching I saw a flower, a kaṇikāra with divine fragrance;

Taking three flowers, I honoured the supreme Enlightened One.

61.

"Through the power of the Enlightened One, those three flowers of mine then;

With stalks up and leaves down, made shade for the Teacher.

62.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

63.

"There my well-made mansion, is known as Kaṇikārī;

Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.

64.

"With a thousand pillars, a hundred spires, adorned with banners, made of green gems;

A hundred thousand turrets appeared in my mansion.

65.

"Made of gold, made of jewels, and also made of ruby;

And crystal couches too, whatever and however I wished.

66.

"And a most valuable bed, fitted with cotton mattresses and woollen covers,

With long fleece on one side, equipped with pillows.

67.

"Having left my dwelling, wandering on a deity's journey;

Whenever I wish to go, honoured by the community of deities.

68.

I stand beneath flowers, above is my covering;

Extending for a hundred yojanas, covered with kaṇikāra flowers.

69.

Sixty thousand instruments attended morning and evening;

Always surround me, untiring day and night.

70.

There with dances and songs, with cymbals and music,

I delight in play and pleasure, I rejoice desiring sensual pleasures.

71.

"Having eaten and drunk there, I rejoiced then among the Thirty-three;

Accompanied by groups of women, I rejoice in the highest Brahmā realm.

72.

"And five hundred times I exercised divine kingship;

And three hundred times I was a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

73.

Wandering in various existences in the round of rebirths, I gain great wealth;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

74.

"I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I do not know any other destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

75.

"I am born into two families, noble and brahmin;

I am not born in a low family, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

76.

"Elephant mounts and horse mounts, palanquin and chariot;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

77.

"Groups of female slaves and male slaves, and adorned women;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

78.

"Silken blankets, and those made of linen and cotton;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

79.

"New clothes, new fruits, food with the finest new tastes;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

80.

"Eat this, partake of this, lie on this bed;

I receive all of this, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

81.

"Everywhere I am honoured, my fame has risen high;

I always have a great following, always an unbreakable assembly;

I am the highest of relatives, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

82.

"I do not know cold or heat, no passion is found;

Moreover, mental suffering is not found in my heart.

83.

"Having golden beauty, I wander through various existences;

I do not know disfigurement, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

84.

"Having fallen from the world of deities, urged by wholesome roots;

I was born in Sāvatthī, in a wealthy great household.

85.

"Having abandoned the five cords of sensual pleasure, I went forth into homelessness;

At seven years of age, I attained Arahantship.

86.

"The Enlightened One, possessing vision, granted me full admission, knowing my qualities;

Young and worthy of honour I was, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

87.

"My divine eye is purified, I am skilled in concentration;

I have attained perfection in direct knowledge, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

88.

"I have attained the analytical knowledges, am skilled in the bases for spiritual power;

I have attained perfection in the teachings, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

89.

"Thirty thousand aeons ago, I honoured the Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

90.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

91.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

92.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Uttara speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The sixth attribute of the Elder Uttara.

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Uttara the Second

93.

"When the Lord of the World, Siddhattha, the Leader of the World was quenched;

Having gathered my relatives, I made offerings to the element.

94.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I honoured that element;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of offering to the element.

95.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

96.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

97.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Aparauttara speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Seventh: The Attribute of Another Elder Uttara.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Bhaddaji

98.

"Having entered that lotus pond, frequented by various elephants;

I pulled up lotus stalks there, for the sake of food then.

99.

"The Blessed One at that time, named Padumuttara;

The Enlightened One wearing red robes, going along the path of wind.

100.

"Shaking the rag-robes, I heard the sound then;

Looking upward, I saw the Leader of the World.

101.

"Standing right there, being peaceful, I invited the Leader of the World;

Honey together with lotus stalks, milk, ghee, and lotus roots.

102.

"May the Enlightened One accept from me, out of compassion, One with vision;

Then the compassionate Teacher, of great fame, having descended.

103.

The One with vision accepted my alms out of compassion;

Having accepted, the Enlightened One made rejoicing for me.

104.

"'May you be happy, one of great merit, may your destination succeed;

By this gift of lotus stalks, may you obtain abundant happiness.'

105.

Having said this, the Enlightened One, named Supreme Among Water-born,

The Enlightened One, the victor, having taken alms, came through the air.

106.

"Then taking lotus stalks, I went to my hermitage;

Having hung the lotus stalks on a tree, I recollected my giving.

107.

"A great wind arose, shaking the forest then;

Space resounded, and then the thunderbolt struck.

108.

"Then a thunderbolt fell, striking my head at that time;

Being peaceful, seated there, I died there.

109.

"Connected with meritorious action, I was reborn in Tusita;

Though my body has fallen, I delight in the deity world.

110.

"Eighty-six thousand women, adorned,

Attend me morning and evening, this is the fruit of giving lotus stalks.

111.

"Having come to the human realm, I was happy then;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of giving lotus stalks.

112.

"Shown compassion by him, the deity of deities, such a one;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

113.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that lotus stalk;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving lotus stalks.

114.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

115.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

116.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Bhaddajit speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Eighth Attribute of the Elder Bhaddajit.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Sivaka

117.

"When Vipassī, the great sage, was wandering in search;

Having seen his empty bowl, I filled it with porridge.

118.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that alms;

I do not directly know a bad destination, this is the fruit of the porridge.

119.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

120.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

121.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Sivaka speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Ninth Apadāna of the Elder Sivaka.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder Upavāna

122.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

Having blazed like a mass of fire, the Enlightened One attained final Nibbāna.

123.

"A great crowd having gathered, having honoured the Truth Finder;

Having made a pyre for the Fortunate One, they placed the body upon it.

124.

"Having performed the funeral rites, they collected the relics there;

All deities and humans, they built a shrine for the Buddha.

125.

"The first was made of gold, and the second was made of gems;

The third was made of silver, the fourth was made of crystal.

126.

"And there the fifth was made of ruby;

The sixth was of cat's eye, with all kinds of gems on top.

127.

"The pillars were made of gems, the railing was made of jewels;

The shrine was all made of gold, rising up a yojana high.

128.

"The deities gathered there, and consulted together then;

'Let us too build a shrine for such a protector of the world.

129.

"There are no separate elements, the body is one mass;

On this shrine of the Buddha, we shall make an outer cover.'

130.

"The deities with seven jewels, extended another yojana;

The shrine two yojanas high, it dispels the darkness.

131.

"The dragons gathered there, and consulted together then;

'Both human beings and deities, they built a shrine for the Buddha.

132.

"'Let us not be negligent, let us be diligent along with the deities;

Let us too build a shrine for such a protector of the world.'

133.

"Sapphire and great sapphire, and also the luminous gem,

Having gathered together, they covered the Buddha's shrine.

134.

"All was made of jewels, that shrine of the Buddha;

Three yojanas high, making light then.

135.

"The garuḷas gathered there, and consulted together then;

'Human beings, deities and dragons, they made an offering to the Buddha.

136.

"'Let us not be negligent, let us be diligent along with the deities;

Let us too build a shrine for such a protector of the world.'

137.

"They made the shrine all of jewels, and a covering,

They too increased it by a yojana, that Buddha shrine in length.

138.

"The shrine of the Buddha, four yojanas high, shines;

It illuminates all directions, like the risen hundred-rayed sun.

139.

"The kumbhaṇḍas gathered there, and consulted together then;

'Both human beings and deities, dragons and garuḷas likewise.

140.

"Each built a supreme shrine for the supreme Enlightened One;

Let us not be negligent, let us be diligent along with the deities.

141.

'Let us too build a shrine for such a protector of the world;

'We will cover with treasures the Buddha shrine in length.'

142.

"They too increased it by a yojana, that Buddha shrine in length;

Five yojanas high, the shrine shone then.

143.

"The spirits gathered there, and consulted together then;

'Human beings, deities and dragons, and garuḷas and kumbhaṇḍas.

144.

"Each built a supreme shrine for the supreme Enlightened One;

Let us not be negligent, let us be diligent along with the deities.

145.

'Let us too build a shrine for such a protector of the world;

We will cover with crystal the Buddha shrine in length.'

146.

"They too increased it by a yojana, that Buddha shrine in length;

Six yojanas high, the shrine shone then.

147.

The tree-deities gathered there, and consulted together then;

'Humans, deities, dragons, kumbhaṇḍas and garuḷas likewise.

148.

'All have made a Buddha shrine, we are the ones who have not done anything here;

Let us too build a shrine for such a protector of the world.'

149.

Having made seven terraces, they made a banner and parasol;

Then the tree-deities had a shrine made entirely of gold.

150.

Seven yojanas high, the shrine shone then;

Day and night were not known, there was light all the time.

151.

The moon, sun, and stars with their light did not outshine it;

For a hundred yojanas around, not even a lamp would burn.

152.

At that time, whatever humans who wanted to honour the shrine,

They did not climb the shrine, they lifted offerings into the air.

153.

A spirit named Abhisammata, appointed by the deities,

Would place up high either a flag or a garland of flowers.

154.

"They do not see that spirit, they see the taming of those who go;

Having seen thus as they go, all go to a good destination.

155.

"Those opposed to the sacred word, and those pleased with the Dispensation;

Wishing to see a miracle, humans honour the shrine.

156.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was a hired worker then;

Seeing the people rejoicing, I thought thus then.

157.

'Magnificent is this Blessed One, whose relics I see thus;

And these people are delighted, doing honour, they are not satisfied.

158.

'I too will do what is proper, for such a protector of the world;

I will be an heir to his Teaching, in the future.'

159.

"My upper robe, well-washed by the washer,

Having hung it on a bamboo tip, I raised the flag in the sky.

160.

"The wind took hold of the flag and carried it in the sky;

Having seen the flag blown by the wind, I generated even more joy.

161.

"Having established confidence there, I approached the ascetic;

Having paid homage to that monk, I asked about the result of the flag.

162.

"He explained to me with delight, generating rapture in me;

You will always experience the result of that banner.

163.

"'Elephants, horses, chariots, foot soldiers, and the fourfold army;

Will constantly be your retinue, this is the fruit of the gift of a banner.

164.

"Sixty thousand musical instruments, adorned drums;

Will constantly be your retinue, this is the fruit of the gift of a banner.

165.

"Eighty-six thousand women, adorned,

With decorated clothes and ornaments, adorned with jewelled earrings.

166.

"With eyes like those of a deer, smiling, with good perception, slender-waisted;

Will constantly be your retinue, this is the fruit of the gift of a banner.

167.

'For thirty thousand aeons you will delight in the world of deities;

Eighty times you will be king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm.

168.

"A thousand times they will be a wheel-turning monarch;

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning.

169.

"In a hundred thousand aeons, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

170.

Having fallen from the world of deities, urged by wholesome roots;

Connected with meritorious action, you will be a brahmin kinsman.

171.

"Having given up eighty crores, many slaves and workers,

You will go forth in the Blessed One Gotama's Dispensation.

172.

"Having pleased the Enlightened One, Gotama, the bull of the Sakyans,

Named Upavāna, you will be a disciple of the Teacher.

173.

"The deed done a hundred thousand aeons ago showed its fruit to me here;

Like a well-freed arrow's speed, I burnt up my defilements.

174.

"When I was a peaceful wheel-turning monarch, ruler of the four continents;

For three yojanas all around, banners were always raised.

175.

A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving banners.

176.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

177.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

178.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Upavāna speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Upavāna, the tenth.

11.

The Attribute of the Elder Raṭṭhapāla

179.

"Of the Blessed One Padumuttara, foremost in the world, such a one;

A noble elephant was given by me, with tusks like chariot poles, of great size.

180.

"Adorned with a white parasol, with its trappings and mahout;

Having valued all that, I had a monastery built.

181.

"Fifty-four thousand mansions I had built;

Having made a great flood of gifts, I dedicated them to the Great Sage.

182.

The Great Hero, the Self-enlightened One, the foremost person rejoiced;

Delighting all people, he taught the term of the Deathless.

183.

"The Enlightened One named Supreme Among Water-born explained this to me;

Having sat down in the Community of monks, he spoke these verses.

184.

"'This one had fifty-four thousand mansions built;

I shall tell the result, listen to my words.

185.

"'There will be eighteen thousand peaked houses;

Born in the highest Brahma realm, and they are all made of gold.

186.

Fifty times they will be king of the deities, ruling over the deity realm;

And fifty-eight times they will be a wheel-turning monarch.

187.

"In a hundred thousand aeons, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

188.

Having fallen from the world of deities, urged by wholesome roots;

They will be born right then in a rich family of great property.

189.

Later having gone forth, urged by wholesome roots;

One named Raṭṭhapāla will be a disciple of the Teacher.

190.

"Resolute in striving, peaceful, without acquisitions;

Having fully understood all taints, he will attain nibbāna without taints."

191.

"Having risen and gone forth, having abandoned the perfection of wealth;

Like a glob of spittle, no affection for wealth is found in me.

192.

Energy is my beast of burden, carrying me to security from bondage;

I bear my final body in the Dispensation of the Fully Enlightened One.

193.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

194.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

195.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Venerable Elder Raṭṭhapāla speak these verses

Speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Raṭṭhapāla is the eleventh.

The Chapter on Yasa is the fifty-sixth.

Here is its summary -

Yasa and Nadīkassapa, Gayā, Kimila and Vajjin;

Two Uttaras and Bhaddajī, Sivaka and Upavāhana;

Raṭṭhapāla one hundred, ninety-five verses.

The Attribute of the Elders is completed.

Thus far the Attributes of the Buddhas, the Privately Enlightened Ones, and the Elders

Are completed.

Homage to the Blessed One, the Worthy One, the Perfectly Enlightened One

The Collection of Minor Texts

The Text of the Attributes of the Elder Nuns

1.

The Chapter on Sumedhā

1.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Sumedhā

Now listen to the Attributes of the Elder Nuns -

1.

"When the Blessed One Koṇāgamana lived, in a new residence in the Community's monastery;

Three of us women friends gave the gift of a dwelling.

2.

"Ten times, a hundred times, a thousand times, and a hundred thousand times;

We were reborn among deities, what need to speak of human existence.

3.

"Among deities we had great spiritual power, what need to speak of the human realm;

I was the queen consort of one with seven treasures, the treasure of women.

4.

"Having accumulated wholesome deeds here, born in a very prosperous family;

Dhanañjānī and Khemā and I, we three people.

5.

"Having made a well-made monastery, adorned in all its parts;

Having dedicated it to the Community headed by the Enlightened One, we rejoiced.

6.

"Wherever I am reborn, due to the power of that action;

I attained the highest position among deities, and likewise among human beings.

7.

"In this very aeon, a kinsman of brahmins of great fame,

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

8.

"The attendant of the great sage was then the lord of men,

The king of Kāsi named Kikī, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasī.

9.

"He had seven daughters, princesses raised in happiness;

Delighting in attending on the Buddha, they lived the holy life.

10.

"Having become their companion, well established in virtuous behavior;

Having carefully given gifts, I observed my vow while still in the household.

11.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

12.

"Passing away from there I went to the Yāma realm, from there I went to the Tusita realm;

Then to the Nimmānarati realm, and then to the Vasavatti realm.

13.

"Wherever I was reborn, endowed with meritorious action,

In each place I exercised the position of chief queen of kings.

14.

"Passing away from there, in the human state, I exercised

The position of chief queen of wheel-turning monarchs and regional kings.

15.

"Having experienced success among deities and human beings,

Having been happy everywhere, I wandered through many births.

16.

"That is the cause and that is the source, that is the root of acceptance in the Teaching;

That is the first combination, that is Nibbāna through delight in the Teaching.

17.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a female bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

18.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

19.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Sumedhā speak these verses.

The First Attribute of the Elder Nun Sumedhā.

2.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Mekhalādāyikā

20.

"For the Blessed One Siddhattha, I was a shrine builder;

I gave a girdle for the Teacher's new work.

21.

"When the great stupa was finished, I again gave a girdle;

To the sage, protector of the world, with confidence, with my own hands.

22.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I gave that girdle;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the stupa work.

23.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

24.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

25.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Mekhalādāyikā speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Mekhalādāyikā, the Second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Maṇḍapadāyikā

26.

"For the Enlightened One Koṇāgamana, a pavilion was built by me;

I offered a stable set of three robes to the Buddha, friend of the world.

27.

"Whatever district I go to, towns and royal cities;

Everywhere I am honoured, this is the fruit of meritorious action.

28.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

29.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

30.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Maṇḍapadāyikā speak these verses.

The Third Attribute of the Elder Nun Maṇḍapadāyikā.

4.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Saṅkamanatthā

31.

"Of the Blessed One Vipassī, foremost in the world, such a one;

While practising on the road, helping living beings across.

32.

"Having departed from home, I lay face downward;

The Leader of the World, compassionate, stepped on my head.

33.

"Having stepped on my head, the Leader of the World departed;

Through that confidence of mind, I went to Tusita.

34.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

35.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

36.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Saṅkamanattā speak these verses.

The Fourth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Saṅkamanatthā.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Naḷamālikā

37.

"On the bank of the river Candabhāgā, I was then a female celestial musician;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, self-enlightened, unvanquished.

38.

"With a confident mind and glad, inspired, with reverential salutation;

Having taken a reed garland, I worshipped the Self-enlightened One.

39.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the kinnari body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa destination.

40.

"I was made the chief queen of thirty-six deity kings;

I was made the chief queen of ten wheel-turning monarchs;

Having stirred up my mind, I went forth into homelessness.

41.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

42.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of flower-offering.

43.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

44.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

45.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Naḷamālikā speak these verses.

The Fifth: The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Naḷamālikā.

6.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Ekapiṇḍapātadāyikā

46.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, there was a noble named Bandhuma;

I was that king's wife, we lived together.

47.

"Having sat in seclusion, I thought thus then;

'Indeed I have done no wholesome deed to take with me.

48.

'Great torment, bitter, horrible and terrifying,

I will surely go to hell, of this I have no doubt'.

49.

"Having approached the king, I spoke these words;

"Give me one ascetic, noble one, I will feed him."

50.

"The great king gave me an ascetic with developed faculties;

Taking his bowl, I filled it with the finest food.

51.

"Having filled it with the finest food, I applied fragrant ointment;

Having covered it with a net, I covered it with a pair of cloths.

52.

"This was my object of meditation, I remember it as long as I lived;

Having established confidence there, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.

53.

"I was the chief queen of thirty kings of deities;

What I wished for in mind, came to be as desired.

54.

"I was the chief queen of twenty wheel-turning monarchs;

Having been of noble birth, I wander through existences.

55.

"I am freed from all bondage, attachments have left me;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

56.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of almsfood.

57.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

58.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

59.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Ekapiṇḍapātadāyikā speak these verses.

The Sixth: The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Who Gave One Almsfood.

7.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Who Gave a Spoonful of Almsfood

60.

"While walking for alms-round, to the Teacher named Tissa;

Taking up a spoonful of almsfood, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One.

61.

"Having accepted it, the Enlightened One Tissa, foremost leader of the world;

The Teacher standing in the street, made rejoicing for me.

62.

"'Having given a spoonful of almsfood, you will go to Tāvatiṃsa;

You will exercise sovereignty over thirty-six deity kings.

63.

"'You will exercise sovereignty over fifty wheel-turning monarchs;

All that is wished for in mind, you will receive always.

64.

'Having experienced success, you will go forth without possessions;

Having fully understood all taints, you will attain Nibbāna without taints.'

65.

Having said this, the Enlightened One Tissa, foremost leader of the world,

The hero ascended into the sky, like a king of swans in the firmament.

66.

Well given was my supreme gift, well sacrificed was the perfection of offering;

Having given a spoonful of alms, I have attained the unshakeable state.

67.

"Ninety-two aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving alms.

68.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

69.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

70.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Kaṭacchubhikkhādāyikā speak these verses.

The Seventh: The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Giver of a Ladleful of Food.

8.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Giver of Seven Lotus Garlands

71.

"In the city of Aruṇavatī, there was a noble named Aruṇa;

I was that king's wife, I observed what was to be observed.

72.

"Taking seven garlands, of heavenly-scented lotuses;

Having sat in the excellent mansion, I thought thus then.

73.

"'What use are these garlands, placed upon my head;

Better for me is what is placed in the knowledge of the supreme Enlightened One'.

74.

"Waiting for the Enlightened One, I sat near the door;

"When the Enlightened One will come, I will honour the great sage."

75.

"Like a shining mountain, like a lion, king of beasts;

Together with the Community of monks, the Victor came along the road.

76.

"Having seen the Buddha's radiance, delighted with stirred mind;

Having opened the door, I honoured the supreme Buddha.

77.

"Seven lotus flowers, scattered in the sky;

Making a canopy for the Buddha, they stayed above his head.

78.

"With uplifted mind and glad, inspired, with reverential salutation;

Having established confidence there, I went to Tāvatiṃsa.

79.

"The great lotus covers me, they hold it over my head;

I emit divine fragrance, this is the fruit of seven lotuses.

80.

"When I was being led then by my company of relatives;

As far as my assembly extends, the great lotus is held.

81.

"I was the chief queen of seventy deity kings;

Having been sovereign everywhere, I journey through various states of existence.

82.

"I was the chief queen of sixty wheel-turning monarchs;

All followed me, my words were well received.

83.

"My beauty is like a blue lotus, and its odour wafts;

I do not know ugliness, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

84.

"Those skilled in the bases for spiritual power, delighting in developing the enlightenment factors;

Having attained perfection in direct knowledge, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

85.

Skilled in the establishments of mindfulness, with concentration and meditation as their range;

Devoted to right striving, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

86.

Energy is my beast of burden, carrying me to security from bondage;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

87.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I offered that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

88.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

89.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

90.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Sattuppalamālikā speak these verses.

The Eighth: The Apadāna of Therī Sattuppalamālikā.

9.

The Apadāna of Therī Pañcadīpikā

91.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was then a wanderer;

From park to park, I wandered seeking what is wholesome.

92.

"On the dark fortnight day, I saw the supreme Bodhi tree;

Having established confidence there, I sat at the foot of the Bodhi tree.

93.

"Having attended with reverent mind, making a reverential salutation at my head;

Having expressed joy, I thought thus then.

94.

"'If you are an Enlightened One of immeasurable qualities, an individual without equal;

Show me a miracle, may this Bodhi Tree shine with light.'

95.

"As soon as I had thought this, the Bodhi Tree blazed immediately;

It became all golden, illuminating all directions.

96.

"For seven days and nights there, I sat at the foot of the Bodhi Tree;

When the seventh day arrived, I made an offering of lamps.

97.

"Having surrounded the seat, five lamps blazed;

Until the sun rose, my lamps blazed then.

98.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

99.

"There my well-made mansion, is known as Five-lamps;

Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.

100.

"Countless lamps, shine in my retinue;

As far as the realm of deities extends, it is illuminated by the light of the lamps.

101.

"Sitting with my face turned away, if I wish to see;

Above, below, and across, I see all with my eye.

102.

"As far as I wish to see, the good and bad destinations;

There is no obstruction therein, whether in trees or mountains.

103.

"I exercised supreme queenship over eighty kings of deities;

I exercised supreme queenship over a hundred wheel-turning monarchs.

104.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

A hundred thousand lamps shine in my retinue.

105.

"Having fallen from the world of deities, I was born in a mother's womb;

Even while in the mother's womb, being peaceful, my eye did not close.

106.

"A hundred thousand lamps, endowed with meritorious action,

Shine in the birth chamber - this is the fruit of the five lamps.

107.

"When the final existence arrived, I turned my mind away;

I touched Nibbāna, ageless, deathless, cool.

108.

"At seven years of age, I attained Arahantship;

Gotama the Enlightened One granted me full admission, knowing my qualities.

109.

"In a pavilion or at the root of a tree, in mansions or in caves;

While dwelling in an empty dwelling, my five lamps are burning.

110.

"My divine eye is purified, I am skilled in concentration;

I have attained perfection in direct knowledge, this is the fruit of the five lamps.

111.

"With all tasks completed, task done, taintless;

O Great Hero, with the five lamps, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.

112.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that lamp;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of five lamps.

113.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

114.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

115.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Pañcadīpikā speak these verses.

The Ninth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Five-lamps.

10.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Water-giver

116.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, I was a water-carrier then;

I lived by carrying water, by that I supported my children.

117.

"I had nothing to give to the unsurpassed field of merit;

Having approached the gateway, I set up water.

118.

"Through that well-done action, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm;

There my well-made mansion, was constructed through water-carrying.

119.

"Among a thousand celestial nymphs, I was then the foremost;

In ten states, I always surpassed all of them.

120.

"I was the chief queen of fifty kings of deities;

I was the chief queen of twenty wheel-turning monarchs.

121.

"I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving water.

122.

"On mountain peaks and treetops, in the sky and on the ground;

When I wish for water, I quickly obtain it.

123.

"There is no region without rain, nor heated and boiling;

Having known my intention, a great cloud pours down.

124.

"When I was being led then by my company of relatives;

When I wish for rain, a great cloud arose.

125.

"Neither heat nor passion is found in my body;

And there is no dust on my body, this is the fruit of giving water.

126.

"With a purified mind today, free from evil conceit;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

127.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that water;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving water.

128.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

129.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

130.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Udakadāyikā speak these verses.

The tenth is the Attribute of the Elder Nun Water-Giver.

First is the Chapter on Sumedhā.

Here is its summary -

Sumedhā, the girdle-giver, gave a pavilion and a walkway;

Reed-garland-maker, alms-giver, ladle and blue lotus-giver.

Lamp-giver and water-giver, the verses counted here;

One hundred and one verses, and thirty more than that.

2.

The Chapter on Ekūposathika

1.

Attribute of the Elder Nun One-Observance

1.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, there was a noble named Bandhuma;

On the full moon day, he observed the observance.

2.

"At that time, I was a water-pot slave girl there;

Having seen the army with its king, I reflected thus then.

3.

'Even the king having abandoned rulership, observed the uposatha;

Surely that action is fruitful, the people were delighted'.

4.

"Having carefully reflected on the bad destination and poverty,

Having gladdened my mind, I observed the uposatha.

5.

"Having undertaken the uposatha in the Dispensation of the Fully Enlightened One,

Through that well-done action, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

6.

"There my well-made mansion, rising up a yojana high;

Furnished with the best peaked dwellings, adorned with great seats.

7.

"A hundred thousand celestial maidens always attend me;

Having surpassed other deities, I always shine forth.

8.

"I was the chief queen of sixty-four deity kings;

I was the chief queen of sixty wheel-turning monarchs.

9.

"Having golden beauty, I wander through existences;

Everywhere I am excellent, this is the fruit of the observance.

10.

"Elephant mounts and horse mounts, chariot mounts and palanquins;

I receive all of these, this is the fruit of the observance.

11.

"Made of gold and silver, and also made of crystal;

And made of copper, I receive all.

12.

"Silken blankets, and those made of linen and cotton;

And expensive cloths, I receive all.

13.

"Food, drink, and edibles, and clothing and lodgings;

I obtain all this, this is the fruit of the observance day.

14.

"Excellent odours and garlands, powder and ointment;

I obtain all this, this is the fruit of the observance day.

15.

"A peaked house and mansion, pavilion, palace and cave;

I obtain all this, this is the fruit of the observance day.

16.

"At seven years of age, I went forth into homelessness;

Before half a month had passed, I attained Arahantship.

17.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

18.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I performed that action;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the observance day.

19.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

20.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

21.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Ekūposathikā speak these verses.

First. The Attribute of the Elder Nun of One Uposatha.

2.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Saḷalapupphikā

22.

"On the bank of the river Candabhāgā, I was then a female celestial musician;

I saw the deity of deities, the bull among men, walking back and forth.

23.

"Having picked a saḷala flower, I gave it to the supreme Enlightened One;

The Great Hero smelled the saḷala flower with its divine fragrance.

24.

"Having accepted it, the Enlightened One, Vipassī, leader of the world,

The Great Hero smelled it while I was watching then.

25.

"Having raised my hands in reverential salutation, having paid homage to the highest among bipeds;

Having established confidence in my mind, I then climbed the mountain.

26.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, when I gave that flower;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of honouring the Enlightened One.

27.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

28.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

29.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Saḷalapupphikā speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Saḷalapupphikā, the Second.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Modakadāyikā

30.

"In the city of Bandhumatī, I was a water-pot slave;

Taking my share, I went as a water-carrier.

31.

"Having seen an ascetic on the path, peaceful-minded and composed;

With a faithful mind and glad, I gave three sweet-meats.

32.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

For ninety-one aeons, I did not go to the lower world.

33.

"Having made that success, I experienced all;

Having given three sweet cakes, I have attained the unshakeable state.

34.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

35.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

36.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Modakadāyikā speak these verses.

The Third Apadāna of the Elder Nun Modakadāyikā.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Ekāsanadāyikā

37.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was a young girl then;

My mother and father, they went to work.

38.

"At midday sun, I saw an ascetic;

Going along the street, I prepared a seat.

39.

"Having prepared my seat with woollen and cotton spreads;

With bright mind and glad, I spoke these words.

40.

"'The ground is heated and scorched, the sun stands at midday;

The winds do not blow, and this is the time for rain.

41.

"This seat is arranged for you, great sage;

Out of compassion, sit on my seat."

42.

"The ascetic sat there, well-tamed with a pure mind;

Taking his bowl, I gave what was cooked.

43.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

44.

"There my well-made mansion, well-constructed with seats;

Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.

45.

"Made of gold, made of jewels, and also made of crystal;

And made of red gems, my various couches.

46.

"With cotton, woollen spreads, and decorated with designs;

And with long-fleeced rugs on one side, my couches are well-arranged.

47.

"Whenever I wish to go, devoted to laughter and play;

Together with the best seat, I go to my aspiration.

48.

"I exercised supreme queenship over eighty kings of deities;

I exercised supreme queenship over seventy wheel-turning monarchs.

49.

"Wandering in various existences in the round of rebirths, I gain great wealth;

I have no deficiency in wealth, this is the fruit of a single seat.

50.

"I transmigrate through two kinds of existence, among deities and among humans;

I do not know other existences, this is the fruit of the single seat.

51.

"I am born into two families, noble and brahmin;

Of high family everywhere, this is the fruit of the single seat.

52.

"I do not know displeasure, the torment of my mind;

I do not know disfigurement, this is the fruit of the single seat.

53.

"Nurses attend to me, many hunchbacks and cloth-workers;

I go from lap to lap, this is the fruit of the single seat.

54.

"Some bathe and feed me, others always entertain me;

Others anoint with odours - this is the fruit of sitting alone.

55.

"Whether dwelling in a pavilion or at the root of a tree, or in an empty dwelling;

Having known my intention, a couch stands ready.

56.

"This is my final existence, my last life unfolds;

Even today, having abandoned the kingdom, I went forth into homelessness.

57.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of giving a single seat.

58.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

59.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

60.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Ekāsanadāyikā speak these verses.

The Fourth Attribute of the Elder Nun Who Gave One Seat.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Who Gave Five Lamps

61.

"In the city of Haṃsavatī, I was then a wanderer;

From park to park, I wandered seeking what is wholesome.

62.

"On the dark fortnight day, I saw the supreme Bodhi tree;

Having established confidence there, I sat at the foot of the Bodhi tree.

63.

"Having attended with reverent mind, making a reverential salutation at my head;

Having expressed joy, I thought thus then.

64.

"'If you are an Enlightened One of immeasurable qualities, an individual without equal;

Show me a miracle, may this Bodhi Tree shine with light.'

65.

"As soon as I had thought this, the Bodhi Tree blazed immediately;

It became all golden, illuminating all directions.

66.

"For seven days and nights there, I sat at the foot of the Bodhi Tree;

When the seventh day arrived, I made an offering of lamps.

67.

"Having surrounded the seat, five lamps blazed;

Until the sun rose, my lamps blazed then.

68.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

69.

"There my well-made mansion, is known as Five-lamps;

Sixty yojanas in height, thirty yojanas in width.

70.

"Countless lamps, shone in my retinue;

As far as the realm of deities extends, it is illuminated by the light of the lamps.

71.

"Sitting with my face turned away, if I wish to see;

Above, below, and across, I see all with my eye.

72.

"As far as I wish to see, the good and bad destinations;

There is no obstruction therein, whether in trees or mountains.

73.

"I exercised supreme queenship over eighty kings of deities;

I exercised supreme queenship over a hundred wheel-turning monarchs.

74.

"Whatever realm I am reborn in, whether as deity or human;

A hundred thousand lamps shine in my retinue.

75.

"Having fallen from the world of deities, I was born in a mother's womb;

Even while in the mother's womb, being peaceful, my eye did not close.

76.

"A hundred thousand lamps, endowed with meritorious action,

Shine in the birth chamber - this is the fruit of the five lamps.

77.

"When the final existence arrived, I turned my mind away;

I touched Nibbāna, ageless, deathless, cool.

78.

"At seven years of age, I attained Arahantship;

Gotama the Enlightened One granted me full admission, knowing my qualities.

79.

"Whether dwelling in a pavilion or at the root of a tree, or in an empty dwelling;

A lamp always burns, this is the fruit of five lamps.

80.

"My divine eye is purified, I am skilled in concentration;

I have attained perfection in direct knowledge, this is the fruit of the five lamps.

81.

"With all tasks completed, task done, taintless;

O Great Hero, with the five lamps, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.

82.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, when I gave that lamp;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of five lamps.

83.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

84.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

85.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Pañcadīpadāyikā speak these verses.

The Fifth Attribute of the Elder Nun Pañcadīpadāyikā.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Naḷamālikā

86.

"On the bank of the river Candabhāgā, I was then a female celestial musician;

I saw the stainless Enlightened One, self-enlightened, unvanquished.

87.

"With a confident mind and glad, inspired, with reverential salutation;

Having taken a reed garland, I worshipped the Self-enlightened One.

88.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the kinnari body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

89.

"I was made the chief queen of thirty-six deity kings;

What I wished for in mind, came to be as desired.

90.

"I was made the chief queen of ten wheel-turning monarchs;

Having been of noble birth, I wander through existences.

91.

I have wholesome qualities, I went forth into homelessness;

Today I am worthy of veneration in the Dispensation of the son of the Sakyans.

92.

"With a purified mind today, free from evil conceit;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

93.

"Ninety-four aeons ago, when I honoured that Enlightened One;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of the reed-garland.

94.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

95.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

96.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Naḷamālikā speak these verses.

The Sixth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Naḷamālikā.

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Mahāpajāpatigotamī

97.

"Once the Light of the World, the Charioteer of Men,

Was dwelling in the Great Wood at Vesālī, in the Hall with the Peaked Roof.

98.

"Then the Buddha's aunt, the nun Mahāgotamī,

Was dwelling there in the delightful nunnery that had been built.

99.

"With five hundred liberated nuns,

When alone, this thought occurred to her:

100.

"The final Nibbāna of the Buddha, or of the chief pair of disciples,

Or of Rāhula, Ānanda, and Nanda, I shall not get to see.

101.

"After the final Nibbāna of the Buddha, or of the chief pair of disciples;

Of Mahākassapa and Nanda, and of Ānanda and Rāhula.

102.

"Having relinquished the life formation beforehand, I would go to quenching;

With permission from the protector of the world, the Great Sage.

103.

"Such was the thought of five hundred nuns;

Including Khemā and others, this was their very thought.

104.

Then there was an earthquake, the celestial drums resounded;

The deities dwelling in the residence were oppressed with sorrow.

105.

Lamenting with great compassion, they shed tears there;

The friendly Buddhist nuns, having approached Gotamī.

106.

Having bowed down with their heads at her feet, spoke these words;

'There sprinkled with water, we were alone, noble lady.

107.

'The earth shook and trembled, the celestial drums resounded;

And lamentations are heard, for what purpose indeed, Gotamī'.

108.

Then she told everything, as she had reflected;

They all also spoke, as they had reflected.

109.

'If it pleases you, noble lady, Nibbāna is the supreme blessing;

We shall all attain Nibbāna, with the permission of the Enlightened One, O one of good observance.

110.

"We left together, both from home and existence;

Together we shall go to Nibbāna, the supreme state.

111.

"What shall I say to those going to Nibbāna?" saying thus,

She departed together with all from the nuns' dwelling then.

112.

"May those deities who dwell in the residence pardon me;

This is my last sight of the nuns' dwelling.

113.

"Where there is no aging or death, no meeting with the unloved,

No separation from the loved, I shall go to that unconditioned state.

114.

Those not free from lust, having heard those words from the breast of the Fortunate One;

Afflicted with sorrow, they lamented, "Oh, how little merit we have.

115.

The dwelling of the nuns is empty, this has become void without them;

Like stars at dawn, the daughters of the Victor are not seen.

116.

Gotamī goes to Nibbāna with five hundred;

Like the Ganges with five hundred rivers flows to the ocean.

117.

Seeing them going along the street, faithful female lay followers;

Coming out from their homes, bowing at their feet, said this.

118.

"Be pleased with great wealth, leaving us helpless;

Not fit to be extinguished by you, they lamented, afflicted with desire."

119.

For the purpose of abandoning their sorrow, she spoke with a sweet voice;

"Enough with weeping, children, this is now a time for rejoicing for you.

120.

"Suffering has been fully understood by me, the cause of suffering has been avoided;

Cessation has been realized by me, and the path too has been well developed.

First recitation section.

121.

"I have attended on the Teacher, the Buddha's Teaching has been done;

The heavy burden has been laid down, the cord of existence is destroyed.

122.

"That goal for which I went forth from the household life into homelessness;

That goal has been attained by me, the destruction of all fetters.

123.

"The Enlightened One's true Teaching remains complete as long as it endures;

Now is the time for me to be quenched, do not grieve for me, dear children.

124.

"Koṇḍañña, Ānanda, Nanda and others remain, Rāhula the Victor;

The Community is happy and united, and the sectarians are destroyed.

125.

"The fame of the Okkāka lineage, raised high, defeating Māra;

Is it not now the time for me, dear daughter, for the purpose of Nibbāna.

126.

"What I have long wished for, today is being accomplished;

This is the time for the drum of joy, why these tears, dear daughter?

127.

"If you have compassion for me, if you have gratitude,

For the stability of the true Teaching, all of you make firm energy.

128.

"The Enlightened One, when requested by me, gave women the going forth;

Therefore, just as I will delight, so you should practise accordingly."

129.

"Having instructed them thus, at the front of the Buddhist nuns;

Having approached and paid homage to the Enlightened One, spoke these words.

130.

"I am your mother, Fortunate One, and you, O hero, are my father;

O Lord, giver of happiness through the true Teaching, through you I was born, O Gotama.

131.

"This material body of yours, Fortunate One, was nurtured by me;

The blameless body of Teaching was nurtured by you in me.

132.

"For a moment you were given milk by me, to quench craving;

By you I was given the eternal peaceful milk of Teaching.

133.

"For my protection from bondage, O great sage, you owe me nothing;

Women desiring sons who pray obtain such a learned one.

134.

"She who was the mother of kings like Mandhātu in the ocean of existence;

I was submerged, son, and you helped me cross the ocean of existence.

135.

"'A king's mother, a great queen' - such names are easily obtained by women;

But the name 'Buddha's mother' - this is extremely rare.

136.

"'And that wish of mine was granted by you, great hero;

Whether small or great, all that was fulfilled by me.

137.

"'I wish to attain final Nibbāna, leaving this body;

Grant me permission, hero, leader who ends suffering.

138.

"'To your feet soft as lotus, marked with wheel, goad and banner;

Let me extend my homage to you, supreme among sons.

139.

"'Make manifest your body resembling a heap of gold;

Having made my body well seen by you, I go to peace, O Leader'.

140.

"Endowed with the thirty-two characteristics, with a body adorned with beautiful light;

Like the evening sun through clouds, the Victor showed his maternal aunt.

141.

"Like a blossoming lotus, with the radiance of the young sun;

With wheel-marked soles of the feet, then she fell with her head.

142.

"'I bow down to you, sun among men, banner of the solar lineage;

At my final death, I shall not see you again.

143.

"'Women, O highest in the world, are known as the source of all faults;

If I have any fault, forgive me, O compassionate one.

144.

"'The going forth of women, alas, I asked for again and again;

If I have any fault in that, forgive me, O bull among men.

145.

"'O hero, with your permission, I have instructed the Buddhist nuns;

If there is any wrong conduct there, forgive it, O Lord of forgiveness.

146.

"To one who does not forgive, one should be forgiving, what more when adorned with virtues;

What higher thing shall I say to you, who are going towards Nibbāna.

147.

"In my pure and complete Community of monks, when they are ready to depart from this world;

Having seen those who have met with disaster at dawn, like the crescent moon going forth."

148.

"Then the other Buddhist nuns, like stars following the moon to Mount Sumeru, approached the best of victors;

Having circumambulated and bowed down at his feet, they stood looking up at his face.

149.

"There was never satisfaction from seeing you, nor ear from hearing your speech;

My mind is one and consummate, having attained satisfaction with the taste of the Teaching.

150.

"When you roar in the assembly, O striker of what should be struck;

Those who will see your face, they are fortunate, O Bull among Men.

151.

"Those who will bow down to your feet, with long fingers, copper-coloured nails, beautiful and with extended heels;

They too are fortunate, O Bearer of Virtues.

152.

"Sweet, gladdening, destroying hatred, and beneficial;

Those who hear your words, they too are fortunate, O Supreme among Men.

153.

"Fortunate am I, O Great Hero, devoted to worshipping your feet;

Having crossed the wilderness of the round of rebirths, through the good words of the glorious one."

154.

Then that virtuous one, having made the announcement to the Community of monks;

And having paid homage to Rāhula, Ānanda, and Nanda, said this.

155.

'Like a dwelling of venomous snakes, this body is an abode of disease;

I am disenchanted with this mass of suffering, in the range of aging and death.

156.

'Full of various stains and impurities, dependent on others, without effort;

Therefore I wish to be extinguished, give me your permission, dear sons.'

157.

"Nanda and Rāhulabhadda, sorrowless and without taints;

Standing with unshakeable stability, reflected on the nature of things.

158.

'Cursed be the conditioned, fickle, insubstantial like a plantain trunk;

Like a magical illusion and a mirage, unstable and impermanent.

159.

'Where indeed this aunt of the Conqueror, who nurtured the Enlightened One;

Gotamī goes to death, all that is conditioned is impermanent'.

160.

"Then Ānanda was a trainee, afflicted by sorrow, dear to the Victor;

Shedding tears there, he lamented with compassion.

161.

"Alas, Gotamī goes to peace, surely the Buddha too will go to quenching,

Before long, like a fire without fuel.

162.

"To Ānanda who was lamenting thus, Gotamī said:

O deep ocean of learning, devoted to attending on the Buddha.

163.

"'It is not proper to sorrow, son, when the time of joy has come;

Son, through you I found refuge, and have attained Nibbāna.

164.

"'Dear one, when requested by you, he allowed us the going forth;

Do not be disheartened, son, your effort has borne fruit.

165.

"'What was not seen even by ancient teachers of other sects;

That state has been known by tender girls of seven years.

166.

"'Protector of the Buddha's teaching, this is your last sight;

I am going there, son, gone where one is not seen.

167.

"'Once while teaching the Teaching, the Leader of the World cast forth;

Then I, out of compassion, spoke words of blessing.

168.

"'Live long, O great hero, remain for an aeon, O great sage;

For the good of all the world, may you be ageless and immortal.

169.

"The Enlightened One said this to me speaking thus;

'The Enlightened Ones should not be venerated in the way you venerate, Gotami.

170.

"'How then, Omniscient One, should the Truth Finders be venerated;

How should the Enlightened Ones not be venerated, tell me this when asked.

171.

"'Of aroused energy, resolute, constantly of firm exertion;

See the disciples in concord, this is the homage to the Enlightened Ones.

172.

"'Then going to the dwelling place, alone I reflected;

The Lord, who has gone beyond the three existences, brought concord to the assembly.

173.

"Now I shall attain final Nibbāna, may I not see failure;

Having reflected thus, seeing the supreme sage.

174.

"I announced to the guide the time of my final Nibbāna;

Then he gave his consent: 'Know the time, Gotamī.'

175.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

176.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

177.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

178.

"In the breakthrough of states of dullness, those fools who went to uncertainty;

For the purpose of abandoning their views, show your spiritual power, Gotamī."

179.

"Then having paid homage to the Enlightened One, having risen up into the sky,

Gotami displayed many spiritual powers with the Buddha's permission.

180.

"Being one she became many, and being many she became one;

She appeared and vanished; she went through walls and mountains.

181.

"She went unimpeded and sank into the ground;

She walked on water without breaking it as if on earth.

182.

"Like a bird in space, she then crossed while seated cross-legged;

She exercised mastery with the body as far as the brahmā realm.

183.

"Making Mount Sineru into a staff, making the great earth into a canopy;

Having turned it around with its root, holding it walked in the sky.

184.

"Like at the time of sunrise of six suns, made the world smoky;

Like at the end of an aeon, she made the world enveloped in a mass of flames.

185.

"The great Mucalinda rock, between the roots of Mount Meru;

Like mustard seeds, all of them, she grasped with one fist.

186.

"With the tip of her finger she covered the sun and moon;

A thousand suns and moons, she held like a garland.

187.

"The waters of the four oceans, she held with one hand;

Like the waters at the end of an aeon, she made a great rain pour down.

188.

"A wheel-turning monarch with his assembly, she created in the sky;

A garuda, an elephant, a lion, she displayed roaring.

189.

"Being alone having created an immeasurable group of nuns,

Then making them disappear, alone she spoke to the sage.

190.

"Your maternal aunt, O Great Hero, follower of your Dispensation;

Having attained her goal, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision."

191.

"Having displayed various spiritual powers, descending from the sky;

Having paid homage to the Light of the World, she sat down to one side.

192.

"I am one hundred and twenty years old by birth, O Great Sage;

This is enough, O Hero, I shall attain final Nibbāna, O Leader.

193.

"Then that entire assembly, with reverential salutation, greatly amazed;

Spoke to her how it was, with incomparable spiritual power and exertion.

194.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

195.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was born in a minister's family;

Complete with all resources, prosperous, flourishing, of great wealth.

196.

"Once, together with my father, preceded by a group of slave-women,

With a great retinue, I approached that bull among men.

197.

"Like Vāsava raining, a cloud of Teaching, taintless,

Like the autumn sun, blazing with a net of rays.

198.

"Having seen him and established confidence in my mind, and having heard his well-spoken words;

I saw the Leader of Men placing his maternal aunt nun at the foremost position.

199.

"Having heard and given a great gift, for seven days to that such a one;

To the supreme among men with his Community, and many requisites.

200.

"Having bowed down at his feet, I aspired to that state;

Then to the great assembly, spoke the supreme among sages.

201.

"'She who fed for seven days, the Leader of the World with his Community;

I will praise him, listen to my words.

202.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

203.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Gotamī will be a disciple of the Teacher.

204.

"This aunt of that Enlightened One, who gave him life;

Will attain the foremost position among Buddhist nuns of long standing."

205.

"Having heard that and being delighted, then for as long as I lived

Having attended with requisites to the Victor, after that I died.

206.

"Among the Tāvatiṃsa deities, who are accomplished in all sensual pleasures;

Reborn with ten factors, I surpassed others.

207.

"With forms, sounds, odours, tastes, and touches;

Also with life span, beauty, happiness, and fame.

208.

"Likewise with authority, having attained these I shone forth;

I became there the beloved chief queen of the lord of deities.

209.

"While wandering in the round of rebirths, moved by the wind of action,

In the domain of King Kāsi, I was born in a slave village.

210.

"Five hundred less five slaves, lived there then;

I was the wife of him who was the eldest of all there.

211.

"Five hundred Paccekabuddhas entered the village for alms;

Having seen them I was delighted, together with all the women.

212.

"Having formed a group, all served for four months;

Having given the three robes, we wandered on with our husbands.

213.

"Passing away from there, all of us went to Tāvatiṃsa;

And now in the last existence, I was born in the city of Devadaha.

214.

"My father was Añjana the Sakyan, my mother was beautiful;

Then in Kapilavatthu, I went to Suddhodana's house.

215.

"The other Sakyan-born women went to Sakyan houses;

I was the most distinguished of all, I was the mother of the Victor.

216.

"My son renounced and became the Enlightened One, the Guide;

Later I went forth with five hundred.

217.

"With the wise Sakyan women, I touched the bliss of peace;

Those who in a previous birth, were our masters.

218.

"Doers of merit together, makers of a great assembly;

They realized Arahantship, being shown compassion by the Fortunate One.

219.

"Then the other Buddhist nuns rose up to the sky;

Like stars come together, they shone with great spiritual power.

220.

"They displayed many spiritual powers, like various ornaments,

As a well-trained goldsmith works with malleable gold.

221.

"Having displayed many and various marvels,

Having delighted the supreme sage with his assembly then.

222.

"Descending from the sky, having paid homage to the supreme sage;

Permitted by the best of men, they sat down in their proper places.

223.

"You have been compassionate towards us, Gotamī, for a long time;

Perfumed by your merits, we have attained the destruction of taints.

224.

"Our defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like female bull elephants breaking their bondage, we dwell taintless.

225.

"It was indeed a good coming for us, in the presence of the supreme Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

226.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

227.

"We were masters in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

Of the knowledge of minds, we were masters, O great sage.

228.

"We know our past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

229.

"'In meaning and teaching and language, and in discernment there is

Knowledge for us, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

230.

"'We have attended on you, with minds of loving-kindness, O leader;

Grant permission to all of us, for Nibbāna, O great sage.'

231.

"When they said: 'We shall attain Nibbāna,' what shall I say?

Now is the time you think fit," the Victor said.

232.

"Then Gotamī and the others, those Buddhist nuns, to the Victor

Having paid homage, rose from that seat and departed.

233.

"With a great crowd of people, the leader of the world,

That hero followed along his maternal aunt to the gateway.

234.

"Then Gotamī fell at the feet of the world's kinsman,

Together with all those women, for the last veneration of his feet.

235.

"'This is my last sight of the protector of the world;

Never again shall I see your face, which has the aspect of the Deathless.

236.

"'And I shall not touch with veneration your delicate feet,

O foremost in the world, today I go to quenching'.

237.

"What is the use of this form to you, seeing things in this very life as they really are;

All this is conditioned, without comfort and unstable.

238.

"She, together with them, having gone to her own nuns' residence;

Having folded her legs half-crossed, sat on the highest seat.

239.

"Then the female lay followers there, devoted to the Buddha's Dispensation;

Having heard about her situation, approached to pay homage to her feet.

240.

"Beating their breasts, like creepers cut at the root;

Crying with a compassionate wail, afflicted with sorrow, fallen to the ground.

241.

"Do not abandon us and go to quenching, O protector, our refuge;

Having fallen down, we all beseech you with our heads.

242.

"Those among them who were foremost in striving, female lay followers with faith and wisdom;

Stroking her head, spoke these words.

243.

"Enough, children, of dejection, which follows in the snare of the Evil One;

All that is conditioned is impermanent, ending in separation, unstable."

244.

"Then releasing them, she entered the supreme first meditative absorption;

And entered the second, third, and fourth.

245.

"The base of infinite space, and likewise the base of infinite consciousness;

The base of nothingness and neither-perception-nor-non-perception, she entered in sequence.

246.

"In reverse order Gotamī entered the meditative absorptions;

From as far as the first meditative absorption, up to the fourth.

247.

"Then emerging from that, she was extinguished, like a lamp's flame, free from taints;

There was a great earthquake, lightning fell from the sky.

248.

"The drums resounded, the deities lamented;

And a rain of flowers from the sky poured down upon the earth.

249.

"Even Mount Meru, the king, shook like an actor in the middle of a stage;

And the ocean, extremely miserable with sorrow, made a roaring sound.

250.

"Deities, dragons, titans, and brahmās were agitated at that moment;

'Impermanent indeed are formations, as this one has gone to dissolution.'

251.

"Those who surrounded me, following the Teacher's Teaching;

They too were quenched without clinging, like a lamp's flame.

252.

"Alas, all bonds end in separation, alas, all that is conditioned is impermanent;

Alas life is being destroyed, thus was the lamentation.

253.

"Then deities and brahmās, following worldly conditions;

According to the time they act, having approached the supreme sage.

254.

"Then the Teacher addressed Ānanda, the ocean of learning;

'Go Ānanda and inform the monks of mother's quenching'.

255.

"Then Ānanda without joy, with eyes full of tears;

With a choked voice said, 'Let the monks gather.

256.

"'In the east, south, west, and nearby in the north;

Listen to my words, monks, offspring of the Fortunate One.

257.

"She who diligently nourished the final body of the sage;

That Gotamī has gone to peace, like a star at sunrise.

258.

"Having established the description 'Mother of the Buddha', she has gone to righteousness;

Where not even the five-eyed leader will see her destination.

259.

"Whoever has faith in the Fortunate One, and whoever is dear to the great sage;

Let the offspring of the Fortunate One pay honour to the Buddha's mother."

260.

"Having heard that, monks came quickly even from very far away;

Some through the Buddha's power, some skilled in spiritual powers.

261.

"In a delightful, beautiful gabled house all made of gold;

They placed her on a bed, where Gotamī lay.

262.

"Those Four World-protectors carried her on their shoulders;

The remaining deities led by Sakka took hold of the gabled house.

263.

"All the gabled houses, even five hundred of them;

Were golden like the autumn sun, indeed made by Vissakamma.

264.

"All those Buddhist nuns too were laid on beds;

Mounted on the shoulders of deities, they proceeded gradually.

265.

"The sky was completely covered with a canopy;

The stars, moon, and sun were adorned with gold.

266.

"Many banners were raised, flower coverings spread out;

Sky lotuses descended, flowers rose from the earth.

267.

"The sun and moon shone, and the stars blazed;

Even when the sun reached its zenith, it did not heat like the moon.

268.

"The deities honoured with divine odours, with fragrant garlands,

With music and dancing, and with singing.

269.

"Dragons, titans, and brahmās, according to their ability and strength,

Honoured the departing, quenched mother of the Enlightened One.

270.

"All were led in front, the quenched offspring of the Fortunate One;

Gotamī was led behind, honoured as the one who nurtured the Enlightened One.

271.

"In front were deities and humans, with dragons, titans and high divinities;

Behind was the Enlightened One with his disciples, going for the purpose of honouring his mother.

272.

"The final Nibbāna of the Buddha was not like this as was

The final Nibbāna of Gotamī, which was truly marvellous.

273.

"At the Nibbāna of the Buddha, the Enlightened One did not pay respects, monks;

At the Nibbāna of Gotamī, the Enlightened One and Sāriputta and others did likewise.

274.

"Having made funeral pyres, all made of fragrant substances,

Sprinkled with fragrant powder, they cremated them there.

275.

The remaining parts were burnt, only the bones remained completely;

And then Ānanda spoke words that aroused a sense of urgency.

276.

"Gotamī has passed away, and her body is being burnt;

It is a sign that the Enlightened One's final Nibbāna will not be long."

277.

Then those relics of Gotamī that were in her bowl,

Ānanda, prompted by the Enlightened One, presented to the Lord.

278.

Taking them in his hand, the supreme sage said:

"Just as when a great tree with substance stands,

279.

That which is its greater trunk would break due to impermanence;

Likewise Gotamī of the Community of nuns attained final Nibbāna.

280.

"Oh, how wonderful for me that even when my mother was quenched,

With only her body remaining, there was no sorrow or lamentation.

281.

"She should not be sorrowed by others, having crossed the ocean of rebirths;

Having abandoned distress, become cool, well quenched.

282.

"She was wise with great wisdom, and likewise with broad wisdom;

She was experienced among the nuns, thus remember, monks.

283.

"She was a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

Gotamī had mastery of knowledge of others' minds.

284.

"She knew past lives, the divine eye was purified;

All taints completely destroyed, for her there is no renewed existence.

285.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Her knowledge was pure, therefore she is not to be sorrowed for.

286.

"Like a glowing mass of iron,

Struck with a hammer, gradually cooling down, whose destination is not known.

287.

"Thus for those rightly liberated, who have crossed over the flood of sensual bonds;

There is no making known their destination, having attained unshakeable happiness.

288.

"Be islands unto yourselves, with establishment of mindfulness as resort;

Having developed the seven enlightenment factors, you will make an end of suffering."

Thus indeed did Mahāpajāpati Gotamī speak these verses.

The seventh: The attribute of the elder bhikkhuni Mahāpajāpatigotamī.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Bhikkhuni Khemā

289.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, with vision into all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

290.

"Then I was born in Haṃsavatī, in a wealthy clan;

Endowed with great happiness, in a home bright with various gems.

291.

"Having approached that great hero, I heard the teaching;

Then with confidence born, I went for refuge to the Victor.

292.

"Having begged my mother and father, I invited the Guide;

Having invited him for seven days, I fed him together with his disciples.

293.

"When the seven days had passed, the Charioteer of Men

Placed the nun at the foremost position among those of great wisdom.

294.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, again to that Great Sage

Having shown respect, I made an aspiration for that state.

295.

"Then the Victor said to me, 'May your aspiration be fulfilled;

The respect you have shown to me with my Community will bring immeasurable fruit.

296.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

297.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

Having attained to that foremost position, she will be named Khemā.'

298.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

299.

"Passing away from there I went to the Yāma realm, from there I went to the Tusita realm;

Then to the Nimmānarati realm, and then to the Vasavatti realm.

300.

"Wherever I am reborn, due to the power of that action;

In each place I exercised the position of chief queen of kings.

301.

"Passing away from there, in the human state, I exercised

The position of chief queen of wheel-turning monarchs and regional kings.

302.

"Having experienced success among deities and human beings,

Having been happy everywhere, I wandered through many aeons.

303.

"Ninety-one aeons ago, Vipassī, Leader of the World;

Arose, beautiful to behold, seeing all things.

304.

"Having approached that Leader of the World, the charioteer of men;

Having heard the Teaching spoken, I went forth into homelessness.

305.

"For ten thousand years, in that hero's Dispensation;

Having lived the holy life, we were learned ones devoted to spiritual exertion.

306.

"Skilled in conditions and aspects, confident in the four noble truths;

Subtle speakers on the mind, following the Teacher's instruction.

307.

"After passing away from there, I was reborn in Tusita, glorious;

I surpass others there, through the fruit of the holy life.

308.

"Wherever I was reborn, of great property, of great wealth;

Wise and virtuous, with a disciplined assembly too.

309.

"Through that action, through exertion in the Victor's Dispensation;

All successes are mine, easily obtained, dear to my mind.

310.

"Whoever becomes my husband, wherever I have gone,

No one disrespects me, due to the power of my practice.

311.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Koṇāgamana, arose as the best of speakers.

312.

"At that time in Bārāṇasī, born in a very prosperous family;

Dhanañjānī and Sumedhā and I, we three people.

313.

"We gave a monastery, companions in giving before;

And we were the makers of a dwelling for the Community, having dedicated it.

314.

"Passing away from there, we all went to the realm of the thirty-three deities;

Having attained the highest position in fame, and likewise among human beings.

315.

"In this very aeon, a kinsman of brahmins of great fame,

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

316.

"The attendant of the great sage was then the lord of men,

The king of Kāsi named Kikī, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasī.

317.

"I was his eldest daughter, known as Samaṇī;

Having heard the Teaching of the supreme victor, I delighted in going forth.

318.

"Our father did not permit us, so then we stayed at home;

For twenty thousand years, we lived untiringly.

319.

"Living the holy life as maidens, royal daughters nurtured in happiness;

Devoted to attending on the Buddha, seven joyful daughters.

320.

"Samaṇī and Samaṇaguttā, Bhikkhunī and Bhikkhudāyikā;

Dhammā and also Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.

321.

"I and Uppalavaṇṇā, and Paṭācārā and Kuṇḍalā;

Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, and Visākhā is the seventh.

322.

"Sometimes that sun among men taught the wonderful Teaching;

Having heard the Mahānidāna Sutta, I mastered it.

323.

"Through those well-performed actions, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

324.

"And now in the last existence, in the supreme city of Sakala;

I was the king of Madda's daughter, agreeable, beloved and dear.

325.

"As soon as I was born, there was security in that city;

Therefore the name Khema was tenable for me due to that quality.

326.

"When I reached youth, adorned with beauty and grace;

Then my father gave me to King Bimbisara.

327.

"I was very dear to him, delighting in attachment to forms;

Being one who spoke of the faults of forms, I did not approach the great compassionate one.

328.

"Then King Bimbisāra, with the thought of helping me,

Having praised Bamboo Grove, had singers sing to me.

329.

"One who has not seen the delightful Bamboo Grove, the Fortunate One's abode,

Has not seen Nandana, thus we think.

330.

"One who has seen Bamboo Grove, delighting humans' delight,

Has truly seen Nandana, the king of deities' delight.

331.

"The deities, leaving Nandana, descending to the great earth,

Seeing the delightful Bamboo Grove, are not satisfied, quite amazed.

332.

"Born of the king's merit, adorned by the Enlightened One's merit,

Who can tell completely that grove's collection of virtues?

333.

"Having heard of that prosperous grove, captivating to my ear and mind,

Wishing to see that park, I informed the king then.

334.

"Then that great king with a large retinue

Sent me to that park, eager to see it.

335.

"Go see the forest of great wealth, a delight to eyes and taste,

Which always shines with glory, illuminated by the Fortunate One's radiance.

336.

"When the sage went for alms into the supreme city of Giribbaja,

At that very time I went to see the forest.

337.

"Then that flowering grove, humming with various bees,

Accompanied by cuckoos' songs, with groups of peacocks dancing.

338.

"Quiet and uncrowded, adorned with various walkways,

Filled with huts and pavilions, graced by excellent practitioners.

339.

"Wandering there I thought my eyes were fruitful;

There too, seeing a young monk engaged in practice, I reflected.

340.

"In such a delightful forest, established in fresh youth;

Like in spring, endowed with pleasing form.

341.

"Seated at the root of a tree, with shaven head, wearing an outer robe;

This monk truly meditates, having abandoned delight born of sense domains.

342.

"Surely as a householder, having enjoyed sensual pleasures at will;

Later when old, this excellent Teaching should be practised.'

343.

"Having known the perfume house to be empty, the Victor's abode;

Having approached, I saw the Victor, like the rising sun.

344.

"Sitting happily alone, being fanned by a noble lady;

Having seen this, I reflected thus: "This bull among men is not inferior."

345.

"That maiden with a golden radiance, with eyes like lotuses,

With lips red as the bimba fruit, teeth white as jasmine, delighting the mind and eyes.

346.

"With ears like golden swings, breasts shaped like buds,

With waist like an altar, beautiful thighs like banana trees, adorned charmingly.

347.

"Wearing red shoulder cloth, dressed in dark blue smooth cloth,

With a form beyond wearying, endowed with a joyful nature.

348.

"Having seen her, I thought thus: 'Ah, what a beautiful one;

Never before have I seen such with these eyes.'

349.

"Then overcome by aging, she became discoloured, with distorted face,

Broken teeth, white head, drooling, with unclean mouth.

350.

"With shrunken ears, white eyes, sagging ugly breasts,

With wrinkles spread all over, body covered with veins.

351.

"With bent limbs, accompanied by a stick, with protruding ribs and emaciated;

Trembling they fall, breathing heavily again and again.

352.

"Then a sense of urgency arose in me, extraordinary and terrifying;

Curse upon this impure form wherein fools delight.

353.

"Then the greatly compassionate one, seeing my agitated mind;

With uplifted mind the Fortunate One spoke these verses.

354.

"'Sick, impure and foul, behold, Khemā, this body;

Oozing and trickling, delighted in by fools.

355.

Develop the mind on the unattractive, one-pointed and well concentrated;

Let mindfulness be established in the body, become full of revulsion.

356.

As this is, so is that; as that is, so is this;

Internally and externally, remove desire for the body.

357.

Develop the signless, and abandon the underlying tendency to conceit;

Then through the breakthrough of conceit, you will live at peace.

358.

"Those infatuated with lust follow the stream, like a spider its self-made web;

Having cut this too they wander forth, without longing, having abandoned sensual pleasure."

359.

"Then the Charioteer of Men, having known my mind was pliant;

Taught me the great source, the discourse for my discipline.

360.

"Having heard that excellent discourse, I recollected my previous perception;

Standing right there, being peaceful, I purified the vision of the Teaching.

361.

"Having fallen at the feet of the great sage right then;

To confess my transgression, I spoke these words.

362.

"Homage to you, All-seeing One, homage to you, Compassionate One;

Homage to you who has crossed over the round of rebirths, homage to you who gives the Deathless.

363.

"Plunging into the thicket of views, deluded by sensual lust;

Through your righteous method, they were disciplined and delighted in the discipline.

364.

"Through not seeing and separation from such great seekers;

Beings experience great suffering in the ocean of rebirths.

365.

"When I did not see the refuge of the world, the one without conflict who has gone beyond conflict;

Though not far away, I confess that transgression.

366.

"Uncertain about the one of great welfare, the granter of boons, thinking him harmful;

Delighting in form, I did not approach; I confess that transgression."

367.

"Then the Victor of great compassion, with a sweet-sounding voice;

Said 'Stay in security', sprinkling me with the Deathless.

368.

"Then having bowed my head, and having circumambulated him;

Having gone and seen the king of men, I spoke these words.

369.

"'Oh indeed, your engagement is right, O subduer of enemies;

Desiring to see the forest, the sage was seen from Nibbāna.

370.

"'If it pleases you, O king, in the Dispensation of such a one;

I will go forth from forms, being disgusted by the sage's words.'

The second recitation portion.

371.

"Having raised my hands in reverential salutation, then that great ruler said;

'I permit you, blessed one, may your going forth succeed'.

372.

"Then when I had gone forth, after half a month had passed;

Having seen the arising and destruction of a lamp, with stirred mind.

373.

"Disenchanted with all formations, skilled in aspects and conditions;

Having crossed over the four floods, I attained Arahantship.

374.

"I was a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

I am also a master of the knowledge of others' minds.

375.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

376.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

My knowledge is pure, arisen in the Buddha's Dispensation.

377.

"I am skilled in purifications, expert in subjects of discussion;

And knowledgeable in the method of Abhidhamma, I have attained mastery in the Dispensation.

378.

"Then at the gateway grounds, by the king, the lord of Kosala;

Asked subtle questions, I answered them as they really are.

379.

"Then that king approached the Fortunate One, and asked;

The Enlightened One answered exactly as I had answered them.

380.

"The Victor, pleased with this quality, placed me at the foremost position;

Among the nuns of great wisdom, did the supreme person.

381.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

382.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

383.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Khemā speak these verses.

The Eighth: The Attribute of Elder Nun Khemā.

9.

The Attribute of Elder Nun Uppalavaṇṇā

384.

The Buddhist nun Uppalavaṇṇā, gone to perfection in spiritual power;

Having paid homage at the Teacher's feet, spoke these words.

385.

"I have crossed over the round of births, I have attained the unshakeable state;

All suffering has been ended by me, I declare, great sage.

386.

"As far as the assembly exists, devoted to the Victor's Dispensation;

If I have committed any offence, may they forgive me in the Victor's presence.

387.

"While wandering in the round of births, if there was a fault of mine,

I declare it, O Great Hero, forgive me that transgression.

388.

"Show also the spiritual power, in regard to your Teaching;

Cut off today the perplexity of the four assemblies, as far as it extends.

389.

"O Great Hero, I am your daughter, wise and bearing radiance;

And I have done many difficult deeds, extremely difficult to do.

390.

"My beauty is like a blue lotus, and by name I am called Uppalanāmikā;

Your disciple, O Great Hero, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.

391.

"Rāhula and I indeed, for many hundreds of births;

Born in one existence, with minds of equal desire.

392.

"Birth was together, and birth too was together;

When the final existence arrived, both had different origins.

393.

"The son was named Rāhula, the daughter was named Uppala;

See, O hero, my spiritual power, I will show strength to the Teacher.

394.

"Four great oceans, I tossed within hand's reach;

The oil was in my hand indeed, just like a child at play.

395.

"Having uprooted the earth, I tossed it within hand's reach;

Just as a young boy pulled out the muñja reed,

396.

"Having covered my head with a hand as large as the universe;

I made it rain droplets of various colours again and again.

397.

"Making the earth a mortar, making stones into grain;

Making Mount Sineru a pestle, I ground like a young girl.

398.

"I am the daughter of the supreme Enlightened One, named Uppala;

Having mastered the direct knowledges, I am one who carries out your teaching.

399.

"Having performed various transformations, having shown them to the leader of the world;

Having declared my name and clan, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.

400.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

401.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

402.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

My knowledge is stainless and pure, by nature of the great seer.

403.

"'The meeting with previous supreme victors has been shown to you;

Many meritorious deeds of mine were for your sake, great sage.

404.

"'Remember, sage, the wholesome action that was fulfilled by me;

For your sake, great hero, merit was accumulated by me.

405.

"'Avoiding impossible states, restraining from misconduct;

For your sake, great hero, my supreme life was given up.

406.

"'Ten thousand million times I gave my life;

I have completely given up everything for your sake, great sage.

407.

"Then all were utterly amazed, with reverential salutation and bowed heads;

Spoke to her how it was, with incomparable spiritual power and exertion."

408.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, I was then a dragon maiden;

By name was called Vimalā, well respected among maidens.

409.

"A great serpent, a mighty dragon, confident in the Enlightened One's Dispensation;

Invited Padumuttara of great heat, together with his disciples.

410.

"A pavilion made of jewels, a seat made of jewels;

Jewels strewn with sand, enjoyments made of jewels.

411.

"And prepared the path, adorned with jewelled banners;

Having gone forth to meet the Enlightened One, he was playing musical instruments.

412.

"Surrounded by the four assemblies, the Leader of the World;

In the dwelling of the great serpent, sat on the highest seat.

413.

"Food, drink, and edibles, and a magnificent meal;

The dragon king of great fame, gave the best of the best.

414.

"Having eaten, the Enlightened One, having carefully washed the bowl;

Gave thanks to the dragon maiden of great spiritual power.

415.

"Having seen the Omniscient One blooming, the dragon maiden of great fame;

The Teacher's mind was confident, and his heart well composed.

416.

"Having known my mind, the one named Supreme among Water-born;

At that moment the Great Hero showed the nun through spiritual power.

417.

"That confident nun displayed many spiritual powers;

Delighted and inspired, she said this to the Teacher.

418.

"'I saw this spiritual power, both sumana and others;

How did she become, O Hero, so confident in spiritual power.'

419.

"'Born from my mouth, legitimate, my daughter of great spiritual power;

'Following my instruction, they were confident in spiritual power.'

420.

"Having heard the Buddha's word, I then made this aspiration;

May I too become like them, confident in spiritual power.

421.

"Delighted and glad, I aspired with utmost mind;

In the future course, may I be like this, O Leader.

422.

"On a jewelled couch, in a luminous pavilion;

Having satisfied with food and drink the Leader of the World with the Community.

423.

"The best flower of dragons, the dawn-coloured lotus;

May my beauty be like this, I offered to the Leader of the World.

424.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

425.

"After passing away from there to the human realm, I was reborn in the time of the Self-enlightened One;

I gave almsfood covered with blue lotuses.

426.

Ninety-one aeons ago, the leader named Vipassī,

Arose, beautiful to behold, possessing vision regarding all teachings.

427.

"Then being a merchant's daughter, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasi;

Having invited the Enlightened One, leader of the world, with the Community.

428.

"Having given a great gift, having honoured the Guide with blue lotuses,

With my mind, I aspired for beauty and splendour.

429.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

430.

"The attendant of the great sage was then the lord of men,

The king of Kāsi named Kikī, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasī.

431.

I was his second daughter, named Samaṇaguttā;

Having heard the Teaching of the supreme victor, I delighted in going forth.

432.

"Our father did not permit us, so then we stayed at home;

For twenty thousand years, we lived untiringly.

433.

"Living the holy life as maidens, royal daughters nurtured in happiness;

Devoted to attending on the Buddha, seven joyful daughters.

434.

"Samaṇī and Samaṇaguttā, Bhikkhunī and Bhikkhudāyikā;

Dhammā and also Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.

435.

"I and Khemā the wise one, and Paṭācārā and Kuṇḍalā;

Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, and Visākhā is the seventh.

436.

"Through those well-performed actions, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

437.

"Passing away from there, I was reborn among human beings in a great family;

I gave yellow, smooth, excellent cloth to one worthy.

438.

"Passing away from there, I was born in a brahmin family in Ariṭṭhapura;

I was the daughter of Tiriṭivaccha, Ummādantī the enchanting.

439.

"Passing away from there, in a certain family in the country,

I was born in one not very prosperous, I tended rice then.

440.

"Having seen a Paccekabuddha, I gave five hundred parched grains;

Covered with lotuses, I had five hundred sons.

441.

"I aspired and they too aspired, having given honey to the Self-enlightened One;

Passing away from there, I was born in a forest in a lotus womb.

442.

"I was the chief queen of the king of Kāsi, being honoured and venerated;

I gave birth to five hundred royal sons, not less.

443.

"When they reached youth, playing water games;

Having seen a fallen lotus, they became Paccekabuddhas.

444.

"I was separated from them, sorrowful for those learned heroes;

Passing away, I was born in a village on the side of Isigili.

445.

"When I was learned and wise, and also learned about the Teacher;

Taking rice gruel, going to eight Paccekabuddhas.

446.

"Seeing them going to the village for alms, I recollected my sons;

Milk flowed out then due to my affection for my sons.

447.

"Then I gave them gruel, with confidence, with my own hands;

After passing away from there, I was reborn in the realm of the Thirty-three, in Nandana.

448.

"Having experienced happiness and suffering, having wandered through various existences;

For your sake, Great Hero, life was given up.

449.

"Thus there was suffering of many kinds, and success of many kinds;

When the final existence arrived, I was born in the city of Sāvatthī.

450.

"In a wealthy merchant family, happy and well-appointed likewise;

Glowing with various jewels, fulfilled in all sensual pleasures.

451.

"Honoured and venerated indeed, respected and esteemed likewise;

Having attained beauty and glory, highly honoured among families.

452.

"I was greatly desired indeed, for beauty, wealth, and glory;

Desired by merchants' sons, by many hundreds.

453.

"Having abandoned home, I went forth into homelessness;

Before half a month had passed, I attained the four truths.

454.

"Having created by spiritual power a four-cornered chariot,

I shall pay homage at the feet of the Buddha, such a protector of the world.

455.

"Having approached a tree in full bloom, you stand alone at the foot of the sala tree;

And you have no second person with you, foolish one, are you not afraid of brewers' mixers?"

456.

"Even if a hundred thousand brewers' mixers like you were to gather,

I would not stir a hair nor tremble, what will you do to me alone, Māra.

457.

"I can vanish, or I can enter your belly;

Even between your eyebrows, standing there you will not see me.

458.

"I am one with mastery over mind, the bases for spiritual power are well developed;

I am freed from all bondage, I am not afraid of that, friend.

459.

"Sensual pleasures are like a sword stake, a butcher's block for the aggregates;

What you call delight in sensual pleasure is now discontent for me.

460.

"Delight is destroyed everywhere, the mass of darkness is shattered;

Know thus, Evil One, you are defeated, O End-maker.

461.

"The Victor, pleased with that quality, placed me at the foremost position;

The guide said in the assemblies: "The foremost among those with spiritual powers."

462.

"I have attended on the Teacher, the Buddha's Teaching has been done;

The heavy burden has been laid down, the cord of existence is destroyed.

463.

"That goal for which I went forth from the household life into homelessness;

That goal has been attained by me, the destruction of all fetters.

464.

"Robes, almsfood, requisites and dwelling places;

In a moment they bring forward, thousands from all around.

465.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless;

466.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

467.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Uppalavaṇṇā speak these verses.

The Ninth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Uppalavaṇṇā.

10.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Paṭācārā

468.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

469.

"Then I was born in Haṃsavatī, in a wealthy clan;

Endowed with great happiness, in a home bright with various gems.

470.

"Having approached that great hero, I heard the teaching;

Then with confidence arisen, I went to the Victor for refuge.

471.

"Then the Leader praised the foremost among those who bear the discipline;

A Buddhist nun of such nature, conscientious and skilled in what is proper and improper.

472.

"Then with a mind filled with altruistic joy, aspiring to that state;

I invited the Ten-Powered One, the Leader of the World, together with his Community.

473.

"Having offered food for seven days, and having given the three robes;

Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I spoke these words.

474.

"O hero, O sage, the one whom you praised eight aeons from now;

Such shall I become, if it succeeds, O leader."

475.

"Then the Teacher said to me, 'Dear one, do not be afraid, take heart;

In the future course, you will obtain that heart's desire.

476.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

477.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Paṭācārā will be a disciple of the Teacher.'

478.

"Then being filled with altruistic joy, at that time for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended on the Leader of the World together with the Community.

479.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

480.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

481.

"The attendant of the great sage was then the lord of men,

The king of Kāsi named Kikī, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasī.

482.

"I was his third daughter, known as a Buddhist nun;

Having heard the Teaching of the supreme victor, I delighted in going forth.

483.

"Our father did not permit us, so then we stayed at home;

For twenty thousand years, we lived untiringly.

484.

"Living the holy life as maidens, royal daughters nurtured in happiness;

Devoted to attending on the Buddha, seven joyful daughters.

485.

"Samaṇī and Samaṇaguttā, Bhikkhunī and Bhikkhudāyikā;

Dhammā and also Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.

486.

"I and Uppalavaṇṇā, and Khemā and the nun Bhaddā;

Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, and Visākhā is the seventh.

487.

"Through those well-performed actions, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

488.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a wealthy family;

In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, flourishing, of great wealth.

489.

"When I was endowed with youth, I was under the sway of thoughts;

Seeing a man who was an adulterous husband, I went with him.

490.

"I had given birth to one child, a second was in my womb;

Then I was firmly determined to leave my mother and father.

491.

"I did not tell my husband, when he was away then;

I left the house alone, to go to supreme Sāvatthī.

492.

"Then my husband came and met me on the path;

Then birth pains arose in me, extremely severe.

493.

"And a great cloud arose, at the time of my giving birth;

Having gone then for firewood, my husband was killed by a snake.

494.

"Then with the pain of childbirth, I was helpless and miserable;

Seeing a small river full, going to my family home.

495.

"Taking the child I crossed, alone to the far shore;

Having nursed the baby son, I turned back to cross for the other.

496.

"A fish-eagle carried off the young one who was crying;

And the stream carried off the other, I was overcome with sorrow.

497.

"Going to Sāvatthi city, I heard of my relatives' death;

Then afflicted with sorrow I said, overcome with great sorrow.

498.

"Both sons are dead, my husband dead on the path;

Mother, father, and brother, are burnt on a single pyre.

499.

"Then thin and pale, helpless with a miserable mind;

Wandering here and there, I saw the Charioteer of Men.

500.

"Then the Teacher said to me, 'Child, do not sorrow, take heart;

Seek yourself, why do you suffer needlessly.

501.

'There are no children for protection, no relatives nor kinsmen;

For one seized by the End-maker, there is no protection among relatives.'

502.

"Having heard the sage's word, I attained the first fruit;

Having gone forth, before long, I attained Arahantship.

503.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

I know others' minds, following the Teacher's instruction.

504.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

Having destroyed all taints, I was purified, completely stainless.

505.

"Then I learned the entire discipline, in the presence of the all-seeing one;

I learned it in full detail, and explained it truthfully.

506.

"The Victor, pleased with this quality, placed me at the foremost position;

Foremost among those who bear the discipline, Paṭācārā stands alone.

507.

"I have attended on the Teacher, the Buddha's Teaching has been done;

The heavy burden has been laid down, the cord of existence is destroyed.

508.

"That goal for which I went forth from the household life into homelessness;

That goal has been attained by me, the destruction of all fetters.

509.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

510.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

511.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Paṭācārā speak these verses.

The Tenth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Paṭācārā.

The Second Chapter on Ekūposathika.

Here is its summary -

One Observance, and Saḷalā, and then Modakā;

One Seat, Five Lamps, and Naḷamālī and Gotamī.

Khemā and Uppalavaṇṇā, and the nun Paṭācārā;

Five hundred verses, and nine more than that.

3.

The Chapter on Kuṇḍalakesī

1.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Kuṇḍalakesā

1.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

2.

"Then I was born in Haṃsavatī, in a wealthy clan;

Endowed with great happiness, in a home bright with various gems.

3.

"Having approached that great hero, I heard the teaching;

Then with confidence arisen, I went to the Victor for refuge.

4.

"Then the one of great compassion, named Padumuttara;

Placed the beautiful Buddhist nun in the position of swift direct knowledge.

5.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, having given a gift to the Great Sage;

Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I aspired to that state.

6.

"The Great Hero rejoiced, 'O fortunate one, that which you aspired to;

All that will be accomplished, be happy and quenched.

7.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

8.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Bhaddākuṇḍalakesā will be a disciple of the Teacher.'

9.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

10.

"Passing away from there I went to the Yāma realm, from there I went to the Tusita realm;

Then to the Nimmānarati realm, and then to the Vasavatti realm.

11.

"Wherever I am reborn, due to the power of that action;

In each place I exercised the position of chief queen of kings.

12.

"Passing away from there among humans, of wheel-turning monarchs

The position of chief queen of wheel-turning monarchs and regional kings.

13.

"Having experienced success among deities and human beings,

Having been happy everywhere, I wandered through many aeons.

14.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

15.

"The attendant of the great sage was then the lord of men,

The king of Kāsi named Kikī, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasī.

16.

"I was his fourth daughter, well known as Bhikkhudāyī;

Having heard the Teaching of the supreme victor, I delighted in going forth.

17.

"Our father did not permit us, so then we stayed at home;

For twenty thousand years, we lived untiringly.

18.

"Living the holy life as maidens, royal daughters nurtured in happiness;

Devoted to attending on the Buddha, seven joyful daughters.

19.

"Samaṇī and Samaṇaguttā, Bhikkhunī and Bhikkhudāyikā;

Dhammā and also Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.

20.

"Khemā and Uppalavaṇṇā, and Paṭācārā, I was then;

Kisāgotamī, Dhammadinnā, and Visākhā is the seventh.

21.

"Through those well-performed actions, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

22.

"And now in the last existence, in the supreme city of Giribbaja;

Born in a wealthy prosperous family, when I was in my youth.

23.

"Having seen a thief being led to execution, I was enamoured with him;

My father then saved me from death with a thousand.

24.

"My father gave me to him, having understood my mind;

I was devoted to him, very dear and beneficial.

25.

"He, with greed for my ornaments, with evil intent, that enemy;

Having led me to the robbers' cliff, the mountain, he intended my death.

26.

"Then I, having bowed down to my enemy, with well-made reverential salutation;

Protecting my own life, spoke these words.

27.

"'Here are gold bracelets, many pearls and lapis lazuli;

Take all, good sir, and declare me as your slave.'

28.

"'Put them down, beautiful one, do not lament too much;

And I do not directly know of bringing wealth without killing.'

29.

"'Since I remember myself, since I attained wisdom;

And I do not directly know of anyone dearer than you.'

30.

"'Come, I will embrace you, having circumambulated you;

And now there will be no more meeting between you and me.

31.

"'Not in all instances is a person wise;

A woman too can be wise, discerning in various instances.

32.

"'Not in all instances is a person wise;

A woman too can be wise, quick to reflect on the goal.

33.

"'Quickly indeed and swiftly, I planned nearby;

Like wool with a deer, then I killed the enemy.

34.

"'One who does not quickly understand a matter that has arisen,

That fool is slain, like a thief in a mountain cave.

35.

"'But one who quickly understands a matter that has arisen,

Is freed from enemy's confinement, as I was then from the enemy.'

36.

"Then having thrown down the enemy in a mountain gorge,

I approached those in white robes and went forth.

37.

"Then having completely plucked out my hair with tweezers,

Having gone forth, they taught me the doctrine continuously.

38.

"Then having learned that, sitting alone,

I reflected on that doctrine, like a dog doing human work.

39.

Having taken what was cut off, having thrown it down near me, he went away;

Having seen the sign, I obtained that hand full of maggots.

40.

Then rising up agitated, I asked my fellow practitioners;

They said: "The Buddhist monks understand that meaning."

41.

I shall ask about that meaning, having approached the Buddha's disciples;

Taking me with them, they went to the presence of the supreme Buddha.

42.

He taught me the Teaching, the aggregates, bases and elements;

The leader taught foulness, impermanence, suffering and non-self.

43.

Having heard his Teaching, I purified the vision of the Teaching;

Then having understood the true Teaching, the going forth and higher ordination.

44.

"When requested then the Leader said, 'Come, fortunate one';

Then I was fully ordained, and saw a small amount of water.

45.

"Through washing the feet, having known it with its rise and fall;

Thus all formations too, I reflected thus then.

46.

"Then my mind was liberated, without clinging to anything at all;

The Victor then made known to me the path of swift direct knowledge.

47.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

I know others' minds, following the Teacher's instruction.

48.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

Having destroyed all taints, I was purified, completely stainless.

49.

"I have attended on the Teacher, the Buddha's Teaching has been done;

The heavy burden has been laid down, the cord of existence is destroyed.

50.

"That goal for which I went forth from the household life into homelessness;

That goal has been attained by me, the destruction of all fetters.

51.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

My knowledge is stainless and pure in the supreme Enlightened One's Dispensation.

52.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a female bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

53.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

54.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Bhaddākuṇḍalakesā speak these verses.

The First: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Kuṇḍalakesā.

2.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Kisāgotamī

55.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

56.

"Then I was born in Haṃsavatī, in a certain family;

Having approached that excellent man, I went for refuge.

57.

"And I heard his Teaching, connected with the four noble truths;

Sweet and supremely gratifying, bringing the peace and happiness of the round of existence.

58.

"Then the hero, the supreme person, praised the Buddhist nun wearing coarse robes;

Establishing her in the foremost position.

59.

"Having aroused no small rapture, hearing the virtues of the Buddhist nun;

I showed respect to the Buddha, according to my ability and strength.

60.

"Having paid homage to that supreme sage, I aspired to that state;

Then the Enlightened One, the leader, rejoiced in the attainment of that state.

61.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

62.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Kisāgotamī will be a disciple of the Teacher.

63.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended to the Guide with requisites.

64.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

65.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

66.

"The attendant of the great sage was then the lord of men,

The king of Kāsi named Kikī, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasī.

67.

I was his fifth daughter, well known by the name Dhammā;

Having heard the Teaching of the supreme victor, I delighted in going forth.

68.

"Our father did not permit us, so then we stayed at home;

For twenty thousand years, we lived untiringly.

69.

"Living the holy life as maidens, royal daughters nurtured in happiness;

Devoted to attending on the Buddha, seven joyful daughters.

70.

"Samaṇī and Samaṇaguttā, Bhikkhunī and Bhikkhudāyikā;

Dhammā and also Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.

71.

"Khemā and Uppalavaṇṇā, and Paṭācārā and Kuṇḍalā;

And I and Dhammadinnā, and Visākhā is the seventh.

72.

"Through those well-performed actions, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

73.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a wealthy family;

When poor and destitute, ruined, I went to a wealthy family.

74.

"Except for my husband, others despised me saying 'destitute';

When I gave birth, then I was dear to all.

75.

"When he was young, fortunate, tender and well-nourished,

Dear to me like my own life, then he came under death's power.

76.

"Afflicted with sorrow, with a wretched face, eyes full of tears, and weeping countenance;

Taking up the dead corpse, lamenting, I went.

77.

"Then, directed by someone, having approached the supreme healer;

I said: 'Sir, give me medicine to bring my son back to life.'

78.

"'From a house where no one has died, from there

Bring mustard seed,' said the Victor, skilled in the method of discipline.

79.

"Then going to Sāvatthī, I did not find such a house;

Where could mustard seed be from there? Then I gained mindfulness.

80.

"Having discarded the corpse, I approached the Leader of the world;

Having seen me from afar, the sweet-voiced one said.

81.

"Though one should live a hundred years, not seeing rise and fall;

Better is one day of life of one who sees rise and fall.

82.

"This is not a principle of villages, nor of towns, nor of a single family;

For the whole world with its deities, this indeed is the principle - impermanence."

83.

"Having heard these verses, I purified the vision of the Teaching;

Then having understood the true Teaching, I went forth into homelessness.

84.

"Thus having gone forth, being peaceful, practising in the Enlightened One's Dispensation;

In no long time, I attained Arahantship.

85.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

I know others' minds, following the Teacher's instruction.

86.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

Having destroyed all taints, I was purified, completely stainless.

87.

"I have attended on the Teacher, the Buddha's Teaching has been done;

The heavy burden has been laid down, the cord of existence is destroyed.

88.

"That goal for which I went forth from the household life into homelessness;

That goal has been attained by me, the destruction of all fetters.

89.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

My knowledge is stainless and pure, through the supreme Enlightened One's teaching.

90.

"Having gathered from rubbish heaps, from cemeteries and streets;

Then having made an outer robe, I wear a coarse robe.

91.

"The Victor, pleased with this quality, with wearing a coarse robe;

The guide placed me at the foremost position in assemblies.

92.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

93.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

94.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Kisāgotamī speak these verses.

The Second Attribute of the Elder Nun Kisāgotamī.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Dhammadinnā

95.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

96.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was in a certain family;

I was a servant working for others, alert and restrained in virtue.

97.

"Sujāta, the chief disciple of the Enlightened One Padumuttara;

Having left his dwelling, went for almsfood.

98.

"Then a water-carrier going with a pot;

Having seen him, with confidence, with my own hands I gave a cake.

99.

"Having received it, right there seated he ate it;

Then having led him to the house, I gave him a meal.

100.

"Then my grandfather, pleased, made me his daughter-in-law;

Together with my mother-in-law, having gone, I welcomed the Enlightened One.

101.

"Then he praised that Teaching-speaking nun;

He placed her in the foremost position, having heard that I was filled with altruistic joy.

102.

"Having invited the Fortunate One, the Leader of the world, together with the Community;

Having given a great gift, I aspired for that position.

103.

"Then the Fortunate One, with a voice like rolling thunder, said to me;

'You who delight in attending on me, who serve me together with the Community.

104.

"Engaged in listening to the true Teaching, with a mind grown in good qualities;

Be joyful, Bhaddā, you will obtain the fruit of your wish.

105.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

106.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Dhammadinnā will be a disciple of the Teacher."

107.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, for as long as I lived, the great sage;

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended to the Guide with requisites.

108.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

109.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

110.

"The attendant of the great sage was then the lord of men,

The king of Kāsi named Kikī, in the supreme city of Bārāṇasī.

111.

"I was his sixth daughter, known as Sudhammā;

Having heard the Teaching of the supreme victor, I delighted in going forth.

112.

"Our father did not permit us, so then we stayed at home;

For twenty thousand years, we lived untiringly.

Third section for recitation.

113.

"Living the holy life as maidens, royal daughters nurtured in happiness;

Devoted to attending on the Buddha, seven joyful daughters.

114.

"Samaṇī and Samaṇaguttā, Bhikkhunī and Bhikkhudāyikā;

Dhammā and also Sudhammā, and the seventh Saṅghadāyikā.

115.

"Khemā and Uppalavaṇṇā, and Paṭācārā and Kuṇḍalā;

Gotamī and I, and Visākhā is the seventh.

116.

"Through those well-performed actions, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

117.

"And now in the last existence, in the supreme city of Giribbaja;

Born in a wealthy prosperous family, endowed with all sensual pleasures.

118.

"When endowed with physical beauty, established in the prime of youth;

Then having gone to another family, I dwelt blessed with happiness.

119.

"Having approached the world's refuge, having heard the Teaching,

My wise husband attained the fruit of non-returning.

120.

"Then having obtained his permission, I went forth into homelessness;

In no long time, I attained Arahantship.

121.

"Then that male lay follower, having approached asked me;

Profound and subtle questions, all of them I answered.

122.

"The Victor, pleased with this quality, placed me at the foremost position;

'A nun who is a Teaching speaker, I do not see another like this.

123.

'Just as the wise Dhammadinnā, thus remember, monks';

"Thus I am wise, shown compassion by the Leader.

124.

"I have attended on the Teacher, the Buddha's Teaching has been done;

The heavy burden has been laid down, the cord of existence is destroyed.

125.

"That goal for which I went forth from the household life into homelessness;

That goal has been attained by me, the destruction of all fetters.

126.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

I know others' minds, following the Teacher's instruction.

127.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

Having destroyed all taints, I was purified, completely stainless.

128.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

129.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

130.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Dhammadinnā speak these verses.

The Third Apadāna of the Elder Nun Dhammadinnā.

4.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Sakulā

131.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

132.

"For the welfare of all beings, the best of speakers for happiness;

For the good, the thoroughbred among persons, practising in the world with its deities.

133.

"Having reached the highest fame and glory, the Victor attained beauty and praise;

Venerated by all the world, renowned in all directions.

134.

"He has crossed over doubt, gone beyond uncertainty,

With fulfilled intention, he attained supreme enlightenment.

135.

"The supreme person is the originator of the unoriginated path;

He explained what had not been explained, he made known what was not known.

136.

"Knower of the path and skilled in the path, proclaimer of the path, bull among men;

The Teacher skilled in the path, supreme among charioteers.

137.

"The Teacher of great compassion, the leader, taught the Teaching;

He lifts up living beings who are sunk in the mud of sensual pleasures.

138.

"Then I was born in Haṃsavatī, a delight to the warrior-administrative class;

Beautiful and wealthy too, beloved and glorious.

139.

"The supremely beautiful daughter of the great king Ānanda;

And also the sister from a different mother of the one named Padumuttara.

140.

"Together with the princesses, adorned with all ornaments;

Having approached the great hero, I heard the teaching.

141.

"Then that teacher of the world, praising a nun with the divine eye;

In the midst of the assembly, placed her in the highest state.

142.

"Having heard that, I was delighted, having given a gift to the Teacher;

And having honoured the Enlightened One, I aspired for the divine eye.

143.

"Then the Teacher said to me, 'Nandā, you will obtain what you desire;

This is the certain fruit of giving lamps and the Teaching.

144.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

145.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Sakulā will be a disciple of the Teacher.'

146.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

147.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

148.

"I was then a wandering ascetic, living alone;

Having wandered for alms, I received just a little oil.

149.

"Having lit a lamp with that, I attended with all restraint;

The shrine of the foremost of bipeds, with a clear mind.

150.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

151.

"Wherever I am reborn, due to the power of that action;

Great lamps blaze forth, wherever I have gone.

152.

"Through walls, through rocks, crossing over mountains;

I see whatever I wish, this is the fruit of giving a lamp.

153.

"I have purified eyes, and I shine with fame;

I am endowed with faith and wisdom, this is the fruit of giving a lamp.

154.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a brahmin family;

With abundant wealth and grain, joyful and honoured by the king.

155.

"I am endowed with all good qualities, adorned with all ornaments;

At the city entrance, I stood at the window when the Fortunate One entered.

156.

"Having seen him blazing with glory, honoured by deities and human beings;

Endowed with features, adorned with characteristics.

157.

"With uplifted mind and glad, I delighted in the going forth;

In no long time, I attained Arahantship.

158.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

I know others' minds, following the Teacher's instruction.

159.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

Having destroyed all taints, I was purified, completely stainless.

160.

"I have attended on the Teacher, the Buddha's Teaching has been done;

The heavy burden has been laid down, the cord of existence is destroyed.

161.

"That goal for which I went forth from the household life into homelessness;

That goal has been attained by me, the destruction of all fetters.

162.

"Then the greatly compassionate one placed me at the foremost position;

'Foremost of those with divine eye, Sakula,' said the supreme person.

163.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

164.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

165.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Sakulā speak these verses.

The Fourth Attribute of the Elder Nun Sakulā.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Nandā

166.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

167.

"An exhorter and instructor, leading all living beings across;

The Buddha, skilled in teaching, led many people across.

168.

"The compassionate one with tender concern, seeking the welfare of all living beings;

Having met all sectarians, he established them in the five precepts.

169.

"Thus it was free from confusion, and void of sectarians;

Adorned with Arahants, with those who had mastery, such as these.

170.

"Fifty-eight cubits tall, risen up was the great sage;

Like a golden offering, with the thirty-two excellent characteristics.

171.

"A hundred thousand years, life span existed right then;

Remaining for that long, he led many people across.

172.

"Then I was born in Haṃsavatī, in a wealthy clan;

Endowed with great happiness, in a home bright with various gems.

173.

"Having approached that great hero, I heard the teaching;

The Deathless of supreme gratification, revealing the ultimate goal.

174.

"Then having invited the Leader of the world with the Community;

Having given him a great gift, with confidence, with my own hands.

175.

"I aspired to the foremost state among meditating nuns;

Having bowed my head to the wise one, the Leader of the world with the Community.

176.

"Then the tamer of the untamed, refuge of the three worlds, the Lord,

The charioteer of men declared, 'You will obtain what you have well aspired to.

177.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

178.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Nandā will be a disciple of the Teacher."

179.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended to the Guide with requisites.

180.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

181.

"Passing away from there I went to the Yāma realm, from there I went to the Tusita realm;

Then to the Nimmānarati realm, and then to the Vasavatti realm.

182.

"Wherever I am reborn, due to the power of that action;

In each place I exercised the position of chief queen of kings.

183.

"Passing away from there, in the human state, of wheel-turning monarchs;

The position of chief queen of wheel-turning monarchs and regional kings.

184.

"Having experienced success among deities and human beings,

Having been happy everywhere, I wandered through many aeons.

185.

When the final existence arrived, in delightful Kapilavhaya;

I was the blameless daughter of King Suddhodana.

186.

Seeing one endowed with glory and beauty, that family was delighted;

Therefore my name became Nandā, beautiful and excellent.

187.

Among all the young women, I was known as the good one;

In that delightful city too, except for Yasodharā.

188.

The eldest brother was foremost in the three worlds, and likewise the younger was an arahant;

Alone as a householder I was, urged by my mother.

189.

"'Born in a Sakyan clan, you are a son, a younger sister of the Enlightened One;

Being without Nanda too, why do you remain in the house?

190.

"'Youth ends in aging, form is considered impure;

Health ends in sickness, life ends in death.

191.

"'This beautiful form of yours, lovely as the moon, captivating,

An ornament of decorations, resembling a glorious robe.

192.

"'Like a heap of worldly substance, a delight for the eyes,

Generator of merit's fame, joy of the Okkāka clan.

193.

"'In no long time, aging will overcome you;

Abandoning the house with compassion, practise the blameless Teaching'.

194.

"Having heard mother's words, I went forth into homelessness;

With body but not with mind, delighting in beauty and youth.

195.

"And with great effort, meditation was supreme for me;

And mother tells me to do it, but I was not eager in that.

196.

"Then the greatly compassionate one, seeing me yearning for sensual pleasures;

For the purpose of disenchantment with form, the Victor appeared in my field of vision.

197.

"Through his own power, he created a beautiful woman;

Lovely to look at, very pleasing, even more beautiful than me.

198.

"Amazed, I saw her, with a body most amazing;

I thought: "My gain is fruitful," and about gaining human eyes.

199.

"Come here, fortunate one, tell me what you want;

Tell me your family, name and clan, if you wish.

200.

'This is not a time for deception, fortunate one, let me rest in your lap;

My limbs are sinking, let me sleep for a moment.'

201.

"Then she, with beautiful eyes, laid her head in my lap and slept;

The cruel and greedy ones fell on her forehead.

202.

"With their falling, boils appeared;

When they burst, they oozed corpse-matter and blood.

203.

"Her face also burst open, like a corpse with foul odour;

The body was swollen, discoloured, and full of pus.

204.

"With all her limbs afflicted, she breathed heavily again and again;

Feeling their own suffering, she lamented with compassion.

205.

"I am afflicted with suffering, feelings torment me;

I am immersed in great suffering, be a refuge for me, friend."

206.

"Where is your radiant face, where is your high nose;

Your copper-red lovely lips, where has your face gone.

207.

"Where is your moon-like beauty, where has your conch-shell neck gone;

Your ears like swaying leaves, have become discoloured.

208.

"Your breasts like buds and shoots,

Have burst, become a putrid corpse, reached a state of foul odour.

209.

"Your beautiful thighs like an altar, like a slaughterhouse of removed sin;

Have become filled with filth, oh how form is impermanent.

210.

"All that is born of the body, foul-smelling and fearsome;

Like a horrible cemetery, wherein fools delight."

211.

"Then my brother, the great compassionate leader of the world;

Seeing me with agitated mind, spoke these verses.

212.

"Sick, corpse-like and foul, behold, Nandā, this body;

Develop the mind on the unattractive, one-pointed and well concentrated.

213.

As this is, so is that; as that is, so is this;

It emits a foul stench, delighted in by fools.

214.

"Contemplating it thus, untiring day and night;

Then through your own wisdom, you will see through it completely."

215.

"Then I was deeply moved, having heard the well-spoken verses;

Standing right there, being peaceful, I attained Arahantship.

216.

"Wherever I sat, always with meditation as my destination;

The Victor, pleased with this quality, placed me at the foremost position.

217.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

218.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

219.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Nandā Janapadakalyāṇī speak these verses.

The Fifth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Nandā.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Soṇā

220.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

221.

"Then born in a merchant family, happy, honoured, beloved;

Having approached that excellent sage, I heard his sweet speech.

222.

"The Victor praised a Buddhist nun as foremost of those with aroused energy;

Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, having shown respect to the Teacher.

223.

"Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, I aspired for that state;

The Great Hero rejoiced, 'May your aspiration be fulfilled.

224.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

225.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

One named Soṇā will be a disciple of the Teacher.'

226.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended to the Guide with requisites.

227.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

228.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a wealthy family;

In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, prosperous, flourishing, of great wealth.

229.

"When I came of age, having gone to my husband's family;

I gave birth to ten sons, especially beautiful.

230.

"And they all grew up in happiness, delighting their mother's eyes;

Approved even by enemies, how much more dear were they to me.

231.

"Then against my will, honoured by ten sons,

My husband went forth in the Dispensation of the deity of deities.

232.

"Then alone I reflected: 'Let there be no life for me,

Abandoned by husband and sons, and grown old and wretched.'

233.

"I too shall go there where my husband has reached,

Having reflected thus, I went forth into homelessness.

234.

"Then the Buddhist nuns, in a nuns' residence,

Left me saying: 'Heat the water for the exhortation.'

235.

"Then having fetched water, having poured it into a pot,

Having placed it on the stove, sitting there, I concentrated my mind.

236.

"Having seen the aggregates as impermanent, as suffering, and as non-self;

Having destroyed all taints, I attained Arahantship.

237.

"Then the Buddhist nuns came and asked for hot water;

Having resolved on the fire element, I quickly heated the water.

238.

"Amazed, they reported this matter to the excellent Victor;

Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, the Lord spoke this verse.

239.

"Though one should live a hundred years, lazy and of inferior energy;

Better is one day of life of one who firmly arouses energy."

240.

"The great hero was pleased by my good practice;

That great sage declared me foremost of those with aroused energy.

241.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

242.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

243.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Soṇā speak these verses.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Soṇā, the Sixth.

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Bhaddakāpilānī

244.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

245.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, there was one named Videha;

A merchant of great wealth, I was his wife.

246.

"Once with his retinue he approached the Sun of Men,

And heard the Teaching of the Buddha that removes all suffering and fear.

247.

"The leader praised the foremost of disciples of the ascetic doctrine;

Having heard, for seven days I gave gifts to such an Enlightened One.

248.

"Having bowed down with my head at his feet, I aspired to that state;

Then indeed that bull among men, gladdening the assembly.

249.

"Out of compassion for the merchant, spoke these verses;

'You will attain your desired state, be quenched, dear son.

250.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

251.

"An heir to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching,

One named Kassapa by clan will be a disciple of the Teacher.

252.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended to the Leader with requisites.

253.

"Having illuminated the Teaching, having crushed the heretics,

And having disciplined those to be disciplined, he was quenched with his disciples.

254.

"When that foremost one in the world was quenched, in order to make offerings to the Teacher,

Having gathered relatives and friends, he had it made with them.

255.

"A seven-yojana high shrine, soaring high made of jewels;

Shining like the hundred-rayed one, like a flowering king sal tree.

256.

"Seven hundred thousand bowls, he had made there;

Gleaming like reed-fire, with the seven jewels.

257.

"Having filled them with fragrant oil, he lit lamps there;

For the purpose of honouring the Great Seer, who has compassion for all beings.

258.

"Seven hundred thousand full pots, he had made;

Filled with jewels, for the purpose of offering to the great sage.

259.

"In the middle of sixty-four pots, golden pinnacles were raised;

They outshine in beauty, like the sun in autumn.

260.

"At the four gates, jewel-made arches shine;

Raised delightful planks, made of jewels, shine.

261.

"Well-created garlands shine, encircling around;

Raised banners, made of jewels, shine forth.

262.

"Well-made, beautifully coloured, the shrine made of jewels;

Outshines in beauty, like the sun with evening glow.

263.

"The three railings of the stupa, he filled with yellow orpiment;

One with red arsenic, one with collyrium.

264.

"Having caused such a delightful offering to be made to the one of excellent doctrine;

I gave gifts to the Community, throughout life according to my ability.

265.

"Together with that merchant, having performed all those meritorious deeds;

Throughout life, together we went to a good destination.

266.

"Having experienced success in modes of generation, among deities and among humans;

Like a shadow with the body, I wandered together with him.

267.

Ninety-one aeons ago, the leader named Vipassī,

Arose, beautiful to behold, seeing all things.

268.

Then in Bandhumatī, a brahmin well respected,

Though wealthy, by virtue and wealth he was very poor.

269.

Then I was his brahmin wife, with a righteous mind;

Sometimes that excellent brahmin met the great sage.

270.

Seated among the people, teaching the term of the Deathless;

Having heard the Teaching, delighted, he gave a single cloth.

271.

"Having gone home with one cloth, he came and said this:

'Rejoice in the great merit, a cloth given to the Enlightened One'.

272.

"Then having made reverential salutation, I rejoiced, well pleased:

'Well given is the cloth, lord, to such a supreme Enlightened One'.

273.

"Having been happy and adorned, wandering through various existences;

In delightful Bārāṇasī city, there was a king, a ruler of the earth.

274.

"Then I was his great sage's, the highest among the group of women;

I was his beloved, with former affection for my husband.

275.

"Seeing eight independent leaders, wandering for alms;

Being delighted, having given worthy alms.

276.

"Having invited them again, having made a jewelled pavilion;

A golden bowl indeed, that much, made by craftsmen.

277.

"Having assembled them all, he gave that gift;

To those seated on golden seats, with confidence, with his own hands.

278.

"At that time I gave that gift together with the king of Kāsi;

Again I was born in Bārāṇasi, in a Kāsi village.

279.

"In a wealthy householder's family, he lived happily with his brother;

I was a devoted wife to the elder brother.

280.

"Having seen a privately enlightened one, to my younger brother-in-law

Having given a portion of food, when he came I told him.

281.

"He did not delight in that gift, then I gave it to him;

Having brought that food from the pot, he gave it again to him.

282.

"Having thrown away that food, being corrupt towards the Enlightened One then,

I gave that bowl full of mud to such a one.

283.

"In giving and receiving, and in disrespect and corruption,

Having seen his face with equanimous mind, then I was greatly agitated.

284.

"Again taking a bowl, having cleaned it with fragrance;

With a confident mind having filled it, I gave honour with ghee.

285.

"Wherever I am reborn, I am beautiful due to giving;

Due to wrong doing to the Enlightened One, I had a foul-smelling mouth.

286.

"Again when the shrine of the hero Kassapa was being built;

With altruistic joy I gave an excellent golden brick.

287.

"Having anointed that brick with four kinds of fragrance;

I am freed from the fault of bad odour, endowed with all beautiful features.

288.

"Seven thousand bowls, with the seven treasures;

Having filled them with ghee, and thousands of wicks.

289.

"Having placed and lit them, I arranged seven rows;

For the purpose of honouring the world's protector, with a clear mind.

290.

"Then too in that merit, I specially shared;

Again born in Kāsi, renowned as Sumitta.

291.

"I was his wife, happy, well-adorned and dear;

Then to a Paccekabuddha, I gave a thick turban.

292.

"I was also his sister, rejoicing in that supreme gift;

Again in the Kāsi country, I was born in a Koliyan family.

293.

Then with five hundred sons of the Koliyans,

I attended upon five hundred Privately Enlightened Ones.

294.

Having satisfied them for three months, I gave the three robes;

I was his wife then, following the path of meritorious action.

295.

Passing away from there, he became a king named Nanda of great fame;

I was also his queen consort, endowed with all sensual pleasures.

296.

"Then having become a king, Brahmadatta, ruler of the earth;

For the sons of Padumavatī, the solitary sages then.

297.

"For five hundred less, I attended for life;

Having settled them in the royal park, I honoured those who were quenched.

298.

"Having built shrines, we both went forth;

Having developed the measureless states, we went to the brahmā world.

299.

"Passing away from there at Mahātittha, Sujāta of the Pipphalāyana clan;

Mother was Sumanadevi, father was a brahmin of the Kosi clan.

300.

"I was in the Madda country, in the foremost city of Sākala;

I was the daughter and mother of the brahmin Kappila, pure in mind.

301.

"Having fashioned me like a solid golden image, my father

Gave me to the wise Kassapa, who was free from sensual pleasures.

302.

"Once that compassionate one, going to inspect his work,

Seeing living beings being eaten by crows and others, was moved with urgency.

303.

"While at home, seeing sesame seeds that had grown,

Being eaten by worms and crows in the heat of the sun, I then gained a sense of urgency.

304.

"Then that wise one went forth, and I went forth after him;

I lived for five years in the wanderer's life.

305.

"When Gotamī, who had nurtured the Victor, had gone forth,

Then I approached her and was instructed by the Enlightened One.

306.

"In no long time, I attained Arahantship;

Oh, the state of having a good friend, the glorious Kassapa.

307.

"The learned heir of the Enlightened One, Kassapa well concentrated;

Who knows past lives and sees heaven and the plane of misery.

308.

"And has reached the destruction of birth, a sage perfected in direct knowledge;

By these three true knowledges, a brahmin becomes one of triple knowledge.

309.

"Likewise Bhaddā Kāpilānī, of triple knowledge who has abandoned death;

Bears his final body, having conquered Māra with his mount.

310.

"Having seen the danger in the world, both of us went forth;

We are taintless, tamed, cooled, quenched.

311.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

312.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

313.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Bhaddakāpilānī speak these verses.

The Seventh: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Bhaddakāpilānī.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Yasodharā

314.

At one time in delightful Rajagaha city, prosperous,

In an excellent mountain slope, when the Leader of Men was dwelling.

315.

While dwelling in that city, in the delightful nuns' residence,

The nun Yasodharā had this thought:

316.

"The great king Suddhodana and Gotamī Pajāpatī,

The renowned great elder monks and elder nuns of great spiritual power.

317.

"They have attained peace, without taints like lamps,

While the leader of the world was still living, I too attained the peaceful state.

318.

"Having thought 'I will go', seeing my own life span;

Having seen the life formation, that very day reached destruction.

319.

"Taking bowl and robe, having departed from her own monastery;

She was honoured by thousands of hundreds of nuns.

320.

"Of great spiritual power and great wisdom, she approached the Enlightened One;

Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, to the wheel-mark of the Teacher;

Having sat to one side, spoke these words.

321.

"I am seventy-eight years old, my age is in its final stage;

Having reached the inclining, I inform you, great sage.

322.

"My life span is fully ripened, my life is short;

Having abandoned you, I will go, I have made a refuge for myself.

323.

"In the final stage of life, death draws near;

Tonight, great hero, I will attain quenching.

324.

"There is no birth, aging, sickness, and death, great sage;

I will go to the city without aging and death, to the unconditioned.

325.

"As far as the assembly, they attend upon the Teacher;

Not knowing my transgression, forgive me in your presence, O sage.

326.

"Having wandered in the round of rebirths, if I have erred towards you;

I declare it, O Great Hero, forgive me my transgression."

327.

Having heard her words, the Lord of Sages said this:

"What higher thing shall I say to you, who are going towards Nibbāna.

328.

"Show also the spiritual power, in regard to your Teaching;

And cut off the perplexity of all assemblies to the fullest extent."

329.

Having heard that speech of the sage, that nun Yasodharā;

Having paid homage to that king of sages, spoke these words.

330.

"I am Yasodharā, O hero, in the household your chief consort;

Born in a Sakyan clan, established in womanhood.

331.

"Of hundred thousand and ninety-six women,

In your household, O hero, I was the chief, the ruler of all.

332.

"Endowed with qualities of beauty and conduct, in the prime of youth, speaking pleasantly;

All honour me, both deities and humans.

333.

'Led by a hundred thousand maidens, in the Sakyan son's dwelling;

Sharing the same pleasure and pain, like deities in Nandana.

334.

'Having transcended the sense-sphere realm, established in the form realm;

None equals in form, except for the Leader of the World.

335.

'Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, she displayed spiritual power to the Teacher;

Many and various aspects, she displayed great spiritual powers too.

336.

'A body the size of a world-system, head towards the north;

Both wings are two lamps, the Rose-Apple Land from the body.

337.

"The southern lake is a tail-feather, the various branches are small leaves;

The moon and sun are eyes, from Mount Meru is the crest.

338.

"The encircling mountain range is the beak, the rose-apple tree with its roots;

Having approached while flying, they pay homage to the Leader of the world.

339.

"He displayed the form of an elephant, likewise a horse, a mountain, and an ocean;

The moon, the sun, Mount Meru, and the form of Sakka.

340.

"I am Yasodharā, O hero, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision;

A thousand world systems, he covered with blooming lotuses.

341.

"Having created the form of a brahmā, he taught the Teaching on emptiness;

"I am Yasodharā, O hero, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.

342.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

343.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

344.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

345.

"The meeting with previous Leaders of the World has been shown to you;

Many meritorious deeds of mine were for your sake, great sage.

346.

"Remember, sage, the wholesome action that was fulfilled by me;

For your sake, great hero, merit was accumulated by me.

347.

"Having avoided impossible states, having restrained from misconduct;

For your sake, Great Hero, my life was given up.

348.

"Many thousands of millions, gave me for the sake of being a wife;

I was not disheartened there, for your sake, great sage.

349.

"Many thousands of millions, gave me for the sake of support;

I was not disheartened there, for your sake, great sage.

350.

"Many thousands of millions, gave me for the sake of food;

I was not disheartened there, for your sake, great sage.

351.

"Many thousands of millions of lives I gave up;

They will make freedom from fear, I give my life.

352.

"Ornaments worn on the limbs, many different kinds of clothes;

I do not hide women's adornments, for your sake, great sage.

353.

"The giving up of wealth and grain, villages and towns;

Fields, sons and daughters, were given up, great sage.

354.

"Elephants, horses and cattle too, servant girls and attendants;

For your sake, Great Hero, countless were given up.

355.

"When you requested me, 'I shall give a gift to the supplicant';

I do not see any disheartedness in me when giving the supreme gift.

356.

"Various and many sufferings, in the manifold round of rebirths;

For your sake, Great Hero, countless were experienced.

357.

"I rejoice in the attainment of happiness, and am not disheartened in sufferings;

Everywhere I am balanced, for your sake, great sage.

358.

"The Enlightened One, by following the path, brought forth that Teaching;

Having experienced happiness and suffering, the great sage attained enlightenment.

359.

"The Enlightened One Gotama, leader of the world, sublime deity;

I have shown you many meetings with other Leaders of the World.

360.

"Many meritorious deeds of mine were for your sake, great sage;

While searching for the Buddha's Teaching, I was your attendant.

361.

"A hundred thousand aeons and four incalculable aeons ago;

Dīpaṅkara the great hero, arose as Leader of the World.

362.

"Having invited the Truth Finder, to a border region domain;

With joyful minds they cleared, the path for his coming.

363.

"At that time there was, a brahmin named Sumedha;

And he prepared the path, for the arrival of the All-Seeing One.

364.

"At that time I was, a maiden of brahmin birth;

Named Sumitta, I approached the gathering.

365.

"Eight handfuls of blue lotuses, for honouring the Teacher;

Taking it among the crowd of people, I saw the eminent sage.

366.

'Long cherished and beloved, surpassing and captivating;

Seeing then I conceived my life to be fruitful.

367.

'I saw then that exertion to be fruitful for the sage;

Due to past action towards the Enlightened One, my mind became confident.

368.

'I made my mind even more confident in the sage of elevated mind;

I do not see any other gift, I give these flowers to you, sage.

369.

'May five handfuls be yours, three shall be mine, O sage;

May they be equal with that, for your enlightenment, O sage.'

The fourth section for recitation.

370.

"The sage having taken flowers, to the one of great fame coming;

Honoured him among the people, for enlightenment, the great sage.

371.

"Having seen him among the people, Dīpaṅkara the great sage;

The great hero prophesied about the sage with uplifted mind.

372.

"In an immeasurable aeon from now, Dīpaṅkara the great sage;

Prophesied about my action, the great sage about my uprightness.

373.

"'He will be of righteous mind, righteous action, righteous conduct;

Through action she will be dear, for your sake, great sage.

374.

"'Beautiful to see and very dear, agreeable and speaking lovingly;

She will dwell as an heir to his Teaching, possessing spiritual power.

375.

"'Just as a casket of treasures is protected by its owner;

So will she protect wholesome states.

376.

"'Having compassion for you, she will fulfill the perfection;

Like a lion breaking out of a cage, she will attain enlightenment.'

377.

"In an immeasurable aeon from now, when the Enlightened One declared about me;

Rejoicing in those words, I became one who acted thus.

378.

"Due to that well-performed action, I established confidence there;

Having experienced the realms of deities and humans, beyond numerical reckoning.

379.

"Having experienced happiness and suffering among deities and humans;

When the final existence arrived, I was born in a Sakyan family.

380.

"Beautiful, wealthy, famous and virtuous then;

I was perfect in all factors, honoured among families.

381.

"Gain, praise, honour, the coming together of worldly conditions;

And there is no suffering mind, I dwell without fear from anywhere.

382.

For this was said by the Blessed One, then in the king's inner quarters;

Before the nobles, hero, he pointed out the bastion.

383.

And a woman who is a bastion, and a woman who is in happiness and suffering;

And a woman who explains the goal, and a woman who is compassionate.

384.

Five hundred million Enlightened Ones, and nine hundred million;

To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift.

385.

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service;

Eleven hundred crores and twelve crores of Enlightened Ones.

386.

"To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift;

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service.

387.

"Twenty hundred crores and thirty hundred crores of Enlightened Ones;

To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift.

388.

"Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service;

Forty hundred crores and fifty hundred crores.

389.

"To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift;

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service.

390.

"Sixty hundred crores and seventy hundred crores of Enlightened Ones;

To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift.

391.

"Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service;

Eighty hundred crores and ninety hundred crores of Enlightened Ones.

392.

"To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift;

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service.

393.

"A hundred thousand crores are the foremost leaders of the world;

To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift.

394.

"Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service;

Nine thousand million other Leaders of the World.

395.

"To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift;

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service.

396.

"One hundred thousand million great seers,

Eighty-five hundred million, and thirty-seven million.

397.

"To these deities of deities, I provided a great gift;

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service.

398.

"Privately Enlightened Ones free from lust, sixty-four million;

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service.

399.

"Disciples of the Buddha with taints destroyed and stains removed, uncountable;

Listen to me, King of the Teaching, about my great service.

400.

"Thus for those who have practised the Teaching well, who always live by the Teaching;

One who lives by the Teaching dwells happily, both in this world and the next.

401.

"One should practise the Teaching with good conduct, one should not practise it with misconduct;

One who lives by the Teaching dwells happily, both in this world and the next.

402.

"Having become disenchanted with the round of rebirths, I went forth into homelessness;

With a retinue of a thousand, having gone forth owning nothing.

403.

"Having abandoned the home, I went forth into homelessness;

Before half a month had passed, I attained the four truths.

404.

"Having given robes, almsfood, requisites and dwelling places

Many people bring them, like waves in the ocean.

405.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

406.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

407.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

408.

"Thus there was suffering of many kinds, and success of many kinds;

Having attained the state of purification, I gain all success.

409.

"She who gives herself for merit to the great sage;

They become companions in success, in the unconditioned state of Nibbāna.

410.

"The past is completely exhausted, the present and future too;

All my actions are exhausted, I pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision".

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Yasodharā speak these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Yasodharā, the Eighth.

9.

The Attribute of Ten Thousand Nuns Led by Yasodharā

411.

"A hundred thousand aeons and four incalculable aeons ago;

The Victor named Dīpaṅkara arose, leader of the world.

412.

"Dīpaṅkara the great hero, the guide made the prediction;

For Sumedha and Sumitta, equal in happiness and suffering.

413.

"Seeing the world with its deities, wandering in the world with its deities;

At their proclamation, we came to the gathering.

414.

"Be our lord in future meetings;

All of us will be your wives, agreeable and speaking lovingly.

415.

"All giving and virtuous behavior, and development well developed;

For a long time all has been given up by us, great sage.

416.

"Odours, ointment, garlands, and lamps made of jewels;

Whatever was wished for, all has been given up, great sage.

417.

"And any other action done, and human enjoyments;

For a long time indeed all has been given up by us, great sage.

418.

"Through many births in the round of rebirths, much merit was done by us;

Having experienced lordship, having wandered through various existences.

419.

"When the final existence arrived, in the dwelling of the Sakyan son;

Celestial nymphs of various families, beautiful in sensual pleasures.

420.

"Having attained fame through supreme gain, honoured and respected by all;

We are gainers of food and drink, always rightly honoured.

421.

"Having abandoned home, we went forth into homelessness;

Before half a month had passed, we all attained quenching.

422.

"We are gainers of food and drink, and clothing and lodgings;

All requisites come to us, always respected and honoured.

423.

"Our defilements are burnt up...etc... we dwell taintless.

424.

"It was indeed a good coming for us...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

425.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the ten thousand Buddhist nuns headed by Yasodharā speak these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.

The ninth attribute of the ten thousand Buddhist nuns headed by Yasodharā.

10.

The Attribute of Eighteen Thousand Buddhist Nuns Headed by Yasodharā

426.

"Eighteen thousand Buddhist nuns, born of the Sakyan,

Headed by Yasodharā, approached the Enlightened One.

427.

"All eighteen thousand are of great spiritual power;

They venerate the sage's feet, declaring according to their strength.

428.

"Birth is destroyed, aging, sickness, and death, great sage;

We go to the taintless peaceful state, the Deathless, O guide.

429.

"If there were any faults before, for all of us, great sage;

Not knowing our transgressions, forgive us, O guide.

430.

"Let those who follow my Dispensation show their spiritual power;

And cut off the perplexity of all assemblies to the fullest extent.

431.

"Yasodharā, O great hero, agreeable and pleasant to see;

All were your wives, O great hero, in the household.

432.

"Of hundred thousand and ninety-six women,

In your household, O hero, we were the chiefs, the rulers of all.

433.

"Endowed with qualities of beauty and conduct, in the prime of youth, speaking pleasantly;

All honour us, both deities and humans.

434.

"Eighteen thousand, all born of the Sakyan clan;

A thousand Yasodhara were the chief sovereigns then.

435.

'Having transcended the sense-sphere realm, established in the form realm;

None equals in form among the thousands, great sage.

436.

'Having paid homage to the Enlightened One, they displayed spiritual power to the Teacher;

Many and various aspects, they displayed great spiritual powers too.

437.

'A body the size of a world-system, head towards the north;

Both wings are two lamps, the Rose-Apple Land from the body.

438.

"The southern lake is a tail-feather, the various branches are small leaves;

The moon and sun are eyes, from Mount Meru is the crest.

439.

The encircling mountain range is the beak, the rose-apple tree with its roots;

Having approached while flying, they pay homage to the Leader of the world.

440.

"He displayed the form of an elephant, likewise a horse, a mountain, and an ocean;

The moon, the sun, Mount Meru, and the form of Sakka.

441.

O Hero, we are Yasodharā, we pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision;

Through your long-standing influence, we have achieved perfection, O Leader of Men.

442.

"We were masters in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

Of the knowledge of minds, we were masters, O great sage.

443.

"We know our past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

444.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for us, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

445.

"The meeting with previous Leaders of the World has been shown to us;

Many were our services, for your sake, great sage.

446.

"Remember, sage, the wholesome action that was fulfilled by us;

For your sake, great hero, we accumulated merits.

447.

"Having avoided impossible states, we refrained from misconduct;

For your sake, great hero, our lives were given up.

448.

"Many thousands of millions, we gave away for the sake of wives;

We were not disheartened there, for your sake, great sage.

449.

"Many thousands of millions we gave for bastions;

We were not disheartened there, for your sake, great sage.

450.

"Many thousands of millions we gave for food;

We were not disheartened there, for your sake, great sage.

451.

"Many thousands of millions of lives we gave up;

We shall make freedom from fear, we gave up our lives.

452.

"Ornaments worn on the limbs, many different kinds of clothes;

We did not hide women's belongings, for your sake, great sage.

453.

"The giving up of wealth and grain, villages and towns;

Fields, sons and daughters, were given up, great sage.

454.

"Elephants, horses and cattle too, servant girls and attendants;

For your sake, Great Hero, countless were given up.

455.

"When you advised us, 'Let us give a gift to the supplicant,'

We were not disheartened when giving the supreme gift.

456.

"Various and many sufferings, in the manifold round of rebirths;

For your sake, Great Hero, countless were experienced.

457.

"We rejoice in the attainment of happiness, and are not disheartened in sufferings;

Everywhere we were balanced, for your sake, great sage.

458.

"The Enlightened One, by following the path, brought forth that Teaching;

Having experienced happiness and suffering, you attained enlightenment, great sage.

459.

"The Enlightened One Gotama, leader of the world, sublime deity;

Not many meetings with other Leaders of the World by them.

460.

"We did many services for your sake, great sage;

While searching for the Buddha's Teaching, we were your attendants.

461.

"A hundred thousand aeons and four incalculable aeons ago;

Dīpaṅkara the great hero, arose as Leader of the World.

462.

"Having invited the Truth Finder, to a border region domain;

With joyful minds they cleared, the path for his coming.

463.

"At that time there was, a brahmin named Sumedha;

And he prepared the path, for the arrival of the All-Seeing One.

464.

"At that time we were, all of brahmin origin;

We brought land-born flowers to the assembly.

465.

"At that time the Enlightened One Dīpaṅkara of great fame,

The great hero prophesied about the sage with uplifted mind.

466.

"The earth shakes and resounds, trembles with its deities;

When proclaiming the deed of that sage with uplifted mind.

467.

"Celestial maidens and human beings, and we too with the deities;

Having honoured with various worthy goods, they made aspirations.

468.

"The Enlightened One named Jotidīpa explained to them;

Those who have gone forth today will be face to face.

469.

"In an immeasurable aeon from now, when the Enlightened One declared about us;

Rejoicing in that statement, thus we acted.

470.

"Due to that well-performed action, they established confidence there;

Having experienced the realms of deities and humans, beyond numerical reckoning.

471.

Having experienced happiness and suffering among deities and humans;

When the final existence arrived, we were born in a Sakyan family.

472.

Beautiful, wealthy, famous and virtuous then;

I have perfection in all factors, I am honoured in families.

473.

"Gain, praise, honour, the coming together of worldly conditions;

And there is no suffering mind, we dwell without fear from anywhere.

474.

"For this was said by the Blessed One, then in the king's inner quarters;

Before the nobles, hero, he pointed out the bastion.

475.

"And a woman who is a bastion, and a woman who is in happiness and suffering;

And a woman who explains the goal, and a woman who is compassionate.

476.

"One should practise the Teaching with good conduct, one should not practise it with misconduct;

One who lives by the Teaching dwells happily, both in this world and the next.

477.

"Having abandoned the home, we went forth into homelessness;

Before half a month had passed, we touched the four truths.

478.

"Having given robes, almsfood, requisites and dwelling places

Many bring to us, like waves to the ocean.

479.

"Our defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like female bull elephants breaking their bondage, we dwell taintless.

480.

"It was indeed a good coming for us, in the presence of my Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

481.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done.'

482.

"Thus there was suffering of many kinds, and success of many kinds;

Having attained the state of purification, we gain all success.

483.

"Those who give themselves for merit to the great sage;

They become companions in success, in the unconditioned state of Nibbāna.

484.

"The past is completely exhausted, the present and future too;

All our action is indeed sharp, we pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.

485.

"To those who speak about Nibbāna, what more shall we say to you;

For you attain the term of the Deathless, which is peaceful and free from the fault of the conditioned."

Thus indeed did the eighteen thousand Buddhist nuns headed by Yasodharā speak these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.

The tenth is the Attribute of the eighteen thousand Buddhist nuns headed by Yasodharā.

The third is the Chapter on Kuṇḍalakesī.

Here is its summary -

Kuṇḍalā and Gotamī, and Dhammadinnā and Sakulā;

Varanandā and Soṇā, Kāpilānī and Yasodharā.

Ten thousand Buddhist nuns, eighteen thousand;

Four hundred and seventy-six verses.

4.

The Chapter on Khattiyā

1.

The Attribute of the Eighteen Thousand Buddhist Nuns Headed by Yasavatī

1.

"All existences are completely destroyed, we are liberated from existences;

And we have no taints at all, we declare to you, great sage.

2.

"Former wholesome action, whatever was well aspired to;

The gift made for use was given for your purpose, great sage.

3.

"For Buddhas, Privately Enlightened Ones, and disciples it was wished;

The gift made for use was given for your purpose, great sage.

4.

"The action made of high and low, well wished for by monks;

The service to high families, what is this, great sage.

5.

"By that same bright root, urged by successful action;

Transcending the human, they were born in a noble family.

6.

"In arising and done action, or in birth together;

Later born together, nobles of family origin.

7.

"Beautiful and wealthy, honoured with gains and honour;

In the inner quarters, great hero, like deities in the garden of delight.

8.

"Being disenchanted with the home life, we went forth into homelessness;

After just a few days, we all attained quenching.

9.

"Robes, almsfood, requisites and dwelling places;

Many bring to us, always honoured and revered.

10.

"Our defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like female bull elephants breaking their bondage, we dwell taintless.

11.

"It was indeed a good coming for us, in the presence of my Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

12.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the eighteen thousand Buddhist nuns who were noble maidens headed by Yasavatī speak these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.

The first attribute of eighteen thousand Buddhist nuns headed by Yasavatī.

2.

The Attribute of Eighty-four Thousand Buddhist Nuns

13.

"Eighty-four thousand, born in brahmin families;

With delicate hands and feet, before you, great sage.

14.

"Born in merchant and worker families, deities, dragons and kinnaras;

Many maidens from the four continents, before you, great sage.

15.

"Some who have gone forth exist, they were all-seeing;

Deities, kinnaras and dragons, will touch in the future.

16.

"Having experienced all fame, having attained all accomplishments;

Having gained confidence in you, they will awaken in the future.

17.

"We are brahmin daughters, originating from brahmin families;

Look at us, O Great Hero, we pay homage at your feet, O One with Vision.

18.

"All existences are destroyed, craving at the root is eliminated;

The underlying tendencies are cut off, meritorious formations are broken.

19.

"All have concentration as their range, mastery of attainments is achieved;

Through meditation and delight in the Teaching, we shall always dwell.

20.

"The cord of existence and ignorance, and formations too are exhausted;

Having gone to the hard-to-see state, please permit us, leader.

21.

"You have been my bastions, acting for a long time;

Having cut off the perplexity of the four, may all go to quenching.

22.

"Having paid homage at the sage's feet, having displayed spiritual power;

Some show light, then others darkness.

23.

"They show the sun and moon, and the ocean with its fish;

They show Sineru and its surroundings, and the Pāricchattaka tree.

24.

"And by spiritual power they show the realm of the Thirty-Three, the Yāma realm;

The Tusita realm, the created deities, and the mighty Vasavattī.

25.

"Some show the brahmās, and the highly worthy walkway;

Having created the form of a brahmā, they teach the Teaching on emptiness.

26.

"Having performed various transformations, having shown spiritual power to the Teacher;

They all showed their power, and paid homage at the Teacher's feet.

27.

"We were masters in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

Of the knowledge of minds, we were masters, O great sage.

28.

"We know our past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

29.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for us, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

30.

"The meeting with previous Leaders of the World has been shown to us;

Many were our services, for your sake, great sage.

31.

"Remember, sage, that wholesome action which was done by us;

For your sake, great hero, we accumulated merits.

32.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, Padumuttara the great sage;

In a city named Haṃsavatī, the clan's abode of the Enlightened One.

33.

"By the gate of Haṃsavatī, the Ganges flows perpetually;

Oppressed by the river, the monks, they could not make the crossing.

34.

"For one day, two or three days, then for seven days, for a month;

Even for a full four months, they could not make the crossing.

35.

"At that time there was Sattasāra, a matted-hair ascetic of the kingdom;

Seeing the monks obstructed, he had a bridge built over the Ganges.

36.

"Then with a hundred thousand, he had a bridge built over the Ganges;

And had a monastery built for the Community on this shore.

37.

"Both women and men, from high and low families;

They shared equally in his bridge and monastery.

38.

"We and other human beings, with a clear mind;

Were heirs to his Teaching, in cities and countries.

39.

"Women, men, boys, and many girls;

They scattered sand at the bridge and monastery.

40.

"Having swept the street and having made offerings of banana plants, full pots, flags,

Incense, powder and garlands, showing respect to the Teacher.

41.

"Having built a bridge and dwelling, having invited the Guide,

Having given a great gift, I aspired to enlightenment.

42.

"Padumuttara the great hero, the saviour of all living beings,

The great sage gave thanks to the matted-hair ascetic.

43.

"'When a hundred thousand have passed, there will be an auspicious aeon;

Having experienced existence after existence, he will attain enlightenment.

44.

"Some men and women who are skilled in massage,

In the future course of time, all will be present before you."

45.

"Through that result of action, and through volition and wishes;

Born in the abode of deities, they are your attendants.

46.

"Divine happiness beyond reckoning, and human happiness beyond reckoning;

We attended upon you, wandering through existence after existence.

47.

"A hundred thousand aeons ago, the accomplishment of well-done action;

Delicate among human beings, and in the excellent city of deities.

48.

"Form, wealth and fame, and also honour and respect;

We constantly gain all due to the success of well done actions.

49.

"When the final existence arrived, we were born in a brahmin family;

With delicate hands and feet, in the dwelling of the Sakyan son.

50.

"At all times we do not see the earth, not decorated;

We do not see the muddy and impure ground, great sage.

51.

"While we lived in houses, honour at all times;

They always bring everything to us, due to the fruit of our past actions.

52.

"Having abandoned the house, having gone forth into homelessness;

We have crossed over the path of the round of births, we have become free from lust.

53.

"Robes, almsfood, requisites and dwelling places;

They always bring to us, thousands from here and there.

54.

"Our defilements are burnt up...etc... we dwell taintless.

55.

"It was indeed a good coming for us...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

56.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the eighty-four thousand Buddhist nuns who were brahmin maidens speak these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.

The Second Attribute of Eighty-Four Thousand Buddhist Nuns.

3.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Uppaladāyikā

57.

"In the city of Aruṇavatī, there was a noble named Aruṇa;

I was that king's wife, we lived together.

58.

"Having sat in seclusion, I thought thus then;

'I have done no wholesome deed that I can take with me.

59.

'Great torment, bitter, horrible and terrifying,

I will surely go to hell, of this I have no doubt'.

60.

"Having reflected thus, gladdening my mind;

Having approached the king, I spoke these words.

61.

"'We women, O king, are inferior to men;

Give me one ascetic, noble one, I will feed him."

62.

"Then the king gave me an ascetic with developed faculties;

Taking his bowl, I filled it with the finest food.

63.

"Having filled it with the finest food, together with fragrant ointment;

Having covered with a great cloth, I gave with a joyful mind.

64.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

65.

"I was made chief queen of a thousand deity kings;

I was made chief queen of a thousand wheel-turning monarchs.

66.

And regional rulership extensively, beyond numerical reckoning;

And various other abundant things, were the fruits of that action.

67.

"My beauty is like a blue lotus, I am lovely and beautiful;

Endowed with all womanly factors, well-born, bearers of light.

68.

When the final existence arrived, I was born in a Sakyan family;

Chief among a thousand women, I was of Suddhodana's son.

69.

Being disgusted with home life, I went forth into homelessness;

When the seventh night arrived, I attained the four truths.

70.

"Robes, almsfood, requisites and dwelling places;

I cannot measure it, this is the fruit of almsfood.

71.

"Remember, sage, the wholesome action that was fulfilled by me;

For your sake, great hero, much was given up by me.

72.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, when I gave that gift;

I do not recall a bad destination, this is the fruit of almsfood.

73.

"I understand two destinations, as deity or human;

I do not know any other destination, this is the fruit of almsfood.

74.

"I am born in a high family, of great wealth and fortune;

I am not born in any other family, this is the fruit of almsfood.

75.

"Having transmigrated through various existences, urged by wholesome roots;

I do not see the disagreeable, this is the fruit of joy.

76.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

77.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

78.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

79.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

80.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

81.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Uppaladāyikā speak these verses in the presence of the Blessed One.

The Third Attribute of the Elder Nun Uppaladāyikā.

4.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Siṅgālamātu

82.

"The Victor named Padumuttara, gone beyond all teachings;

A hundred thousand aeons ago, the leader arose.

83.

"Then in Haṃsavatī, I was born in a minister's family;

Illuminated by various gems, prosperous, flourishing, of great wealth.

84.

"Having gone together with my father, honoured by many people;

Having heard the Teaching of the Enlightened One, I went forth into homelessness.

85.

"Having gone forth, I avoided evil action with the body;

Having abandoned verbal misconduct, I purified my livelihood.

86.

Having confidence in the Buddha and the Teaching, and deep reverence for the Community;

Engaged in listening to the true Teaching, eager for the sight of the Buddha.

87.

"Then I heard of a Buddhist nun foremost among those resolved in faith;

Having aspired for that state, I fulfilled the three trainings.

88.

"Then the Fortunate One, whose heart was filled with compassion, said to me;

'When one's faith in the Truth Finder is unshakeable, well established;

One whose virtue is good, praised by the noble ones,

89.

'Who has confidence in the Community, and whose vision is upright;

They say that one is not poor, that one's life is not in vain.

90.

"Therefore faith and virtue, confidence and vision of the Teaching;

The wise should pursue, remembering the Buddha's Dispensation."

91.

"Having heard that I was delighted, I asked about my wish;

Then Anoma the Immeasurable, the Guide explained:

'Good lady with confidence in the Enlightened One, you will obtain what you have well aspired to.

92.

In a hundred thousand aeons from now, born of the Okkāka clan;

One of the Gotama clan will be a Teacher in the world.

93.

"Heirs to his Teaching, legitimate, created by the Teaching;

The mother of Siṅgālaka will be a disciple of the Teacher."

94.

"Having heard that and being filled with altruistic joy, then for as long as I lived

With a mind of loving-kindness I attended to the Leader with practices.

95.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

96.

"And now in the last existence, in the supreme city of Giribbaja;

Born in a wealthy prosperous family, with a great accumulation of treasure.

97.

"A son named Siṅgālaka was mine, delighting in wrong paths;

Plunging into the thicket of views, devoted to worshipping the directions.

98.

"While he was paying homage to various directions, going to the city for alms,

Having seen him, the Enlightened One, the Guide, standing on the path, exhorted him.

99.

"While he was teaching the Teaching, there was a wonderful sound;

Two crores of men and women had a breakthrough to the Teaching.

100.

"Then I went to the assembly, having heard what the Fortunate One spoke;

Having attained the fruit of stream-entry, I went forth into homelessness.

101.

In no long time, yearning for the vision of the Buddha;

Having developed that recollection, I attained Arahantship.

102.

For the purpose of seeing the Buddha, I always went;

Still unsatisfied I see the form delighting the eyes.

103.

Born of all perfections, the excellent abode of fortune;

The form adorned with all beauty, I dwell still unsatisfied.

104.

"The Victor, pleased with this quality, placed me at the foremost position;

I who was Singalaka's mother, foremost of those with disposition of faith.

105.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

106.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

107.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

108.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

109.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

110.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Siṅgālamātā speak these verses.

The Fourth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Siṅgālamātā.

5.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Sukkā

111.

Ninety-one aeons ago, the leader named Vipassī,

Arose, beautiful to behold, seeing all things.

112.

Then I was born in Bandhumatī, in a certain family;

Having heard the Teaching of the sage, I went forth into homelessness.

113.

Learned, bearing the Teaching, and possessed of ingenuity,

A skilled speaker too, practising the Victor's Dispensation.

114.

"Then having given a talk on the Teaching for the welfare of many people;

After passing away from there, I was reborn in Tusita, glorious.

115.

"Thirty-one aeons ago from now, the Victor Sikhi, like a flame,

Shining with glory in the world, arose as the best of speakers.

116.

"Then too having gone forth, skilled in the Buddha's Dispensation;

Having illuminated the words of the Victor, from there they went to the deva realm.

117.

"Thirty-one aeons ago, a leader named Vessabhū;

Arose with great knowledge, and then too I was just the same.

118.

"Having gone forth bearing the Teaching, I illuminated the Dispensation of the Victor;

Having gone to the delightful city of the devas, I experienced great happiness.

119.

"In this fortunate aeon, Kakusandha, supreme Victor;

Arose as refuge for humans, and then too I was just the same.

120.

"Having gone forth in the sage's doctrine, having illuminated it for the life span;

Passing away from there, I went to the triple heaven, like to my own abode.

121.

"In this very aeon, the Leader Koṇāgamana;

Arose as refuge of the world, free from conflict, gone to the Deathless.

122.

"Then too having gone forth in the Dispensation of such a one;

Learned and bearing the Teaching, I illuminated the Dispensation of the Victor.

123.

"In this very aeon, Kassapa, supreme sage;

Arose as refuge of the world, free from conflict, gone beyond death.

124.

"Having gone forth in the Dispensation of that hero among men;

Having mastered the true Teaching, confident in questioning.

125.

"Of good virtue and modest, skilled in the three trainings;

Having given many talks on the Teaching throughout life, great sage.

126.

"Through that result of action, and through volition and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

127.

"And now in the last existence, in the supreme city of Giribbaja;

Born in a wealthy prosperous family, with a great accumulation of treasure.

128.

"When the Leader of the World, surrounded by a thousand monks,

Approached Rājagaha, praised by the thousand-eyed one.

129.

'Tamed, with those tamed, with the former matted-hair ascetics, freed, with those freed;

Golden-hued like burnished gold, the Blessed One entered Rājagaha'.

130.

"Having seen that power of the Enlightened One, and having heard of his accumulation of virtues;

Having established confidence in the Enlightened One, I honoured him according to my ability.

131.

"Later on, in the presence of Dhammadinnā;

Having left home, I went forth into homelessness.

132.

"When my hair was being cut, I burnt up the defilements;

Having gone forth, in no long time I mastered the entire Teaching.

133.

"Then I taught the Teaching in a great assembly of people;

While the Teaching was being taught, there was a breakthrough of the Teaching.

134.

"Many thousands of living beings, knowing that, were utterly amazed;

The spirit was very pleased with me, having wandered around Giribbaja.

135.

"What are these people in Rājagaha doing, lying down as if they have drunk honey;

Who do not attend upon Sukkā, teaching the term of the Deathless.

136.

And that unremitting, unsurpassable swift one;

The wise ones drink, I think, like travellers from a cloud.

137.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

138.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

139.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

140.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

141.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

142.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Sukkā speak these verses.

The Fifth Attribute of the Elder Nun Sukkā.

The Fifth Section for Recitation.

6.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Abhirūpanandā

143.

Ninety-one aeons ago, the leader named Vipassī,

Arose, beautiful to behold, possessing vision regarding all teachings.

144.

Then I was born in Bandhumatī, in a prosperous, wealthy great family,

Beautiful, beloved, and worthy of veneration by people.

145.

Having approached the great hero, Vipassī, leader of the world,

Having heard the Teaching, I approached the leader of men for refuge.

146.

Having been restrained in virtuous behavior, and when the supreme person was quenched,

Above the element shrine, I offered a golden parasol.

147.

"Having freedom and relinquishment, virtuous in behavior, passing away from there after living my life;

Having abandoned the human body, I was reborn in the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

148.

"Then in ten ways, surpassing the rest;

With forms, sounds, odours, tastes, and touches.

149.

"Also with life span and beauty, happiness and fame;

Likewise with authority, having attained these I shone forth.

150.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in Kapilavatthu;

Daughter of Khemaka the Sakyan, well known by the name of Nanda.

151.

"The perfection of beauty too, was an indication of my loveliness;

When I reached youth, I was adorned with beauty and grace.

152.

"Then among the Sakyans, there was a great dispute about marriage;

Therefore father had me ordained, saying 'May the Sakyans not perish.'

153.

"Having gone forth, I saw the Truth Finder, the supreme person with beautiful form;

Having heard, I did not go, being proud of my form.

154.

"I did not go for exhortation, being afraid of seeing the Enlightened One;

Then the Victor through engagement, having led me to his presence.

155.

"He showed three women, by spiritual power, skilled in the path;

One like a celestial nymph in form, one aged, one dead.

156.

"Having seen those three, deeply stirred, I became dispassionate towards the body;

I stood, weary of existence, then the leader said to me.

157.

"'Sick, impure and foul, behold, Nandā, this body;

Oozing and trickling, delighted in by fools.

158.

Develop the mind on the unattractive, one-pointed and well concentrated;

As this is, so is that; as that is, so is this.

159.

"Contemplating it thus, untiring day and night;

Then through your own wisdom, you will see through it completely."

160.

"Being diligent, examining carefully;

This body has been seen as it really is, both internally and externally.

161.

"Then I grew disenchanted with the body, and became dispassionate internally;

Diligent and unfettered, I am peaceful, quenched.

162.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

163.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

164.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

165.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

166.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

167.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Abhirūpanandā speak these verses.

The Sixth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Abhirūpanandā.

7.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Aḍḍhakāsi

168.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

169.

"Then having gone forth in that Enlightened One's Teaching;

Restrained in the code of monastic rules and in the five faculties.

170.

"Being moderate in eating, and devoted to wakefulness;

Living devoted to exertion, a Buddhist nun with taints destroyed.

171.

"With a corrupted mind I insulted her, calling her a courtesan then;

Through that evil action, I was tormented in hell.

172.

"Through that remaining action, I was born in a courtesan's family;

Much dependent on others, in my final birth.

173.

"Born in a merchant's family in Kāsi, through the power of living the holy life,

Like a celestial nymph among deities, I was endowed with beauty.

174.

"Having seen me, a lovely sight, in the supreme city of Giribbaja;

They made me a courtesan, by the power of abuse.

175.

"Having heard the true Teaching, taught by the supreme Buddha;

Endowed with past merit, I went forth into homelessness.

176.

"Then going to the Victor's presence for higher ordination;

Having heard there were rogues waiting on the path, I received ordination through a messenger.

177.

"All actions are exhausted, both merit and evil alike;

I have crossed over all rounds of births, and the state of being a courtesan is destroyed.

178.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

179.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

180.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

Knowledge for me, O great hero, arisen in your presence.

181.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

182.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

183.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Aḍḍhakāsi speak these verses.

The Seventh: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Aḍḍhakāsī.

8.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Puṇṇikā

184.

"Of the Blessed One Vipassī, of Sikhī, and of Vessabhu;

Of the sage Kakusandha, of Koṇāgamana, such a one.

185.

"And in the Enlightened One Kassapa's Teaching, having gone forth,

A nun endowed with virtue, alert, with restrained faculties.

186.

"Learned, bearing the Teaching, inquiring into the meaning of the Teaching;

A learner of the teachings, a listener and an attendant.

187.

"I was teaching in the midst of people, in the Buddha's Dispensation;

Because of my great learning, I was arrogant towards virtuous ones.

188.

"And now in the last existence, in the supreme city of Savatthi;

I was born in Anathapindika's house, to a slave woman who carried water.

189.

"Gone to fetch water, I saw a learned brahmin;

Standing in the middle of cold water, having seen him I said this.

190.

"'I was a water-carrier in the cold, always going down into the water,

Fearful of the masters' stick, frightened by the fault of harsh speech.

191.

"'What are you afraid of, brahmin, that you always go down into the water;

With trembling limbs you feel intense cold.'

192.

"'Knowing me indeed, madam, you ask me, Puṇṇikā,

Doing wholesome action, restraining evil done.

193.

"Whether old or young, one who does an evil action;

Even that one, by ablution with water, is freed from evil action."

194.

"I explained to him as he was crossing, a term connected with the Teaching and the good;

Having heard that, he was moved and, having gone forth, became an arahant.

195.

"Since I was born in a slave family, making up less than a hundred,

Therefore my name was Puṇṇā, they made me free.

196.

"Then having obtained permission from the merchant, I went forth into homelessness;

In no long time, I attained Arahantship.

197.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

198.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

199.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

My knowledge is stainless and pure, through the supreme Enlightened One's teaching.

200.

Through development there is great wisdom, through learning there is much learning;

Through conceit one is born in a low family, for action does not perish.

201.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

202.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

203.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Puṇṇikā speak these verses.

The Eighth: The Attribute of the Elder Nun Puṇṇikā.

9.

The Attribute of the Elder Nun Ambapāli

204.

"He whose rays emitted light, named Phussa, the great sage;

I was his sister, born in a noble family.

205.

"Having heard his Teaching, with a clear mind;

Having given a great gift, I aspired for beauty.

206.

"Thirty-one aeons ago from now, Sikhī, the foremost leader of the world;

The Victor, the light of the world, refuge of the three worlds, arose.

207.

"Then in delightful Aruṇa city, born in a brahmin family;

Angry at one with liberated mind, I cursed the Buddhist nun.

208.

"Like an immoral prostitute, a corrupter of the Victor's Dispensation;

Having thus reviled her, due to that evil action.

209.

"Having gone to terrible hell, subjected to great suffering;

Passing away from there, I was reborn among human beings as an ascetic.

210.

"For ten thousand births, I was made to be a courtesan;

From that evil I was not freed, just as from consuming deadly poison.

211.

"I practised the holy life, in Kassapa's Dispensation;

Through that result of action, I was born in the city of the Thirty-Three.

212.

"When the final existence arrived, I was spontaneously reborn;

Born among the mango branches, therefore I am Ambapālī.

213.

"Surrounded by ten million living beings, I went forth in the Victor's Dispensation;

I have attained the unshakeable state, a daughter born of the Enlightened One's breast.

214.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the purification of the element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

215.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

216.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

My knowledge is stainless and pure, through the supreme Enlightened One's teaching.

217.

"My defilements are burnt up...etc... I dwell taintless.

218.

"It was indeed a good coming for me...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done.

219.

"The four analytical knowledges...etc... the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Ambapāli speak these verses.

Speak these verses.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Ambapālī, the ninth.

10.

The Apadāna of the Elder Nun Pesalā

220.

"In this fortunate aeon, a kinsman of brahmās of great fame;

Named Kassapa by clan, arose as the best of speakers.

221.

"In the excellent city of Sāvatthī, I was born in a family of lay followers;

Having seen that supreme Victor and heard the Teaching,

222.

"Having gone to that hero for refuge, I undertook the precepts;

Sometimes that great hero, in a great assembly of people.

223.

"The bull among men proclaimed his own enlightenment;

About things unheard before, beginning with suffering.

224.

"Vision, knowledge, wisdom, true knowledge and light arose in me;

Having heard and learned that, I questioned the monks.

225.

"By that well-done action, and by volitions and wishes;

Having abandoned the human body, I went to the Tāvatiṃsa realm.

226.

"And now in the last existence, I was born in a great wealthy family;

Having approached the Buddha and the true Teaching, having heard what is connected with truth.

227.

"Having gone forth before long, I reflected on the meaning of truth;

Having destroyed all taints, I attained Arahantship.

228.

"I am a master in spiritual powers, in the divine element of ear;

In the knowledge of others' minds, I am a master, O Great Sage.

229.

"I know my past lives, the divine eye is purified;

All taints are completely destroyed, now there is no renewed existence.

230.

"In meaning, Teaching, language, and likewise in discernment;

My knowledge is stainless and pure, through the supreme Enlightened One's teaching.

231.

"My defilements are burnt up, all existences are destroyed;

Like a female bull elephant breaking its bondage, I dwell taintless.

232.

"It was indeed a good coming for me, in the presence of the Buddha;

The three true knowledges have been attained, the Buddha's teaching has been done.

233.

"The four analytical knowledges, and also these eight liberations;

The six direct knowledges are realized, the Buddha's Teaching has been done."

Thus indeed did the Buddhist nun Pesalā speak these verses.

Tenth is the Attribute of Elder Nun Pesalā.

Fourth is the Chapter on Khattiyā.

Here is its summary -

Noble lady and brahmin lady, and likewise the lotus-giver;

Siṅgāla's mother and Sukkā, and beautiful Aḍḍhakāsikā.

And Puṇṇā and Ambapālī, and Pesalā - these are the ten;

The verses here are two hundred and forty-two more.

Then the chapter summary -

Sumedhā, Ekūposathā, Kuṇḍalakesī, and Noble lady;

One thousand three hundred verses, forty-seven collected.

Together with summary verses, counted by the wise;

One thousand three hundred and fifty-seven verses.

The Attributes of the Elder Nuns is completed.

The Text of the Attributes is completed.

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