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Samyutta Nikaya:5.Mahavagga-The Great Book[]
Chapter 3 : Connected Discourses on Establishment of Meditation (Satipatthanasamyutta) {Samyutta-47}[]
(i) Ambapali[]
367. Ambapali (Regarding Sampajano complete comprehension (sampajanna)[]
Thus have I heard(from Lord Buddha, says Ananda). On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Vesali in Ambapali's Grove. There the Lord (Buddha) addressed the bhikkhus thus: "Bhikkhus(monks) !" 122
"Venerable sir!" the bhikkhus replied. The Lord (Buddha) said this:
"Bhikkhus(Monks), this is the one-way path for the purification of beings, for the overcoming of sorrow and lamentation, for the passing away of pain and displeasure, for the achievement of the method, for the realization of Nibbana, that is, the four establishments of meditation(sati). 123 What four?
"Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world . 124 Dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on mind in mind, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"This, bhikkhus, is the one-way path for the purification of beings, for the overcoming of sorrow and lamentation, for the passing away of pain and displeasure, for the achievement of the method, for the realization of Nibbana, that is, the four establishments of meditation."
This is what the Lord (Buddha) said. Elated, those bhikkhus delighted in the Lord (Buddha)'s statement.
368. Meditation (Sati sans. Smriti) []
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Vesali in Ambapali's Grove. There the Lord (Buddha) addressed the bhikkhus thus: "Bhikkhus(monks)!"
"Venerable sir!" the bhikkhus replied. The Lord (Buddha) said this:
"Bhikkhus(Monks), a bhikkhu should dwell meditative(satima) and completely comprehending (sampajano): this is our instruction to you. 125
"And how, bhikkhus, is a bhikkhu meditative? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body(kayanupassi), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. It is in this way, bhikkhus, that a bhikkhu is meditative.
"And how, bhikkhus, does a bhikkhu exercise complete comprehension (sampajanna)? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu is one who acts with complete comprehension when going forward and returning; when looking ahead and looking aside; when drawing in and extending the limbs; when wearing his robes and carrying his outer robe and bowl; when eating, drinking, chewing his food, and tasting; when defecating and urinating; when walking, standing, sitting, falling asleep, waking up, speaking, and keeping silent. It is in such a way that a bhikkhu exercises complete comprehension.
"Bhikkhus, a bhikkhu should dwell meditative(satima) and completely comprehending (sampajano). This is our instruction to you."
369. A Bhikkhu[]
(ON 4 SATI-PATTHANA/PRATISHTHAN i.e. MEDITATION ON KAYA,VEDANA,CITTA & DHAMMA IN THREE-FOLD MANNER INNNER,OUTER & BOTH INNER+OUTER)
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Savatthi in Jeta's-Grove(Jetvana), Anathapindika's Park. Then a certain bhikkhu(monk) approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him:
"Venerable sir, it would be good if the Lord (Buddha) would teach me the dhamma(path,law) in brief, so that, having heard the Dhamma from the Lord (Buddha), I might dwell alone, withdrawn, alertful(appamada), ardent, and resolute."
"It is in just such a way that some childish(unwise) persons here make requests of me, but when the Dhamma has been spoken to them, they think only of following me around." 126
"Let the Lord (Buddha) teach me the Dhamma in brief! Let the Fortunate One(Sugato) teach me the Dhamma in brief! Perhaps I may understand the meaning of the Lord (Buddha)'s statement; perhaps I may become an heir of the Lord (Buddha)'s statement."
"Well then, bhikkhu, purify the very starting point of beneficial(kusala sans. kushal) states. And what is the starting point of beneficial(kusala) states? Virtue(sheel) that is well purified and view that is straight. 127 Then, bhikkhu, when your virtue is well purified and your view straight, based upon virtue, established upon virtue, you should develop the four establishments of meditation(sati) in a threefold way.
"What four? (1) Here, bhikkhu, dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body (i)internally(ajjhatam), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. Dwell watching-in-meditation on the body in the body (ii)externally(bahiddha), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. Dwell watching-in-meditation on the body in the body (iii)internally and externally, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. 128
"(2) Dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) (i)internally . . . (ii)externally ... (iii)internally and externally, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
(3) Dwell watching-in-meditation on mind in mind (i)internally ... (ii)externally ... (iii)internally and externally, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
(4) Dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), (i)internally . . . (ii)externally . . . (iii)internally and externally, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"When, bhikkhu, based upon virtue, established upon virtue, you develop these four establishments of meditation thus in a threefold way, then, whether night or day comes, you may expect only growth in beneficial(kusala) states, not loss."
Then that bhikkhu, having delighted and rejoiced in the Lord (Buddha)' s statement, rose from his seat and, after paying homage to the Lord (Buddha), he departed keeping him on his right.
Then, dwelling alone, withdrawn, alertful(appamada), ardent, and resolute, that bhikkhu, by realizing it for himself with divine-knowledge(abhinna), in this very life entered and dwelt in that unsurpassed goal of the holy celibate life(brahmacariya) for the sake of which clansmen rightly go forth from the household life into hermit life. He directly knew:
"Destroyed is rebirth, the holy celibate life(brahmacariya) has been lived, what had to be done has been done, there is no more for this state of being." And that bhikkhu became one of the arahants.
370. At Sala[]
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling among the Kosalans at the brahmin village of Sala. There the Lord (Buddha) addressed the bhikkhus thus:
"Bhikkhus(Monks), those bhikkhus who are newly ordained, not long gone-forth(initiated,pabajjit), recently come to this dhamma(path,law) and Discipline, should be instructed, settled, and established by you in the development of the four establishments(patthana/pratishthan) of meditation(sati). What four?
"'Come, friends, dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), unified, with limpid mind, in-samadhi(trance)state, with one-pointed mind, in order to know the body as it really is. Dwell watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... in order to know sensations(vedana) as they really are. Dwell watching-in-meditation on mind in mind ... in order to know mind as it really is. Dwell watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma) ... in order to know phenomena(dhamma) as they really are.'
"Bhikkhus, those bhikkhus who are trainees, who have not attained their mind's ideal, who dwell aspiring for the unsurpassed security from bondage: they too dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), unified, with limpid mind, in-samadhi(trance)state, with one-pointed mind, in order to fully understand the body as it really is. They too dwell watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... in order to fully understand sensations(vedana) as they really are. They too dwell watching-in-meditation on mind in mind ... in order to fully understand mind as it really is. They too dwell watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma) ... in order to fully understand phenomena(dhamma) as they really are.
"Bhikkhus, those bhikkhus who are arahants, whose defilements are destroyed, who have lived the holy celibate life(brahmacariya), done what had to be done, laid down the burden, reached their own goal, utterly destroyed the fetters of existence(bhavo), and are completely liberated through final knowledge: they too dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), unified, with limpid mind, in-samadhi(trance)state, with one-pointed mind, detached from the body. They too dwell watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... detached from sensations(vedana). They too dwell watching-in-meditation on mind in mind ... detached from mind. They too dwell watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma) . . . detached from phenomena(dhamma).
"Bhikkhus, those bhikkhus who are newly ordained, not long gone-forth(initiated,pabajjit), recently come to this Dhamma and Discipline, should be instructed, settled, and established by you in the development of these four establishments(patthana/pratishthan) of meditation(sati)."
371. A Heap of the Harmful (Akusalarasi)[]
At Savatthi. There the Lord (Buddha) said this: "Bhikkhus(monks), if one were to say of anything 'a heap of the harmful(akusala sans. akushal)' it is about the five hindrances that one could rightly say this. For this is a complete heap of the harmful(akusala), that is, the five hindrances. What five? The hindrance of sensual desire, the hindrance of ill will, the hindrance of sloth and torpor, the hindrance of restlessness and remorse, the hindrance of doubt. If one were to say of anything 'a heap of the harmful(akusala)' it is about these five hindrances that one could rightly say this. For this is a complete heap of the harmful(akusala), that is, the five hindrances.
"If, bhikkhus, one were to say of anything 'a heap of the beneficial(kusala sans. kushal)' it is about the four establishments of meditation(sati) that one could rightly say this. For this is a complete heap of the beneficial(kusala), that is, the four establishments of meditation. What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. 129 If one were to say of anything 'a heap of the beneficial(kusala)' it is about these four establishments of meditation that one could rightly say this. For this is a complete heap of the beneficial(kusala), that is, the four establishments of meditation."
372. The Hawk (Sakunagghi)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), once in the past a hawk suddenly swooped down and seized a quail. 130 Then, while the quail was being carried off by the hawk, he lamented: 'We were so unlucky, of so little divine-merit(punya)! We strayed out of our own area into the domain of others. If we had stayed in our own area today, in our own ancestral domain, this hawk wouldn't have stood a chance against me in a fight.' - 'But what is your own area, quail, what is your own ancestral domain?' - 'The freshly ploughed field covered with clods of soil.'
"Then the hawk, confident of her own strength, not boasting of her own strength, 131 released(in mokkha/moksha) the quail, saying: 'Go now, quail, but even there you won't escape me.'
"Then, bhikkhus, the quail went to a freshly ploughed field covered with clods of soil. Having climbed up on a large clod, he stood there and addressed the hawk: 'Come get me now, hawk! Come get me now, hawk!'
"Then the hawk, confident of her own strength, not boasting of her own strength, folded up both her wings and suddenly swooped down on the quail. But when the quail knew, 'That hawk has come close,' he slipped inside that clod, and the hawk shattered her breast right on the spot. So it is, bhikkhus, when one strays outside one's own area into the domain of others.
"Therefore, bhikkhus, do not stray outside your own area into the domain of others. Mara(Satan) will gain access to those who stray outside their own area into the domain of others; Mara will get a hold on them. 132
"And what is not a bhikkhu's own area but the domain of others? It is the five cords of sensual pleasure. What five? Forms cognizable by the eye that are desirable, lovely, agreeable, pleasing, sensually enticing, tantalizing. Sounds cognizable by the ear ... Odours cognizable by the nose ... Tastes cognizable by the tongue ... Tactile objects cognizable by the body that are desirable, lovely, agreeable, pleasing, sensually enticing, tantalizing. These are the five cords of sensual pleasure. This is what is not a bhikkhu's own area but the domain of others.
"Move in your own area, bhikkhus, in your own ancestral domain. Mara will not gain access to those who move in their own area, in their own ancestral domain; Mara will not get a hold on them.
"And what is a bhikkhu's area, his own ancestral domain? It is the four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. This is a bhikkhu's area, his own ancestral domain."
373. The Monkey (Makkata sans. Markat)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), in the Himalayas, the king of mountains, there are rugged and uneven zones where neither monkeys nor human beings can go; there are rugged and uneven zones where monkeys can go but not human beings; there are even and delightful regions where both monkeys and human beings can go. There, along the monkey trails, hunters set out traps of pitch for catching monkeys.
"Those monkeys who are not childish(unwise) and frivolous, when they see the pitch, avoid it from afar. But a monkey who is childish(unwise) and frivolous approaches the pitch and seizes it with his hand; he gets caught there. Thinking, 'I will free my hand' he seizes it with his other hand; he gets caught there. Thinking, 'I will free both hands' he seizes it with his foot; he gets caught there. Thinking, I will free both hands and my foot' he seizes it with his other foot; he gets caught there.' Thinking, 'I will free both hands and feet' he applies his muzzle to it; he gets caught there.
"Thus, bhikkhus, that monkey, trapped at five points, lies there screeching. He has met with calamity and disaster and the hunter can do with him as he wishes. The hunter spears him, fastens him to that same block of wood, 133 and goes off where he wants. So it is, bhikkhus, when one strays outside one's own resort into the domain of others.
"Therefore, bhikkhus, do not stray outside your own resort into the domain of others. Mara(Satan) will gain access to those who stray outside their own resort into the domain of others; Mara will get a hold on them.
"And what is not a bhikkhu's own resort but the domain of others? It is the five cords of sensual pleasure .... (as above) . . . This is what is not a bhikkhu's own resort but the domain of others.
"Move in your own resort, bhikkhus, in your own ancestral domain. Mara will not gain access to those who move in their own resort, in their own ancestral domain; Mara will not get a hold on them.
"And what is a bhikkhu's resort, his own ancestral domain? It is the four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. This is a bhikkhu's resort, his own ancestral domain."
374. The Cook (Sood)[]
(i. The incompetent cook)
"Bhikkhus(monks), suppose a childish(unwise), incompetent, unskilful cook were to present a king or a royal minister with various kinds of curries: sour, bitter, pungent, sweet, sharp, mild, salty, bland.
"That childish(unwise), incompetent, unskilful cook does not pickup the sign of his own master's preference: 134 'Today this curry pleased my master, or he reached for this one, or he took a lot of this one, or he spoke in praise of this one; or the sour curry pleased my master today, or he reached for the sour one, or he took a lot of the sour one, or he spoke in praise of the sour one; or the bitter curry ... or the pungent curry ... or the sweet curry ... or the sharp curry ... or the mild curry ... or the salty curry ... or the bland curry pleased my master ... or he spoke in praise of the bland one.'
"That childish(unwise), incompetent, unskilful cook does not gain [gifts of] clothing, wages, and bonuses. For what reason? Because that childish(unwise), incompetent, unskilful cook does not pick up the sign of his own master's preference.
"So too, bhikkhus, here some childish(unwise), incompetent, unskilful bhikkhu(monk) dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. While he dwells watching-in-meditation on the body in the body, his mind does not become in-samadhi(trance)state, his corruptions(upkilesa) are not abandoned, he does not pick up that causative(sign,nimitta). 135 He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. While he dwells watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), his mind does not become in-samadhi(trance)state, his corruptions(upkilesa) are not abandoned, he does not pick up that causative(sign,nimitta).
"That childish(unwise), incompetent, unskilful bhikkhu does not gain pleasant dwellings in this very life, nor does he gain meditation(sati) and complete comprehension (sampajanna). For what reason? Because, bhikkhus, that childish(unwise), incompetent, unskilful bhikkhu does not pick up the causative(sign,nimitta) of his own mind.
(ii. The competent cook)
"Suppose, bhikkhus, a wise, competent, skilful cook were to present a king or a royal minister with various kinds of curries: sour, bitter, pungent, sweet, sharp, mild, salty, bland. 136
"That wise, competent, skilful cook picks up the sign of his own master's preference: 'Today this curry pleased my master ... or he spoke in praise of the bland one.'
"That wise, competent, skilful cook gains [gifts of] clothing, wages, and bonuses. For what reason? Because that wise, competent, skilful cook picks up the sign of his own master's preference.
"So too, bhikkhus, here some wise, competent, skilful bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. While he dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, his mind becomes in-samadhi(trance)state, his corruptions(upkilesa) are abandoned, he picks up that causative(sign,nimitta). He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. While he dwells watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), his mind becomes in-samadhi(trance)state, his corruptions(upkilesa) are abandoned, he picks up that causative(sign,nimitta).
"That wise, competent, skilful bhikkhu gains pleasant dwellings in this very life, and he gains meditation and complete comprehension (sampajanna). For what reason? Because, bhikkhus, that wise competent, skilful bhikkhu picks up the causative(sign,nimitta) of his own mind " '
375. Illness (Gilana)[]
Thus have I heard(from Lord Buddha, says Ananda). 137 On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Vesali in Beluvagamaka. There the Lord (Buddha) addressed the bhikkhus thus:
"Come, bhikkhus, enter upon the rains wherever you have friends, acquaintances, and intimates in the vicinity of Vesali. I myself will enter upon the rains right here in Beluvagamaka."
"Yes, venerable sir," those bhikkhus replied, and they entered upon the rains wherever they had friends, acquaintances, and intimates in the vicinity of Vesali, while the Lord (Buddha) entered upon the rains right there in Beluvagamaka.
Then, when the Lord (Buddha) had entered upon the rains, a severe illness arose in him and terrible pains bordering on death assailed him. But the Lord (Buddha) endured them, meditative(satima) and completely comprehending (sampajano), without becoming distressed. Then the thought occurred to the Lord (Buddha): "It is not proper for me to attain final Nibbana without having addressed my attendants and taken leave of the bhikkhu(monk) Sangha(fraternity). Let me then suppress this illness by means of energetic-strength(viriya) and live on, having resolved upon the life sankhara(volition)." 138 Then the Lord (Buddha) suppressed that illness by means of energetic-strength and lived on, having resolved upon the life sankhara(volition).
The Lord (Buddha) then recovered from that illness. Soon after he had recovered, he came out from his dwelling and sat down in the seat that had been prepared in the shade behind the dwelling. The Venerable Ananda then approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him: "It's splendid, venerable sir, that the Lord (Buddha) is bearing up, splendid that he has recovered! 139 But, venerable sir, when the Lord (Buddha) was ill my body seemed as if it were drugged, I had become disoriented, the teachings were not clear to me. Nevertheless, I had this much consolation: that the Lord (Buddha) would not attain final Nibbana without having made some pronouncement concerning the Bhikkhu Sangha."
"What does the Bhikkhu Sangha now expect from me, Ananda? I have taught the dhamma(path,law), Ananda, without making a distinction between inside and outside. 140 The Tathagata has no closed fist of a teacher in regard to the teachings. If, Ananda, anyone thinks, 'I will take charge of the Bhikkhu Sangha' or The 'Bhikkhu Sangha is under my direction' it is he who should make some pronouncement concerning the Bhikkhu Sangha. But, Ananda, it does not occur to the Tathagata, 'I will take charge of the Bhikkhu Sangha,' or "The Bhikkhu Sangha is under my direction' so why should the Tathagata make some pronouncement concerning the Bhikkhu Sangha? Now I am old, Ananda, aged, burdened with years, advanced in life, come to the last stage. My age is now turning eighty. Just as an old cart keeps going by a combination of straps, 141 so it seems the body of the Tathagata keeps going by a combination of straps.
"Whenever, Ananda, by nonattention to all causative(nimitta) and by the cessation(nirodha) of certain sensations(vedana), the Tathagata enters and dwells in the noncausative(animitta) samadhi(trance)state of mind, on that occasion, Ananda, the body of the Tathagata is more comfortable. Therefore, Ananda, dwell with yourselves as your own island, with yourselves as your own refuge, with no other refuge; dwell with the Dhamma(light with in brain & spine) as your island, with the Dhamma as your refuge, with no other refuge. And how, Ananda, does a bhikkhu dwell with himself as his own island, with himself as his own refuge, with no other refuge; with the Dhamma as his island, with the Dhamma as his refuge, with no other refuge? Here, Ananda, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells (starting with) watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ...(finally) phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano, both inside & outside i.e. light within brain & spine and also outer body), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"Those bhikkhus, Ananda, either now or after I am gone, who dwell with themselves as their own island, with themselves as their own refuge, with no other refuge; with the Dhamma(light within brain & spine) as their island, with the Dhamma as their refuge, with no other refuge - it is these bhikkhus, Ananda, who will be for me topmost of those keen on the training." 143
376. The Bhikkhunis' Quarter[]
Then in the morning the Venerable Ananda dressed and, taking bowl and robe, he approached the bhikkhunis' quarters and sat down in the appointed seat. Then a number of bhikkhunis approached the Venerable Ananda, paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him:
"Here, Venerable Ananda, a number of bhikkhunis, dwelling with their minds well established in the four establishments of meditation(sati), perceive successively loftier stages of distinction."
"So it is, sisters, so it is! It may be expected of anyone, sisters -whether bhikkhu(monk) or bhikkhuni(nun) - who dwells with a mind well established in the four establishments of meditation, that such a one will perceive successively loftier stages of distinction."
Then the Venerable Ananda instructed, inspired, and gladdened those bhikkhunis with a dhamma(path,law) talk, after which he rose from his seat and left. Then the Venerable Ananda walked for alms in Savatthi. When he had returned from the alms round, after his meal he approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and reported all that had happened.
[The Lord (Buddha) said:]
"So it is, Ananda, so it is! It may be expected of anyone, Ananda - whether bhikkhu or bhikkhuni - who dwells with a mind well established in the four establishments of meditation(sati), that such a one will perceive successively loftier stages of distinction.
"What four? Here, Ananda, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. While he is watching-in-meditation on the body in the body, there arises in him, based on the body, either a fever in the body or sluggishness of mind, or the mind is distracted outwardly. That bhikkhu should then direct his mind towards some inspiring causative(nimitta). 145 When he directs his mind towards some inspiring causative(nimitta), gladness is born. When he is gladdened, bliss(piti/preeti) is born. When the mind is uplifted by bliss(piti/preeti), the body becomes tranquil. One tranquil in body experiences happiness(sukh). The mind of one who is happy becomes in-samadhi(trance)state. He thinks: 'The purpose for the sake of which I directed my mind has been achieved. Let me now withdraw it.' 146 So he withdraws the mind and does not think or examine. He understands: 'Without thought and examination, internally meditative, I am happy.' 147
"Again, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. While he is watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), there arises in him, based on phenomena(dhamma), either a fever in the body or sluggishness of mind, or the mind is distracted outwardly. That bhikkhu should then direct his mind towards some inspiring causative(nimitta). When he directs his mind towards some inspiring causative(nimitta) ... He understands: 'Without thought and examination, internally meditative, I am happy.'
"It is in such a way, Ananda, that there is development by direction. 148
"And how, Ananda, is there development without direction? Not directing his mind outwardly, a bhikkhu understands: 'My mind is not directed outwardly.' Then he understands: 'It is unconstricted after and before, liberated(vimutta sans. vimukt), undirected.' 149 Then he further understands: 'I dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima); I am happy.'
"Not directing his mind outwardly, a bhikkhu understands:
'My mind is not directed outwardly.' Then he understands: 'It is unconstricted after and before, liberated, undirected.' Then he further understands: 'I dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative; I am happy.'
"Not directing his mind outwardly, a bhikkhu understands:
'My mind is not directed outwardly.' Then he understands: 'It is unconstricted after and before, liberated, undirected.' Then he further understands: 'I dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on mind in mind, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative; I am happy.'
"Not directing his mind outwardly, a bhikkhu understands:
'My mind is not directed outwardly.' Then he understands: 'It is unconstricted after and before, liberated, undirected.' Then he further understands: 'I dwell watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima); I am happy.'
"It is in this way, Ananda, that there is development without direction.
"Thus, Ananda, I have taught development by direction, I have taught development without direction. Whatever should be done, Ananda, by a compassionate teacher out of compassion for his disciples, desiring their welfare, that I have done for you These are the feet of trees, Ananda, these are empty huts Meditate, Ananda, do not be slothful(pamada), lest you regret it later This is our instruction to you."
This is what the Lord (Buddha) said. Elated, the Venerable Ananda delighted in the Lord (Buddha)'s statement.
(ii) Nalanda[]
377. A Great Man (Mahapurisa)[]
At Savatthi. Then the Venerable Sariputta approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him:
"Venerable sir, it is said, 'a great man, a great man.' 150 In what way, venerable sir, is one a great man?"
"With a liberated(vimutta sans. vimukt) mind, I say, Sariputta, one is a great man. Without a liberated mind, I say, one is not a great man.
"And how, Sariputta, does one have a liberated mind? Here, Sariputta, a bhikkhu(monk) dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. As he dwells watching-in-meditation on the body in the body, the mind becomes dispassionate, and by nonclinging it is liberated from the defilements.
"He dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. As he dwells watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), the mind becomes dispassionate, and by nonclinging it is liberated from the defilements.
"It is in such a way, Sariputta, that one has a liberated(vimutta sans. vimukt) mind. With a liberated mind, I say, Sariputta, one is a great man. Without a liberated mind, I say, one is not a great man."
378. Nalanda[]
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Nalanda in Pavarika's-Mango-Grove(Pavarik-AmbaVana). 151 Then the Venerable Sariputta approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him:
"Venerable sir, I have such confidence in the Lord (Buddha) that I believe there has not been nor ever will be nor exists at present another ascetic or brahmin more knowledgeable than the Lord (Buddha) with respect to enlightenment."
"Lofty indeed is this bellowing utterance of yours, Sariputta, you have roared a definitive, categorical lion's roar: 152 'Venerable sir, I have such confidence in the Lord (Buddha) that I believe there has not been nor ever will be nor exists at present another ascetic or brahmin more knowledgeable than the Lord (Buddha) with respect to enlightenment.' Have you now, Sariputta, encompassed with your mind the minds of all the Arahants, the Perfectly Enlightened Ones, arisen in the past and known thus:
'Those Lords (Buddhas) were of such virtue(sheel), or of such qualities, or of such illuminated-insight(panna), or of such dwellings, or of such liberation(vimutti sans. vimukti)'?" 153
"No, venerable sir."
"Then, Sariputta, have you encompassed with your mind the minds of all the Arahants, the Perfectly Enlightened Ones, who will arise in the future and known thus: 'Those Lord (Buddha)s will be of such virtue, or of such qualities, or of such panna(illuminated-insight), or of such dwellings, or of such liberation'?"
"No, venerable sir."
"Then, Sariputta, have you encompassed with your mind my own mind - I being at present the Arahant, the Perfectly Enlightened One - and known thus: 'The Lord (Buddha) is of such virtue, or of such qualities, or of such illuminated-insight(panna), or of such dwellings, or of such liberation'?"
"No, venerable sir."
"Sariputta, when you do not have any knowledge encompassing the minds of the Arahants, the Perfectly Enlightened Ones of the past, the future, and the present, why do you utter this lofty, bellowing utterance and roar this definitive, categorical lion's roar: 'Venerable sir, I have such confidence in the Lord (Buddha) that I believe there has not been nor ever will be nor exists at present another ascetic or brahmin more knowledgeable than the Lord (Buddha) with respect to enlightenment'?"
"I do not have, venerable sir, any knowledge encompassing the minds of the Arahants, the Perfectly Enlightened Ones of the past, the future, and the present, but still I have understood this by inference from the dhamma(path,law). 154 Suppose, venerable sir, a king had a frontier city with strong ramparts, walls, and arches, and with a single gate. The gatekeeper posted there would be wise competent, and intelligent; one who keeps out strangers and admits acquaintances. While he is walking along the path that encircles the city he would not see a cleft or an opening in the walls even big enough for a cat to slip through. He might think:
'Whatever large creatures enter or leave this city, all enter and leave through this one gate.
"So too, venerable sir, I have understood this by inference from the Dhamma: Whatever Arahants, Perfectly Enlightened Ones arose in the past, all those Lord (Buddha)s had first abandoned the five hindrances,corruptions(upkilesa) of the mind and weakeners of panna(illuminated-insight); and then, with their minds well established in the four establishments of meditation(sati), they had developed correctly the seven factors of enlightenment; and thereby they had awakened to the unsurpassed perfect enlightenment. 155 And, venerable sir, whatever Arahants, Perfectly Enlightened Ones will arise in the future, all those Lord (Buddha)s will first abandon the five hindrances,corruptions(upkilesa) of the mind and weakeners of illuminated-insight(panna); and then, with their minds well established in the four establishments of meditation, they will develop correctly the seven factors of enlightenment; and thereby they will awaken to the unsurpassed perfect enlightenment. And, venerable sir, the Lord (Buddha), who is at present the Arahant, the Perfectly Enlightened One, first abandoned the five hindrances,corruptions(upkilesa) of the mind and weakeners of panna(illuminated-insight); and then, with his mind well established in the four establishments of meditation, he developed correctly the seven factors of enlightenment; and thereby he has awakened to the unsurpassed perfect enlightenment."
"Good, good, Sariputta! Therefore, Sariputta, you should repeat this Dhamma exposition frequently to the bhikkhus and the bhikkhunis, to the male lay followers and the female lay followers. Even though some childish(unwise) people may have perplexity or uncerdefilementy regarding the Tathagata, when they hear this Dhamma exposition their perplexity or uncerdefilementy regarding the Tathagata will be abandoned." 156
379. Cunda[]
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Savatthi m Jeta's-Grove(Jetvana), Anathapindika's Park. 157 Now on that occasion the Venerable Sariputta was dwelling among the Magadhans at Nalakagama - sick, afflicted, gravely ill - and the novice Cunda was his attendant. 158 Then, because of that illness, the Venerable Sariputta attained final Nibbana.
The novice Cunda, taking the Venerable Sariputta's bowl and robe, went to Savatthi, to Jeta's-Grove(Jetvana), Anathapindika's Park. There he approached the Venerable Ananda, paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him: "Venerable sir, the Venerable Sariputta has attained final Nibbana. This is his bowl and robe."
"Friend Cunda, we should see the Lord (Buddha) about this piece of news. Come, friend Cunda, let us go to the Lord (Buddha) and report this matter to him."
"Yes, venerable sir," the novice Cunda replied.
Then the Venerable Ananda and the novice Cunda approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, and sat down to one side. The Venerable Ananda then said to the Lord (Buddha): "This novice Cunda, venerable sir, says that the Venerable Sariputta has attained final Nibbana, and this is his bowl and robe. Venerable sir, since I heard that the Venerable Sariputta has attained final Nibbana, my body seems as if it has been drugged, I have become disoriented, the teachings are no longer clear to me." 159
"Why, Ananda, when Sariputta attained final Nibbana, did he take away your aggregate(khandha sans. skandha) of virtue(sheel), or your aggregate of samadhi(trance)state, or your aggregate of illuminated-insight(panna), or your aggregate of liberation(vimutti sans. vimukti), or your aggregate of the knowledge and vision of liberation?" 160
"No, he did not, venerable sir. But for me the Venerable Sariputta was an advisor and counsellor, one who instructed, inspired, and gladdened me. 161 He was unwearying in teaching the dhamma(path,law); he was helpful to his brothers in the holy celibate life(brahmacariya). We recollect the nourishment of Dhamma, the wealth of Dhamma, the help of Dhamma given by the Venerable Sariputta."
"But have I not already declared, Ananda, that we must be parted, separated, and severed from all who are dear and agreeable to us? How, Ananda, is it to be obtained here: 'May what is born come to be, conditioned(sankhatam), and subject to disintegration not disintegrate!'? That is impossible. It is just as if the largest branch would break off a great tree standing possessed of heartwood: so too, Ananda, in the great Bhikkhu Sangha(fraternity) standing possessed of heartwood, Sariputta has attained final Nibbana. How, Ananda, is it to be obtained here: 'May what is born, come to be, conditioned(sankhatam), and subject to disintegration not disintegrate!'? That is impossible.
"Therefore, Ananda, dwell with yourselves as your own island, with yourselves as your own refuge, with no other refuge dwell with the Dhamma as your island, with the Dhamma as your refuge, with no other refuge ... (as in previous ) ... Those bhikkhus, Ananda, either now or after I am gone, who dwell with themselves as their own island, with themselves as their own refuge, with no other refuge; who dwell with the Dhamma as their island, with the Dhamma as their refuge, with no other refuge - it is these bhikkhus, Ananda, who will be for me topmost of those keen on the training."
380. Ukkacela[]
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling among the Vajjians at Ukkacela on the bank of the river Ganges, together with a great Bhikkhu Sangha(fraternity), not long after Sariputta and Moggallana had attained final Nibbana. 162 Now on that occasion the Lord (Buddha) was sitting in the open air in the midst of the Bhikkhu Sangha.
Then the Lord (Buddha), having surveyed the silent Bhikkhu Sangha, addressed the bhikkhus thus:
"Bhikkhus(monks), this assembly appears to me empty now that Sariputta and Moggallana have attained final Nibbana. This assembly was not empty for me [earlier], 163 and I had no concern for whatever quarter Sariputta and Moggallana were dwelling in.
"The Arahants, the Perfectly Enlightened Ones, who arose in the past also had just such a supreme pair of disciples as I had in Sariputta and Moggallana. The Arahants, the Perfectly Enlightened Ones, who will arise in the future will also have just such a supreme pair of disciples as I had in Sariputta and Moggallana.
"It is wonderful, bhikkhus, on the part of the disciples, it is amazing on the part of the disciples, that they will act in accordance with the Teacher's instructions and comply with his admonitions, that they will be dear and agreeable to the four assemblies' that they will be revered and esteemed by them. 164 It is wonderful, bhikkhus, on the part of the Tathagata, it is amazing on the part of the Tathagata, that when such a pair of disciples has attained final Nibbana, there is no sorrow or lamentation in the Tathagata.
"How, bhikkhus, is it to be obtained here: 'May what is born, come to be, conditioned(sankhatam), and subject to disintegration not disintegrate!'? That is impossible. It is just as if the largest branches would break off a great tree standing possessed of heartwood: so too, bhikkhus, in the great Bhikkhu Sangha standing possessed of heartwood, Sariputta and Moggallana have attained final Nibbana. How, bhikkhus, is it to be obtained here: 'May what is born, come to be, conditioned(sankhatam), and subject to disintegration not disintegrate!'? That is impossible.
"Therefore, bhikkhus, dwell within yourselves as your own island, with yourselves as your own refuge, with no other refuge; dwell with the Dhamma as your island, with the Dhamma as your refuge, with no other refuge ... (as in 375 above) ... Those bhikkhus, either now or after I am gone, who dwell within themselves as their own island, with themselves as their own refuge, with no other refuge; with the Dhamma as their island, with the Dhamma as their refuge, with no other refuge - it is these bhikkhus who will be for me topmost of those keen on the training."
381. Bahiya[]
At Savatthi. Then the Venerable Bahiya approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him:
"Venerable sir, it would be good if the Lord (Buddha) would teach me the dhamma(path,law) in brief, so that, having heard the Dhamma from the Lord (Buddha), I might dwell alone, withdrawn, alertful(appamada), ardent, and resolute."
"Well then, Bahiya, purify the very starting point of beneficial(kusala sans. kushal) states. 165 And what is the starting point of beneficial(kusala) states? Virtue(sheel) that is well purified and view that is straight. Then, Bahiya, when your virtue is well purified and your view is straight, based upon virtue, established upon virtue, you should develop the four establishments of meditation(sati).
"What four? Here, Bahiya, dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. Dwell watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world(as in 369).
"When, Bahiya, based upon virtue, established upon virtue you develop these four establishments of meditation in such a way, then whether night or day comes, you may expect only growth in beneficial(kusala) states, not loss."
Then the Venerable Bahiya, having delighted and rejoiced in the Lord (Buddha)'s words, rose from his seat, and, after paying homage to the Lord (Buddha), keeping him on his right, he departed. Then, dwelling alone, withdrawn, alertful, ardent, and resolute, the Venerable Bahiya, by realizing it for himself with divine-knowledge, in this very life entered and dwelt in that unsurpassed goal of the holy celibate life(brahmacariya) for the sake of which clansmen rightly go forth from the household life into hermit life. He directly knew: "Destroyed is rebirth, the holy celibate life(brahmacariya) has been lived, what had to be done has been done, there is no more for this state of being." And the Venerable Bahiya became one of the arahants.
382. Uttiya[]
At Savatthi. Then the Venerable Uttiya approached the Lord (Buddha) ... (all as in preceding sutta down to:) ...
"When, Uttiya, based upon virtue(sheel), established upon virtue, you develop these four establishments of meditation(sati) in such a way, you will go beyond the realm of Death."
Then the Venerable Uttiya, having delighted and rejoiced in the Lord (Buddha)'s words, rose from his seat ... (as in preceding sutta) ... And the Venerable Uttiya became one of the arahants.
383. Noble (Ariya sans. Arya)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), these four establishments of meditation(sati), when developed and cultivated, are noble and emancipating; they lead the one who acts upon them out to the complete destruction(khaya\kshaya) of suffering. What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"These four establishments of meditation, bhikkhus, when developed and cultivated, are noble and emancipating; they lead the one who acts upon them out to the complete destruction of suffering."
384. Brahma (Archangel)[]
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Uruvela on the bank of the river Neranjara at the foot of the Goatherd's Banyan Tree just after he had become fully enlightened. Then, while the Lord (Buddha) was alone in seclusion, a thought arose in his mind thus: "This is the one-way path for the purification of beings, for the overcoming of sorrow and lamentation, for the passing away of pain and displeasure, for the achievement of the method, for the realization of Nibbana, that is, the four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here a bhikkhu(monk) dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. This is the one-way path for the purification of beings . . . that is, the four establishments of meditation."
Then brahma(arch-angel) Sahampati, having known with his own mind the thought in the Lord (Buddha)'s mind, just as quickly as a strong man might extend his drawn-in arm or draw in his extended arm, disappeared from the brahma world and reappeared before the Lord (Buddha). 166 He arranged his upper robe over one shoulder, raised his joined hands in reverential salutation towards the Lord (Buddha), and said to him: "So it is, Lord (Buddha)! So it is, Fortunate One(Sugato)! Venerable sir, this is the one-way path for the purification of beings ... (all as above) ... that is, the four establishments of meditation."
This is what Brahma Sahampati said. Having said this, he further said this:
"The seer of the destruction(khaya\kshaya) of rebirth.
Compassionate, knows the one-way path
By which in the past they crossed the flood,
By which they will cross and cross over now."
385. Sedaka[]
On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling among the Sumbhas, where there was a town of the Sumbhas named Sedaka. There the Lord (Buddha) addressed the bhikkhus thus:
"Bhikkhus(Monks), once in the past an acrobat set up his bamboo pole and addressed his apprentice Medakathalika thus: 167 'Come, dear Medakathalika, climb the bamboo pole and stand on my shoulders.' Having replied, 'Yes, teacher,' the apprentice Medakathalika climbed up the bamboo pole and stood on the teacher's shoulders. The acrobat then said to the apprentice Medakathalika: 'You protect me, dear Medakathalika, and I'll protect you. Thus guarded by one another, protected by one another, we'll display our skills, collect our fee, and get down safely from the bamboo pole.' When this was said, the apprentice Medakathalika replied: 'That's not the way to do it, teacher. You protect yourself, teacher, and I'll protect myself. Thus, each selfguarded and self-protected, we'll display our skills, collect our fee, and get down safely from the bamboo pole.' 168
"That's the method there," the Lord (Buddha) said. "It's just as the apprentice Medakathalika said to the teacher. I will protect myself,' bhikkhus: thus should the establishments of meditation(sati) be practised. 'I will protect others,' bhikkhus: thus should the establishments of meditation be practised. Protecting oneself, bhikkhus, one protects others; protecting others, one protects oneself.
"And how is it, bhikkhus, that by protecting oneself one protects others? By the pursuit, development, and cultivation [of the four establishments of meditation]. It is in such a way that by protecting oneself one protects others. 169
"And how is it, bhikkhus, that by protecting others one protects oneself? By patience, harmlessness, lovingkindness(metta\maitri), and sympathy. It is in such a way that by protecting others one protects oneself. 170
'"I will protect myself,' bhikkhus: thus should the establish divine-merits(punya) of meditation be practised. 'I will protect others,' bhikkhus: thus should the establishments of meditation(sati) be practised. Protecting oneself, bhikkhus, one protects others; protecting others, one protects oneself."
386. The Most Beautiful Girl of the Land[]
Thus have I heard(from Lord Buddha, says Ananda). On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was living among the Sumbhas, where there was a town of the Sumbhas named Sedaka. There the Lord (Buddha) addressed the bhikkhus thus: "Bhikkhus(monks)!"
"Venerable sir!" the bhikkhus replied. The Lord (Buddha) said this: 171
"Bhikkhus, suppose that on hearing, 'The most beautiful girl of the land! The most beautiful girl of the land!' a great crowd of people would assemble. Now that most beautiful girl of the land would dance exquisitely and sing exquisitely. On hearing, 'The most beautiful girl of the land is dancing! The most beautiful girl of the land is singing!' an even larger crowd of people would assemble. 172 Then a man would come along, wishing to live, not wishing to die, wishing for happiness(sukh), averse to suffering. Someone would say to him: 'Good man, you must carry around this bowl of oil filled to the brim between the crowd and the most beautiful girl of the land. A man with a drawn sword will be following right behind you, and wherever you spill even a little of it, right there he will fell your head.'
"What do you think, bhikkhus, would that man stop attending to that bowl of oil and out of slothfulness(pamada) turn his attention outwards?"
"No, venerable sir."
"I have made up this simile, bhikkhus, in order to convey a meaning. This here is the meaning: 'The bowl of oil filled to the brim': this is a designation for meditation(sati) directed to the body. Therefore, bhikkhus, you should train yourselves thus: 'We will develop and cultivate meditation directed to the body, make it our vehicle, make it our basis, stabilize it, exercise ourselves in it, and fully perfect it.' Thus, bhikkhus, should you train yourselves."
(iii) Virtue and Duration (Silatthitivaggo)[]
387. Virtue (Sila sans. Sheel)[]
Thus have I heard(from Lord Buddha, says Ananda). On one occasion the Venerable Ananda and the Venerable Bhadda were dwelling at Pataliputta in the Cock's Park. Then, in the evening, the Venerable Bhadda emerged from seclusion, approached the Venerable Ananda, and exchanged greetings with him. When they had concluded their greetings and cordial talk, he sat down to one side and said to the Venerable Ananda: 173
"Friend Ananda, as to the beneficial(kusala sans. kushal) virtues spoken of by the Lord (Buddha), what is the purpose for which they were spoken of by him?"
"Good, good, friend Bhadda! Your intelligence is excellent, your ingenuity is excellent, your inquiry is a good one. For you have asked me: 'Friend Ananda, as to the beneficial(kusala) virtues spoken of by the Lord (Buddha), what is the purpose for which they were spoken of by him?"'
"Yes, friend."
"Those beneficial(kusala) virtues spoken of by the Lord (Buddha) were spoken of by him for the purpose of developing the four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here, friend, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body . . . sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"Those virtues spoken of by the Lord (Buddha) were spoken of by him for the sake of developing these four establishments of meditation.".
388. Lond Enduring (Ciratthiti sans. Cirasthayi)[]
The same setting. Sitting to one side the Venerable Bhadda said to the Venerable Ananda:
"Friend Ananda, what is the cause and reason why the true dhamma(path,law) does not endure long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana? And what is the cause and reason why the true Dhamma endures long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana?"
"Good, good, friend Bhadda! Your intelligence is excellent, your acumen is excellent, your inquiry is a good one. For you have asked me: 'Friend Ananda, what is the cause and reason why the true Dhamma does not endure long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana? And what is the cause and reason why the true Dhamma endures long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana?'"
"Yes, friend."
"It is, friend, because the four establishments of meditation(sati) are not developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma does not endure long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana. And it is because the four establishments of meditation are developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma endures long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana. What four? Here, friend, a bhikkhu(monk) dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body . . . sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world(as in 369).
"It is because these four establishments of meditation are not developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma does not endure long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana. And it is because these four establishments of meditation are developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma endures long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana."
389. Loss (Parihana sans. Parihani)[]
(As above down to:)
"Friend Ananda, what is the cause and reason for loss of the true dhamma(path,law)? And what is the cause and reason for not losing in the true Dhamma?"...
"It is, friend, when these four establishments of meditation(sati) are not developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma is lost. And it is when these four establishments of meditation are developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma is not lost."
390. Simple Version (Suddha)[]
At Savatthi. "Bhikkhus(monks), there are these four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. [174] He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. These are the four establishments of meditation."
391. A Certain Brahmin (Annatarabrahmana sans. Anyattar-brahman)[]
Thus have I heard(from Lord Buddha, says Ananda). On one occasion the Lord (Buddha) was dwelling at Savatthi, in Jeta's-Grove(Jetvana), Anathapindika's Park. Then a certain brahmin approached the Lord (Buddha) and exchanged greetings with him. When they had concluded their greetings and cordial talk, he sat down to one side and said to the Lord (Buddha):
"Master Gotama, what is the cause and reason why the true dhamma(path,law) does not endure long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana? And what is the cause and reason why the true Dhamma endures long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana?"
"It is, brahmin, because the four establishments of meditation(sati) are not developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma does not endure long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana. And it is because the four establishments of meditation are developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma endures long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana. What four? ...(as in 388) ... It is because these four establishments of meditation are not developed and cultivated ... are developed and cultivated that the true Dhamma endures long after a Tathagata has attained final Nibbana."
When this was said, that brahmin said to the Lord (Buddha):
'Magnificent, Master Gotama!... From today let Master Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge for life."
392. Partly (Padesa)[]
On one occasion the Venerable Sariputta and the Venerable Mahamoggallana and the Venerable Anuruddha were dwelling at Saketa in the Thornbush-Grove(Kandakivana). Then, in the evening, the Venerable Sariputta and the Venerable Mahamoggallana emerged from seclusion, approached the Venerable Anuruddha, and exchanged greetings with him. When they had concluded their greetings and cordial talk, they sat down to one side, and the Venerable Sariputta said to the Venerable Anuruddha:
"Friend Anuruddha, it is said, 'A trainee, a trainee.' In what way, friend, is one a trainee?"
"It is, friend, because one has partly developed the four establishments of meditation(sati) that one is a trainee. What four? Here, friends, a bhikkhu(monk) dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. It is because one has partly developed these four establishments of meditation that one is a trainee."
393. Completely (Samatta sans. Samast)[]
The same setting. Sitting to one side, the Venerable Sariputta said to the Venerable Anuruddha:
"Friend Anuruddha, it is said, 'One beyond training, one beyond training.' In what way, friend, is one beyond training?"
"It is, friend, because one has completely developed the four establishments of meditation(sati) that one is beyond training. What four?... (as above) ... It is because one has completely developed these four establishments of meditation that one is beyond training."
394. The World (Loka)[]
The same setting. Sitting to one side, the Venerable Sariputta said to the Venerable Anuruddha:
"By having developed and cultivated what dhammas(attributes,law) has the Venerable Anuruddha attained to greatness of divine-knowledge(abhinna)?"
"It is, friend, because I have developed and cultivated the four establishments of meditation(sati) that I have attained to greatness of divine-knowledge. What four? Here, friend, I dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind .. phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. It is, friend, because I have developed and cultivated these four establishments of meditation that I directly know this thousandfold world." 174
395. Sirivaddha[]
On one occasion the Venerable Ananda was dwelling at Rajagaha, in the Bamboo-Grove(Veluvan), the Squirrel-Sanctuary(Kalandak-Nivap). Now on that occasion the householder Sirivaddha was sick, afflicted, gravely ill. Then the householder Sirivaddha addressed a man thus:
"Come, good man, approach the Venerable Ananda, pay homage to him in my name with your head at his feet, and say:
'Venerable sir, the householder Sirivaddha is sick, afflicted, gravely ill; he pays homage to the Venerable Ananda with his head at his feet.' Then say: 'It would be good, venerable sir, if the Venerable Ananda would come to the residence of the householder Sirivaddha out of compassion.'"
"Yes, master," that man replied, and he approached the Venerable Ananda, paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and delivered his message. The Venerable Ananda consented by silence.
Then, in the morning, the Venerable Ananda dressed and, taking bowl and robe, went to the residence of the householder Sirivaddha. He then sat down in the appointed seat and said to the householder Sirivaddha: "I hope you are bearing up, houseolder, I hope you are getting better. I hope your painful sensations(vedana) are subsiding and not increasing, and that their subsiding, not their increase, is to be discerned."
"I am not bearing up, venerable sir, I am not getting better. Strong painful sensations(vedana) are increasing in me, not subsiding, and their increase, not their subsiding, is to be discerned."
"Well then, householder, you should train thus: 'I will dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. I will dwell watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.' It is in such a way that you should train."
"Venerable sir, as to these four establishments of meditation(sati) taught by the Lord (Buddha) - these dhammas(attributes,law) exist in me, and I live in conformity with those dhammas. I dwell, venerable sir, watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body . . . sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. And as to these five lower fetters taught by the Lord (Buddha), I do not see any of these unabandoned in myself."
"It is a gain for you, householder! It is well gained by you, householder! You have declared, householder, the fruit of non-rebirthing."
396. Manadinna[]
The same setting. Now on that occasion the householder Manadinna was sick, afflicted, gravely ill. Then the householder Manadinna addressed a man thus:
"Come, good man" ... (as above ) ...
"I am not bearing up, venerable sir, I am not getting better. Strong painful sensations(vedana) are increasing in me, not subsiding, and their increase, not their subsiding, is to be discerned. But, venerable sir, when I am being touched by such painful sensation(vedana), I dwell watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. And as to these five lower fetters taught by the Lord (Buddha), I do not see any of these unabandoned in myself."
"It is a gain for you, householder! It is well gained by you, householder! You have declared, householder, the fruit of non-rebirthing(anagami)."
(iv) Unheard Before (Ananussuta sans. Ananushrut)[]
397. Unheard Before (Ananussuta sans. Ananushrut)[]
At Savatthi. '"This is the Meditation-of-the-body-in-the-body(kayanupassana)' - thus, bhikkhus, in regard to dhammas(attributes,law) unheard before, there arose in me vision, knowledge, illuminated-insight(panna), true knowledge, and light(alok). 175
"'That meditation of the body in the body(kayanupassana) is to be developed' ... 'That meditation of the body in the body(kayanupassana) has been developed' - thus, bhikkhus, in regard to dhammas unheard before there arose in me vision, knowledge, panna(illuminated-insight), true knowledge" and glowing-light.
'"This is the meditation of sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedananupassana)' .. .
"'This is the meditation of mind in mind(cittanupassana)' . . .
"'This is the meditation of phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhammanupassana)'
Thus, bhikkhus, in regard to dhammas unheard before, there arose in me vision, knowledge, illuminated-insight(panna), true knowledge, and light.
"'That meditation-of-phenomena-in-phenomena(dhammanupassana) is to be developed' ... 'That meditation-of-phenomena-in-phenomena(dhammanupassana) has been developed' - thus, bhikkhus, in regard to dhammas unheard before, there arose in me vision, knowledge, panna(illuminated-insight), true knowledge, and glowing-light."
398. Dispassion (Viraag)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), these four establishments of meditation(sati), when developed and cultivated, lead to utter revulsion(nibbida), to dispassion, to cessation(nirodha), to peace, to divine-knowledge(abhinna), to enlightenment, to Nibbana.
"What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"These four establishments of meditation, bhikkhus, when developed and cultivated, lead to utter revulsion, to dispassion, to cessation, to peace, to divine-knowledge, to enlightenment, to Nibbana."
399. Neglected (Viraddha)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), those who have neglected these four establishments of meditation(sati) have neglected the noble path leading to the complete destruction(khaya\kshaya) of suffering. Those who have undertaken these four establishments of meditation have undertaken the noble path leading to the complete destruction of suffering
"What four?... (as above) ... Those who have neglected ... Those who have undertaken these four establishments of meditation have undertaken the noble path leading to the complete destruction of suffering."
400. Development (Bhavita)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), these four establishments of meditation(sati), when developed and cultivated, lead to going beyond from the near shore to the far shore. What four? ... (as above) ... These four establishments of meditation, when developed and cultivated, lead to going beyond from the near shore to the far shore."
401. Meditative (Sati sans. Smriti)[]
At Savatthi. "Bhikkhus(monks), a bhikkhu(monk) should dwell meditating(sato) and completely comprehending (sampajano). This is our instruction to you.
"And how, bhikkhus, is a bhikkhu meditative(satima)? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. It is in this way, bhikkhus, that a bhikkhu is meditative.
"And how, bhikkhus, does a bhikkhu exercise complete comprehension (sampajanna)? Here, bhikkhus, for a bhikkhu sensations(vedana) are understood as they arise, understood as they remain present, understood as they pass away. Thoughts are understood as they arise, understood as they remain present, understood as they pass away. Perceptions are understood as they arise, understood as they remain present, understood as they pass away. It is in this way, bhikkhus, that a bhikkhu exercises complete comprehension. 176
"Bhikkhus, a bhikkhu should dwell meditative(satima) and completely comprehending (sampajano). This is our instruction to you."
402. Final Knowledge (Anna sans. Ananya-gyan)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), there are these four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"When, bhikkhus, these four establishments of meditation have been developed and cultivated, one of two fruits may be expected: either final knowledge in this very life or, if there is a residue of clinging(upadana sans. asakti), the state of non-rebirthing."
403. Desire (Chanda)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), there are these four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. As he dwells thus watching-in-meditation on the body in the body, whatever desire he has for the body is abandoned. With the abandoning of desire, the deathless-state(nirvana) is realized.
"He dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) .... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma) ... having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. As he dwells thus watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), whatever desire he has for phenomena(dhamma) is abandoned. With the abandoning of desire, the deathless-state is realized."
404. Full Understanding (Parinnata sans. Paripurna-gyanatva)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), there are these four establishments of meditation(sati). What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. As he dwells thus watching-in-meditation on the body in the body, the body is fully understood. Because the body has been fully understood, the deathless-state(nirvana) is realized.
"He dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma) ... having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. As he dwells thus watching-in-meditation on phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), the phenomena(dhamma) are fully understood. Because the phenomena(dhamma) have been fully understood, the deathless-state is realized."
405. Development (Bhavana)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), I will teach you the development of the four establishments of meditation(sati). Listen to that. . . .
"What, bhikkhus, is the development of the four establishments of meditation? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. This, bhikkhus, is the development of the four establishments of meditation."
406. Analysis (Vibhanga)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), I will teach you the establishment of meditation(sati), 177 and the development of the establishment of meditation, and the way leading to the development of the establishment of meditation. Listen to that....
"And what, bhikkhus, is the establishment of meditation? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind . . . phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. This is called the establishment of meditation.
"And what, bhikkhus, is the development of the establishment of meditation? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the nature of origination in the body; he dwells watching-in-meditation on the nature of decline in the body; he dwells watching-in-meditation on the nature of origination and decline in the body - ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. 178 He dwells watching-in-meditation on the nature of origination in sensations(vedana) ... He dwells watching-in-meditation on the nature of origination in mind . . . He dwells watching-in-meditation on the nature of origination in phenomena(dhamma); he dwells watching-in-meditation on the nature of decline in phenomena(dhamma); he dwells watching-in-meditation on the nature of origination and decline in phenomena(dhamma) - ardent. completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetous and displeasure in regard to the world. This is called the development of the establishment of meditation.
"And what, bhikkhus, is the way leading to the development of the establishment of meditation? It is this Noble Eightfold Path; that is, right view, right intention, right speech, right action, right livelihood, right effort, right meditation and right samadhi(trance)state (as in sutta 8 above) . This is called the way leading to the development of the establishment of meditation."
(v) The Deathless-State (Amatavagga sans. Amrit-varg)[]
407. The Deathless-State (Amata sans. Amrit)[]
At Savatthi. "Bhikkhus(monks), dwell with your minds well established in the four establishments of meditation(sati). Do not let the deathless-state(nirvana) be lost on you. 179
"In what four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body . . . sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. Dwell, bhikkhus, with your minds well established in these four establishments of meditation. Do not let the deathless-state be lost by you."
408. Origination (Samudaya)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), I will teach you the origination and the passing away of the four establishments of meditation(sati). 180 Listen to that.
"And what, bhikkhus, is the origination of the body? With the origination of nutriment there is the origination of the body. With the cessation(nirodha) of nutriment there is the passing away of the body.
"With the origination of contact(of sense with object;phassa/sparsh) there is the origination of sensation. With the cessation of contact(phassa/sparsh) there is the passing away of sensation.
"With the origination of mind-and-bodyform(namarupa) there is the origination of awareness. With the cessation of mind-and-bodyform(namarupa) there is the passing-away(transcendence) of awareness. 181
"With the origination of mind-activity(mansikara) there is the origination of phenomena(dhamma). With the cessation of mind-activity(mansikara) there is the passing away of phenomena(dhamma)." 182
409. The Path (Magga sas. Marg)[]
At Savatthi. There the Lord (Buddha) addressed the bhikkhus thus: 183
"Bhikkhus(monks), on one occasion I was dwelling at Uruvela on the bank of the river Neranjara under the Goatherd's Banyan Tree just after I became fully enlightened. Then, while I was alone in seclusion, a thought arose in my mind thus: 'This is the oneway path for the purification of beings, for the overcoming of sorrow and lamentation ... (as in 384 ) ... that is, the four establishments of meditation(sati).'
"Then, bhikkhus, brahma(arch-angel) Sahampati, having known with his own mind the thought in my mind, just as quickly as a strong man might extend his drawn-in arm or draw in his extended arm, disappeared from the brahma world and reappeared before me. He arranged his upper robe over one shoulder, extended his joined hands towards me in reverential salutation, and said to me: 'So it is. Lord (Buddha)! So it is. Fortunate One(Sugato)! Venerable sir, this is the one-way path for the purification of beings ... that is, the four establishments of meditation.'
"This, bhikkhus, is what Brahma Sahampati said. Having said this, he further said this:
"'The seer of the destruction(khaya\kshaya) of rebirth.
Compassionate, knows the one-way path
By which in the past they crossed the flood.
By which they will cross and cross over now.'"
410. Meditative (Sati sans. Smriti)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), a bhikkhu should dwell meditating(sato). This is our instruction to you.
"And how, bhikkhus, is a bhikkhu meditative(satima)? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. It is in this way, bhikkhus, that a bhikkhu is meditative.
"Bhikkhus, a bhikkhu should dwell meditative(satima). This is our instruction to you."
411. A Heap of the Beneficial (Kusalarasi sans. Kushal-rashi)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), if one were to say of anything 'a heap of the beneficial(kusala sans. kushal)' it is about the four establishments of meditation(sati) that one could rightly say this. For this is a complete heap of the beneficial(kusala), that is, the four establishments of meditation. What four?
"Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"If, bhikkhus, one were to say of anything 'a heap of the beneficial(kusala),' it is about these four establishments of meditation that one could rightly say this. For this is a complete heap of the beneficial(kusala), that is, the four establishments of meditation."
412. The Restraint of the Patimokkha (Patimokkhasamvara)[]
Then a certain bhikkhu(monk) approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him: "Venerable sir, it would be good if the Lord (Buddha) would teach me the dhamma(path,law) in brief, so that, having heard the Dhamma from the Lord (Buddha), I might dwell alone, withdrawn, alertful(appamada), ardent, and resolute."
"In that case, bhikkhu, purify the very beginning of beneficial(kusala sans. kushal) states. And what is the beginning of beneficial(kusala) states? Here, bhikkhu, dwell restrained by the restraint of the Patimokkha, accomplished in good conduct and proper resort, seeing danger in the slightest faults. Having undertaken the training rules, train in them. When, bhikkhu, you dwell restrained by the restraint of the Patimokkha ... seeing danger in the slightest faults, then, based upon virtue(sheel), established upon virtue, you should develop the four establishments of meditation(sati).
"What four? Here, bhikkhu, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"When, bhikkhu, based upon virtue, established upon virtue, you develop these four establishments of meditation in such a way, then, whether night or day comes, you may expect only growth in beneficial(kusala) states, not loss."
Then that bhikkhu, having delighted and rejoiced in the Lord (Buddha)'s statement, rose from his seat... And that bhikkhu became one of the arahants.
413. Misconduct (Duccarita sans. Dush-caritra)[]
Then a certain bhikkhu approached the Lord (Buddha), paid homage to him, sat down to one side, and said to him: "Venerable sir, it would be good if the Lord (Buddha) would teach me the Dhamma in brief, so that, having heard the Dhamma from the Lord (Buddha), I might dwell alone, withdrawn, alertful(appamada), ardent, and resolute."
"In that case, bhikkhu, purify the very beginning of beneficial(kusala sans. kushal) states. And what is the beginning of beneficial(kusala) states? Here, bhikkhu, having abandoned bodily misconduct, you should develop good bodily conduct. Having abandoned verbal misconduct, you should develop good verbal conduct. Having abandoned mental misconduct, you should develop good mental conduct. When, bhikkhu, having abandoned bodily misconduct ... you have developed good mental conduct, then, based upon virtue(sheel), established upon virtue, you should develop the four establishments of meditation(sati).
"What four? Here, bhikkhu, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"When, bhikkhu, based upon virtue, established upon virtue, you develop these four establishments of meditation in such a way, then, whether night or day comes, you may expect only growth in beneficial(kusala) states, not loss."
Then that bhikkhu ... became one of the arahants.
414. Friends (Mitta sans. Mitra)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), those for whom you have compassion and who think you should be heeded - whether friends or colleagues, relatives or kinsmen - these you should instruct, settle, and establish in the development of the four establishments of meditation(sati).
"What four? Here, bhikkhu, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind's phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano) meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"Bhikkhus, those for whom you have compassion . . . these you should instruct, settle, and establish in the development of these four establishments of meditation."
415. Sensations (Vedana)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), there are these three sensations(vedana). What three? Pleasant sensation(vedana), painful sensation(vedana), neither-painful-nor-pleasant sensation(vedana). These are the three sensations(vedana). The four establishments of meditation(sati) are to be developed for the full understanding of these three sensations(vedana).
"What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body ... sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"These four establishments of meditation, bhikkhus, are to be developed for the full understanding of these three sensations(vedana)."
416. Defilements (Asava sans. Ashrav)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), there are these three defilements. What three? The defilement of sensuality, the defilement of existence(bhavo), the defilement of ignorance(avijja sans. avidya). These are the three defilements. The four establishments of meditation(sati) are to be developed for the full understanding of these three defilements.
"What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body . . . sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) . . . mind in mind phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world.
"These four establishments of meditation, bhikkhus, are to be developed for the full understanding of these three defilements."
(vi) Ganga Repetition Series (Gangapeyyalavaggo)[]
417-428. The River Ganges - Eastward, Etc. (Ganganadiadi)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), just as the river Ganges slants, slopes, and inclines towards the east, so too a bhikkhu who develops and cultivates the four establishments of meditation(sati) slants, slopes, and inclines towards Nibbana.
"And how, bhikkhus, does a bhikkhu develop and cultivate the four establishments of meditation so that he slants, slopes, and inclines towards Nibbana? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body . . . sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. It is in this way, bhikkhus, that a bhikkhu develops and cultivates the four establishments of meditation so that he slants, slopes, and inclines towards Nibbana."
( The remaining suttas of this vagga are to be similarly elaborated parallel to previous)
Six about slanting to the east
And six about slanting to the ocean.
These two sixes make up twelve
Thus the subchapter is recited.
(vii) Alertfulness Section (Appamadavaggo)[]
429-438. The Tathagata, Etc.[]
(To be elaborated by way of the establishments of meditation(sati) parallel to previous)
Tathagata, footprint, roof peak.
Roots, heartwood, jasmine.
Monarch, the moon and sun.
Together with the cloth as tenth.
(viii) Strenuous Deeds (Balakaraniya)[]
439-450. Strenuous, Etc.( Baladi)[]
(To be elaborated parallel to previous)
Strenuous, seeds, and nagas.
The tree, the pot, the spike.
The sky, and two on clouds,
The ship, guest house, and river.
[]
451-460. Searches, Etc. (Esanadi)[]
(To be elaborated parallel to previous)
Searches, discriminations, defilements.
Kinds of existence(bhavo), threefold suffering.
Barrenness, stains, and troubles,
Sensations(vedana), craving(tanha sans. trishna), and thirst. 185
(x) Floods (Oghavaggo sans. Ogha-varg)[]
461-470. Higher Fetters (Uddhambhagiyadi)[]
"Bhikkhus(monks), there are these five higher fetters. What five? lust(raag) for form, lust for the formless, conceit, restlessness, ignorance(avijja sans. avidya). These are the five higher fetters. The four establishments of meditation(sati) are to be developed for divine-knowledge(abhinna) of these five higher fetters, for the full understanding of them, for their utter destruction(khaya\kshaya), for their abandoning.
"What four? Here, bhikkhus, a bhikkhu dwells watching-in-meditation(anupassi) on the body in the body, ardent, completely comprehending (sampajano), meditative(satima), having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. He dwells watching-in-meditation on sensations(vedana) in sensations(vedana) ... mind in mind ... phenomena(dhamma) in phenomena(dhamma), ardent, dearly comprehending, meditative, having removed covetousness and displeasure in regard to the world. These four establishments of meditation are to be developed for divine-knowledge of these five higher fetters, for the full understanding of them, for their utter destruction, for their abandoning."
Floods, bonds, kinds of clinging(upadana sans. asakti),
Knots, and underlying-tendencies(anusaya).
Cords of sensual pleasure, hindrances.
Aggregates(khandha sans. skandha), fetters lower and higher.
(The Connected Discourses on the Establishments of meditation is to be elaborated in the same way as the Connected Discourses on the Path . 186 )
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