Mahāpanthaka

When I first saw the Teacher who fears nothing from any quarter, I was struck with a sense of urgency, seeing the supreme among men.

Anyone who, having found such a Teacher, would lose them again, is like one who, when approached by Lady Luck, would ward her off with their hands and feet.

Then I left behind my children and wives, my riches and my grain; I had my hair and beard cut off, and went forth to homelessness.

Endowed with the monastic training and livelihood, my sense faculties well-restrained, paying homage to the Buddha, I meditated undefeated.

Then a wish occurred to me, my heart’s truest wish: I wouldn’t sit down, not even for a short while, until the dart of craving was plucked.

As I meditate like this, see my energy and vigor! I’ve attained the three knowledges, and fulfilled the Buddha’s instructions.

I know my past lives, my clairvoyance is clarified; I’m perfected, worthy of offerings, liberated, free of attachments.

Then, at the end of the night, as the rising of the sun drew near, all craving was dried up, so I sat down cross-legged.