Theragatha V

For free distribution only, as a gift of Dhamma

Contents (selected suttas):

• 1. Rajadatta
• 8. Vakkali

V.1 -- Rajadatta

I, a monk,
gone to the charnel ground,
saw a woman cast away,
   discarded
there in the cemetery.

Though some were disgusted,
seeing her -- dead, evil --
         lust
   appeared,
as if I were blind
   to the oozings.

In less time than it takes
for rice to cook,
I got out of that place.
Mindful, alert, I
sat down to one side.
Then apt attention arose in me,
the drawbacks appeared,
   disenchantment stood
   at an even keel:

With that, my heart was released.
See the Dhamma's true rightness!
The three knowledges
have been attained;
the Awakened One's bidding,
      done.

V.8 -- Vakkali

Stricken by sharp, wind-like pains,
you, monk, living in the forest grove
-- harsh, with limited range for alms --
   what, what will you do?

Suffusing my body
with abundant rapture & joy,
& enduring what's harsh,
   I'll stay in the grove.

Developing the frames of reference,
strengths, faculties,
the factors of Awakening,
   I'll stay in the grove.

Reflecting on those who are resolute,
their persistence aroused,
constantly firm in their effort,
united in concord,
   I'll stay in the grove.

Recollecting the One Self-awakened,
self-tamed & centered,
untiring both day & night,
   I'll stay
   in the grove.