Samyutta Nikaya II.19

Uttara Sutta

Uttara the Deva's Son


At Rajagaha. As he was standing to one side, Uttara the deva's son recited this verse in the Blessed One's presence:

"Life is swept along,
next-to-nothing its span.
For one swept on by aging
   no shelters exist.
Perceiving this danger in death,
one should do deeds of merit
   that bring about bliss."

[The Buddha:]

"Life is swept along,
next-to-nothing its span.
For one swept to old age
   no shelters exist.
Perceiving this danger in death,
one should drop the world's bait
   and look for peace."