Verses of the Elder Candā (THIG5.12)

Verses of the Elder Bhikkhunīs

Chapter of the Fives

Verses of the Elder Candā

“I was destitute,

a widow without children,

friends or relatives.

Food and cloth were difficult to come by,

so I would take a bowl and walking stick,

and went begging from one family to another.

I wandered for seven years,

consumed by heat and cold.

When I saw a bhikkhunī

accepting food and drink,

I approached her and said:

‘I want to go forth into homelessness.’

Out of compassion for me,

Paṭācārā allowed me to go forth.

Then she exhorted me,

and spurred me on to the highest aim.

I heard and

followed her instruction.

Ayya’s guidance was not in vain:

possessing the three knowledges, I am free from influences.”

… The Elder Candā

The Chapter of the Fives is finished.