Verses of the Elder Nanduttarā (THIG5.5)

Verses of the Elder Bhikkhunīs

Chapter of the Fives

Verses of the Elder Nanduttarā

“I used to worship fire, the moon,

the sun, and the Devas.

I would go to the river ford

and descend into the water.

I took on many spiritual practices:

I shaved half of my head,

I set my sleeping place on the ground,

and ate no food at night.

At the same time I enjoyed jewelry and makeup,

I pampered this body

with baths and massages,

afflicted with longing to gratify the senses.

Eventually I acquired faith,

and went forth into homelessness.

After I accurately saw the body,

I uprooted sense-desire.

All states of existence have been cut off,

as well as desire and aspiration.

All bonds unbound,

I have attained peace of mind.”

The Elder Nanduttarā