Sujātā (THIG6.4)

Verses of the Senior Nuns 6.4

The Book of the Sixes

Sujātā

I was adorned with jewelry and all dressed up,

with garlands, and sandalwood makeup piled on,

all covered over with decorations,

and surrounded by my maids.

Taking food and drink,

staples and dainties in no small amount,

I left my house

and took myself to the park.

I enjoyed myself there and played about,

and then, returning to my own house,

I saw a monastic dwelling,

and so I entered the Añjana wood at Sāketa.

Seeing the light of the world,

I paid homage and sat down.

Out of compassion

the Clear-eyed One taught me the Dhamma.

When I heard the great seer,

I penetrated the truth.

Right there I found the stainless Dhamma,

the state free of death.

Then, having understood the true teaching,

I went forth to homelessness.

I’ve attained the three knowledges;

the Buddha’s bidding was not in vain.