Therīgāthā 62

Verses of the Senior Nuns 9.1

The Book of the Nines

Vaḍḍha’s Mother

1 “Vaḍḍha, please never ever

get snarled in the world.

My child, do not partake

in suffering again and again.

2 For happy dwell the sages, Vaḍḍha,

unstirred, their doubts cut off,

cooled and tamed,

and free of defilements.

3 Vaḍḍha, foster the path

that the seers have walked,

for the attainment of vision,

and for making an end of suffering.”

4 “Mother, you speak with such assurance

to me on this matter.

My dear mom, I can’t help thinking

that no snarls are found in you.”

5 “Vaḍḍha, not a jot or a skerrick

of snarl is found in me

for any conditions at all,

whether low, high, or middling.

6 All defilements are ended for me,

meditating and diligent.

I’ve attained the three knowledges

and fulfilled the Buddha’s instructions.”

7 “Oh so excellent was the goad

my mother spurred me with!

Owing to her compassion, she spoke

verses on the ultimate goal.

8 On hearing her words,

advised by my mother,

I was struck with righteous urgency

for the sake of sanctuary from the yoke.

9 Striving, resolute,

tireless all day and night,

urged on by my mother,

I realized supreme peace.