Therīgāthā 42

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Verses of the Senior Nuns 5.5

The Book of the Fives

Nanduttarā

1 In the past I worshiped the sacred flame,

the moon, the sun, and the gods.

Having gone to a river ford,

I plunged into the water.

2 Undertaking many vows,

I shaved half my head.

Preparing a bed on the ground,

I ate no food at night.

3 I loved my ornaments and decorations;

and with baths and oil-massages,

I pandered to this body,

racked by desire for pleasures of the senses.

4 But then I gained faith,

and went forth to homelessness.

Truly seeing the body,

desire for sensual pleasure is eradicated.

5 All rebirths are cut off,

wishes and aspirations too.

Unyoked from all yokes,

I’ve found peace of mind.