Theragāthā 205

Verses of the Senior Monks 5.8

The Book of the Fives

Chapter One

Vakkali

1 “Struck by a wind ailment

while dwelling in a forest grove,

you’ve entered a tough place for gathering alms—

how will you get by, monk?”

2 “Pervading this bag of bones

with abundant rapture and happiness,

putting up with what’s tough,

I’ll dwell in the forest.

3 Developing mindfulness meditation,

the faculties and the powers,

developing the factors of awakening,

I’ll dwell in the forest.

4 Having seen those who are energetic, resolute,

always staunchly vigorous,

harmonious and united,

I’ll dwell in the forest.

5 Recollecting the Buddha—

the best, the tamed, the serene—

tireless all day and night

I’ll dwell in the forest.”