The Numerical Discourses

Chapter 15: Existence and Inexistence

7. Honoring the Tathāgata

1. Thus I have heard: One time, the Buddha was staying at Anāthapiṇḍada’s Park in Jeta’s Grove of Śrāvastī.

2. It was then that the Bhagavān addressed the monks, “There are two things that honor the Tathāgata when one contemplates and focuses on them single-mindedly. What are the two things? The first is wisdom, and the second is complete cessation.[1] Monks, these things honor the Tathāgata when one contemplates and focuses on them single-mindedly. Thus, monks, you should train yourselves.”

3. When the monks heard what the Buddha taught, they rejoiced and approved.

Notes

1. complete cessation. C. 滅盡. This likely translated either S. nirodha or nirvāṇa. [back]

Translator: Charles Patton

Last Revised: 30 August 2023