Chapter One

Background

Homage to him, the blessed one, the perfected one, the fully awakened Buddha!

Like the lions of mighty fang

who roar in mountain caves—

hear now from those who’ve practiced well

their own verses about themselves.

What their name, and what their clan,

and how they lived by the teaching;

how dedicated were those wise ones,

as they meditated tirelessly.

Clearly discerning in every case,

they reached the state that does not pass.

Reviewing their completed task,

they spoke about it in these words.

Subhūti

My hut is roofed and pleasant, sheltered from the wind:

so rain, heavens, as you please! ^[1]

My mind is serene and freed,

I practice wholeheartedly: so rain, heavens!

That is how this verse was recited by the senior venerable Subhūti.