Chapter One

I was only seven years old

and had just gone forth

when I overcame the mighty adder king

with my psychic powers.

I brought water for my mentor

from the great lake Anotatta.

When he saw me,

my teacher declared:

“Sāriputta, see this

young boy coming,

carrying a water pot,

serene inside himself.

His conduct inspires confidence,

he is of lovely deportment:

he is Anuruddha’s novice,

self-assured in psychic powers.

Made a thoroughbred by a thoroughbred,

made good by the good,

educated and trained by Anuruddha,

who has completed his task.

Having attained ultimate peace

and witnessed the unshakable,

that novice Sumana has the wish:

‘May no-one find me out!’”