Verses of the Senior Monks 5.12

The Book of the Fives

Chapter One

Kosiya

Whatever attentive one, understanding their teacher’s words,

stays with them, their fondness growing;

that astute person is indeed devoted—

knowing the teachings, they’re distinguished.

When extreme stresses arise,

one who does not tremble, but reflects instead,

that astute person is indeed strong—

knowing the teachings, they’re distinguished.

Steady as the ocean, imperturbable,

their wisdom is deep, they see the subtle meaning;

that astute person is indeed unfaltering—

knowing the teachings, they’re distinguished.

They’re very learned, and have memorized the teaching,

living in line with the teaching—

that astute person is indeed such—

knowing the teachings, they’re distinguished.

They know the meaning of what is said,

and act accordingly;

that astute person is indeed a master of meaning—

knowing the teachings, they’re distinguished.