Verses of the Senior Nuns 9.1

The Book of the Nines

Vaḍḍha’s Mother

“Vaḍḍha, please never ever

get snarled in the world.

My child, do not partake

in suffering again and again.

For happy dwell the sages, Vaḍḍha,

unstirred, their doubts cut off,

cooled and tamed,

and free of defilements.

Vaḍḍha, foster the path

that the seers have walked,

for the attainment of vision,

and for making an end of suffering.”

“Mother, you speak with such assurance

to me on this matter.

My dear mom, I can’t help thinking

that no snarls are found in you.”

“Vaḍḍha, not a jot or a skerrick

of entanglement is found in me

for any conditions at all,

whether low, high, or middling.

All defilements are ended for me,

meditating and diligent.

I’ve attained the three knowledges

and fulfilled the Buddha’s instructions.”

“Oh so excellent was the goad

my mother spurred me with!

Owing to her compassion, she spoke

verses on the ultimate goal.

On hearing her words,

advised by my mother,

I was struck with righteous urgency

for the sake of sanctuary from the yoke.

Striving, resolute,

tireless all day and night,

urged on by my mother,

I realized supreme peace.