[Note: Sometimes, as in today’s selection, the verses in the Theri and Theragatha are a conversation.]
“Vaḍḍha, please never ever
get entangled 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 entanglements 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.
Read this translation of Therīgāthā 9.1 Vaḍḍhamātutherīgāthā: Vaḍḍha’s Mother by Bhikkhu Sujato on SuttaCentral.net. Or read a different translation on SuttaCentral.net or SuttaFriends.org. Or listen on SC-Voice.net. Or explore the Pali on DigitalPaliReader.online.
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