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tha-ap.47 Thera Apadana

Pañcahatthiya

The Sambuddha named Sumedha
was traveling through the bazaar
with downcast eyes, speaking few words,
mindful, with his sense-doors guarded.

Then they brought me—for my top-crest—
five handfuls of water lilies.
I did Buddha-pūjā with them
feeling well- pleased by my own hands.

Then those flowers that I had placed
became the Teacher’s canopy.
They flocked to the Great Elephant
like students to a good teacher.

In the thirty thousand aeons
since I offered him that flower,
I’ve come to know no bad rebirth:
that’s the fruit of Buddha-pūjā.

One hundred twenty aeons hence
there were five different kṣatriyans.
All of them were named Hatthiya,
wheel-turning kings with great power.

The four analytical modes,
and these eight deliverances,
six special knowledges mastered,
I have done what the Buddha taught!

Thus indeed Venerable Pañcahatthiya Thera spoke these verses.

The legend of Pañcahatthiya Thera is finished.

- Translator: Jonathan S. Walters

- Editor: Ayya Vimala