“Bhikkhus, it is rare to find one gone forth in old age who possesses five qualities. What five? It is rare to find one gone forth in old age (1) who is astute; (2) who has the proper manner; (3) who is learned; (4) who can speak on the Dhamma; and (5) who is an expert on the discipline. It is rare to find one gone forth in old age who possesses these five qualities.”
an.5.59 Aṅguttara Nikāya (Numbered Discourses)
Gone Forth in Old Age (1)
- Translator: Bhikkhu Bodhi
- Editor: Blake Walsh
Gone Forth When Old (1st)
“Mendicants, it’s hard to find someone gone forth when old who has five qualities.What five?
It’s hard to find someone gone forth when old who is sophisticated, well-presented, and learned, who can teach Dhamma, and has memorized the monastic law.
It’s hard to find someone gone forth when old who has these five qualities.”