[Home] [Sutta Indexes] [Glossology] [Site Sub-Sections]
[Pāḷi English Dictionary] [Sutta Search]

#### Saṁyutta Nikāya
5. Mahā-Vagga
47. Sati-Paṭṭhāna Saṁyutta
7. Appamāda Vaggo

#### The Book of the Kindred Sayings
5. The Great Chapter
47. Kindred Sayings on the Stations of Mindfulness
7. Earnestness

#### Suttas 63-72

Translated by F. L. Woodward
Edited by Mrs. Rhys Davids

Copyright The Pali Text Society
Commercial Rights Reserved
For details see Terms of Use.

[166]

#### Sutta 63

# Tathāgata

#### i. Seclusion

[63.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[63.2] "Just as, monks, of all creatures,
whether footless or having two,
four,
or many feet;
whether having forms or formless;
whether conscious or unconscious,
or neither conscious nor unconscious, —
of these the Tathāgata,
the Arahant,
the fully Enlightened One,
is reckoned chief; —
even so, monks,
of all profitable conditions which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,[ed1]
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[63.3] "Just as, monks, of all creatures,
whether footless or having two,
four,
or many feet;
whether having forms or formless;
whether conscious or unconscious,
or neither conscious nor unconscious, —
of these the Tathāgata,
the Arahant,
the fully Enlightened One,
is reckoned chief; —
even so, monks,
of all profitable conditions which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[63.4] "Just as, monks, of all creatures,
whether footless or having two,
four,
or many feet;
whether having forms or formless;
whether conscious or unconscious,
or neither conscious nor unconscious, —
of these the Tathāgata,
the Arahant,
the fully Enlightened One,
is reckoned chief; —
even so, monks,
of all profitable conditions which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[63.5] "Just as, monks, of all creatures,
whether footless or having two,
four,
or many feet;
whether having forms or formless;
whether conscious or unconscious,
or neither conscious nor unconscious, —
of these the Tathāgata,
the Arahant,
the fully Enlightened One,
is reckoned chief; —
even so, monks,
of all profitable conditions which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 64

# The Foot

#### i. Seclusion

[64.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[64.2] "Just as, monks, of all the foot-characteristics
of such creatures as roam about
are joined together in the foot of the elephant,
and as the elephant's foot
in size
is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[64.3] "Just as, monks, of all the foot-characteristics
of such creatures as roam about
are joined together in the foot of the elephant,
and as the elephant's foot
in size
is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[64.4] "Just as, monks, of all the foot-characteristics
of such creatures as roam about
are joined together in the foot of the elephant,
and as the elephant's foot
in size
is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[64.5] "Just as, monks, of all the foot-characteristics
of such creatures as roam about
are joined together in the foot of the elephant,
and as the elephant's foot
in size
is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 65

# The Roof-peak

#### i. Seclusion

[65.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[65.2] "Just as, monks, in a peaked house
all the rafters whatsoever
go together to the roof-peak,
slope to the roof-peak,
are joined together in the roof-peak,
and of them
the peak is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[65.3] "Just as, monks, in a peaked house
all the rafters whatsoever
go together to the roof-peak,
slope to the roof-peak,
are joined together in the roof-peak,
and of them
the peak is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[65.4] "Just as, monks, in a peaked house
all the rafters whatsoever
go together to the roof-peak,
slope to the roof-peak,
are joined together in the roof-peak,
and of them
the peak is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[65.5] "Just as, monks, in a peaked house
all the rafters whatsoever
go together to the roof-peak,
slope to the roof-peak,
are joined together in the roof-peak,
and of them
the peak is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 66

# Wood

#### i. Seclusion

[66.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[66.2] "Just as, monks, of all scented woods whatsoever
the dark sandal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[66.3] "Just as, monks, of all scented woods whatsoever
the dark sandal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[66.4] "Just as, monks, of all scented woods whatsoever
the dark sandal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[66.5] "Just as, monks, of all scented woods whatsoever
the dark sandal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 67

# Heart-wood

#### i. Seclusion

[67.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[67.2] "Just as, monks, of all scented heart-woods whatsoever
the red saldal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[67.3] "Just as, monks, of all scented heart-woods whatsoever
the red saldal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[67.4] "Just as, monks, of all scented heart-woods whatsoever
the red saldal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[67.5] "Just as, monks, of all scented heart-woods whatsoever
the red saldal-wood is reckoned chief, —
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 68

# Jasmine

#### i. Seclusion

[68.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[68.2] "Just as, monks, of all scented flowers whatsoever
the jasmine is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[68.3] "Just as, monks, of all scented flowers whatsoever
the jasmine is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[68.4] "Just as, monks, of all scented flowers whatsoever
the jasmine is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[68.5] "Just as, monks, of all scented flowers whatsoever
the jasmine is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 69

# Prince

#### i. Seclusion

[69.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[69.2] "Just as, monks, all petty princes whatsoever
follow in the train of the universal monarch,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[69.3] "Just as, monks, all petty princes whatsoever
follow in the train of the universal monarch,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[69.4] "Just as, monks, all petty princes whatsoever
follow in the train of the universal monarch,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[69.5] "Just as, monks, all petty princes whatsoever
follow in the train of the universal monarch,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 70

# Moon

#### i. Seclusion

[70.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[70.2] "Just as, monks, of all starry bodies whatsoever
the radiance does not equal one-sixteenth part
of the radiance of the moon;
just as the moon is reckoned chief of them,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[70.3] "Just as, monks, of all starry bodies whatsoever
the radiance does not equal one-sixteenth part
of the radiance of the moon;
just as the moon is reckoned chief of them,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[70.4] "Just as, monks, of all starry bodies whatsoever
the radiance does not equal one-sixteenth part
of the radiance of the moon;
just as the moon is reckoned chief of them,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[70.5] "Just as, monks, of all starry bodies whatsoever
the radiance does not equal one-sixteenth part
of the radiance of the moon;
just as the moon is reckoned chief of them,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 71

# Sun

#### i. Seclusion

[71.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[71.2] "Just as, monks, in the autumn season,
when the sky is opened up
and cleared of clouds,
the sun,
leaping up into the firmament,
drives away all darkness,
and shines
and burns
and flashes forth,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[71.3] "Just as, monks, in the autumn season,
when the sky is opened up
and cleared of clouds,
the sun,
leaping up into the firmament,
drives away all darkness,
and shines
and burns
and flashes forth,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[71.4] "Just as, monks, in the autumn season,
when the sky is opened up
and cleared of clouds,
the sun,
leaping up into the firmament,
drives away all darkness,
and shines
and burns
and flashes forth,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[71.5] "Just as, monks, in the autumn season,
when the sky is opened up
and cleared of clouds,
the sun,
leaping up into the firmament,
drives away all darkness,
and shines
and burns
and flashes forth,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

#### Sutta 72

# Cloth

#### i. Seclusion

[72.1] THUS have I heard:

Once the Exalted One was staying near Sāvatthī.

Then the Exalted One addressed the monks,
saying:

"Monks."

"Yes, lord," replied those monks to the Exalted One.

The Exalted One said:

[72.2] "Just as, monks, of all woven cloths whatsoever
the cloth of Benares is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
based on seclusion,
on dispassion,
on cessation,
which ends in self-surrender.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### ii. Ending in Restraint of Passion

[72.3] "Just as, monks, of all woven cloths whatsoever
the cloth of Benares is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in feeling in a contemplaton of feeling
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which ends in the restraint of passion,
which ends in the restraint of hatred,
which ends in the restraint of illusion.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iii. Ending in the Deathless

[72.4] "Just as, monks, of all woven cloths whatsoever
the cloth of Benares is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which plunges into the deathless,
which has the deathless for its aim,
which has the deathless for its end.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest cultivates and makes much of the four stations of mindfulness."

§

#### iv. Ending in Nibbāna

[72.5] "Just as, monks, of all woven cloths whatsoever
the cloth of Benares is reckoned chief,
even so, monks, of all profitable conditions,
which are rooted in earnestness,
which join together in earnestness, —
of those conditions
earnestness is reckoned chief.

Of the earnest monk
it may be expected
that he will cultivate,
that he will make much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

And how, monks,
does a monk who is earnest
cultivate
and make much of
the four stations of mindfulness?

Herein a monk dwells in body in a contemplaton of body
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in feelings in a contemplaton of feelings
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind in a contemplaton of mind
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna;

He dwells in mind-states in a contemplaton of mind-states
which flows to Nibbāna,
which slides to Nibbāna,
which tends to Nibbāna.

Thus, monks, a monk who is earnest
cultivates
and makes much of
the four stations of mindfulness.

[ed1] All versions of the Pali are completely abridged and indicate that the pattern to be followed is that of the end of the previous chapter. How this is to be done, where the materials are substantially different is not explained. I have made the best sense of this as I could.

Contact:
Copyright Statement