Recollecting the Virtues of the Enlightened Ones
~ By Ajahn Jayasāro ~
Sanghānussati, recollecting the virtues of the enlightened ones, can suppress the hindrances and bring joy to the mind. One great monk well worthy of such reflection is Ven. Sāriputta.
It is well-known that Ven. Sāriputta was the Buddha’s disciple foremost in wisdom and as such may seem a rather austere figure. But in the commentaries other aspects of his personality are revealed. It is recorded, for example, that he would often spend the early morning while the other monks were on almsround sweeping, picking up rubbish and tidying up. Then he would go to visit the sick monks in the infirmary to encourage them and also check whether they needed more medicine. If they did he would procure the necessary items from supporters who had offered a formal invitation for medicine.
On long walking tours Ven. Sāriputta would rarely take his place at the head of the group. He would prefer to stay at the back with the elderly and infirm. He was often known to be the one who would apply oils to the weeping sores of sick monks.
Ven. Sāriputta was known for his kindness in visiting the sick and for the uplifting Dhamma talks he would give on such occasions. On one occasion he gave an instruction on the contemplation of feeling to Ven. Samitigutta, a monk suffering from leprosy, that was so profound that the patient realized arahantship. On another occasion the excruciating pains being experienced by Anathapindika ceased completely after hearing Ven. Sāriputta teach him the Dhamma. Finally, when Anathapindika lay on his death bed Ven. Sāriputta gave him a stirring discourse on non-attachment. After death, Anathapindika was reborn as a deva in Tusita realm and returned to the Jeta Grove to pay homage and express gratitude. In the presence of the Buddha he recited the following verse:
Sāriputta is truly endowed with wisdom
With virtue and with inner peace
Even a monk who has gone beyond
At best can only equal him.
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"Food for the Heart", a series of Dhamma teachings handwritten weekly is posted on the Buddhadāsa Indapañño Archives page with Ajahn's kind permission.
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For other teachings by Ven. Ajahn Jayasāro, please visit the Panyaprateep Foundation website.
