Chapter 17

The Theme

104. Subhuti the Elder asks the Buddha, “Teach me the characteristics of those who have become the irreversible, of how they became of such might. Please give me a brief outline of their qualities!” So the Buddha replied:

105. “They are free from the perception of dualities; they speak suitably; they do not take refuge in teachings or practices outside of the Way. The wise have avoided the three places of woe, and are well practiced in the ten wholesome paths of action. Free from self-interest they instruct the world in Dharma. They delight in the Dharma. They always speak gently. Standing, walking, lying down or sitting, they remain in their awareness.

106. They keep themselves clean and untouched; pure from the threefold detachment (body, speech and mind). Great people who want no personal gain, wanting only the Dharma; they have passed beyond the reach of Mara’s temptations, and others cannot lead them astray. They meditate in the four trances (the Four Jhanas), but no longer in seeking a favorable rebirth. They seek no fame, and their hearts are never overcome by anger. If a householder, they remain constantly unattached to their entire property. If working, they do not make their livelihood in the wrong way, by bewitching, seduction, misleading or telling plausible lies to men or women.

107. Well-practiced in the detachment that comes through wisdom, the best of perfections, free from quarrels and disputes, thoughts firmly set on friendliness, they only want to one day see the Buddha, so they never let their thoughts wander from anything that would take away from that. They avoid those people who would drag them down, they are free from doubts about themselves or what stage their practice is at. For the sake of Dharma they renounce their very life, caring about nothing but the practice. These should be known as the characteristics of the irreversible.”