Seeking purity the wrong way, I served the sacred fire in a grove. Not knowing the path to purity, I practiced endless mortification.

I’ve gained this happiness by means of happiness: behold the clear rightness of the teaching! I’ve attained the three knowledges and fulfilled the Buddha’s instructions.

I used to be brahmin only by kin, but now I really am a brahmin! I am master of the three knowledges, <j>I’m a bathed initiate, I’m a scholar and a knowledge master.

Verses of the Senior Monks 3.2 The Book of the Threes Chapter One Paccaya

I went forth five days ago, a trainee, my heart’s desire unfulfilled. I entered my dwelling and resolved in my heart:

I won’t eat; I won’t drink; I won’t leave my dwelling; nor will I lie down on my side—not until the dart of craving is plucked.

See my energy and vigor as I meditate like this! I’ve attained the three knowledges and fulfilled the Buddha’s instructions.

Verses of the Senior Monks 3.3 The Book of the Threes Chapter One Bakkula

Whoever wishes to do afterwards what they should have done before has lost the causes for happiness, and afterwards they’re tormented by regrets.