Lakkhaṇasutta

Dīgha Nikāya 30

Long Discourses 30

Lakkhaṇasutta

The Marks of a Great Man

Evaṁ me sutaṁ—

So I have heard.

ekaṁ samayaṁ bhagavā sāvatthiyaṁ viharati jetavane anāthapiṇḍikassa ārāme.

At one time the Buddha was staying near Sāvatthī in Jeta’s Grove, Anāthapiṇḍika’s monastery.

Tatra kho bhagavā bhikkhū āmantesi:

There the Buddha addressed the mendicants,

“bhikkhavo”ti.

“Mendicants!”

“Bhaddante”ti te bhikkhū bhagavato paccassosuṁ.

“Venerable sir,” they replied.

Bhagavā etadavoca:

The Buddha said this:

“Dvattiṁsimāni, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni, yehi samannāgatassa mahāpurisassa dveva gatiyo bhavanti anaññā.

“There are thirty-two marks of a great man. A great man who possesses these has only two possible destinies, no other.

Sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī dhammiko dhammarājā cāturanto vijitāvī janapadatthāvariyappatto sattaratanasamannāgato.

If he stays at home he becomes a king, a wheel-turning monarch, a just and principled king. His dominion extends to all four sides, he achieves stability in the country, and he possesses the seven treasures.

Tassimāni satta ratanāni bhavanti;

He has the following seven treasures:

Seyyathidaṁ—cakkaratanaṁ hatthiratanaṁ assaratanaṁ maṇiratanaṁ itthiratanaṁ gahapatiratanaṁ pariṇāyakaratanameva sattamaṁ.

the wheel, the elephant, the horse, the jewel, the woman, the householder, and the commander as the seventh treasure.

Parosahassaṁ kho panassa puttā bhavanti sūrā vīraṅgarūpā parasenappamaddanā.

He has over a thousand sons who are valiant and heroic, crushing the armies of his enemies.

So imaṁ pathaviṁ sāgarapariyantaṁ adaṇḍena asatthena dhammena abhivijiya ajjhāvasati.

After conquering this land girt by sea, he reigns by principle, without rod or sword.

Sace kho pana agārasmā anagāriyaṁ pabbajati, arahaṁ hoti sammāsambuddho loke vivaṭṭacchado.

But if he goes forth from the lay life to homelessness, he becomes a perfected one, a fully awakened Buddha, who has cast off the world’s veil.

Katamāni ca tāni, bhikkhave, dvattiṁsa mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni, yehi samannāgatassa mahāpurisassa dveva gatiyo bhavanti anaññā?

And what are the thirty-two marks?

Sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

sace kho pana agārasmā anagāriyaṁ pabbajati, arahaṁ hoti sammāsambuddho loke vivaṭṭacchado.

Idha, bhikkhave, mahāpuriso suppatiṭṭhitapādo hoti. Yampi, bhikkhave, mahāpuriso suppatiṭṭhitapādo hoti, idampi, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ bhavati.

He has well-planted feet.

Puna caparaṁ, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa heṭṭhāpādatalesu cakkāni jātāni honti sahassārāni sanemikāni sanābhikāni sabbākāraparipūrāni. Yampi, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa heṭṭhāpādatalesu cakkāni jātāni honti sahassārāni sanemikāni sanābhikāni sabbākāraparipūrāni, idampi, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ bhavati.

On the soles of his feet there are thousand-spoked wheels, with rims and hubs, complete in every detail.

Puna caparaṁ, bhikkhave, mahāpuriso āyatapaṇhi hoti …pe…

He has stretched heels.

dīghaṅguli hoti …

He has long fingers.

mudutalunahatthapādo hoti …

His hands and feet are tender.

jālahatthapādo hoti …

He has serried hands and feet.

ussaṅkhapādo hoti …

The tops of his feet are arched.

eṇijaṅgho hoti …

His calves are like those of an antelope.

ṭhitakova anonamanto ubhohi pāṇitalehi jaṇṇukāni parimasati parimajjati …

When standing upright and not bending over, the palms of both hands touch the knees.

kosohitavatthaguyho hoti …

His private parts are covered in a foreskin.

suvaṇṇavaṇṇo hoti kañcanasannibhattaco …

He is golden colored; his skin shines like lustrous gold.

sukhumacchavi hoti, sukhumattā chaviyā rajojallaṁ kāye na upalimpati …

He has delicate skin, so delicate that dust and dirt don’t stick to his body.

ekekalomo hoti, ekekāni lomāni lomakūpesu jātāni …

His hairs grow one per pore.

uddhaggalomo hoti, uddhaggāni lomāni jātāni nīlāni añjanavaṇṇāni kuṇḍalāvaṭṭāni dakkhiṇāvaṭṭakajātāni …

His hairs stand up; they’re blue-black and curl clockwise.

brahmujugatto hoti …

His body is tall and straight-limbed.

sattussado hoti …

He has bulging muscles in seven places.

sīhapubbaddhakāyo hoti …

His chest is like that of a lion.

citantaraṁso hoti …

He is filled out between the shoulders.

nigrodhaparimaṇḍalo hoti, yāvatakvassa kāyo tāvatakvassa byāmo yāvatakvassa byāmo tāvatakvassa kāyo …

He has the proportional circumference of a banyan tree: the span of his arms equals the height of his body.

samavaṭṭakkhandho hoti …

His torso is cylindrical.

rasaggasaggī hoti …

He has ridged taste buds.

sīhahanu hoti …

His jaw is like that of a lion.

cattālīsadanto hoti …

He has forty teeth.

samadanto hoti …

His teeth are even.

aviraḷadanto hoti …

His teeth have no gaps.

susukkadāṭho hoti …

His teeth are perfectly white.

pahūtajivho hoti …

He has a large tongue.

brahmassaro hoti karavīkabhāṇī …

He has the voice of the Divinity, <j>like a cuckoo’s call.

abhinīlanetto hoti …

His eyes are indigo.

gopakhumo hoti …

He has eyelashes like a cow’s.

uṇṇā bhamukantare jātā hoti, odātā mudutūlasannibhā. Yampi, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa uṇṇā bhamukantare jātā hoti, odātā mudutūlasannibhā, idampi, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ bhavati.

Between his eyebrows there grows a tuft, soft and white like cotton-wool.

Puna caparaṁ, bhikkhave, mahāpuriso uṇhīsasīso hoti. Yampi, bhikkhave, mahāpuriso uṇhīsasīso hoti, idampi, bhikkhave, mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ bhavati.

The crown of his head is like a turban.

Imāni kho tāni, bhikkhave, dvattiṁsa mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni, yehi samannāgatassa mahāpurisassa dveva gatiyo bhavanti anaññā.

These are the thirty-two marks of a great man. A great man who possesses these has only two possible destinies, no other.

Sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

sace kho pana agārasmā anagāriyaṁ pabbajati, arahaṁ hoti sammāsambuddho loke vivaṭṭacchado.

Imāni kho, bhikkhave, dvattiṁsa mahāpurisassa mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni bāhirakāpi isayo dhārenti, no ca kho te jānanti:

Seers who are outsiders remember these marks, but they do not know

‘imassa kammassa kaṭattā idaṁ lakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhatī’ti.

the specific deeds performed in the past to obtain each mark.

1. Suppatiṭṭhitapādatālakkhaṇaṁ

1. Well-Planted Feet

Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno daḷhasamādāno ahosi kusalesu dhammesu, avatthitasamādāno kāyasucarite vacīsucarite manosucarite dānasaṁvibhāge sīlasamādāne uposathupavāse matteyyatāya petteyyatāya sāmaññatāya brahmaññatāya kule jeṭṭhāpacāyitāya aññataraññataresu ca adhikusalesu dhammesu.

In some past lives, past existences, past abodes the Realized One was reborn as a human being. He firmly and persistently undertook skillful behaviors such as good conduct by way of body, speech, and mind, giving and sharing, taking precepts, observing the sabbath, paying due respect to mother and father, ascetics and brahmins, honoring the elders in the family, and various other things pertaining to skillful behaviors.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā ussannattā vipulattā kāyassa bhedā paraṁ maraṇā sugatiṁ saggaṁ lokaṁ upapajjati.

Due to performing, accumulating, heaping up, and amassing those deeds, when his body broke up, after death, he was reborn in a good place, a heavenly realm.

So tattha aññe deve dasahi ṭhānehi adhiggaṇhāti dibbena āyunā dibbena vaṇṇena dibbena sukhena dibbena yasena dibbena ādhipateyyena dibbehi rūpehi dibbehi saddehi dibbehi gandhehi dibbehi rasehi dibbehi phoṭṭhabbehi.

There he surpassed the other gods in ten respects: heavenly lifespan, beauty, happiness, glory, sovereignty, sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touches.

So tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati.

When he passed away from there and came back to this place he obtained this mark of a great man:

Suppatiṭṭhitapādo hoti.

he has well-planted feet.

Samaṁ pādaṁ bhūmiyaṁ nikkhipati, samaṁ uddharati, samaṁ sabbāvantehi pādatalehi bhūmiṁ phusati.

He places his foot on the ground evenly, raises it evenly, and touches the ground evenly with the whole sole of his foot.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī dhammiko dhammarājā cāturanto vijitāvī janapadatthāvariyappatto sattaratanasamannāgato.

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

Tassimāni satta ratanāni bhavanti;

He has the following seven treasures:

Seyyathidaṁ—cakkaratanaṁ hatthiratanaṁ assaratanaṁ maṇiratanaṁ itthiratanaṁ gahapatiratanaṁ pariṇāyakaratanameva sattamaṁ.

the wheel, the elephant, the horse, the jewel, the woman, the householder, and the commander as the seventh treasure.

Parosahassaṁ kho panassa puttā bhavanti sūrā vīraṅgarūpā parasenappamaddanā.

He has over a thousand sons who are valiant and heroic, crushing the armies of his enemies.

So imaṁ pathaviṁ sāgarapariyantaṁ akhilamanimittamakaṇṭakaṁ iddhaṁ phītaṁ khemaṁ sivaṁ nirabbudaṁ adaṇḍena asatthena dhammena abhivijiya ajjhāvasati.

After conquering this land girt by sea—free of harassment by bandits, successful and prosperous, safe, blessed, free of pests—he reigns by principle, without rod or sword.

Rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Akkhambhiyo hoti kenaci manussabhūtena paccatthikena paccāmittena.

He can’t be stopped by any human foe or enemy.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati.

That’s what he obtains as king.

Sace kho pana agārasmā anagāriyaṁ pabbajati, arahaṁ hoti sammāsambuddho loke vivaṭṭacchado.

But if he goes forth from the lay life to homelessness, he becomes a perfected one, a fully awakened Buddha, who has cast off the world’s veil.

Buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Akkhambhiyo hoti abbhantarehi vā bāhirehi vā paccatthikehi paccāmittehi rāgena vā dosena vā mohena vā samaṇena vā brāhmaṇena vā devena vā mārena vā brahmunā vā kenaci vā lokasmiṁ.

He can’t be stopped by any foe or enemy whether internal or external; nor by greed, hate, or delusion; nor by any ascetic or brahmin or god or Māra or divinity or by anyone in the world.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Sacce ca dhamme ca dame ca saṁyame,

“Truth, principle, self-control, and restraint;

Soceyyasīlālayuposathesu ca;

purity, precepts, and observing the sabbath;

Dāne ahiṁsāya asāhase rato,

giving, harmlessness, delighting in non-violence—

Daḷhaṁ samādāya samattamācari.

firmly undertaking these things, he lived accordingly.

So tena kammena divaṁ samakkami,

By means of these deeds he went to heaven,

Sukhañca khiḍḍāratiyo ca anvabhi;

where he enjoyed happiness and merriment.

Tato cavitvā punarāgato idha,

After passing away from there to here,

Samehi pādehi phusī vasundharaṁ.

he steps evenly on this rich earth.

Byākaṁsu veyyañjanikā samāgatā,

The gathered soothsayers predicted

Samappatiṭṭhassa na hoti khambhanā;

that there is no stopping one of such even tread,

Gihissa vā pabbajitassa vā puna,

as householder or renunciate.

Taṁ lakkhaṇaṁ bhavati tadatthajotakaṁ.

That’s the meaning shown by this mark.

Akkhambhiyo hoti agāramāvasaṁ,

While living at home he cannot be stopped,

Parābhibhū sattubhi nappamaddano;

he defeats his foes, and cannot be beaten.

Manussabhūtenidha hoti kenaci,

Due to the fruit of that deed,

Akkhambhiyo tassa phalena kammuno.

he cannot be stopped by any human.

Sace ca pabbajjamupeti tādiso,

But if one such chooses the life gone forth,

Nekkhammachandābhirato vicakkhaṇo;

seeing clearly, loving renunciation,

Aggo na so gacchati jātu khambhanaṁ,

not even the best can ever stop him;

Naruttamo esa hi tassa dhammatā”ti.

this is the nature of the supreme man.”

2. Pādatalacakkalakkhaṇaṁ

2. Wheels on the Feet

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

bahujanassa sukhāvaho ahosi, ubbegauttāsabhayaṁ apanuditā, dhammikañca rakkhāvaraṇaguttiṁ saṁvidhātā, saparivārañca dānaṁ adāsi.

He conveyed happiness to many people, casting out threats, terror, and danger, providing just protection and security, and giving gifts with all the trimmings.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā ussannattā vipulattā kāyassa bhedā paraṁ maraṇā sugatiṁ saggaṁ lokaṁ upapajjati …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark:

Heṭṭhāpādatalesu cakkāni jātāni honti sahassārāni sanemikāni sanābhikāni sabbākāraparipūrāni suvibhattantarāni.

on the soles of his feet there are thousand-spoked wheels, with rims and hubs, complete in every detail and well divided inside.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Mahāparivāro hoti;

He has a large following

mahāssa honti parivārā brāhmaṇagahapatikā negamajānapadā gaṇakamahāmattā anīkaṭṭhā dovārikā amaccā pārisajjā rājāno bhogiyā kumārā.

of brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati.

That’s what he obtains as king.

Sace kho pana agārasmā anagāriyaṁ pabbajati, arahaṁ hoti sammāsambuddho loke vivaṭṭacchado.

But if he goes forth from the lay life to homelessness, he becomes a fully awakened Buddha.

Buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Mahāparivāro hoti;

He has a large following

mahāssa honti parivārā bhikkhū bhikkhuniyo upāsakā upāsikāyo devā manussā asurā nāgā gandhabbā.

of monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Pure puratthā purimāsu jātisu,

“In olden days, in past lives,

Manussabhūto bahunaṁ sukhāvaho;

he brought happiness to many people,

Ubbhegauttāsabhayāpanūdano,

ridding them of fear, terror, and danger,

Guttīsu rakkhāvaraṇesu ussuko.

eagerly guarding and protecting them.

So tena kammena divaṁ samakkami,

By means of these deeds he went to heaven,

Sukhañca khiḍḍāratiyo ca anvabhi;

where he enjoyed happiness and merriment.

Tato cavitvā punarāgato idha,

After passing away from there to here,

Cakkāni pādesu duvesu vindati.

wheels on his two feet are found,

Samantanemīni sahassarāni ca,

all rimmed around and thousand-spoked.

Byākaṁsu veyyañjanikā samāgatā;

The gathered soothsayers predicted,

Disvā kumāraṁ satapuññalakkhaṇaṁ,

seeing the prince <j>with the hundred-fold mark of merits,

Parivāravā hessati sattumaddano.

that he’d have a following, subduing foes,

Tathā hi cakkāni samantanemini,

which is why he has wheels all rimmed around.

Sace na pabbajjamupeti tādiso;

If one such doesn’t choose the life gone forth,

Vatteti cakkaṁ pathaviṁ pasāsati,

he’ll roll the wheel and rule the land.

Tassānuyantādha bhavanti khattiyā.

The aristocrats will be his vassals,

Mahāyasaṁ samparivārayanti naṁ,

flocking to his glory.

Sace ca pabbajjamupeti tādiso;

But if one such chooses the life gone forth,

Nekkhammachandābhirato vicakkhaṇo,

seeing clearly, loving renunciation,

Devā manussāsurasakkarakkhasā.

the gods, humans, titans, Sakka, and monsters;

Gandhabbanāgā vihagā catuppadā,

centaurs and dragons, birds and beasts,

Anuttaraṁ devamanussapūjitaṁ;

will flock to his glory,

Mahāyasaṁ samparivārayanti nan”ti.

the supreme, honored by gods and humans.”

3–5. Āyatapaṇhitāditilakkhaṇaṁ

3–5. Stretched Heels, Etc.

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

pāṇātipātaṁ pahāya pāṇātipātā paṭivirato ahosi nihitadaṇḍo nihitasattho lajjī dayāpanno, sabbapāṇabhūtahitānukampī vihāsi.

He gave up killing living creatures, renouncing the rod and the sword. He was scrupulous and kind, living full of sympathy for all living beings.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā ussannattā vipulattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni tīṇi mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these three marks:

Āyatapaṇhi ca hoti, dīghaṅguli ca brahmujugatto ca.

he has stretched heels, long fingers, and his body is tall and straight-limbed.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Dīghāyuko hoti ciraṭṭhitiko, dīghamāyuṁ pāleti, na sakkā hoti antarā jīvitā voropetuṁ kenaci manussabhūtena paccatthikena paccāmittena.

He’s long-lived, preserving his life for a long time. No human foe or enemy is able to take his life before his time.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Dīghāyuko hoti ciraṭṭhitiko, dīghamāyuṁ pāleti, na sakkā hoti antarā jīvitā voropetuṁ paccatthikehi paccāmittehi samaṇena vā brāhmaṇena vā devena vā mārena vā brahmunā vā kenaci vā lokasmiṁ.

He’s long-lived, preserving his life for a long time. No foes or enemies—nor any ascetic or brahmin or god or Māra or divinity or anyone in the world—is able to take his life before his time.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Māraṇavadhabhayattano viditvā,

“Realizing for himself the horrors of death,

Paṭivirato paraṁ māraṇāyahosi;

he refrained from killing other creatures.

Tena sucaritena saggamagamā,

By that good conduct he went to heaven,

Sukataphalavipākamanubhosi.

where he enjoyed the fruit of deeds well done.

Caviya punaridhāgato samāno,

Passing away, on his return to here,

Paṭilabhati idha tīṇi lakkhaṇāni;

he obtained these three marks:

Bhavati vipuladīghapāsaṇhiko,

his stretched heels are abundant and long,

Brahmāva suju subho sujātagatto.

and like the Divinity, he’s straight and beautiful, <j>with well-formed limbs.

Subhujo susu susaṇṭhito sujāto,

Fair of arm, youthful, of good posture and breeding,

Mudutalunaṅguliyassa honti;

his fingers are soft and tender and long.

Dīghā tībhi purisavaraggalakkhaṇehi,

By these three marks of an excellent man,

Cirayapanāya kumāramādisanti.

they indicated that the prince’s life would be long:

Bhavati yadi gihī ciraṁ yapeti,

‘As a householder he will live long;

Cirataraṁ pabbajati yadi tato hi;

longer still if he goes forth, due to

Yāpayati ca vasiddhibhāvanāya,

mastery in the development of psychic power.

Iti dīghāyukatāya taṁ nimittan”ti.

Thus this is the sign of long life.’”

6. Sattussadatālakkhaṇaṁ

6. Seven Bulging Places

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

dātā ahosi paṇītānaṁ rasitānaṁ khādanīyānaṁ bhojanīyānaṁ sāyanīyānaṁ lehanīyānaṁ pānānaṁ.

He was a donor of delicious and tasty cooked and fresh foods, and drinks that were sweet and succulent.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati, sattussado hoti, sattassa ussadā honti;

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark: he has bulging muscles in seven places.

ubhosu hatthesu ussadā honti, ubhosu pādesu ussadā honti, ubhosu aṁsakūṭesu ussadā honti, khandhe ussado hoti.

Both hands, both feet, both shoulders, and his chest are all bulging.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Lābhī hoti paṇītānaṁ rasitānaṁ khādanīyānaṁ bhojanīyānaṁ sāyanīyānaṁ lehanīyānaṁ pānānaṁ.

He gets delicious and tasty cooked and fresh foods, and drinks that are sweet and succulent.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Lābhī hoti paṇītānaṁ rasitānaṁ khādanīyānaṁ bhojanīyānaṁ sāyanīyānaṁ lehanīyānaṁ pānānaṁ.

He gets delicious and tasty cooked and fresh foods, and drinks that are sweet and succulent.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Khajjabhojjamatha leyya sāyiyaṁ,

“He used to give the very best of flavors—

Uttamaggarasadāyako ahu;

scrumptious foods of every kind.

Tena so sucaritena kammunā,

Because of that good deed,

Nandane ciramabhippamodati.

he rejoiced long in the Garden of Delight.

Satta cussade idhādhigacchati,

On returning to here, he is rounded in seven places,

Hatthapādamudutañca vindati;

and tender hands and feet are found.

Āhu byañjananimittakovidā,

The soothsayers expert in signs declared:

Khajjabhojjarasalābhitāya naṁ.

‘He’ll get tasty foods of all sorts

Yaṁ gihissapi tadatthajotakaṁ,

as a householder, that’s what that means.

Pabbajjampi ca tadādhigacchati;

But even if he goes forth he’ll get the same,

Khajjabhojjarasalābhiruttamaṁ,

supreme in gaining tasty foods of all sorts,

Āhu sabbagihibandhanacchidan”ti.

cutting all bonds of the lay life.’”

7–8. Karacaraṇamudujālatālakkhaṇāni

7–8. Tender and Serried Hands

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

catūhi saṅgahavatthūhi janaṁ saṅgāhako ahosi—

He brought people together using the four ways of being inclusive:

dānena peyyavajjena atthacariyāya samānattatāya.

giving, kindly words, taking care, and equality.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks:

Mudutalunahatthapādo ca hoti jālahatthapādo ca.

his hands and feet are tender, and they are serried.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Susaṅgahitaparijano hoti, susaṅgahitāssa honti brāhmaṇagahapatikā negamajānapadā gaṇakamahāmattā anīkaṭṭhā dovārikā amaccā pārisajjā rājāno bhogiyā kumārā.

His retinue is inclusive, cohesive, and well-managed. This includes brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Susaṅgahitaparijano hoti, susaṅgahitāssa honti bhikkhū bhikkhuniyo upāsakā upāsikāyo devā manussā asurā nāgā gandhabbā.

His retinue is inclusive and well-managed. This includes monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Dānampi catthacariyatañca,

“By giving and helping others,

Piyavāditañca samānattatañca;

kindly speech, and equal treatment,

Kariyacariyasusaṅgahaṁ bahūnaṁ,

such action and conduct as brought people together,

Anavamatena guṇena yāti saggaṁ.

he went to heaven due to his esteemed virtue.

Caviya punaridhāgato samāno,

Passing away, on his return to here,

Karacaraṇamudutañca jālino ca;

the young baby prince obtained

Atirucirasuvaggudassaneyyaṁ,

hands and feet so tender and serried,

Paṭilabhati daharo susu kumāro.

lovely, graceful, and good-looking.

Bhavati parijanassavo vidheyyo,

His retinue is loyal and manageable,

Mahimaṁ āvasito susaṅgahito;

staying agreeably all over this broad land.

Piyavadū hitasukhataṁ jigīsamāno,

Speaking kindly, seeking happiness,

Abhirucitāni guṇāni ācarati.

he implements agreeable qualities.

Yadi ca jahati sabbakāmabhogaṁ,

But if he gives up all sensual enjoyments,

Kathayati dhammakathaṁ jino janassa;

as victor he speaks Dhamma to the people.

Vacanapaṭikarassābhippasannā,

Devoted, they respond to his words;

Sutvāna dhammānudhammamācarantī”ti.

after listening, they practice in line with the teaching.”

9–10. Ussaṅkhapāda-uddhaggalomatālakkhaṇāni

9–10. Arched Feet and Upright Hair

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

atthūpasaṁhitaṁ dhammūpasaṁhitaṁ vācaṁ bhāsitā ahosi, bahujanaṁ nidaṁsesi, pāṇīnaṁ hitasukhāvaho dhammayāgī.

His speech was meaningful and principled. He educated many people, bringing welfare and happiness, offering the teaching.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks:

Ussaṅkhapādo ca hoti, uddhaggalomo ca.

the tops of his feet are arched and his hairs stand up.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato, sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Aggo ca hoti seṭṭho ca pāmokkho ca uttamo ca pavaro ca kāmabhogīnaṁ.

He is the foremost, best, chief, highest, and finest of those who enjoy sensual pleasures.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Aggo ca hoti seṭṭho ca pāmokkho ca uttamo ca pavaro ca sabbasattānaṁ.

He is the foremost, best, chief, highest, and finest of all sentient beings.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Atthadhammasahitaṁ pure giraṁ,

“His word was meaningful and principled,

Erayaṁ bahujanaṁ nidaṁsayi;

moving the people with his explanations.

Pāṇinaṁ hitasukhāvaho ahu,

He brought welfare and happiness to creatures,

Dhammayāgamayajī amaccharī.

unstintingly offering up teaching.

Tena so sucaritena kammunā,

Because of that good deed,

Suggatiṁ vajati tattha modati;

he advanced to heaven and there rejoiced.

Lakkhaṇāni ca duve idhāgato,

On return to here two marks are found,

Uttamappamukhatāya vindati.

of excellence and supremacy.

Ubbhamuppatitalomavā saso,

His hairs stand upright,

Pādagaṇṭhirahu sādhusaṇṭhitā;

and his ankles well-shaped.

Maṁsalohitācitā tacotthatā,

Swollen with flesh and blood, encased in skin,

Uparicaraṇasobhanā ahu.

gracing above the feet.

Gehamāvasati ce tathāvidho,

If that sort lives in the home, he becomes

Aggataṁ vajati kāmabhoginaṁ;

the best of those who enjoy sensual pleasures.

Tena uttaritaro na vijjati,

There’ll be none better than him;

Jambudīpamabhibhuyya iriyati.

he’ll proceed <j>having mastered all the Black Plum Tree Land.

Pabbajampi ca anomanikkamo,

But going forth the peerless renunciate

Aggataṁ vajati sabbapāṇinaṁ;

turns into the best of all creatures.

Tena uttaritaro na vijjati,

There’ll be none better than him,

Sabbalokamabhibhuyya viharatī”ti.

he’ll live having mastered the whole world.”

11. Eṇijaṅghalakkhaṇaṁ

11. Antelope Calves

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

sakkaccaṁ vācetā ahosi sippaṁ vā vijjaṁ vā caraṇaṁ vā kammaṁ vā:

He was a thorough teacher of a profession, a branch of knowledge, conduct, or action, thinking:

‘kintime khippaṁ vijāneyyuṁ, khippaṁ paṭipajjeyyuṁ, na ciraṁ kilisseyyun’”ti.

‘How might they quickly learn and practice, without getting exhausted?’

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark:

Eṇijaṅgho hoti.

his calves are like those of an antelope.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Yāni tāni rājārahāni rājaṅgāni rājūpabhogāni rājānucchavikāni tāni khippaṁ paṭilabhati.

He quickly obtains the things worthy of a king, the factors, supports, and things befitting a king.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Yāni tāni samaṇārahāni samaṇaṅgāni samaṇūpabhogāni samaṇānucchavikāni, tāni khippaṁ paṭilabhati.

He quickly obtains the things worthy of an ascetic, the factors, supports, and things befitting an ascetic.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Sippesu vijjācaraṇesu kammesu,

“In professions, knowledge, conduct, and deeds,

Kathaṁ vijāneyyuṁ lahunti icchati;

he thought of how they might easily learn.

Yadūpaghātāya na hoti kassaci,

Quickly, without tiresome delays,

Vāceti khippaṁ na ciraṁ kilissati.

he taught them things that harm no-one at all.

Taṁ kammaṁ katvā kusalaṁ sukhudrayaṁ,

Having done that skillful deed <j>whose outcome is happiness,

Jaṅghā manuññā labhate susaṇṭhitā;

he gains prominent and elegant calves.

Vaṭṭā sujātā anupubbamuggatā,

Well-formed in graceful spirals,

Uddhaggalomā sukhumattacotthatā.

he’s covered in delicate rising hairs.

Eṇeyyajaṅghoti tamāhu puggalaṁ,

They say that individual has antelope calves,

Sampattiyā khippamidhāhu lakkhaṇaṁ;

and that this is the mark of swift success.

Gehānulomāni yadābhikaṅkhati,

If he desires the things fitting the household life,

Apabbajaṁ khippamidhādhigacchati.

not going forth, they’ll quickly be his.

Sace ca pabbajjamupeti tādiso,

But if one such chooses the life gone forth,

Nekkhammachandābhirato vicakkhaṇo;

seeing clearly, loving renunciation,

Anucchavikassa yadānulomikaṁ,

the peerless renunciate will quickly find

Taṁ vindati khippamanomavikkamo”ti.

what is fitting and suitable.”

12. Sukhumacchavilakkhaṇaṁ

12. Delicate Skin

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

samaṇaṁ vā brāhmaṇaṁ vā upasaṅkamitvā paripucchitā ahosi:

He approached an ascetic or brahmin and asked:

‘kiṁ, bhante, kusalaṁ, kiṁ akusalaṁ, kiṁ sāvajjaṁ, kiṁ anavajjaṁ, kiṁ sevitabbaṁ, kiṁ na sevitabbaṁ, kiṁ me karīyamānaṁ dīgharattaṁ ahitāya dukkhāya assa, kiṁ vā pana me karīyamānaṁ dīgharattaṁ hitāya sukhāya assā’ti.

‘Sirs, what is skillful? What is unskillful? What is blameworthy? What is blameless? What should be cultivated? What should not be cultivated? Doing what leads to my lasting harm and suffering? Doing what leads to my lasting welfare and happiness?’

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark:

Sukhumacchavi hoti, sukhumattā chaviyā rajojallaṁ kāye na upalimpati.

he has delicate skin, so delicate that dust and dirt don’t stick to his body.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Mahāpañño hoti, nāssa hoti koci paññāya sadiso vā seṭṭho vā kāmabhogīnaṁ.

He has great wisdom. Of those who enjoy sensual pleasures, none is his equal or better in wisdom.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Mahāpañño hoti puthupañño hāsapañño javanapañño tikkhapañño nibbedhikapañño, nāssa hoti koci paññāya sadiso vā seṭṭho vā sabbasattānaṁ.

He has great wisdom, widespread wisdom, laughing wisdom, swift wisdom, sharp wisdom, and penetrating wisdom. No sentient being is his equal or better in wisdom.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Pure puratthā purimāsu jātisu,

“In olden days, in past lives,

Aññātukāmo paripucchitā ahu;

eager to understand, he asked questions.

Sussūsitā pabbajitaṁ upāsitā,

Keen to learn, he waited on renunciates,

Atthantaro atthakathaṁ nisāmayi.

heeding their explanation with pure intent.

Paññāpaṭilābhagatena kammunā,

Due to that deed of acquiring wisdom,

Manussabhūto sukhumacchavī ahu;

as a human being his skin is delicate.

Byākaṁsu uppādanimittakovidā,

At his birth <j>the soothsayers expert in signs prophesied:

Sukhumāni atthāni avecca dakkhiti.

‘He’ll discern delicate matters.’

Sace na pabbajjamupeti tādiso,

If one such doesn’t choose the life gone forth,

Vatteti cakkaṁ pathaviṁ pasāsati;

he’ll roll the wheel and rule the land.

Atthānusiṭṭhīsu pariggahesu ca,

Among those with material things <j>who have been educated,

Na tena seyyo sadiso ca vijjati.

none equal or better than him is found.

Sace ca pabbajjamupeti tādiso,

But if one such chooses the life gone forth,

Nekkhammachandābhirato vicakkhaṇo;

seeing clearly, loving renunciation,

Paññāvisiṭṭhaṁ labhate anuttaraṁ,

gaining wisdom that’s supreme and distinguished,

Pappoti bodhiṁ varabhūrimedhaso”ti.

the one of superb, vast intelligence <j>attains awakening.”

13. Suvaṇṇavaṇṇalakkhaṇaṁ

13. Golden Skin

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

akkodhano ahosi anupāyāsabahulo,

He wasn’t irritable or bad-tempered.

bahumpi vutto samāno nābhisajji na kuppi na byāpajji na patitthīyi, na kopañca dosañca appaccayañca pātvākāsi.

Even when heavily criticized he didn’t lose his temper, become annoyed, hostile, and hard-hearted, or display annoyance, hate, and bitterness.

Dātā ca ahosi sukhumānaṁ mudukānaṁ attharaṇānaṁ pāvuraṇānaṁ khomasukhumānaṁ kappāsikasukhumānaṁ koseyyasukhumānaṁ kambalasukhumānaṁ.

He donated soft and delicate mats and blankets, and delicate cloths of linen, cotton, silk, and wool.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark:

Suvaṇṇavaṇṇo hoti kañcanasannibhattaco.

he is golden colored; his skin shines like lustrous gold.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Lābhī hoti sukhumānaṁ mudukānaṁ attharaṇānaṁ pāvuraṇānaṁ khomasukhumānaṁ kappāsikasukhumānaṁ koseyyasukhumānaṁ kambalasukhumānaṁ.

He obtains soft and delicate mats and blankets, and delicate cloths of linen, cotton, silk, and wool.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Lābhī hoti sukhumānaṁ mudukānaṁ attharaṇānaṁ pāvuraṇānaṁ khomasukhumānaṁ kappāsikasukhumānaṁ koseyyasukhumānaṁ kambalasukhumānaṁ.

He obtains soft and delicate mats and blankets, and delicate cloths of linen, cotton, silk, and wool.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Akkodhañca adhiṭṭhahi adāsi,

“Fixated on good will, he gave gifts.

Dānañca vatthāni sukhumāni succhavīni;

In an earlier life he poured forth cloth

Purimatarabhave ṭhito abhivissaji,

fine and soft to touch,

Mahimiva suro abhivassaṁ.

like a god pouring rain on this broad earth.

Taṁ katvāna ito cuto dibbaṁ,

So doing he passed from here to heaven,

Upapajji sukataphalavipākamanubhutvā;

where he enjoyed the fruits of deeds well done.

Kanakatanusannibho idhābhibhavati,

Here he wins a figure shining like honey-yellow gold,

Suravarataroriva indo.

like Indra, the finest of gods.

Gehañcāvasati naro apabbajja,

If that man stays in the house, not wishing to go forth,

Micchaṁ mahatimahiṁ anusāsati;

he conquers and rules this vast, broad earth.

Pasayha sahidha sattaratanaṁ,

He obtains abundant excellent cloth,

Paṭilabhati vimalasukhumacchaviṁ suciñca.

so delicate and soft to touch.

Lābhī acchādanavatthamokkhapāvuraṇānaṁ,

He receives robes, cloth, and the finest garments

Bhavati yadi anāgāriyataṁ upeti;

if he chooses the life gone forth.

Sahito purimakataphalaṁ anubhavati,

For he still partakes of past deed’s fruit;

Na bhavati katassa panāso”ti.

what’s been done is never lost.”

14. Kosohitavatthaguyhalakkhaṇaṁ

14. Privates in Foreskin

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

cirappanaṭṭhe sucirappavāsino ñātimitte suhajje sakhino samānetā ahosi.

He reunited long-lost and long-separated relatives, friends, loved ones, and comrades.

Mātarampi puttena samānetā ahosi, puttampi mātarā samānetā ahosi, pitarampi puttena samānetā ahosi, puttampi pitarā samānetā ahosi, bhātarampi bhātarā samānetā ahosi, bhātarampi bhaginiyā samānetā ahosi, bhaginimpi bhātarā samānetā ahosi, bhaginimpi bhaginiyā samānetā ahosi, samaṅgīkatvā ca abbhanumoditā ahosi.

He reunited mother with child and child with mother; father with child and child with father; brother with brother, brother with sister, sister with brother, and sister with sister, bringing them together with rejoicing.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati—

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark:

kosohitavatthaguyho hoti.

his private parts are covered in a foreskin.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Pahūtaputto hoti, parosahassaṁ kho panassa puttā bhavanti sūrā vīraṅgarūpā parasenappamaddanā.

He has many sons, over a thousand sons who are valiant and heroic, crushing the armies of his enemies.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Pahūtaputto hoti, anekasahassaṁ kho panassa puttā bhavanti sūrā vīraṅgarūpā parasenappamaddanā.

He has many sons, many thousands of sons who are valiant and heroic, crushing the armies of his enemies.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Pure puratthā purimāsu jātisu,

“In olden days, in past lives,

Cirappanaṭṭhe sucirappavāsino;

he reunited long-lost

Ñātī suhajje sakhino samānayi,

and long-separated comrades and family,

Samaṅgikatvā anumoditā ahu.

bringing them together with joy.

So tena kammena divaṁ samakkami,

By means of these deeds he went to heaven,

Sukhañca khiḍḍāratiyo ca anvabhi;

where he enjoyed happiness and merriment.

Tato cavitvā punarāgato idha,

After passing away from there to here,

Kosohitaṁ vindati vatthachādiyaṁ.

his private parts are covered in a foreskin.

Pahūtaputto bhavatī tathāvidho,

That sort has many sons,

Parosahassañca bhavanti atrajā;

over a thousand descendants,

Sūrā ca vīrā ca amittatāpanā,

valiant and heroic, devastating foes,

Gihissa pītiṁ jananā piyaṁvadā.

a layman’s joy, speaking kindly.

Bahūtarā pabbajitassa iriyato,

But if he lives the renunciate life

Bhavanti puttā vacanānusārino;

he has even more sons following his word.

Gihissa vā pabbajitassa vā puna,

As householder or renunciate,

Taṁ lakkhaṇaṁ jāyati tadatthajotakan”ti.

that’s the meaning shown by this mark.”

Paṭhamabhāṇavāro niṭṭhito.

The first recitation section is finished.

15–16. Parimaṇḍalaanonamajaṇṇuparimasanalakkhaṇāni

15–16. Equal Proportions and Touching the Knees

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

mahājanasaṅgahaṁ samekkhamāno samaṁ jānāti sāmaṁ jānāti, purisaṁ jānāti purisavisesaṁ jānāti:

Examining the gathered population, he knew what they had in common and what was their own; he knew each person, and he knew the distinctions between people.

‘ayamidamarahati ayamidamarahatī’ti tattha tattha purisavisesakaro ahosi.

In each case, he made appropriate distinctions between people: ‘This one deserves that; that one deserves this.’

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks:

Nigrodhaparimaṇḍalo ca hoti, ṭhitakoyeva ca anonamanto ubhohi pāṇitalehi jaṇṇukāni parimasati parimajjati.

he has the proportional circumference of a banyan tree; and when standing upright and not bending over, the palms of both hands touch the knees.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Aḍḍho hoti mahaddhano mahābhogo pahūtajātarūparajato pahūtavittūpakaraṇo pahūtadhanadhañño paripuṇṇakosakoṭṭhāgāro.

He is rich, affluent, and wealthy, with lots of gold and silver, lots of property and assets, lots of money and grain, and a full treasury and storehouses.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Aḍḍho hoti mahaddhano mahābhogo.

He is rich, affluent, and wealthy.

Tassimāni dhanāni honti, seyyathidaṁ—

He has these kinds of wealth:

saddhādhanaṁ sīladhanaṁ hiridhanaṁ ottappadhanaṁ sutadhanaṁ cāgadhanaṁ paññādhanaṁ.

the wealth of faith, ethics, conscience, prudence, learning, generosity, and wisdom.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Tuliya paṭivicaya cintayitvā,

“Examining the many people in a community,

Mahājanasaṅgahanaṁ samekkhamāno;

he weighed, evaluated, and judged each case:

Ayamidamarahati tattha tattha,

‘This one deserves that.’

Purisavisesakaro pure ahosi.

That’s how he used to draw <j>distinctions between people.

Mahiñca pana ṭhito anonamanto,

Now standing without bending

Phusati karehi ubhohi jaṇṇukāni;

he can touch his knees with both hands.

Mahiruhaparimaṇḍalo ahosi,

With the remaining ripening <j>of the fruit of good deeds,

Sucaritakammavipākasesakena.

his circumference was that of a great tree.

Bahuvividhanimittalakkhaṇaññū,

Learned experts in the many different

Atinipuṇā manujā byākariṁsu;

signs and marks prophesied:

Bahuvividhā gihīnaṁ arahāni,

‘The young prince will obtain

Paṭilabhati daharo susu kumāro.

many different things that householders deserve.

Idha ca mahīpatissa kāmabhogī,

Here there are many suitable pleasures

Gihipatirūpakā bahū bhavanti;

for the ruler of the land to enjoy as householder.

Yadi ca jahati sabbakāmabhogaṁ,

But if he gives up all sensual enjoyments,

Labhati anuttaraṁ uttamadhanaggan”ti.

he will gain the supreme, highest peak of wealth.’”

17–19. Sīhapubbaddhakāyāditilakkhaṇaṁ

17–19. A Lion’s Chest, Etc.

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

bahujanassa atthakāmo ahosi hitakāmo phāsukāmo yogakkhemakāmo:

He wanted what’s best, the welfare, the comfort, and sanctuary of the people, thinking:

‘kintime saddhāya vaḍḍheyyuṁ, sīlena vaḍḍheyyuṁ, sutena vaḍḍheyyuṁ, cāgena vaḍḍheyyuṁ, dhammena vaḍḍheyyuṁ, paññāya vaḍḍheyyuṁ, dhanadhaññena vaḍḍheyyuṁ, khettavatthunā vaḍḍheyyuṁ, dvipadacatuppadehi vaḍḍheyyuṁ, puttadārehi vaḍḍheyyuṁ, dāsakammakaraporisehi vaḍḍheyyuṁ, ñātīhi vaḍḍheyyuṁ, mittehi vaḍḍheyyuṁ, bandhavehi vaḍḍheyyun’ti.

‘How might they flourish in faith, ethics, learning, generosity, teachings, and wisdom; in wealth and grain, fields and land, birds and beasts, children and partners; in bondservants, workers, and staff; in family, friends, and kin?’

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni tīṇi mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these three marks:

Sīhapubbaddhakāyo ca hoti citantaraṁso ca samavaṭṭakkhandho ca.

his chest is like that of a lion; he is filled out between the shoulders.; and his torso is cylindrical.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Aparihānadhammo hoti, na parihāyati dhanadhaññena khettavatthunā dvipadacatuppadehi puttadārehi dāsakammakaraporisehi ñātīhi mittehi bandhavehi, na parihāyati sabbasampattiyā.

He’s not liable to decline. He doesn’t decline in wealth and grain, fields and land, birds and beasts, children and partners; in bondservants, workers, and staff; in family, friends, and kin. He doesn’t decline in any of his accomplishments.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Aparihānadhammo hoti, na parihāyati saddhāya sīlena sutena cāgena paññāya, na parihāyati sabbasampattiyā.

He’s not liable to decline. He doesn’t decline in faith, ethics, learning, generosity, and wisdom. He doesn’t decline in any of his accomplishments.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Saddhāya sīlena sutena buddhiyā,

“His wish was this: ‘How may others not decline

Cāgena dhammena bahūhi sādhuhi;

in faith, ethics, learning, and intelligence,

Dhanena dhaññena ca khettavatthunā,

in generosity, teachings, and much good else,

Puttehi dārehi catuppadehi ca.

in coin and grain, fields and lands,

Ñātīhi mittehi ca bandhavehi ca,

in children, partners, and livestock,

Balena vaṇṇena sukhena cūbhayaṁ;

in family, friends, and kin,

Kathaṁ na hāyeyyuṁ pareti icchati,

in strength, and both beauty and happiness?’

Atthassa middhī ca panābhikaṅkhati.

And so he ever desired their success.

Sa sīhapubbaddhasusaṇṭhito ahu,

His chest was shaped like that of a lion,

Samavaṭṭakhandho ca citantaraṁso;

filled out between the shoulders, <j>and torso cylindrical.

Pubbe suciṇṇena katena kammunā,

Due to the well-done deeds of the past,

Ahāniyaṁ pubbanimittamassa taṁ.

he had that portent of non-decline.

Gihīpi dhaññena dhanena vaḍḍhati,

Even as layman he grows in coin and grain,

Puttehi dārehi catuppadehi ca;

in wives, children, and livestock.

Akiñcano pabbajito anuttaraṁ,

But once gone forth, owning nothing, he attains

Pappoti bodhiṁ asahānadhammatan”ti.

the supreme awakening which may never decline.”

20. Rasaggasaggitālakkhaṇaṁ

20. Ridged Taste Buds

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

sattānaṁ aviheṭhakajātiko ahosi pāṇinā vā leḍḍunā vā daṇḍena vā satthena vā.

He would never hurt any sentient being with fists, stones, rods, or swords.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati, rasaggasaggī hoti, uddhaggāssa rasaharaṇīyo gīvāya jātā honti samābhivāhiniyo.

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark: he has ridged taste buds. His raised taste receptors, originating in the throat, disperse evenly.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Appābādho hoti appātaṅko, samavepākiniyā gahaṇiyā samannāgato nātisītāya nāccuṇhāya.

He is rarely ill or unwell. His stomach digests well, being neither too hot nor too cold.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Appābādho hoti appātaṅko samavepākiniyā gahaṇiyā samannāgato nātisītāya nāccuṇhāya majjhimāya padhānakkhamāya.

He is rarely ill or unwell. His stomach digests well, being neither too hot nor too cold, but just right, and fit for meditation.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Na pāṇidaṇḍehi panātha leḍḍunā,

“Not with fist or rod or stone,

Satthena vā maraṇavadhena vā pana;

or sword or beating to death,

Ubbādhanāya paritajjanāya vā,

or by bondage or threats

Na heṭhayī janatamaheṭhako ahu.

did he ever harm anyone.

Teneva so sugatimupecca modati,

For that very reason he rejoiced in heaven <j>after passing away,

Sukhapphalaṁ kariya sukhāni vindati;

finding happiness as a fruit of happy deeds.

Samojasā rasaharaṇī susaṇṭhitā,

With taste receptors prominent <j>and evenly spreading nutrition,

Idhāgato labhati rasaggasaggitaṁ.

on his return here he has ridged taste buds.

Tenāhu naṁ atinipuṇā vicakkhaṇā,

That’s why the clever prophets said:

Ayaṁ naro sukhabahulo bhavissati;

‘This man will have much happiness

Gihissa vā pabbajitassa vā puna,

as householder or renunciate.

Taṁ lakkhaṇaṁ bhavati tadatthajotakan”ti.

That’s the meaning shown by this mark.’”

21–22. Abhinīlanettagopakhumalakkhaṇāni

21–22. Indigo Eyes

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

na ca visaṭaṁ, na ca visāci, na ca pana viceyya pekkhitā, ujuṁ tathā pasaṭamujumano, piyacakkhunā bahujanaṁ udikkhitā ahosi.

When looking at others he didn’t glare, look askance, or avert his eyes. Being straightforward, he reached out to others with straightforward intentions, looking at people with kindly eyes.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks:

Abhinīlanetto ca hoti gopakhumo ca.

his eyes are indigo, and he has eyelashes like a cow’s.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato, sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Piyadassano hoti bahuno janassa, piyo hoti manāpo brāhmaṇagahapatikānaṁ negamajānapadānaṁ gaṇakamahāmattānaṁ anīkaṭṭhānaṁ dovārikānaṁ amaccānaṁ pārisajjānaṁ rājūnaṁ bhogiyānaṁ kumārānaṁ.

The people look on him with kindly eyes. He is dear and beloved to the brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Piyadassano hoti bahuno janassa, piyo hoti manāpo bhikkhūnaṁ bhikkhunīnaṁ upāsakānaṁ upāsikānaṁ devānaṁ manussānaṁ asurānaṁ nāgānaṁ gandhabbānaṁ.

The people look on him with kindly eyes. He is dear and beloved to the monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Na ca visaṭaṁ na ca visāci,

“With not a glare or glance askance,

Na ca pana viceyyapekkhitā;

nor averting of the eyes;

Ujuṁ tathā pasaṭamujumano,

straightforward, he reached out straightforwardly,

Piyacakkhunā bahujanaṁ udikkhitā.

looking at people with kindly eyes.

Sugatīsu so phalavipākaṁ,

In good rebirths he enjoyed the fruit

Anubhavati tattha modati;

and result, rejoicing there.

Idha ca pana bhavati gopakhumo,

But here he has a cow’s eyelashes,

Abhinīlanettanayano sudassano.

and indigo eyes so fair to see.

Abhiyogino ca nipuṇā,

Many soothsayers, men clever

Bahū pana nimittakovidā;

and learned in prognostic texts,

Sukhumanayanakusalā manujā,

expert in cow-like lashes, indicated

Piyadassanoti abhiniddisanti naṁ.

he’d be looked upon with kindly eyes.

Piyadassano gihīpi santo ca,

Even as a householder he’d be regarded kindly,

Bhavati bahujanapiyāyito;

beloved of the people.

Yadi ca na bhavati gihī samaṇo hoti,

But if he becomes an ascetic, not lay,

Piyo bahūnaṁ sokanāsano”ti.

as destroyer of sorrow he’ll be loved by many.”

23. Uṇhīsasīsalakkhaṇaṁ

23. Crown Like a Turban

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

bahujanapubbaṅgamo ahosi kusalesu dhammesu bahujanapāmokkho kāyasucarite vacīsucarite manosucarite dānasaṁvibhāge sīlasamādāne uposathupavāse matteyyatāya petteyyatāya sāmaññatāya brahmaññatāya kule jeṭṭhāpacāyitāya aññataraññataresu ca adhikusalesu dhammesu.

He was the leader and forerunner of people in skillful behaviors such as good conduct by way of body, speech, and mind, giving and sharing, taking precepts, observing the sabbath, paying due respect to mother and father, ascetics and brahmins, honoring the elders in the family, and various other things pertaining to skillful behaviors.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati—

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark:

uṇhīsasīso hoti.

the crown of his head is like a turban.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Mahāssa jano anvāyiko hoti, brāhmaṇagahapatikā negamajānapadā gaṇakamahāmattā anīkaṭṭhā dovārikā amaccā pārisajjā rājāno bhogiyā kumārā.

He has a large following of brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Mahāssa jano anvāyiko hoti, bhikkhū bhikkhuniyo upāsakā upāsikāyo devā manussā asurā nāgā gandhabbā.

He has a large following of monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Pubbaṅgamo sucaritesu ahu,

“Among people of good conduct, he was the leader,

Dhammesu dhammacariyābhirato;

devoted to a life of principle among the principled.

Anvāyiko bahujanassa ahu,

The people followed him,

Saggesu vedayittha puññaphalaṁ.

and he experienced the fruit of good deeds in heaven.

Veditvā so sucaritassa phalaṁ,

Having experienced that fruit,

Uṇhīsasīsattamidhajjhagamā;

he gains a head crowned like a turban.

Byākaṁsu byañjananimittadharā,

The experts in omens and signs prophesied:

Pubbaṅgamo bahujanaṁ hessati.

‘He will be leader of the people.

Paṭibhogiyā manujesu idha,

Among mankind then, as before,

Pubbeva tassa abhiharanti tadā;

they will bring presents for him.

Yadi khattiyo bhavati bhūmipati,

If he becomes an aristocrat, ruler of the land,

Paṭihārakaṁ bahujane labhati.

he’ll gain the service of the people.

Atha cepi pabbajati so manujo,

But if that man goes forth,

Dhammesu hoti paguṇo visavī;

he’ll be sophisticated, proficient in the teachings.

Tassānusāsaniguṇābhirato,

Devoted to the virtues of his instruction,

Anvāyiko bahujano bhavatī”ti.

the people will become his followers.’”

24–25. Ekekalomatāuṇṇālakkhaṇāni

24–25. One Hair Per Pore, and a Tuft

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

musāvādaṁ pahāya musāvādā paṭivirato ahosi, saccavādī saccasandho theto paccayiko avisaṁvādako lokassa.

He refrained from lying. He spoke the truth and stuck to the truth. He was honest and dependable, and didn’t trick the world with his words.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks:

Ekekalomo ca hoti, uṇṇā ca bhamukantare jātā hoti odātā mudutūlasannibhā.

his hairs grow one per pore, and between his eyebrows there grows a tuft, soft and white like cotton-wool.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato, sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Mahāssa jano upavattati, brāhmaṇagahapatikā negamajānapadā gaṇakamahāmattā anīkaṭṭhā dovārikā amaccā pārisajjā rājāno bhogiyā kumārā.

He has many close adherents among the brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Mahāssa jano upavattati, bhikkhū bhikkhuniyo upāsakā upāsikāyo devā manussā asurā nāgā gandhabbā.

He has many close adherents among the monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Saccappaṭiñño purimāsu jātisu,

“In past lives he was true to his promise,

Advejjhavāco alikaṁ vivajjayi;

with no forked tongue, he shunned lies.

Na so visaṁvādayitāpi kassaci,

He never broke his word to anyone,

Bhūtena tacchena tathena bhāsayi.

but spoke what was true, real, and factual.

Setā susukkā mudutūlasannibhā,

A tuft so very white like cotton-wool

Uṇṇā sujātā bhamukantare ahu;

grew prettily between his eyebrows.

Na lomakūpesu duve ajāyisuṁ,

And never two, but only one,

Ekekalomūpacitaṅgavā ahu.

hair grew in each of his pores.

Taṁ lakkhaṇaññū bahavo samāgatā,

Many soothsayers learned in marks

Byākaṁsu uppādanimittakovidā;

and expert in signs gathered and prophesied:

Uṇṇā ca lomā ca yathā susaṇṭhitā,

‘One like this, with tuft and hair so prominent,

Upavattatī īdisakaṁ bahujjano.

will have many as his close adherents.

Gihimpi santaṁ upavattatī jano,

Even as householder many people will follow him,

Bahu puratthāpakatena kammunā;

due to the power of deeds in the past.

Akiñcanaṁ pabbajitaṁ anuttaraṁ,

But once gone forth, owning nothing,

Buddhampi santaṁ upavattati jano”ti.

as Buddha the people will follow him.’”

26–27. Cattālīsaaviraḷadantalakkhaṇāni

26–27. Forty Gapless Teeth

“Yampi, bhikkhave tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

pisuṇaṁ vācaṁ pahāya pisuṇāya vācāya paṭivirato ahosi. Ito sutvā na amutra akkhātā imesaṁ bhedāya, amutra vā sutvā na imesaṁ akkhātā amūsaṁ bhedāya, iti bhinnānaṁ vā sandhātā, sahitānaṁ vā anuppadātā, samaggārāmo samaggarato samagganandī samaggakaraṇiṁ vācaṁ bhāsitā ahosi.

He refrained from backbiting. He didn’t repeat in one place what he heard in another so as to divide people against each other. Instead, he reconciled those who were divided and support those who are united, delighting in harmony, loving harmony, speaking words that promote harmony.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks:

Cattālīsadanto ca hoti aviraḷadanto ca.

he has forty teeth, and his teeth have no gaps.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Abhejjapariso hoti, abhejjāssa honti parisā, brāhmaṇagahapatikā negamajānapadā gaṇakamahāmattā anīkaṭṭhā dovārikā amaccā pārisajjā rājāno bhogiyā kumārā.

His retinue cannot be divided. This includes brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Abhejjapariso hoti, abhejjāssa honti parisā, bhikkhū bhikkhuniyo upāsakā upāsikāyo devā manussā asurā nāgā gandhabbā.

His retinue cannot be divided. This includes monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Vebhūtiyaṁ sahitabhedakāriṁ,

“He spoke no divisive words splitting the united,

Bhedappavaḍḍhanavivādakāriṁ;

creating disputes that foster division,

Kalahappavaḍḍhanaākiccakāriṁ,

acting improperly by fostering quarrels,

Sahitānaṁ bhedajananiṁ na bhaṇi.

sowing division in those who are united.

Avivādavaḍḍhanakariṁ sugiraṁ,

He spoke kind words to foster harmony,

Bhinnānusandhijananiṁ abhaṇi;

uniting those who are divided.

Kalahaṁ janassa panudī samaṅgī,

He cast aside quarrels among the people,

Sahitehi nandati pamodati ca.

rejoicing together with the united.

Sugatīsu so phalavipākaṁ,

In good rebirths he enjoyed the fruit

Anubhavati tattha modati;

and result, rejoicing there.

Dantā idha honti aviraḷā sahitā,

Here his teeth are gapless, close-set,

Caturo dasassa mukhajā susaṇṭhitā.

forty standing prominent in his mouth.

Yadi khattiyo bhavati bhūmipati,

If he becomes an aristocrat, ruler of the land,

Avibhediyāssa parisā bhavati;

his assembly will be indivisible.

Samaṇo ca hoti virajo vimalo,

And as an ascetic, stainless, immaculate,

Parisāssa hoti anugatā acalā”ti.

his assembly will follow him, unshakable.”

28–29. Pahūtajivhābrahmassaralakkhaṇāni

28–29. A Large Tongue and the Voice of the Divinity

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

pharusaṁ vācaṁ pahāya pharusāya vācāya paṭivirato ahosi. Yā sā vācā nelā kaṇṇasukhā pemanīyā hadayaṅgamā porī bahujanakantā bahujanamanāpā, tathārūpiṁ vācaṁ bhāsitā ahosi.

He refrained from harsh speech. He spoke in a way that’s mellow, pleasing to the ear, endearing, going to the heart, polite, likable and agreeable to the people.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks:

Pahūtajivho ca hoti brahmassaro ca karavīkabhāṇī.

he has a large tongue, and the voice of the Divinity, like a cuckoo’s call.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Ādeyyavāco hoti, ādiyantissa vacanaṁ brāhmaṇagahapatikā negamajānapadā gaṇakamahāmattā anīkaṭṭhā dovārikā amaccā pārisajjā rājāno bhogiyā kumārā.

He has a compelling voice. His words are compelling to brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Ādeyyavāco hoti, ādiyantissa vacanaṁ bhikkhū bhikkhuniyo upāsakā upāsikāyo devā manussā asurā nāgā gandhabbā.

He has a compelling voice. His words are compelling to monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Akkosabhaṇḍanavihesakāriṁ,

“He never spoke a loud harsh word,

Ubbādhikaṁ bahujanappamaddanaṁ;

insulting, quarrelsome,

Abāḷhaṁ giraṁ so na bhaṇi pharusaṁ,

causing harm, rude, crushing the people.

Madhuraṁ bhaṇi susaṁhitaṁ sakhilaṁ.

His speech was sweet, helpful, and courteous.

Manaso piyā hadayagāminiyo,

He uttered words dear to the mind,

Vācā so erayati kaṇṇasukhā;

going to the heart, pleasing to the ear.

Vācāsuciṇṇaphalamanubhavi,

He enjoyed the fruit of his good verbal conduct,

Saggesu vedayatha puññaphalaṁ.

experiencing the fruit of good deeds in heaven.

Veditvā so sucaritassa phalaṁ,

Having experienced that fruit,

Brahmassarattamidhamajjhagamā;

on his return to here <j>he acquired the voice of the Divinity.

Jivhāssa hoti vipulā puthulā,

His tongue was long and wide,

Ādeyyavākyavacano bhavati.

and his speech was compelling.

Gihinopi ijjhati yathā bhaṇato,

Even as householder his speech brings prosperity.

Atha ce pabbajati so manujo;

But if that man goes forth,

Ādiyantissa vacanaṁ janatā,

speaking often to the people,

Bahuno bahuṁ subhaṇitaṁ bhaṇato”ti.

they’ll be compelled by his fair words.”

30. Sīhahanulakkhaṇaṁ

30. A Lion-Like Jaw

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

samphappalāpaṁ pahāya samphappalāpā paṭivirato ahosi kālavādī bhūtavādī atthavādī dhammavādī vinayavādī, nidhānavatiṁ vācaṁ bhāsitā ahosi kālena sāpadesaṁ pariyantavatiṁ atthasaṁhitaṁ.

He refrained from talking nonsense. His words were timely, true, and meaningful, in line with the teaching and training. He said things at the right time which were valuable, reasonable, succinct, and beneficial.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā …pe…

Due to performing those deeds he was reborn in a heavenly realm.

so tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imaṁ mahāpurisalakkhaṇaṁ paṭilabhati,

When he came back to this place he obtained this mark:

sīhahanu hoti.

his jaw is like that of a lion.

So tena lakkhaṇena samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī …pe…

Possessing this mark, if he stays at home he becomes a wheel-turning monarch.

rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Appadhaṁsiyo hoti kenaci manussabhūtena paccatthikena paccāmittena.

He can’t be destroyed by any human foe or enemy.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati …pe…

That’s what he obtains as king.

buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Appadhaṁsiyo hoti abbhantarehi vā bāhirehi vā paccatthikehi paccāmittehi, rāgena vā dosena vā mohena vā samaṇena vā brāhmaṇena vā devena vā mārena vā brahmunā vā kenaci vā lokasmiṁ.

He can’t be destroyed by any foe or enemy whether internal or external; nor by greed, hate, or delusion; nor by any ascetic or brahmin or god or Māra or divinity or by anyone in the world.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Na samphappalāpaṁ na muddhataṁ,

“Neither nonsensical nor silly,

Avikiṇṇavacanabyappatho ahosi;

his way of speaking was never loose.

Ahitamapi ca apanudi,

He cast aside what was unbeneficial,

Hitamapi ca bahujanasukhañca abhaṇi.

and spoke for the welfare <j>and happiness of the people.

Taṁ katvā ito cuto divamupapajji,

So doing he passed from here to be reborn in heaven,

Sukataphalavipākamanubhosi;

where he enjoyed the fruit of deeds well done.

Caviya punaridhāgato samāno,

Passing away, on his return to here,

Dvidugamavaratarahanuttamalattha.

he gained a jaw like the finest of beasts.

Rājā hoti suduppadhaṁsiyo,

He became a king so very hard to defeat,

Manujindo manujādhipati mahānubhāvo;

a mighty lord and ruler of mankind.

Tidivapuravarasamo bhavati,

He was equal to the best in the city of the Third Heaven,

Suravarataroriva indo.

like Indra, the finest of gods.

Gandhabbāsurayakkharakkhasebhi,

One such as that is not easily beaten by centaurs,

Surehi na hi bhavati suppadhaṁsiyo;

titans, spirits, monsters, or gods.

Tathatto yadi bhavati tathāvidho,

If he becomes of that sort,

Idha disā ca paṭidisā ca vidisā cā”ti.

he illuminates the quarters and in-between.”

31–32. Samadantasusukkadāṭhālakkhaṇāni

31–32. Even and White Teeth

“Yampi, bhikkhave, tathāgato purimaṁ jātiṁ purimaṁ bhavaṁ purimaṁ niketaṁ pubbe manussabhūto samāno

“Mendicants, in some past lives the Realized One was reborn as a human being.

micchājīvaṁ pahāya sammāājīvena jīvikaṁ kappesi, tulākūṭakaṁsakūṭamānakūṭaukkoṭanavañcananikatisāciyogachedanavadhabandhanaviparāmosaālopasahasākārā paṭivirato ahosi.

He gave up wrong livelihood and earned a living by right livelihood. He refrained from falsifying weights, metals, or measures; bribery, fraud, cheating, and duplicity; mutilation, murder, abduction, banditry, plunder, and violence.

So tassa kammassa kaṭattā upacitattā ussannattā vipulattā kāyassa bhedā paraṁ maraṇā sugatiṁ saggaṁ lokaṁ upapajjati.

Due to performing, accumulating, heaping up, and amassing those deeds, when his body broke up, after death, he was reborn in a good place, a heavenly realm.

So tattha aññe deve dasahi ṭhānehi adhigaṇhāti dibbena āyunā dibbena vaṇṇena dibbena sukhena dibbena yasena dibbena ādhipateyyena dibbehi rūpehi dibbehi saddehi dibbehi gandhehi dibbehi rasehi dibbehi phoṭṭhabbehi.

There he surpassed the other gods in ten respects: heavenly lifespan, beauty, happiness, glory, sovereignty, sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touches.

So tato cuto itthattaṁ āgato samāno imāni dve mahāpurisalakkhaṇāni paṭilabhati, samadanto ca hoti susukkadāṭho ca.

When he came back to this place he obtained these two marks: his teeth are even and perfectly white.

So tehi lakkhaṇehi samannāgato sace agāraṁ ajjhāvasati, rājā hoti cakkavattī dhammiko dhammarājā cāturanto vijitāvī janapadatthāvariyappatto sattaratanasamannāgato.

Possessing these marks, if he stays at home he becomes a king, a wheel-turning monarch, a just and principled king. His dominion extends to all four sides, he achieves stability in the country, and he possesses the seven treasures.

Tassimāni satta ratanāni bhavanti, seyyathidaṁ—

He has the following seven treasures:

cakkaratanaṁ hatthiratanaṁ assaratanaṁ maṇiratanaṁ itthiratanaṁ gahapatiratanaṁ pariṇāyakaratanameva sattamaṁ.

the wheel, the elephant, the horse, the jewel, the woman, the householder, and the commander as the seventh treasure.

Parosahassaṁ kho panassa puttā bhavanti sūrā vīraṅgarūpā parasenappamaddanā.

He has over a thousand sons who are valiant and heroic, crushing the armies of his enemies.

So imaṁ pathaviṁ sāgarapariyantaṁ akhilamanimittamakaṇṭakaṁ iddhaṁ phītaṁ khemaṁ sivaṁ nirabbudaṁ adaṇḍena asatthena dhammena abhivijiya ajjhāvasati.

After conquering this land girt by sea—free of harassment by bandits, successful and prosperous, safe, blessed, and free of pests—he reigns by principle, without rod or sword.

Rājā samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as king?

Suciparivāro hoti sucissa honti parivārā brāhmaṇagahapatikā negamajānapadā gaṇakamahāmattā anīkaṭṭhā dovārikā amaccā pārisajjā rājāno bhogiyā kumārā.

His retinue is pure. This includes brahmins and householders, people of town and country, finance ministers, military officers, guardsmen, ministers, councillors, rulers, tax beneficiaries, and princes.

Rājā samāno idaṁ labhati.

That’s what he obtains as king.

Sace kho pana agārasmā anagāriyaṁ pabbajati, arahaṁ hoti sammāsambuddho loke vivaṭṭacchado.

But if he goes forth from the lay life to homelessness, he becomes a perfected one, a fully awakened Buddha, who has cast off the world’s veil.

Buddho samāno kiṁ labhati?

And what does he obtain as Buddha?

Suciparivāro hoti, sucissa honti parivārā, bhikkhū bhikkhuniyo upāsakā upāsikāyo devā manussā asurā nāgā gandhabbā.

His retinue is pure. This includes monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen, gods, humans, titans, dragons, and centaurs.

Buddho samāno idaṁ labhati”.

That’s what he obtains as Buddha.”

Etamatthaṁ bhagavā avoca.

The Buddha spoke this matter.

Tatthetaṁ vuccati:

On this it is said:

“Micchājīvañca avassaji samena vuttiṁ,

“He abandoned wrong livelihood, and created

Sucinā so janayittha dhammikena;

a way of life that’s fair, pure, and just.

Ahitamapi ca apanudi,

He cast aside what was unbeneficial,

Hitamapi ca bahujanasukhañca acari.

and lived for the welfare and happiness of the people.

Sagge vedayati naro sukhapphalāni,

Having done what’s praised <j>by the clever, the wise, and the good,

Karitvā nipuṇebhi vidūhi sabbhi;

that man experienced the fruit in heaven.

Vaṇṇitāni tidivapuravarasamo,

Equal to the best in the Third Heaven,

Abhiramati ratikhiḍḍāsamaṅgī.

he enjoyed himself with pleasure and play.

Laddhāna mānusakaṁ bhavaṁ tato,

From there he passed back to a human life.

Cavitvāna sukataphalavipākaṁ;

With the remaining ripening <j>of the fruit of good deeds,

Sesakena paṭilabhati lapanajaṁ,

he obtained teeth that are even,

Samamapi sucisusukkaṁ.

gleaming, bright, and white.

Taṁ veyyañjanikā samāgatā bahavo,

Many soothsayers regarded as wise men

Byākaṁsu nipuṇasammatā manujā;

gathered and predicted of him:

Sucijanaparivāragaṇo bhavati,

‘With twice-born teeth <j>so even, so white, so clean and bright

Dijasamasukkasucisobhanadanto.

his retinue will be so pure.

Rañño hoti bahujano,

As king, his people will also be pure,

Suciparivāro mahatiṁ mahiṁ anusāsato;

when he rules having conquered this earth so broad.

Pasayha na ca janapadatudanaṁ,

They won’t harm the country,

Hitamapi ca bahujanasukhañca caranti.

but will live for the welfare <j>and happiness of the people.

Atha ce pabbajati bhavati vipāpo,

But if he goes forth he’ll be an ascetic free of ill,

Samaṇo samitarajo vivaṭṭacchado;

his passions quelled, the veil cast off.

Vigatadarathakilamatho,

Rid of stress and weariness,

Imamapi ca paramapi ca passati lokaṁ.

he sees this world and the next.

Tassovādakarā bahugihī ca pabbajitā ca,

Those who do his bidding, both lay and renunciate,

Asuciṁ garahitaṁ dhunanti pāpaṁ;

shake off wickedness, impure and blameworthy.

Sa hi sucibhi parivuto bhavati,

He’s surrounded by pure people, who cast aside

Malakhilakalikilese panudehī”ti.

stains, callousness, sin, and corruptions.’”

Idamavoca bhagavā.

That is what the Buddha said.

Attamanā te bhikkhū bhagavato bhāsitaṁ abhinandunti.

Satisfied, the mendicants approved what the Buddha said.

Lakkhaṇasuttaṁ niṭṭhitaṁ sattamaṁ.