The "Discourse on Solitude": Patisallana Sutta, a Buddhist Pali Text
The "Discourse on Solitude" is a short sutta in Pali belonging to the Duka Nipata, number 45 of the Itivukuttaka, a collection of sayings ascribed to the recollections of Khujjuttara, a prominent female adherent of the Buddha. The sutra advises the followers of the Buddha to consider solitude or seclusion the proper context for meditation, and, by extension, the proper context for achieving the benefits of adherence to the dharma. The solitude of the mind is complemented by advice to seek out secluded places for meditation. The culmination of this practice is nirvana.
Patisallana Sutta: The
Discourse on Solitude
This was spoken by the Blessed One, spoken by the Arhat, as heard by
me [i.e., Khujjuttara].
Monks,
dwell enjoying solitude, delighting in
solitude,
inwardly intent upon mental calm, not neglecting meditation,
accomplished in insight, frequenting empty
places.
For those who dwell enjoying
solitude, delighting in solitude,
inwardly intent upon mental calm, not neglecting meditation,
accomplished
in insight, frequenting empty places, one of two
fruits can be
expected: either direct knowledge here
and now, or, non-return, if there is some trace of clinging.
The Blessed One spoke on this matter. Then he said this:
The discerning whose hearts
are calm and who are mindful
meditators
-- they rightly see things with insight, free from regard for
sense-pleasures. Being those delighting in diligence, seeing danger in
heedlessness,
they are incapable of falling away -- they are truly in nirvana’s
presence.
This, too, is a matter spoken by the Blessed One. Thus it was heard by me.
¶