The Related Suttas Collection 9.11

1. In the Woods

Unskillful Thoughts

At one time one of the bhikkhus was staying in the land of the Kosalans in a certain forest grove.

Now at that time that bhikkhu, during their day’s meditation, was thinking bad, unskillful thoughts, that is: sensual, malicious, and cruel thoughts. The deity haunting that forest had compassion for that bhikkhu, and wanted what’s best for them. So they approached that bhikkhu wanting to stir them up, and addressed them in verse:

“Because of irrational application of mind, you’re consumed by your thoughts. When you’ve given up irrationality, make sure your thoughts are rational.

Thinking about the Teacher, the teaching, the Saṅgha, and your own ethics, you’ll find gladness, and (mental) joy and (bodily) pleasure as well, no doubt. And when you’re full of joy, you’ll make an end to suffering.”

Impelled by that deity, that bhikkhu was struck with a sense of urgency.