The Related Suttas Collection 9.1

1. In the Woods

Seclusion

So I have heard. 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 to do with the lay life. 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:

“You entered the woods desiring seclusion, yet your mind strays to outward things. As a person, you should dispel the desire for people. Then you’ll be happy, free of greed.

Mindful, give up discontent; let us remind you of the way of the good. The dusty abyss is so hard to cross; don’t let sensual dust drag you down.

Just as a bird strewn with dirt sheds that clingy dust with a shake; so too, an energetic, mindful bhikkhu sheds that clingy dust with a shake.”

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