Verses of the Elder Bhikkhunīs

Chapter of the Fives

Verses of the Elder Vimalā

“Intoxicated with this beautiful body,

as well as glory, success,

and my youth,

I despised anyone who was not my equal.

Dressed in flashy clothes,

prattling on,

I stood at the entrance of the pleasure house,

like a hunter setting traps.

I flaunted my assets

and often exposed my private parts;

I made fun of many people,

and deceived them in many ways.

Today I walk for alms,

with a shaven-head, wrapped in a robe.

Seated at the root of a tree,

I attain absence of thought.

All bonds have been cut off,

both divine and human.

Having cast away all influences,

I have become cool and quenched.”

The Elder Vimalā, a Former Courtesan.