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MN 146 
 
Nandakovāda Sutta 
“The Venerable Nandaka’s Instruction” 
 
Translated by Bhikkhu Candana 
 
Copyright © Bhikkhu Candana 2023 
 
I have personally heard this. 
 
At one time, The Blessed One was living at the monastery offered by Anāthapindika within 
Jeta's Park, in the City of Sāvatthi.  
 
Then, the Venerable Theri, Mahāpajāpati Gautami approached The Blessed One with nearly five 
hundred Bhikkhunis. After paying their respects by worshipping The Blessed One, they all stood 
to one side, and the Venerable Mahāpajāpati Gautami said to The Blessed One: 
 
“Bhante, please advise the Bhikkhunis, by giving them a talk on the Dhamma.” 
 
In those days, the Bhikkhus were still taking turns to teach and instruct the Bhikkhunis. 
However, every time it was the Venerable Nandaka’s turn, he would avoid it by not going to 
advise or teach the Bhikkhunis.  
 
The Blessed One then addressed the Venerable Ānanda.  
 
“Ānanda, whose turn is it to instruct and teach the Bhikkhunis today?”  
 
“Bhante, it is the Venerable Nandaka’s turn, but he does not like to instruct the Bhikkhunis.” 
 
Then, The Blessed One addressed the Venerable Nandaka and said:  
 
“Instruct the Bhikkhunis, Nandaka. Please, Bhikkhu, teach the Bhikkhunis. Noble One, go and 
give the Bhikkhunis a talk on the Dhamma.”  
 
“Yes, Bhante,” said the Venerable Nandaka. In the following morning, he put on his robes and 
by taking his alms bowl and outer robe, went on his alms round in Sāvatthi. Afterwards, once he 
had already collected his alms and the meal was over, he went to the monastery of the royal 
nuns. The Bhikkhunis, meanwhile, on seeing the Venerable Nandaka approach, quickly prepared 
a seat for him and also water for washing his feet.  
 
Once at the monastery, the Venerable Nandaka sat on the prepared seat and washed his feet. The 
Bhikkhunis paid homage to the Venerable Nandaka, and then went and sat to one side. Then, the 
Venerable Nandaka said to those Bhikkhunis:

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“Sisters, this talk on the Dhamma shall be in the form of questions and answers, where I will ask 
questions, and if you know or have the answer, you may go ahead and reply by saying:  
‘I understand,’ or if you do not, then say: ‘I do not understand.’  
 
And if it so happens that you experience doubt or uncertainty about what is being taught, then 
you should go ahead and ask by saying:  
 
‘Bhante, what is the meaning of this?’ ‘Why does it say so, Bhante?’ 
 
On hearing this direction, the Bhikkhunis expressed their delight by saying: 
 
“Bhante, even hearing this invitation from Master Nandaka, we are already very pleased and 
happy!” 
 
And the Venerable Nandaka continued by instructing the Bhikkhunis: 
 
1. “Sisters, is the eye permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
2. “Sisters, is the ear permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
3. “Sisters, is the nose permanent or impermanent?”

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“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
4. “Sisters, is the tongue permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
5. “Sisters, is the body permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
6. “Sisters, is the mind permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?”

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“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. And why do we say this? We say this, because we have already 
seen this for ourselves, to be truly the case, through the development of correct wisdom, whereby 
we recognize how all of the six internal sense spheres are impermanent.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
“And what do you think, Sisters?  
 
1. “Are visible forms permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
2. “Are audible sounds permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
3. “Are smells permanent or impermanent?

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“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?”  
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
4. “Are flavors or tastes permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
5. “Are tactile objects or surfaces permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
6. “Are mental phenomena or thoughts permanent or impermanent?

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“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. And why do we say this? We say this, because we have already 
seen this for ourselves, to be truly the case, through the development of correct wisdom, whereby 
we recognize how all of the six external sense spheres are impermanent.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
“And what do you think, Sisters?  
 
1. “Is eye consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
2. “Is ear consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?”

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“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
3. “Is nose consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
4. “Is tongue consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
5. “Is body consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
6. “Is mind consciousness permanent or impermanent?”

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“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. And why do we say this? We say this, because we have already 
seen this for ourselves, to be truly the case, through the development of correct wisdom, whereby 
we recognize how all of the six internal sense spheres are impermanent.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
 
“Sisters, in just the same way that a burning oil lamp has its oil as fuel for the flame, which is 
impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. Similarly, the wick is impermanent, truly an unreliable 
thing. The flame that burns is impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. The light that emanates 
from all these things coming together is also impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. 
“Now suppose, Sisters, someone were to say, that despite the fact that the burning oil lamp has 
its oil that is impermanent and an unreliable thing, also its wick that is impermanent, and truly an 
unreliable thing, as well as its flame that burns which is impermanent and truly an unreliable 
thing, the light emanating from all these things coming together, however, ‘is in fact permanent, 
eternal, and truly a reliable and an unchanging thing.’  
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not in fact be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It 
is because, Bhante, a burning oil lamp has its oil as fuel for the flame, which is impermanent, 
truly an unreliable thing. Similarly, the wick is impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. The flame 
that burns is impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. So is the light emanating from all these 
things coming together also impermanent and therefore, truly an unreliable thing.” 
 
“In just the same manner, Sisters, if someone were to say: ‘although my six internal sense 
spheres are impermanent, whatever pleasant, painful or neutral feelings I experience because of 
having these six internal spheres, however, are all permanent, eternal, and therefore, truly 
reliable things.’ 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?”

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“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, with the arising of specific conditions, there arise their specific kinds of 
feelings. And with the ending of those specific conditions, there end the specific kinds of 
feelings, as a result.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
 
“Further, Sisters, imagine there is a huge tree, full of heartwood, with roots that are 
impermanent, changing, and seen truly as perishable things, the trunk also being impermanent, 
changing, and a perishable thing. Similarly, its branches and foliage too, being impermanent, 
changing, and perishable things, as well as its shadow, which is impermanent, changing, and a 
perishable thing. Now, suppose, Sisters, someone were to come and say, that even though the 
tree’s roots are impermanent, changing, and seen truly as changing things, the trunk also being 
impermanent, changing, and a perishable thing, similarly, its branches and foliage too, being 
impermanent, changing, and perishable things, but, somehow, its shadow, they claim, is in fact 
permanent, unchanging, eternal, and a non-perishable thing. 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, that huge tree, full of heartwood, with roots that are impermanent, changing, 
and seen truly as perishable things, the trunk also being impermanent, changing, and a perishable 
thing, similarly, its branches and foliage too, being impermanent, changing, and perishable 
things, and so must the case be with its shadow, for it too is impermanent, changing, and a 
perishable thing.  
 
“In just the same manner, Sisters, if someone were to say; ‘although my six external sense 
spheres are impermanent, whatever pleasant, painful or neutral feelings I experience because of 
having these six external spheres, however, are all permanent, eternal, and therefore, truly 
reliable things.’ 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, with the arising of specific conditions, there arise their specific kinds of 
feelings. And with the ending of those specific conditions, there end the specific kinds of 
feelings, as a result.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees with the development of correct wisdom.

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“Now, Sisters, suppose a skilled butcher or his apprentice would slaughter a cow with a sharp 
carving knife, but without damaging the internal fleshy parts or its external skin. He would then 
chop and sever all its internal connective tissues, joints and ligaments combined, by cutting them 
into small bits. And after skinning and peeling off the cow’s entire hide, they put the cow back 
together by placing all the cut-up joints and tissues back inside its outer skin to make it look like 
it was and then would say: ‘Here we have the same cow, intact, just like it was before, complete 
and in that same skin!’ 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, that skilled butcher or his apprentice would be slaughtering the cow with that 
sharp carving knife, while chopping and severing all its internal connective tissues, joints and 
ligaments combined, by cutting them into small bits. And after skinning and peeling off the 
cow’s entire hide, even if they put the cow back together by placing all the cut-up joints and 
tissues back inside its outer skin to make it look like it was and then say: ‘Here we have the same 
cow, intact, just like it was before, complete and in that same skin!’ 
 
“However, that would still not change the fact that the cow has been removed from its skin and 
its internal connective tissues are now cut into pieces.” 
 
“Sisters, the purpose in presenting you with this simile is to explain something, and here is its 
meaning:  
 
“The internal flesh is a synonym for the six internal sense spheres, whereas the external skin of 
the cow is a synonym for the six external sense spheres: the sense objects. Now, the internal 
connective tissues, joints, and ligaments, is a synonym for yearning and lust. The sharp carving 
knife is a synonym for the Noble One's wisdom, because it is with that Noble wisdom that the 
internal impurities, fetters, and shackles that bind the person are chopped, severed, and cut again 
and again. 
 
“Sisters, there are these Seven Factors of Awakening, which when the Bhikkhu constantly 
develops and cultivates, he is then able to completely destroy the mental contaminants, as a 
result of which he finally experiences the Freedom of the Heart, attaining Freedom through 
Wisdom, all in this very body! And having realized it by his own direct and higher intuitive 
understanding, he continues experiencing Liberation, throughout his whole life.   
 
“Now what, Sisters, are these Seven? 
 
“Here, Sisters, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Mindfulness Awakening 
Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while 
the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Examination Awakening Factor, 
as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while the

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causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Persevering Effort Awakening 
Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while 
the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Spiritual Joy Awakening Factor, 
as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while the 
causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Tranquility of Mind Awakening 
Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while 
the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Collectedness of Mind 
Awakening Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more 
dispassionate, while the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to 
continuously relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“And, Sisters, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Equanimity Awakening Factor, 
as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while the 
causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“In this manner, Sisters, when the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates these Seven 
Factors of Awakening, he is then able to completely destroy the mental contaminants, as a result 
of which he finally experiences the Freedom of the Heart, attaining Freedom through Wisdom, 
all in this very body! And having realized it by his own direct and higher intuitive understanding, 
he continues experiencing Liberation, throughout his whole life.” 
 
Thus, having instructed the nuns, the Venerable Nandaka sent them away, by saying: 
 
“And now, Sisters, you may go, for it is late.” 
 
“Yes, Bhante,” the Bhikkhunis replied, as they paid homage to the Venerable Nandaka and 
circumambulated him, while keeping him to their right. 
 
Then, they went and approached The Blessed One, and after showing their respects to the 
Teacher, they all stood to one side, until The Blessed One addressed them, by saying: 
 
“Bhikkhunis, you may now go, for it is late.”

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“Yes, Lord,” the Bhikkhunis replied, as they paid homage to The Blessed One and 
circumambulated Him, while keeping him to their right, and then left. 
 
When the Bhikkhunis had gone back to their quarters, The Blessed One addressed the Bhikkhus 
and said:  
 
“Bhikkhus, on seeing the Moon waxing during the fourteenth day of the month, you cannot find 
those who would doubt that it is incomplete, for it is not Full Moon yet. In the same manner, 
Bhikkhus, although those Bhikkhunis are very moved and delighted in hearing the Dhamma 
from Nandaka, nevertheless, their main purpose has not been fulfilled, yet.” 
 
Then, The Blessed One addressed the Venerable Nandaka again, by saying: 
 
“Therefore, Nandaka, go ahead and instruct those Bhikkhunis, yet again on that same topic!” 
 
“Yes, Bhante,” said the Venerable Nandaka. In the following morning, he put on his robes and 
by taking his alms bowl and outer robe, he went on his alms round in Sāvatthi. Afterwards, once 
he had already collected his alms and the meal was over, he went to the monastery of the royal 
nuns. And as before, he began instructing the Bhikkhunis by saying: 
 
1. “Sisters, is the eye permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
2. “Sisters, is the ear permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me;” or “this is 
myself?”

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“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
3. “Sisters, is the nose permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
4. “Sisters, is the tongue permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
5. “Sisters, is the body permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
6. “Sisters, is the mind permanent or impermanent?”

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“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. And why do we say this? We say this, because we have already 
seen this for ourselves, to be truly the case, through the development of correct wisdom, whereby 
we recognize how all of the six internal sense spheres are impermanent.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
“And what do you think, Sisters?  
 
1. “Are visible forms permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
2. “Are audible sounds permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.”

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“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
3. “Are smells permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
4. “Are flavors or tastes permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
5. “Are tactile objects or surfaces permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.”

[page 16]
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. 
 
6. “Are mental phenomena or thoughts permanent or impermanent? 
 
“They are impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And those which are impermanent, are they considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“They are considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. And why do we say this? We say this, because we have already 
seen this for ourselves, to be truly the case, through the development of correct wisdom, whereby 
we recognize how all of the six external sense spheres are impermanent.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
“And what do you think, Sisters?  
 
1. “Is eye consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
2. “Is ear consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.”

[page 17]
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
3. “Is nose consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
4. “Is tongue consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
5. “Is body consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.”

[page 18]
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable.” 
 
6. “Is mind consciousness permanent or impermanent?” 
 
“It is impermanent, Bhante.” 
 
“And that which is impermanent, is it considered to be suffering or happiness?” 
 
“It is considered to be suffering, Bhante.” 
 
“So, with what is impermanent, suffering, and thus unreliable in its changing nature, is it suitable 
for you to look upon it or claim it as: “this is part of me,” “this is happening to me,” or “this is 
myself?” 
 
“No, Bhante, it is not suitable. And why do we say this? We say this, because we have already 
seen this for ourselves, to be truly the case, through the development of correct wisdom, whereby 
we recognize how all of the six internal sense spheres are impermanent.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
 
“Sisters, in just the same way that a burning oil lamp has its oil as fuel for the flame, which is 
impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. Similarly, the wick is impermanent, truly an unreliable 
thing. The flame that burns is impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. The light that emanates 
from all these things coming together is also impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. 
“Now suppose, Sisters, someone were to say, that despite the fact that the burning oil lamp has 
its oil that is impermanent and an unreliable thing, also its wick that is impermanent, and truly an 
unreliable thing, as well as its flame that burns which is impermanent and truly an unreliable 
thing, the light emanating from all these things coming together, however, ‘is in fact permanent, 
eternal, and truly a reliable and an unchanging thing.’  
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not in fact be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It 
is because, Bhante, a burning oil lamp has its oil as fuel for the flame, which is impermanent, 
truly an unreliable thing. Similarly, the wick is impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. The flame 
that burns is impermanent, truly an unreliable thing. So is the light emanating from all these 
things coming together, also impermanent, and therefore, truly an unreliable thing.”

[page 19]
“In just the same manner, Sisters, if someone were to say: ‘although my six internal sense 
spheres are impermanent, whatever pleasant, painful or neutral feelings I experience because of 
having these six internal spheres, however, are all permanent, eternal, and therefore, truly 
reliable things.’ 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, with the arising of specific conditions, there arise their specific kinds of 
feelings. And with the ending of those specific conditions, there end the specific kinds of 
feelings, as a result.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
 
“Further, Sisters, imagine there is a huge tree, full of heartwood, with roots that are 
impermanent, changing, and seen truly as perishable things, the trunk also being impermanent, 
changing, and a perishable thing. Similarly, its branches and foliage too, being impermanent, 
changing, and perishable things, as well as its shadow, which is impermanent, changing, and a 
perishable thing. Now, suppose, Sisters, someone were to come and say, that even though the 
tree’s roots are impermanent, changing, and seen truly as changing things, the trunk also being 
impermanent, changing, and a perishable thing, similarly, its branches and foliage too, being 
impermanent, changing, and perishable things, but, somehow, its shadow, they claim, is in fact 
permanent, unchanging, eternal, and a non-perishable thing. 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, that huge tree, full of heartwood, with roots that are impermanent, changing, 
and seen truly as perishable things, the trunk also being impermanent, changing, and a perishable 
thing, similarly, its branches and foliage too, being impermanent, changing, and perishable 
things, and so must the case be with its shadow, for it too is impermanent, changing, and a 
perishable thing.  
 
“In just the same manner, Sisters, if someone were to say; ‘although my six external sense 
spheres are impermanent, whatever pleasant, painful or neutral feelings I experience because of 
having these six external spheres, however, are all permanent, eternal, and therefore, truly 
reliable things.’ 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, with the arising of specific conditions, there arise their specific kinds of

[page 20]
feelings. And with the ending of those specific conditions, there end the specific kinds of 
feelings, as a result.” 
 
“Sādhu…Sādhu, indeed Sisters! 
 
“That is how a Noble Disciple truly sees, with the development of correct wisdom. 
 
“Now, Sisters, suppose a skilled butcher or his apprentice would slaughter a cow with a sharp 
carving knife, but without damaging the internal fleshy parts or its external skin. He would then 
chop and sever all its internal connective tissues, joints and ligaments combined, by cutting them 
into small bits. And after skinning and peeling off the cow’s entire hide, they put the cow back 
together by placing all the cut-up joints and tissues back inside its outer skin to make it look like 
it was and then would say: ‘Here we have the same cow, intact, just like it was before, complete 
and in that same skin!’ 
 
“Now, would such a person be speaking correctly?” 
 
“No, Bhante, such a person would not be speaking correctly! And why do we say that? It is 
because, Bhante, that skilled butcher or his apprentice would be slaughtering the cow with that 
sharp carving knife, while chopping and severing all its internal connective tissues, joints and 
ligaments combined, by cutting them into small bits. And after skinning and peeling off the 
cow’s entire hide, even if they put the cow back together by placing all the cut-up joints and 
tissues back inside its outer skin to make it look like it was and then say: ‘Here we have the same 
cow, intact, just like it was before, complete and in that same skin!’ 
 
“However, that would still not change the fact that the cow has been removed from its skin and 
its internal connective tissues are now cut into pieces.” 
 
“Sisters, the purpose in presenting you with this simile is to explain something, and here is its 
meaning:  
 
“The internal flesh is a synonym for the six internal sense spheres, whereas the external skin of 
the cow is a synonym for the six external sense spheres: the sense objects. Now, the internal 
connective tissues, joints, and ligaments, is a synonym for yearning and lust. The sharp carving 
knife is a synonym for the Noble One’s wisdom, because it is with that Noble wisdom that the 
internal impurities, fetters, and shackles that bind the person are chopped, severed, and cut again 
and again. 
 
“Sisters, there are these Seven Factors of Awakening, which when the Bhikkhu constantly 
develops and cultivates, he is then able to completely destroy the mental contaminants, as a 
result of which he finally experiences the Freedom of the Heart, attaining Freedom through 
Wisdom, all in this very body! And having realized it by his own direct and higher intuitive 
understanding, he continues experiencing Liberation, throughout his whole life.   
 
“Now what, Sisters, are these Seven?

[page 21]
“Here, Sisters, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Mindfulness Awakening 
Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while 
the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Examination Awakening Factor, 
as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while the 
causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Persevering Effort Awakening 
Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while 
the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Spiritual Joy Awakening Factor, 
as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while the 
causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Tranquility of Mind Awakening 
Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while 
the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“Similarly, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Collectedness of Mind 
Awakening Factor, as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more 
dispassionate, while the causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to 
continuously relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“And, Sisters, the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates the Equanimity Awakening Factor, 
as he becomes more and more settled in seclusion, becoming more dispassionate, while the 
causes for agitation start to die and cease in him, all of which lead him to continuously 
relinquish, by giving up. 
 
“In this manner, Sisters, when the Bhikkhu constantly develops and cultivates these Seven 
Factors of Awakening, he is then able to completely destroy the mental contaminants, as a result 
of which he finally experiences the Freedom of the Heart, attaining Freedom through Wisdom, 
all in this very body! And having realized it by his own direct and higher intuitive understanding, 
he continues experiencing Liberation, throughout his whole life.” 
 
Thus, having instructed the nuns, the Venerable Nandaka sent them away, by saying: 
 
“And now, Sisters, you may go, for it is late.”

[page 22]
“Yes, Bhante,” the Bhikkhunis replied, as they paid homage to the Venerable Nandaka and 
circumambulated him, while keeping him to their right. 
 
Then, they went and approached The Blessed One, and after showing their respects to the 
Teacher, they all stood to one side, until The Blessed One addressed them, by saying: 
 
“Bhikkhunis, you may now go, for it is late.” 
 
“Yes, Lord,” the Bhikkhunis replied, as they paid homage to The Blessed One and 
circumambulated Him, while keeping him to their right, and then left. 
 
When the Bhikkhunis had gone back to their quarters, The Blessed One addressed the Bhikkhus 
and said:  
 
“Bhikkhus, on seeing the Full Moon on the fifteenth day of the month, you cannot find those 
who would doubt that it is complete, for it is already the Full Moon. In the same manner, 
Bhikkhus, those Bhikkhunis are very moved and delighted in hearing the Dhamma from 
Nandaka, for their main purpose has now been fulfilled. 
 
Thus, Bhikkhus, I declare that the least accomplished among these Bhikkhunis is a Stream-
Winner, never to be reborn into the miserable realms, bound for Full Liberation herself!” 
 
This is what The Blessed One said, and those Bhikkhus too were delighted and happy, with what 
The Blessed Lord stated. 
 
 
Sādhu 
 
Sādhu 
 
Sādhu
