Thig 6.5 — Verses of the Elder Anopamā

English translation by Ṭhānissaro Bhikkhu.

Translation

Text

Thig 6:5 Anopamā, the Millionaire’s Daughter

Born in a high-ranking family
with much property, great wealth,
consummate in complexion & figure,
I was the daughter of Majjha, the treasurer.
Kings’ sons sought for me,
rich merchants’ sons
    longed for me.
One of them sent my father a messenger,
saying, “Give me Anopamā.
I will give in return
    eight times her weight
    in jewels & gold.”

But I, having seen
    the One Self-awakened,
    unsurpassed, excelling the world,
paid homage to his feet,
sat down to one side.
He, Gotama, from sympathy,
taught me the Dhamma.
And as I sat in that very seat,
    I attained the third fruit
    [of non-return.]
Then I cut off my hair,
and went forth into homelessness.
Today is the seventh day
since I made craving
    wither away.