SA-2 224（二二四）

Thus have I heard.

Once, the Buddha was at the bank of the Jētavana Lake in the country of Savatthi. On the fifteenth day of the month, the World-Honored One was seated in front of the Sangha, expounding the precepts. That night, when the moon rose, Vāgīśa had this thought in the midst of the assembly: "I now wish to use the moon as a metaphor to praise the Buddha." Having thought this, he rose from his seat, joined his palms towards the Buddha, and said: "World-Honored One! I now wish to speak. May the Well-Gone One kindly grant permission."

The Buddha told Vāgīśa, "I allow you to speak."

Venerable Vāgīśa then spoke a verse:

Just like the full moon, in the cloudless sky, its bright
light illuminates the world, all are delighted to see it. The
Venerable Śākyamuni, the great guide of the world, is extremely dignified
and extraordinary, his fame fills everywhere. When the moon rises, the
white lotus blooms, when the sun appears, the red lotus opens
Those who receive the Buddha's teachings are like blooming flowers, opening
their past wholesome roots, causing them all to see the path.

At that time, after Vāgīśa spoke this verse, he was overjoyed and returned to his dwelling.