Chapter 10

The Buddha’s Parinibbána

The Buddha reached His eightieth year. His death was drawing near. His two chief disciples-the Venerable Sariputta and Moggallana - had predeceased Him. So had Venerable Rahula and Yasodhara.

One day He addressed the Venerable Ánanda and said:

"Ánanda, whosoever has fully developed the Four Paths of Accomplishment’ - Iddhipada could if he so desires, remain in the same birth for a Kappa or for a Kappa and a little more. Now the Tathágata has thoroughly practiced and developed them, and he could, therefore, should he desire it, live on yet for a kappa or for a Kappa and a little more."

But the Venerable Ánanda could not comprehend the meaning of this statement as his heart was possessed by the Evil One. He did not beseech the Buddha, saying:- "Vouchsafe, Lord, to remain during the Kappa! Live on through the Kappa, O Happy One, for the good and happiness of the many..." For the second and third time the Buddha made the same statement. Still the Venerable Ánanda was silent.