[147]
Formerly, in times gone by, in past births (jāti),
desiring to know, he was one who asked questions;
eager to listen, he waited upon the one gone forth (pabbajita);
intent within upon the good, he heeded well the exposition of the meaning.
Through that deed conducing to the winning of wisdom (paññā),
having become a human being, he was one of delicate skin.
Those skilled in portents and signs declared:
"With sure penetration he will see subtle meanings."
If one such as this does not take up the going forth (pabbajjā),
he sets the wheel rolling and governs the earth;
in counsel upon the good and in comprehension,
none better than he, none his equal, is found.
But if one such as this takes up the going forth,
delighting in the desire for renunciation (nekkhamma), clear of vision,
he gains what is distinguished in wisdom, unsurpassed:
he of excellent, vast intelligence attains awakening (bodhi).
English translation from the Pali (Siam Raṭṭha edition) — under review, not for citation.