法句譬喻經 31.p1.1

31.p1.1

In days of old, before Rahula had attained to supreme wisdom, his natural disposition being somewhat low and disorderly, his words were not always marked by love of truth. On one occasion Buddha had ordered him to go to the Kien-tai (Ghanda or Ghanta?) Vihāra, and there remain guarding his mouth (tongue), and governing his thoughts, at the same time diligently studying (or observing) the rules of conduct laid down in the Scriptures. Rahula, having heard the command, made his obeisance and went. For ninety days he remained in deep shame and penitence. At length Buddha repaired to the place, and showed himself; on seeing him, Rahula was filled with joy, and reverently bowed down and worshipped him. After this, Buddha having taken the seat provided for him, he desired Rahula to fill a water-basin with water and bring it to him, and wash his feet. Having done so, and the washing being over, Buddha asked Rahula if the water so used was now fit for any purpose of domestic use (drinking, etc.);