Dictionary of Pali Proper Names v1.c14.1164

v1.c14.1164

Gopaka Moggallāna Sutta.—Soon after the Buddha’s death, Ānanda, on his way to Rājagaha for alms, visits the place where Gopaka Moggallāna was strengthening the city’s defences. Moggallāna asks him if there were any monk in every way like the Buddha, and receives a negative answer. Vassakāra arrives and, on being told the topic of conversation, asks the same question and is told by Ānanda that the monks regard the Dhamma as their protector. It is true, however, that there are monks whom they hold in great esteem and reverence, and Ānanda enumerates the qualities which win for them such homage.¹