title: SN3.13 — Originating in Sāvatthi. At that time, King Pasenadi of Kosala was eating a dish called doṇapāka. After finishing his meal, he approached the Blessed One, and after greeting him, sat down to one side. The Blessed One, knowing that King Pasenadi of Kosala had eaten and was breathing heavily, spoke this verse at that time:
SN3.13 — Originating in Sāvatthi. At that time, King Pasenadi of Kosala was eating a dish called doṇapāka. After finishing his meal, he approached the Blessed One, and after greeting him, sat down to one side. The Blessed One, knowing that King Pasenadi of Kosala had eaten and was breathing heavily, spoke this verse at that time:
For a person who is always mindful,
Who knows moderation in food,
His feelings become light,
He ages slowly, preserving his life.
At that time, a young man named Sudassana was standing behind King Pasenadi of Kosala. Then King Pasenadi of Kosala addressed Sudassana, saying, Come, dear Sudassana, learn this verse from the Blessed One and recite it at my meal times. I will provide you with a daily allowance of a hundred coins and regular meals.
Yes, sire, replied Sudassana, and after learning the verse from the Blessed One, he recited it at King Pasenadi of Kosala's meal times:
For a person who is always mindful,
Who knows moderation in food,
His feelings become light,
He ages slowly, preserving his life.
Then, gradually, King Pasenadi of Kosala reduced his intake to a single bowl of rice. Later, as he was feeling his limbs with his hands, having become lean, he uttered this inspired utterance at that time:
Indeed, the Blessed One has compassionately helped me with both immediate and future benefits.