SN40.1 — The First Question on the First Jhana

At one time, the Venerable Mahāmoggallāna was staying in Sāvatthī, in Jeta's Grove, Anāthapiṇḍika's Park.

There, the Venerable Mahāmoggallāna addressed the disciples: Friends, disciples.

Friend, those disciples replied to the Venerable Mahāmoggallāna.

The Venerable Mahāmoggallāna said this: Here, friends, while I was alone in seclusion, a reflection arose in my mind: The first jhana, the first jhana, it is said. Now what is the first jhana?

Then, friends, it occurred to me: Here, a disciple, quite secluded from sensual pleasures, secluded from unwholesome states, enters and dwells in the first jhana, which is accompanied by thought and examination, with rapture and happiness born of seclusion. This is called the first jhana.

So, friends, I entered and dwelt in the first jhana, which is accompanied by thought and examination, with rapture and happiness born of seclusion.

While I was dwelling in this state, perceptions and attention accompanied by sensuality assailed me.

Then, friends, the Blessed One approached me with his psychic power and said: Moggallāna, Moggallāna, do not be negligent regarding the first jhana. Steady your mind in the first jhana, unify your mind in the first jhana, concentrate your mind in the first jhana.

Then, friends, after some time, I entered and dwelt in the first jhana, which is accompanied by thought and examination, with rapture and happiness born of seclusion.

If someone were to speak rightly, they might say of me: A disciple of the Teacher, supported by the Teacher, has attained great direct knowing. Speaking rightly, they would say this of me: A disciple of the Teacher, supported by the Teacher, has attained great direct knowing.

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