Deep Commentary

This verse was taught by the Buddha at Jetavana Monastery, relating to Venerable Padhànakammika Tissa. According to the story, five hundred young men from Savatthi renounced and became monks under the Buddha, received a meditation subject from him, and went into the forest. Among them, one monk was negligent and did not practice, while the others strove diligently and attained arahantship. Monk Tissa, due to laziness, attained nothing. Later, the monks returned to the monastery and reported their attainments to the Buddha. On the way back, while begging for alms, they passed a village one mile from Savatthi. A lay devotee invited them to his house for a meal the next day, and they accepted. Upon reaching the monastery, the Buddha warmly inquired about their achievements. All were joyful except Tissa, who was unhappy because he had not attained any stage of sanctity. He resolved to strive hard in meditation that very day so that the Buddha would speak with him. Meanwhile, the other monks told the Buddha about the invitation for the next day. That night, Tissa walked back and forth, unable to sleep. Finally, overcome by drowsiness, he stumbled against a stone bench, broke his leg, and cried out in pain. The other monks busied themselves caring for Tissa, so they missed the meal offering. After the Buddha inquired and learned the reason, he said: "Monks, one who does not rise at the proper time, who has weak will and is lazy, will never develop concentration and attain sanctity." On that occasion, the Buddha spoke this verse.