Reading guide
A question with no hidden trap or hostile edge
Unlike so many of this saṃyutta's exchanges, there's no test, insult, or riddle built into the brahmin's approach; he simply wants confirmation about something he already believes is right, and states his situation plainly.
Legitimacy named as the specific qualifying condition
The brahmin's question doesn't just describe begging for his parents; it specifies begging ‘by legitimate means’, dhammena, a detail the Buddha's answer picks up and repeats exactly, making clear that the manner of acquiring support matters as much as the purpose it serves.
Confirmation given without qualification or redefinition
Where other discourses in this vagga redefine a term the questioner brings — what a true brahmin is, what a true mendicant is — here the Buddha simply agrees with the brahmin's own framing entirely, offering no correction because none is needed.
A dual reward named for a single, simple act
The closing verse doesn't limit the reward to some distant future benefit; it names two distinct rewards together — praise from the wise in this very life, and rejoicing in heaven after death — giving ordinary filial support both an immediate and a lasting significance.
A brief discourse that still closes the same way as the rest
Despite its calm, uncomplicated tone, this discourse ends exactly like its more dramatic neighbors, with the brahmin declaring lifelong lay refuge — a reminder that conversion in this vagga doesn't require conflict, only genuine recognition.
Key terms
The text
§1At Sāvatthī. Then a brahmin who provided for his mother went up to the Buddha, and exchanged greetings with him. When the greetings and polite conversation were over, he sat down to one side and said to the Buddha, “Worthy Gotama, I seek alms by legitimate means, which I use to provide for my mother and father. In doing so, am I doing my duty?” “Indeed, brahmin, in so doing you are doing your duty. Whoever seeks alms by legitimate means, and uses them to provide for their mother and father brims with much merit.
§2A mortal provides for their mother and father by legitimate means; because they serve their parents like this, they’re praised in this life by the astute, and they depart to rejoice in heaven.”
§3When he said this, the brahmin who provided for his mother said to the Buddha, “Excellent, worthy Gotama! Excellent! … From this day forth, may the worthy Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge for life.”
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