A farmer

Bhikkhus, these three activities should be done earlier by the farmer. What three?

Here bhikkhus, the farmer should first prepare the field, then harrow it well carefully and embed the seeds at the right time. At the right time he should lead the water in and at the right time lead it out. Bhikkhus, these three are the activities that should be done earlier by the farmer.

Bhikkhus, in the same mnner these three activities should be done earlier by the bhikkhu. What three? Training in thehigher virtues, training the mind to a higher degree and training for higher wisdom. Bhikkhus, these three are the activities of a recluse. Therefore bhikkhus, you should train thus: Our interest will be keen for training in the higher virtues, for training the mnd to a higher degree and for a higher training in wisdom.