This is as I heard. At one time the Blessed One was staying in the province of Sāvatthī, in Jeta’s park, at Anathapiṇḍika’s monastery. Then, late at night, a glorious deity, lighting up the entire Jeta’s park, went up to the Blessed One, bowed, stood to one side, and recited this verse:
“Of those with two feet, kings are unsurpassed.
Of those with four feet, oxen are superior.
A maiden is the best of wives.
The first-born is the best of children.”
The Blessed One:
“Of those with two feet, a Sammāsambuddha is unsurpassed.
Of those with four feet, a thoroughbred horse is superior.
A good listener is the best of wives.
Obedient children are the best of children.”
Sādhu! Sādhu!! Sādhu!!!
