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5. Upaññāta Sutta (First-Hand Knowledge) “Bhikkhus, I have acquired first-hand knowledge of these two things: not becoming contented and satisfied with whatever beneficial qualities I had developed, and never quitting in my efforts to reach the Goal. “In this way, I never ceased from giving it my very best, having fully committed myself, as I kept determining: ‘No matter if all that is left of me is my worn-out skin, ligaments, and bones! I do not care if my flesh and blood become all dried up and no more. I will still go on, never relinquishing my efforts nor giving up! I will not stop or take rest until I have attained that which is possible through sheer manly strength, determined persevering energy, and will-power!’ “So, you see, Bhikkhus, Awakening took place because of the relentless drive, the vigilance and unstoppable determination with which I was able to finally achieve the ultimate safety, the Absolute Release from all bondage. “Therefore, Bhikkhus, if you also shall muster up the willingness and exert yourselves by taking up this noble and matchless challenge, as you too resolve with firmness: ‘No matter if all that is left of me is my worn-out skin, ligaments, and bones! I do not care if my flesh and blood become all dried up and no more. I will still go on, never relinquishing my efforts nor giving up! I will not stop or take rest until I have attained that which is possible through sheer manly strength, determined persevering energy, and will-power!’ “Bhikkhus, if you truly do put the effort in this manner, then I guarantee that before long, you too will attain, here and now, by finally realizing for yourselves the Noble End, the very Goal of the Holy Life, as you also experience for yourselves that Unsurpassed Knowledge for which sons of good families willingly and with faith leave the household life, by going forth into homelessness. And thus, you will comfortably dwell in that Ultimate Security. “Therefore, Bhikkhus, you should train in this manner: ‘No matter if all that is left of me is my worn-out skin, ligaments, and bones! I do not care if my flesh and blood become all dried up and no more. I will still go on, never relinquishing my efforts nor giving up! I will not stop or take rest until I have attained that which is possible through sheer manly strength, determined persevering energy, and will-power!’ “Bhikkhus, it is in this manner that you must practice and train.”