sn35.153:1.1 “Mendicants, is there a method—apart from faith, endorsement, oral transmission, reasoned train of thought, or acceptance of a view after deliberation—that a mendicant can rely on to declare their enlightenment? That is:
sn35.153:1.2 ‘I understand: “Rebirth is ended, the spiritual journey has been completed, what had to be done has been done, there is nothing further for this place.”’”
sn35.153:1.3 “Our teachings are rooted in the Buddha. He is our guide and our refuge. Sir, may the Buddha himself please clarify the meaning of this. The mendicants will listen and remember it.”
sn35.153:1.4 “Well then, mendicants, listen and apply your mind well, I will speak.”
sn35.153:1.5 “Yes, sir,” they replied.
sn35.153:1.6 The Buddha said this:
sn35.153:1.7 “There is a method—apart from faith, endorsement, oral transmission, reasoned train of thought, or acceptance of a view after deliberation—that a mendicant can rely on to declare their enlightenment. That is:
sn35.153:1.8 ‘I understand: “Rebirth is ended, the spiritual journey has been completed, what had to be done has been done, there is nothing further for this place.”’