"General Siha, do you have something you wish to say to me, or some question you wish to ask?" General Siha looked intently at the Buddha and said, "I have been told by teachers of other religions that the holy man Shakyamuni is one who preaches inaction, saying that people are pawns of fate and are incapable of free, self-determined action. Or that you are an annihilationist, who teaches that nothing remains after death; or that you are one who teaches hatred of this world.

Ambapali trembled as she heard Shakyamuni explain the necessity of making offerings to gain release from the desire to grasp things that are by nature impermanent. Imbued with new hope, she wished she could be with Shakyamuni forever. Reverently, she approached him and asked, "World-honored One, I am Ambapali, the courtesan. Will you deign to grant the request of a lowly woman like me? I would be honored if you would visit my home tomorrow morning and allow me to present offe

Dabba was a monk who voluntarily undertook to perform the various services required of other members of the Sangha. He cleaned their rooms, prepared their bedding, and served their meals. He was often the victim of misunderstanding, resentment, and even false accusations by the other monks. Dabba is said to have recited the words quoted above after one such misunderstanding was resolved.