Thus have I heard:
One time, the Budha was staying at Anaathapindidas Ashrama in Jetavana of Shraavastii.
Then the Bhagavaan addressed the Bhikshus: “In this assembly, I perceive no phenomenon more powerful yet more deluding to worldly people, more obstructive to eternal peace, more binding to samsara’s prison without release.
That is: when a man sees a woman’s beauty, lustful thoughts arise; his mind becomes attached and infatuated. This prevents eternal peace, binds one to samsara’s prison without release.
The mind cannot abandon this, but keeps revolving through cycles – in this life and next, transmigrating through five destinies for countless kalpas.”
Then the Bhagavaan spoke this verse:
“The Tathaagata’s voice, pure and gentle, rarely appears;
When occasionally manifest, fix it in present awareness.
Do not mingle or converse with women—;
They are like hunters’ snares, barring the path to the unconditioned.
Therefore, Bhikshus! Eliminate all forms, kindle no lustful thoughts. Thus, Bhikshus, train yourselves accordingly.”
When the bhikshus heard what the Budha said, they followed it with joy.