Thus have I heard:
One time, the Budha was staying at Anaathapindidas Ashrama in Jetavana of Shraavastii.
At that time, Budha said to the bhikshus, “You should associate with good friends and not engage in evil actions or place faith in evil deeds. Why is this?
Bhikshus, when you associate with good friends, your faith will increase, and your learning, generosity, and wisdom will all increase.
If a bhikshu associates with good friends, he will not engage in evil actions. Why is this?
If one associates with bad friends, there will be no faith, virtue, learning, generosity, or wisdom.
Therefore, bhikshus, you should associate with good friends and not associate with bad friends. In this way, bhikshus, you should train yourselves.”
When the bhikshus heard what the Budha said, they followed it with joy.